athome in Fairfield County - July/Aug 2023

editorial editor

Megan Gagnon megan.gagnon@moffly.com

advisory editor

Donna Moffly donna@moffly.com

contributing editors editorial director

Cristin Marandino cristin.marandino@moffly.com editor, custom publishing Elizabeth Hole elizabeth.hole@moffly.com editor, new canaan•darien Julee Kaplan julee.kaplan@moffly.com editor, stamford Kate Hogan kate.hogan@moffly.com

editor, westport•weston•wilton Samantha Yanks samantha.yanks@moffly.com art

senior art director

Garvin Burke garvin.burke@moffly.com

production director

Tim Carr tim.carr@moffly.com

assistant art director

Lisa Servidio lisa.servidio@moffly.com

digital

digital marketing manager Rachel MacDonald rachel.macdonald@moffly.com

digital assistant Lloyd Gabi lloyd.gabi@moffly.com

sales & marketing publisher, fairfield living publisher-at-large, greenwich

Jonathan W. Moffly jonathan@moffly.com

publisher, greenwich Andrew Amill andrew.amill@moffly.com

publisher, westport•weston•wilton Gabriella Mays gabriella.mays@moffly.com

publisher, new canaan•darien Gina Fusco gina.fusco@moffly.com

publisher, stamford

Karen Kelly-Micka karen.kelly@moffly.com

associate publisher, athome Robin O’Hara robin.ohara@moffly.com

account executive

Hilary Hotchkiss hilary.hotchkiss@moffly.com

account executive

Morgan Howell morgan.howell@moffly.com

partnership and big picture manager

Kathleen Dyke kathleen.godbold@moffly.com

events director

Rachel Shorten rachel.shorten@moffly.com

sales assistant

Lemuel Bandala lemuel.bandala@moffly.com

business assistant

Eillenn Bandala eillenn.bandala@moffly.com

business president Jonathan W. Moffly

chief revenue officer Andrew Amill

editorial director Cristin Marandino

director of content strategy Diane Sembrot

business manager Elena V. Moffly, elena@moffly.com

cofounders John W. Moffly IV & Donna C. Moffly

Fairfield County Magazine is a registered trademark owned by Moffly Media. The opinions expressed by writers commissioned for articles published by athome in Fairfield County are not necessarily those of the magazine.

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The idea to create our first-ever art issue was born from my own curiosity about the convergence of art and interior design. I’m guessing I’m like most people who find the whole idea of tackling art as intimidating. It has the power to be transformative, but it’s also so personal. The endless options are overwhelming. Where to start? Whom to trust? How does it all fit into the larger design plan for a home?

I knew I wouldn’t be able to answer all the questions about selecting and buying art, but I did know I could tap into the experts in our community who know a lot more about this world than I do. There are the designers who utilize art to create focal points in their spaces, infusing energy with color and texture (p. 38). There are the advisors, who scour the scene for the perfect missing pieces, working closely with designers and clients to find art that does not feel like an afterthought (p. 42). Sarah Cetrulo of Trove Art Advisory and Heather Gaudio of Heather Gaudio Fine Art have spent years working locally and give us a peek into their fascinating process. There are collectors, who entrust interior designers to elevate the walls and halls that incorporate their prized works. They turn to pros like Georgia Zikas, who worked with a family in Greenwich to address organizational needs and create a cohesive design strategy for the rooms that would include the owners’ bold pieces, which served as a launching point for creative direction and color palette (p. 52). Michelle Morgan Harrison’s clients loved her style and knew she’d be able give them the custom-built waterfront home of their dreams (p. 60). Because she was involved with every aspect of the ground-up project—weighing in on everything from the exterior to the millwork—it only made sense that she’d have a heavy hand in the art selection as well. Working closely with Heather Gaudio, she added to their existing collection, weaving in works that bring her spaces to life.

If you have more pressing home needs than putting art on your walls, we have the expert guidance for those, too. Our Best of the Gold Coast winners represent reader-selected favorites across our towns for renovating, building, and decorating the places we call home (p. 28). It’s a list you’ll want to hold on to; a go-to resource guide to use before starting your next project.

Huge thanks to everyone who entered in this year’s A-List Awards. We’ll be celebrating on September 12th at The Village in Stamford, and I look forward to seeing returning and new faces at design’s biggest night. Check out athomealistawards.com for all the event info, and be sure to grab your tickets soon!

MEGAN GAGNON Editor

HOW TO SCAN: OPEN, AIM & TAP

PHOTO: BOB CAPAZZO

by megan gagnon

A PRIMARY PALETTE FOR YOUR BAUHAUS BEACH HOUSE

go ds/COLOR

1

TROY LIGHTING

Leif plug-in sconce; $450. Fashion Light Center, Greenwich; flcselect.com

3 ASSOULINE St. Barths

Freedom; $105. Schwartz Design Showroom, Stamford; schwartz designshowroom. com

4

DWR

5

CANE-LINE

On The Move side table; $480. Eleish Van Breems Home, Westport; evbantiques.com

6

MITCHELL GOLD + BOB WILLIAMS

Stiletto armless bar stool by Rafael De Cardenas; $2,034. Greenwich; mgbwhome.com

7

POKETO Bamboo plate sets; starting at $40 for four. hbx.com

8

NORDIC KNOTS Classic rug; starting at $495. nordicknots.com

Chromeo chair and ottoman by Sarah Ellison; $3,790. Design Within Reach, Stamford; dwr.com

goods/SEA WORTHY

GO COASTAL, WITH ELEVATED NAUTICAL ELEMENTS

athomefc.com

1 NOIR Clay brass mirror; $2,020. Beehive, Fairfield; thebeehive fairfield.com

2 JAYSON HOME Concrete shells; starting at $20. jaysonhome.com

3 SERENA & LILY Maldive martini table; $398. Westport; serenaandlily.com

4 CUFF STUDIO Ball & Chain pendant; price upon request. cuffstudio.com

5 WORLDS AWAY Charlie coffee table; $1,998 Wakefield Design Center, Stamford; wakefielddesign center.com

6 ARTERIORS Rudy flush mount; $440. Chloe Winston Lighting Design; Norwalk; chloewinston lighting.com

7 HOMMÉS STUDIO Foil sofa in smoke blue; $8.378. hommes.studio

8 CURREY & COMPANY Anisa Sea Sand etagere; $3,951. The Accessory Store; Stamford; stamford-shades. myshopify.com

—sandra halstead, owner, the beehive

“we’re always inspired by the sea, and we use subtle textures and tones to bring that concept to life. the key is to mix it up versus, making it a theme.”

goods /LAKE LIFE

CRAFT A SUMMER-READY RUSTIC RETREAT

“i always love to take inspiration from my surroundings. if decorating a lake house, i think the easiest way to find direction for your palette is to simply look outside.

1 CRATE & BARREL Carlyle wood credenza by Jake Arnold; $2,899. Westport; crateandbarrel.com

2 RYAN STUDIO Arley Ivy pillow; $364. Fig Linens and Home, Westport; figlinensandhome.com

3 VISUAL COMFORT & CO. Lyndsie small sconce by Amber Lewis; $249. Greenwich; visualcomfort.com

4 MADE GOODS Jarin nightstand moss faux Belgian linen; $1,950. Trovare Home Design, Greenwich; trovarehomedesign.com

5 SCHOOLHOUSE Stillwater floral quilt; $199. schoolhouse.com

6 ANTHROPOLOGIE Handwoven Esme rug; starting at $98. Westport; anthropologie.com

7 JENNI KAYNE HOME Harbor sofa; starting at $8,645. Westport; jennikayne.com

—jenni kayne, jenni kayne home

haute stuff / PARTY-READY

bar carts are the perfect blend of style, storage, and best of all, self-service, when stocked sufficiently for your next gathering.

ROLL INTO SUMMER WITH THESE MODERN BAR CARTS

1 GUS MODERN Arcade bar cart in sage; $750. allmodern.com

2 BLU DOT Longday bar cart; $695. bludot.com

3 KLONG Julius trolley in grey; $1,319. finnishdesign shop.com

4 KRISTINA DAM Axis side table; $1,995. shophorne.com

5 CANE-LINE Roll-bar trolley; $1,735. Eleish Van Breems Home, Westport; evbantiques.com

6 WEST ELM Bellwood bar cart; $180. Westport; westelm.com

7 ARTEK Tea Trolley 900; $5,960. lekkerhome.com

by megan gagnon

Tastes Like Summer

Savor the season at WHITE BARN INN , Maine’s answer to laid-back luxury

Maine is always a good idea. But Maine in the summer, with its beaches, boating, and buttered rolls stuffed with fresh lobster, is the quintessential New England escape. Vacationland beckons with many worthwhile stops along its rocky coastline—from Biddeford to Bar Harbor—but Kennebunk makes for an easy trip from Connecticut, especially when you’re settling in at The White Barn Inn.

Tucked away from the town’s busy center—which becomes heavy with foot traffic during peak months as visitors shop, line up for seafood, and seek out ice cream—the Inn offers a quiet refuge to unwind and indulge. The historic site,

originally constructed in the 1860s, includes 27 rooms spread among the buildings that surround the namesake barn. For extra privacy, book one of four waterfront cottages on the White Barn Marina, and wake up to unobstructed water views. Each of the hotel’s spaces embraces its farmhouse history but features contemporary finishes and a modern designer’s touch, courtesy of Jenny Wolf Interiors (her Pound Ridge store, The Huntress, should also be on your must-visit list), who completed a redesign in the summer of 2020. The result is at once elegant, inviting, and cozy.

An Auberge Resorts Collection property, the

left: A more casual—but equally delicious—menu is available at Little Barn. middle: The White Barn Inn has been a beloved local landmark for over 150 years. right: The original building’s integrity and Maine sensibility were preserved in the recent redesign.

left: Sign up for a cocktail-making class in the historic barn.

MEET FLOWCODE, THE NEXT GENERATION OF QR CODES

Go ahead, try it out. Point your phone’s camera at the Flowcode to scan.

getaway

service is exceptional. Take the welcoming staff up on an offer to coordinate tailored excursions during your stay, whether you’re borrowing bikes to explore the area with a private tour from the general manager or driving off in search of antiques at stops recommended by a local collector. Of course, staying on-site is just as tempting, with an award-winning spa and an outdoor infinity pool available for guests.

Whatever lands on your itinerary, a meal in the picturesque barn is mandatory. This year, White Barn Inn is celebrating 50 years as a fine dining destination with a series of events that highlight the bounty of the region and the mastery of chefs who put the restaurant on the culinary map, some of whom will be returning to recreate their favorite dishes. Choose from oyster and wine tastings, traditional lobster bakes, and unforgettable menus paired with over-the-top cocktails. Chef Mathew Woolf also prepares seasonal fare in a more casual setting at Little Barn, but a guided epicurean experience under the wood beams and magical picture window in the main dining room is worth the trip alone.

White Barn Inn 37 Beach Avenue

Kennebunk, Maine 04043 aubergeresorts.com/ whitebarninn

GET A ROOM

Each space blends rustic charm with luxe boutique amenities.

HOME SUITE HOME

Come and go as you please from the Loft Suite, which comes with a private entrance, a balcony, and 620 square feet to spread out.

VIEW FINDER

Cottages nestled on the Kennebunk River enjoy panoramic views, include wood-burning fireplaces, and offer options for both families and couples to experience the coastal landscape.

OPEN CONCEPT

When you’re done taking in the view from a Garden Deluxe Room, spend some time in the soaking tub.

above: The award-winning restaurant serves contemporary cuisine in a spectacular setting. right: One of many wood-burning fireplaces on property.

above: S’mores at the fire pit are the perfect way to end your night. right: Learn about the Inn’s custom-made lobster cages at a traditional bake dinner.

Most

Most

Best

Most

shoptalk

NEW WAVE

CALLA CANE BRINGS HER FRESH PERSPECTIVE TO ROWAYTON AVENUE

In addition to her local work, designer Calla Cane’s projects take her to California’s West Coast and Florida’s southern shores, with clients who trust her ability to channel seaside living through her unique lens. With sun-bleached white walls and upholstery, weathered wood, and an enthusiastic embrace of natural materials, she’s been able to execute airy spaces that have kept her eponymous design firm in high demand. And now, the Rowayton resident has set up an oasis in her own backyard.

With the opening of The Shop, Cane combines a showroom (where partner Prestige Cabinetry & Design is also on display), design studio, and retail location under one roof. “My vision for The Shop is to serve as a design hub that people will be inspired by,” says Cane, who has stocked her shelves with a selection of home and gifting accessories that reflect her aesthetic and celebrate artisan-made goods. No doubt, visitors will leave inspired, but chances are they’ll also leave with a few new styling pieces for themselves.

140 Rowayton Avenue, Rowayton; callacane.com, @theshopcallacane

above: Cane opened up the space with white paint, light floors, and minimalist shelving. below left: Cane’s favorite glassware, textiles, and accessories are available alongside gifting options like candles and jewelry. below right: See Prestige Cabinetry & Design’s custom kitchen offerings up close.

Swede Spot

LARS BOLANDER’S Scandi shop is a treat for the eyes

POP IN FOR A VISIT

This summer, take a trip into Lars Bolander’s Post Road shop and escape into the Swedish designer’s expertly curated world. Styled vignettes include unique Gustavian furnishings, 18-century antiques, and an edit of collected treasures from around the globe that you won’t find anywhere else. (We’re partial to the groupings of hand-carved wooden mushrooms, available in a variety of sizes.)

His finds look just as good outside, too. Take the Brussels-based line, Astello by Thierry Massant, which

includes outdoor pieces crafted from revived historic forms. Bolander carries the range of teak chairs, tables, chaises and benches in Regency and Louis XV silhouettes (think curved legs, lattice-backed frames, intricate openwork carving and caning), elegant upgrades to any patio or poolside spot. Upholstered cushions are available for each chair and sofa for extra comfort and all pieces can be oil finished for a more matte look. The result is a more refined, French feminine alternative to the heavy modern lines offered elsewhere.

The upcoming season at the Lars Bolander Westport boutique will celebrate all things home décor! The event will include Lars Bolander’s furniture offerings, a JUDY ROSS TEXTILES pop-up featuring the designer’s hand-embroidered pillows, as well as a JEWELRY POP-UP GRATSI WINE will be providing sustainably produced drinks. Stay tuned for updates on the appearance of a VW Van outfitted in CASTEL FABRICS and WALLPAPERS . See you there!

1300 Post Road East, Westport; larsbolander.com

above: Astello by Thierry Massant, Louis XV Couch in natural teak finish, $5,547

above: A creative display of curiosities at Lars Bolander’s Westport store; below: A block-printed and tassel-trimmed tent anchors the store’s corner.

above: Bolander deftly-mixes old and new.

Collector’s Guide

CLARENDON FINE ART opens its first American flagship

Westport is fast becoming a prized destination for British companies seeking to expand into the American market. And why not? The town’s longtime reputation as a haven for artists, actors, musicians, and creatives, as well as home to a native audience of lovers of culture and the arts, has made it a logical choice for U.K. enterprises.

On the heels of the London-based home furnishings company OKA opening downtown earlier this winter, Clarendon Fine Art, the British high-end gallery group, opened its flagship U.S. gallery at 22 Main Street. (Clarendon operates art galleries in London and dozens of other U.K. locations, as well as floating galleries onboard the royalty of British cruise ships: The Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Victoria, and the Queen Mary II.)

“Westport has always been an arts town that has attracted art people, so there’s a real appreciation for the arts here,” says Eve Gianni, general manager of the Westport gallery, who comes to Clarendon from an interior design background and with previous gallery experience in the Hamptons. “I think

people used to feel that they had to go to the City to find art. Now they can come here.”

The Westport gallery showcases a wide range of American and International artists, from blue-chip 20th century masters the likes Picasso, Miro, Chagall, and Dali to contemporary

artists like Mr. Brainwash. It also exhibits the work of emerging and mid-career artists, including established contemporary artists such as Fabian Perez and Sharie Valentine, across forms—paintings, drawings, sculpture—and genres: landscape, wildlife life, and both figurative and

abstract works.

Typically, Gianni and her two-woman staff walk through the gallery with prospective buyers, both those new to the art world and long-time art collectors, but they also make house calls to help to determine which pieces will work in a prospective buyer’s home. For first-time art buyers here, Gianni’s advice is simple: “Follow your heart.”

“A lot of people are overwhelmed by the amount of choices in the art world,” she adds, “so I think it’s really a matter of having a conversation to identify why customers are collecting--whether it’s because they want to fill their walls or because they’ve fallen in love with a piece.”

Simplifying and demystifying the art-buying process is central to founder and CEO Helen Swaby’s mission: “We create an inspirational journey through the art world for every individual, whether they are a seasoned art collector or are just starting out,” she says. “All our art advisors believe passionately in the joy of collecting, and we love nothing more than sharing that passion with others.” – Tom

Connor

above: Clarendon Fine Art showcases a wide range of American and International artists, including 20th century masters Picasso, Miro and Chagall. below: The gallery’s professional staff guides first-time and seasoned art collectors in appreciating the work of emerging plus established contemporary artists.

FULL VOLUME

A NEW SHOW in New Canaan explores dimensional space

Three female artists are bringing their work to Arden + White Gallery for the upcoming “Volume,” which considers the perceived depth of their pieces, all created in different mediums and with new art-making techniques. Clementine Maconachie—an Olympian and former world record holder—is Sydney, Australia-based and focuses on stone and metal sculptures that embrace the beauty in imperfection. Scotland-born but New York-based Gwen Hardie uses color and tone to illusory effect with her oil paintings. From

this photo: Maconachie’s sculptures’ juxtapose soft lines with hard materials. below: Molly Haynes’ Carapace, 2022, is woven with kenaf fiber and monofilament.

Los Angeles, Molly Haynes brings woven works that serve as tactile sculptures, created with natural materials like raw plant fibers and salvaged marine ropes. The show will run through August 20th.

32 Elm Street New Cannan, CT 06840 ardenandwhitegallery.com

The Bruce is Back!

Greenwich’s prized museum has reopened its doors, after a long-awaited expansion

Bigger is better. Especially when it means adding 43,000 square feet of gallery space to display the impressive collection the Bruce Museum has amassed. What started with Robert Bruce’s Victorian original mansion—and saw many renovations over time—is now a cast stone and glass edifice, and major art destination. “It’s a supremely modernist building,” executive director Robert Wolterstorff says of the $60 million investment. “It’s a clean, serene kind of modernism—there’s a grandeur and elegance to it. It changes the whole vibe.” And inside, the walls now have ample room for works by Miro, Matisse, and Picasso, among others. Members who loved visiting for the geology and wildlife exhibits will be pleased to see engaging science programming is still a mainstay, including a current showcase on penguins that runs through August.

1 Museum Drive, Greenwich, CT 06830 brucemuseum.org

ART HOUSE

Carriage Barn continues to open its doors to art enthusiasts and celebrate local talent

Now is the perfect time to check out New Canaan’s Carriage Barn Arts Center. The restored site in Waveny Park has offered an art-filled escape since 1977, when volunteers renovated the building to avoid a planned demolition. Today, there are regular shows, workshops, and events that emphasize the importance of art and community. Be sure to check out The Flower Show, an exploration of botanicals in contemporary environments, before it leaves on July 8th.

681 South Avenue New Canaan, CT 06840 carriagebarn.org

above: Kristin Peterson Edwards, director of special projects; Janet Dinger, events & programs manager, and Hilary Wittmann, executive director

PHOTOS: COURTESY OF ARDEN

WHITE GALLERY; BRUCE MUSEUM BY KYLE NORTON; CARRIAGE BARN BY VENERA ALEXANDROVA

above: Artists on display inside Carriage Barn’s historic building.

above: A sculpture gallery in the newly-renovated Bruce Museum.

BATHING BEAUTY

encounters it—in the socks on a stranger’s ankles on the subway, on a hike through a leafy jungle, in the carpet of an airplane on an overnight flight. She grew up traveling with her family and was inspired by the visual beauty of clothing, jewelry, and decor from an early age and recalls accompanying her father, an architect, to his office in her native Buenos Aires, at seven years old; there she examined blueprints and sketched ideas for the tiles of his clients’ buildings.

Textiles were her one true love, however, and before going out on her own in 2012, Feinstein spent years designing for bath-linen behemoths like the Brazilian manufacturer Karsten.

If the universe of towels were ruled by a monarch, Carolina Feinstein would be its queen, crowned in a tiara of low-twist terry, sans fringe. Now the Old Greenwich resident, whose beach, bath, and tabletop collections have filled the shelves of major retailers including T.J. Maxx, Nordstrom, and Home Goods for three decades, is annexing a new territory:  a 1,000-square-foot, sun-lit boutique in Harbor Point that is stocked with all the absorption a Nantucket weekender could want. Beach towels in bold, colorful stripes and motifs sit in stacks awaiting a squeeze; plush hoodie-towels decorated with hearts hang on cabana pegs; and bundled bathing kits for kids ages three to 10 pique a summer gift-giver’s curiosity. Also on offer are bath towels in eight

solid colors from Feinstein’s Coventry line, which re-purposes approximately 150 plastic bottles per bath sheet.

The Caro Home store, which is accessible via a verdant allée off Pacific Street, and attached to the company’s existing wholesale showroom in a converted brick warehouse, represents a bold move by the entrepreneur, who has made her mark on the industry with so-called fashion towels, which now account for 20 percent of the market. Thanks to fewer twists in the yarns that are used, these vibrant and fluffy textiles distinguish themselves from the standard-issue, scratchy rectangles that hang near bathtubs worldwide.

Feinstein is a dyed-in-the-cotton designer, inspired by color and pattern wherever she

In addition to yarn-dyes, jacquards, and double-dobbies, her other love is her husband and fellow Argentine, Andres Hogg, a realestate developer who envisions a thriving village of commercial, office, and residential buildings between Ludlow and Dock Streets. The couple met in 1989—fittingly—at Uruguay’s Punta del Este, the bucket-list destination for the bikini-and-caftan crowd, and moved to New York in 2000. Their two children are their go-to towel models.

Feinstein, who partners with factories and mills in India, Portugal, Turkey, and China— and who will soon launch a tabletop line— recalls that even in elementary school she was snubbing convention, wearing orange pinafores—orange remains her signature color—when her classmates were wearing white.

“I have never done what others are doing,” she says.

Prices at the store range from approximately $10 to $45, with the exception of a small selection of bamboo-fiber bed sheets available for $200-plus per set.

Caro Home, 583 Pacific Street, Stamford, carohome.com

THE NEW CARO HOME STORE IS STOCKED WITH SUMMER BEACH ESSENTIALS by suzanne gannon

above left: Caro and her twins at home. They are her biggest inspiration! above right top: Mix and match patterns in soft colors, perfect for that beach getaway. above right bottom: The beautiful color range of the plush BelAire collection. An easy way to feel like you're at a spa in your own home.

DOUGLAS WRIGHT Douglas C. Wright Architects

JASON & KATIE MAINE Maine Design

JOSH GREENE Josh Greene Design

MELISSA REAVIS Hollander Design

HUH Young Huh Interior Design PHILIP GORRIVAN Philip Gorrivan Design

the BEST

Antiques + Vintage Store

Modern Day Auctions

100 N. Water St., Norwalk, 203-400-6000; moderndayauctions.com

Appliances

Aitoro 401 Westport Ave., Norwalk, 203-847-2471; aitoro.com

Closet + Organization California Closets

565 Westport Ave., Norwalk, 203-924-8444; californiaclosets.com

Décor

The Post 1799 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-292-5700; thepostct.com

Furniture Serena & Lily 35 Elm St., Westport, 203-635-8000; serenaandlily.com

Garden Center Designs by Lee 129 Interlaken Rd., Stamford, 203-322-2206; designsbylee.com

Hardware + Paint + Windows + Doors Ring’s End 181 West Ave., Darien, 203-655-2525; ringsend.com

Home Tech Fairfield Integrated Systems 1212 E. Putnam Ave., Riverside, 203-614-9365; fairfieldis.io

Kitchen + Bath

BENDER

235 Westport Ave., Norwalk, 203-286-5896; 28 Harbor St., Stamford, 203-324-6166; benderplumbing.com

Lighting Chloe Winston Lighting Design 68 Water St., Norwalk, 203-957-8686; chloewinstonlighting.com

Linens

The Linen Shop 21 Elm St., New Canaan, 203-972-0433; thelineshopct.com

Scan below to check out all of our winners

Outdoor Furniture Patio.com

428 West Putnam Ave., Greenwich, 203-869-3084; patio.com

Pool Design Shoreline Pools 393 West Ave., Stamford, 203-967-1203; shorelinepools.com

Rugs

Redi-Cut 1620 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-349-6394; redicarpets.com

Stone Gault Stone 11 Ferry Lane W., Westport, 203-227-5181; gaultstone.com

They’re simply the best. Based on readers’ votes, here’s your ultimate home team: the ones we call on to reimagine, redecorate, and rebuild.

R ing’s End // Winner of BEST Paint +Windows/Doors + Hardware

As the company continues to expand—with 20 locations now in Connecticut—Ring’s End’s ethos has remained the same: “To provide the very best products, industry knowledge, customer service, and shopping experience.” A dedicated resource to the entire design and building community, from homeowners curious about the latest paint colors to contractors stocking up on building materials, Ring’s End continues to be the industry leader. Visit your nearest store, and take advantage of their knowledgeable specialists’ input before tackling your next project.

Local Color

We asked Lauren Frank, a design sales associate and color guru at the Darien Ring’s End location, to share the most common requests for outdoor paint colors. She insists that people are still sticking with grays and whites for the exterior of their homes.

HC-170

For a “true gray,” she often recommends Benjamin Moore’s Stonington Gray HC-170 or Coventry Gray HC-169. Both colors are medium gray with relatively neutral undertones.

CW-5

For a clean white to use on trim with either of those colors, she suggests Benjamin Moore’s Harwood Putty CW-5. This is a very clean white, but not as stark as something such as Decorators White CC-20, and it doesn’t skew as yellow as Chantilly Lace OC-65 would.

Benjamin Moore’s Wrought Iron 2124-10

Lauren has had a few more requests for dark exterior colors and loves the look of Benjamin Moore Wrought Iron 2124-10.

Benjamin Moore’s Stonington Gray

Benjamin Moore’s Harwood Putty

Decluttering, Decoded

California Closets systems ensure organized solutions for any space. This summer, reconsider how laundry and landing spots can become optimized to handle everything from pool towels to dirty camp clothes.

Integrated

C alifornia C losets // Winner of BEST Organization

What is real luxury? It’s in the way you feel. Having an organized space is an essential element to feeling calm, comfortable, and fully confident. The way of moving from cluttered chaos to streamlined storage is California Closets. Our voters recognize that the custom-designed spaces bring order to their carefully curated collection of clothes, shoes, bags, and various accessories. And their services aren’t limited to closets. Pantries, laundry rooms, home offices, and mudrooms are all spaces worth tackling. The team works with you, including a consultation, 3D digital model to review, custom creation, and professional installation.

Designated cubbies help minimize clutter and misplaced items. Avoid mindless stashing!

seating provides a place for putting on or taking off shoes, as well as additional storage.

The hub of the home, a well-designed mudroom keeps everyone organized as they enter and exit the home.

Thoughtful room design and details create multiple functional areas in one space.

An open-concept laundry room serves double duty with a bonus mudroom area to capture shoes, coats, and bags.

Gault // Winner of BEST Stone

Gault’s unbeatable service and stone selection has kept them in the top spot year after year, as voters reinforce the company’s “You First” philosophy as a winning one. With over 150 years of knowledge and personalized attention, they offer professional guidance on projects of all sizes, whether you’re looking to upgrade your home’s curb appeal or overhaul your kitchen countertops. Know that you’ll choose from the largest assortment of natural and manmade stone in New England and have access to a team of experts ready to execute your vision, including custom fabrication with state-of-the-art tools.

The Post // Winner of BEST Décor

Southport resident Deb

Placey opened The Post in hopes of sharing her design finds with local shoppers. As someone who made interiors her second career, she knew the importance of having somewhere to gather both inspiration and all the finishing touches that complete a space. With a wide selection of everything from pillows to lighting and serveware to accessories, it’s a one-stop shop for all your styling-ready surfaces.

Hard Decisions

Estuardo Juarez, stone specialist at Gault Stone & Landscape Supplies, has managed tons of landscape jobs. Here are the stone trends he’s seeing, to consider for your next outdoor project.

Monolithic is everywhere: steps, lawn risers, firepits, curbing

Consider lawn joints for a softer hardscape look

Sawn stone applied to everything from full bed building stone to fire and water features

N ight L ights

Chloe Winston Lighting Design owners, Rina

DiMarte and Candace Pereira, share their bright ideas for outdoor lighting.

“Clean, modern lines paired with classic candlestick bulbs add elegance to your outdoor setting.”

(Beckham sconce by Troy Lighting)

S erena & L ily // Winner of BEST Furniture

Serena & Lily feels like home. Or at least it feels like the potential of what our home could be, if only we were able to effortlessly mix the pieces in their coastal Californian line. Lucky for us, the styled spaces in their Westport store—a historic 1889-built Queen Anne Victorian— serve as a blueprint for what’s possible from the brand’s breezy offerings. Customers love having access to the work room— where you can visit with your own designer or consult with an advisor on staff—and mapping out a plan to bring some of that Serena & Lily vibe into their own homes.

“Lighting with a woven seagrass look is the perfect coastal touch for any outdoor living space. Naturals are forever popular, especially on our Gold Coast.”

(Palacek Augustine Outdoor Cone Pendant)

Chloe Winston Lighting Design // Winner of BEST Lighting

“We love the chain detail and fluted glass of this upscale outdoor sconce. It adds a bit of sophistication to outdoor living areas.” (Yucca sconce by Troy Lighting)

Never underestimate the power of good lighting. Dark reading corners are lightened with a table lamp. The busy kitchen, always packed with your family looking to grab a bite of whatever you’re cooking, is better because of brilliant task lighting. The entry? It has a gentle ceiling light to welcome guests. Our readers agreed by sending in vote after vote for Chloe Winston Lighting Design. We should add “again,” because this popular shop wins year after year. They turn to designer and upscale options in the showroom to imagine the possibilities at home. Plus, there’s plenty of interior design help to make sure you make selections that will work.

Shoreline Pools // Winner of BEST Pool Design

As homeowners continue to invest in their properties and create resort-like spaces in their own backyards, pools remain at the top of the request list. But not all pool companies are created equal. For those looking for a five-star experience, Shoreline Pools remains the gold standard. Since 1969, the family-owned Stamford company has maintained its loyal customer base with a dedication to service and craftsmanship. An in-house landscape architecture team ensures the design of the entire outdoor area remains integral to the construction process. Let their expert staff guide you, whether you’re breaking ground or looking to revitalize your existing but outdated pool.

// Winner of BEST Kitchen & Bath

So you’ve pinned and bookmarked a trove of inspirational images for your bath and kitchen remodel. What’s your next move? If you’re smart, it’s heading into a Bender showroom to see where all those visions come to life. Notice the difference between polished and unlacquered brass, run your hands over the imperfect surfaces of handmade Zellige tile, and reconfigure your whole design plan to accommodate a non-negotiable soaking tub. The idea is to get excited and see what works, especially with the help of a qualified group who knows how to serve our local community of designers, builders, and homeowners.

Bender

TOWNS of the

You voted. We listened. Here is the definitive list of the best businesses across our towns to shop for everything home—from paint to pools.

GREENWICH / STAMFORD / WESTPORT / NEW CANAAN / DARIEN / FAIRFIELD

Antiques + Vintage Store

Patrick Mele 60 William St., Greenwich, 203-717-1888; patrickmele.com

Appliances Partridge & Rockwell 85 Pemberwick Rd., Greenwich, 203-531-8670; partridgeappliances.com

Closet Organization

Greenwich Organizing Solutions

109 Greenwich Ave. #2, Greenwich, 203-918-4302; newgreenwich.com

Décor habitat greenwich

234 E. Putnam Ave., Cos Cob, 203-900-1233; habitatgreenwich.com

Hardware

Feinsod Hardware

268 Sound Beach Ave., Old Greenwich, 203-637-3641; acehardware.com/ store-details/16985

Home Tech

Greenwich Fairfield Integrated Systems

1212 E. Putnam Ave., Greenwich, 203-614-9365; fairfieldis.io

Kitchen + Bath KOHLER

125 E. Putnam Ave., Greenwich, 203-900-7767; kohler.com

Lighting Visual Comfort & Co.

21 W. Putnam Ave., Ste. A, Greenwich, 203-622-1417; visualcomfort.com

Linens Lynnens

278 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-629-3659; lynnens.com

Outdoor Furniture Patio.com

428 W. Putnam Ave., Greenwich, 203-869-3084; see all locations at patio.com

Paint

Farrow & Ball 32 E. Putnam Ave., Greenwich, 203-422-0990; see all locations at farrow-ball.com

Rugs Riverside Floor Covering 1076 E. Putnam Ave., Riverside, 203-637-3777; riversidefloorcovering .com

Stone Greenwich Tile & Marble 402 W. Putnam Ave., Greenwich, 203-869-1709; greenwichtileand marble.com

Antiques + Vintage Store Remix Market

77 Selleck St., #7207, Stamford, 203-989-9655; remixmarket.com

Appliances County TV & Appliance 2770 Summer St., Stamford, 203-327-2630; countytv.com

Closet Organization Matt Baier 14 Forest Lawn Ave., #B6, Stamford, 203-428-6294; mattbaier.com

Décor

The Collective

907 High Ridge Rd., Stamford, 203-609-5288; thecollectivect.com

FARROW & BALL Winner of BEST Paint

Furniture

habitat greenwich

234 E Putnam Ave., Cos Cob, 203-900-1233; habitatgreenwich.com

Garden Center

Sam Bridge 437 North St., Greenwich, 203-869-3418; sambridge.com

Furniture Remix Market

77 Selleck St., #7207, Stamford, 203-989-9655; remixmarket.com

Garden Center

Designs By Lee 129 Interlaken Rd., Stamford, 203-322-2206; designsbylee.com

Farrow & Ball’s newest Dead Flat finish is their most matte formulation.

PHOTOS: COURTESY OF HABITAT GREENWICH, FARROW & BALL, THE COLLECTIVE

The styled storefront at habitat greenwich in Cos Cob.

The Collective mixes custom, consignment, and new pieces.

Kitchen + Bath

Plimpton & Hills

92 Research Drive, Stamford, 203-965-5959; plimptonhills.com

Lighting

The Accessory Store

69 Jefferson St., Stamford, 203-327-7128; stamfordshades.com

Linens

HomeGoods

27-29 High Ridge St., Stamford, 203-964-9416; homegoods.com

Outdoor Furniture

DWR

711 Canal St., Stamford, 203-614-0787; dwr.com

Antiques + Vintage Store

Bungalow

4 Sconset Square, Westport, 203-227-4406; bungalowdecor.com

Home Tech

Untangled 230 Danbury Rd., Wilton, 203-665-8221; theuntangledlife.com

Kitchen + Bath

Kohler

1320 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-577-5388; kohler.com

Lighting L’Antiquaire 18 Post Rd., Westport, 203-454-2750; lantiquaire.net

Linens

Serena & Lily 35 Elm St., Westport, 203-635-8000; serenaandlily.com

Outdoor Furniture

Terrain

Let House of Prim streamline all your spaces.

Closet Organization House of Prim houseofprim.com

Décor

561 Post Rd. E, Westport, 203-226-2750; shopterrain.com

Antiques + Vintage Store

Fairfield County Antique and Design 39 Knight St., Norwalk, 203-826-8575; fairfieldantiqueand design.com

Appliances Aitoro 401 Westport Ave., Norwalk, 203-847-2471; aitoro.com

Paint Ring’s End

87 Harvard Ave., Stamford, 203-356-4000; ringsend.com

Pools

Shoreline Pools 393 West Ave., Stamford, 203-967-1203; shorelinepools.com

Stone Connecticut Stone 39 Larkin St., Stamford, 203-967-2937; connecticutstone.com

Windows + Doors

WindowRama

65 Harvard Ave., Stamford, 203-356-1051; windowrama.com

The Post 1799 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-292-5700; thepostct.com

Furniture Serena & Lily 35 Elm St., Westport, 203-635-8000; serenaandlily.com

Garden Center Terrain 561 Post Rd. E, Westport, 203-226-2750; shopterrain.com

Hardware Ring’s End 877 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-226-6133; ringsend.com

Paint Ring’s End 877 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-226-6133; ringsend.com

Pool Design

Hoffman Landscapes 203-834-9656; hoffmanlandscapes.com

Rugs

Redi-Cut 1620 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-349-6714; redicarpets.com

Stone Gault Stone 11 Ferry Lane West, Westport, 203-227-5181; gaultstone.com

Windows + Doors

Ring’s End 877 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-226-6133; ringsend.com

Closet Organization California Closets 565 Westport Ave., Norwalk, 203-529-7353; californiaclosets.com

Décor Found 36 Elm St., New Canaan, 203-594-7807; foundanddesign.com

Furniture

Mandarine 863 Post Rd., Darien, 475-328-9962; mandarinehome.com

Garden Center Nielsen’s 1405 Post Rd., Darien, 203-655-2541; nielsensflorist.com

DWR brings style to any outdoor space.

Found is stocked with summer accessories. PHOTOS: COURTESY OF DWR; HOUSE OF PRIM BY JULIA D’AGOSTINO; FOUND BY CHRISTINE KEANE

Hardware Weed and Duryea

21 Grove St., New Canaan, 203-966-2673; northeastco.com

Home Tech

Robert Allen Multimedia

21 Cross St., New Canaan, 203-856-0058; ramultimedia-ctny.com

Lighting Chloe Winston Lighting Design

68 Water St., Norwalk, 203-957-8686; chloewinstonlighting.com

Linens The Linen Shop 21 Elm St., New Canaan, 203-972-0433 thelinenshopct.com

Outdoor Furniture Seasons Too 836 Post Rd., Darien, 203-655-8444 seasonstoo.com

Paint Ring’s End 181 West Ave., Darien, 203-655-2525; ringsend.com

Pool Design Henn Pools Darien, 203-521-3793; hennpools.com

Rugs

Dorello Carpets & Area Rugs 594 Main Ave., Norwalk, 203-847-0335; dorellocarpets.net

Windows + Doors KLAR Studio 241 Westport Ave., Norwalk, 203-935-8403; klarstudio.com

KLAR Winner of BEST Windows + Doors

Outdoor Furniture

Outdoor Design & Living 1301 Bronson Rd., Fairfield, 203-259-9630; outdoordesign.com

Antiques + Vintage Store

Mongers Market 1155 Railroad Ave., Bridgeport, 203-583-5899; mongers-market.com

Appliances Marsillios Appliances & TV

2031 Black Rock Turnpike, Fairfield, 203-601-6359; marsillios.com

Décor TUSK Home + Design 167 Old Post Rd., Southport, 203-319-0001; tuskhomeand design.com

Furniture

TUSK Home + Design 167 Old Post Rd., Southport, 203-319-0001; tuskhomeanddesign.com

Garden Center Colonial Gardens 1174 Bronson Rd., Fairfield, 203-259-2722;

Hardware Ring’s End 1139 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-256-9550; ringsend.com

Home Tech

Westfair TV Audio 1961 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-255-1671; westfairtv.com

Kitchen + Bath

Fairfield Kitchen & Bath 760 Kings Hwy E., Fairfield, 203-296-1615; fairfieldkb.com

Paint Ring’s End 1139 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-256-9550; ringsend.com

Pool Design Fairfield Pool 278 Meadow St., Fairfield, 203-334-3600; fairfieldpool.com

Rugs

Absolute Floor Designs 3368 Fairfield Ave., Bridgeport, 203-333-3248; afd123.com

Stone Tile America 515 Commerce Dr., Fairfield, 203-367-6449; tileamerica.com

Windows + Doors Ring’s End 1139 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-256-9550; ringsend.com

See KLAR’s best-in-glass range at their Norwalk studio.

Outdoor Design & Living’s team of landscape experts are ready to help.

PHOTOS: COURTESY OF KLAR; OUTDOOR DESIGN BY DAVID GUNN

ART MAKES THE ROOM

The most important element of sourcing art for a client is not only that it integrates into their design, but also that the piece resonates with them. The art should convey a sense of who they are, their passion and interests; their “story.” Peter’s word paintings are often described as soulful figures of speech. This specific piece was a commission, we connected the artist and client for this piece to truly reflect their story.

Calla Cane

TITLE OF PIECE STAR WARS NO. 2

ARTIST

PETER

BUCHMAN

ADVISORY

IN-HOUSE

ART DIRECTOR

INTERIOR DESIGN

CALLA CANE

THOUGHTS ON THE PIECES THAT BROUGHT THESE INTERIORS TO LIFE

With their affinity for pop art, our clients selected this piece, Roy Lichtenstein’s Two Paintings: Dagwood , 1984. Since the entry foyer is often the first impression of a home, this vivid, colorful piece not only demonstrates the clever work of Lichtenstein’s varied oeuvre, but also creates a delightful way to welcome guests. Its strong visual impact brings a great sense of energy and complements the interior.

Linda Ruderman, Linda Ruderman Interiors, Inc.

TITLE OF PIECE TWO PAINTINGS: DAGWOOD, 1984

We clearly needed something oversized for this wall, to anchor the large space and complement the vast water view. The full composition of this oil and acrylic did just that. Aside from its spectacular beauty, it’s incredibly versatile and added some soft, calming colors to the neutral palette of the furnishings without overpowering the room.

Diana Byrne, DB Design

TITLE OF PIECE UNTITLED

GÜNTHER FÖRG

INTERIOR DESIGN DB DESIGN

ADVISORY + GALLERY TIFFANY BENNICASO, ADVISOR, C PARKER GALLERY, GREENWICH

INTERIOR DESIGN

LINDA RUDERMAN INTERIORS

TITLE OF PIECE THE SPACE BETWEEN  ARTIST JESSICA LICHTENSTEIN ADVISORY ASHLEY SPODEK, CITRINE ART CONSULTANTS INTERIOR DESIGN EVAN EDWARD

Our client wanted something bold and eye-catching, and something that was a good conversation starter. From a distance, the silhouettes resemble trees blossoming, but the closer you get to the piece, the more you uncover: nude tree nymphs, with Japanese influences, and nature’s relationship to the female body. It’s truly a powerful work and goes incredibly well with the space.

Ashley Spodek, Citrine Art Consultants

ARTIST ROY LICHTENSTEIN

Artist Hiejin Yoo’s paintings are known to have a focus on personal experiences, specifically day-to-day moments and routines of contemporary life, whether grandiose or mundane. The clients were drawn to this particular painting as it was reminiscent of those first few years of parenting and the days spent carrying their children everywhere, with their happy little arms stretched lovingly around their necks. These sweet memories add to the overall sense of intimacy within this gathering room in their home.

Betsy Biscone, Betsy Biscone Art Advisory

Our clients have an extensive art collection, and their Philip Glass piece by Chuck Close needed a central location. Its placement is ideal, since it is visible from multiple rooms in the home.

– Barrett Oswald, Barrett Oswald Designs

TITLE OF PIECE PHIL / FINGERPRINT

ARTIST CHUCK CLOSE

We found this papier-mâché sculptural statement piece at the Antique and Artisan Gallery in Stamford. Before adding it to the room, we had our painter create an ombré effect, making it a truly custom installation.

Alana Irwin and Cami Luppino, Lulu Home

The scale of this art is so intense that it called for a focal point. We chose to place it over the bed as it serves as an extension for the headboard, and what a visual impact! The colors are easy on the eye and become the wow in the guest bedroom.

Chris Roughan, Roughan Interiors

TITLE OF PIECE

LIGHT THROUGH WIRE

ARTIST BERNARD M C WILLIAMS

INTERIOR DESIGN ROUGHAN INTERIORS

The scale of this stacked pigment sculpture draws the viewer's eye up, taking advantage of the double-height ceiling in this entry. The vibrant hues add an incredible sense of energy to the monochromatic space.

Jennifer Smokler, Jennifer Smokler Interiors

TITLE OF PIECE

UNKNOWN, FROM THE STACK SERIES

ARTIST

ANNIE MORRIS

ADVISORY CHESTMAN ART

INTERIOR DESIGN

JENNIFER SMOKLER INTERIORS

this photo:

A photograph from Katherine Wolkoff’s Deer Beds series hangs in a contemporary Darien living room, sourced by Trove Art Advisory.

CREATIVE PART NERS

Let these advisors take you to art school , with lessons on guiding clients, building collections, and collaborating with designers to enhance and elevate their work.

SARAH CETRULO

Trove Art Advisory

Tell us how you got started and the path that led you to art advisory.

I worked at both Christie’s and then Sotheby’s auction house in New York for over ten years, and fell in love with the constantly evolving world that surrounds art. The convergence of business and beauty is fascinating to me. I’ve collected art for as long as I can remember in whatever capacity I was able to, and after I left the auction world, friends asked me to find art for their own homes.

Soon I was collecting art for friends of friends, and Trove grew organically from that space.

How does your process work with clients?

After I’ve seen the space the art will inhabit, I like to ask clients to show me examples of art they’re drawn to. It’s also helpful to know how they want to interact with the art and its purpose. Based on my measurements and our discussions, I’ll source a number of options for the client to review. Ideally, we can visit galleries together, experience the art first-hand, and speak with the gallerists who represent those artists. In the end, it’s exhilarating to see an art placement in a home or business that makes you stop and take notice.

above: An installation in Rowayton includes work by Bradley Sabin. this photo: Cetrulo, captured in front of her own selection.

What is a typical working day for you?

We moved across country this past fall, so I’ve transitioned my routine now that we are in California. Since moving to Montecito, I’ve spent time exploring galleries on the West coast and cultivating relationships with galleries and artists previously unknown to me. I follow exhibitions on the East coast and abroad via email and spend much of any working day looking at beautiful art. It really is my dream job!

What are some of your favorite places to discover new art/ artists?

Attending art fairs is a great way to see a large amount of art in varied mediums and at multiple price points. Just getting out on the street and visiting galleries is also a wonderful way to stay on top of the evolving market. In recent years, I’ve found amazing artists through Instagram, which in turn will lead me to a new gallery, which then leads me to discover new artists previously unknown to me.

Has your advisory role changed the way you view interior design?

In my opinion, interior design is its own art form, and I love working in both spaces: design and fine art. I’d like to think Trove is uniquely positioned to know how art and design converge so that they complement each other. Interiors without art lack soul, and art alone in a white room lacks purpose; together, they challenge the viewer, create a story, and leave a lasting impact.

above: Jacinto Moros’ sculptural piece is achieved with blind embossing on Arches paper, and was chosen for this client’s library. this photo: Abstractionist Carin Riley created the work for this Darien kitchen.

PHOTOS: INTERIORS BY JANE BEILES; CETRULO BY ROXANNE BRYANT

What is the best collecting advice you’d give to people just starting out?

Try to expose yourself visually to as much art as possible. Visit galleries, museums, and art openings. Ask questions. Notice how the art makes you feel, and try to experience varied pieces in all mediums, styles, and sizes. Ask more questions. Find an artist whose work all at once challenges you and makes you smile, and try a piece on approval in your home. If you can’t let it go, then you know it’s found its home.

Do you have a favorite project/piece to date?

All of them! I’ve never helped a client purchase a piece of art that I wouldn’t gladly welcome into my own home. I fall in love with certain pieces of art, and when the client does as well, it makes for a wonderful collaboration.

Which artists are inspiring you these days?

It’s easy to be inspired looking at art all day, but it’s hard to choose favorites! As far as current exhibitions that caught my eye, I love the work of Yulia Iosilzon on view now at Carvalho Park in Brooklyn. Her large-scale canvases are an explosion of color and movement. They are both whimsical and dramatic, extremely modern but with ancient symbolism. I’d also love to add a piece by Christy Matson to my personal collection. Her abstract textural weavings are incredible, and she’s in a group show right now at Philip Martin Gallery in LA.

above: A ceramic installation by Jocelyn Braxton Armstrong flies above this dining area. this photo: Nike Schroeder creates soft texture with hanging rayon threads.

above: A creative landscape from the mind of Kevin Paulsen. right: Vespers by Julian Jackson found a home in Rowayton.

above: An antique mirror provides a backdrop for this Mary Didoardo painting in a Darien home. left: Donald Martiny manipulates the paint for his pieces to capture a brushstroke’s movement, or in this case, to resemble a crashing wave.

PHOTOS: JANE BEILES

HEATHER GAUDIO

this photo: Context Dependent, a landscape painting by Tula Telfair hangs in a space designed by JLayton Interiors.

Heather Gaudio Fine Art

Tell us how you got started and your about background in the art world.

I’ve been in the art world for as long as I can remember. I attended art school at the Scuola Lorenzo de’ Medici in Florence and Smanta Fe, NM, and earned my BFA. My first job out of college was at Gerald Peters Gallery in Santa Fe, NM. When I moved to New York, I continued working in the art world, where I served as Director at Forum Gallery. Once I moved to Connecticut, I started my own art advisory business and in 2011 opened Heather Gaudio Fine Art in a small space in downtown New Canaan. Since then, the gallery program, exhibition space and collector base has grown. Today, we have over 40 artists on our roster, feature six to eight exhibitions a year and participate in art fairs. We also work with other galleries and private dealers to find specific works collectors are seeking.

How does your process work with clients?

We like to be approachable, creative, and flexible with our clients, so customer service is high on the list. While we are a fine art gallery representing a roster of artists which we exhibit and place in private and public collections, that is one aspect of what we do. When it comes to our clients, we spend a significant amount of time viewing the art with them in the gallery and at their homes, educating them (and ourselves) on their tastes and what they respond to. We speak about the artwork, the artist’s process, and their trajectory. Many times, these clients seek to grow their collection, and we work in partnership with them, attending art fairs together, working with other dealers and galleries and recommending new additions to their collection. We have placed blue-chip secondarymarket art works as well. I would say that is far from the norm with traditional galleries.

this photo: Gaudio stands in her gallery. below: Ann Gardner’s New Day, a blown glass installation at the Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters in Virginia.

How has the art world changed since you started? How much does social media play into its evolution?

The art world has certainly grown and shifted in the last two decades. Certainly, contemporary art and emerging artists have a bigger role than they did when I started. A positive change has been that it has become more inclusive. We are seeing more diverse racial and social perspectives and representations. Also, non-traditional mediums and materials have become more visible in the contemporary artworld. Recently, social media has taken a bigger platform, particularly since the pandemic, when the world shut down access to seeing art in person. I would say what has not changed, though, is the preference for people to see and experience work in real life and not just through a digital screen.

What’s the best collecting advice you’d give to people? There should be a connection to the work. Collect what you love. Quality over quantity, and that doesn’t necessarily have a price tag associated with it. You can take your time filling your walls, it doesn’t all have to happen at once.

How do you balance your personal taste with your client’s?

It is a conversation and a collaboration with input of the client and the insight into the market from myself and the gallery team.

this photo: Porcelain Cups, Triptych Blue Grey, by Valéria Nascimento in a space by JLayton Interiors.

this photo: In a home designed by Stirling Mills Interior Design, a sculpture by Jeremy Holmes makes a statement in the dining room, alongside artworks by Paul Bloch (sculpture), Liz Dexheimer (painting), and Bonnie Edelman (photography).

Are there specific things you look for when building a cohesive collection? It’s on a case-by-case basis. No two collectors are alike. It’s a relationship that develops and evolves over time.

What makes a good art advisor?

Being approachable and open-minded. The key is to listen and be sensitive to the lifestyle and direction the clients are going in. Having solid relationships with clients, artists, other dealers is fundamental. Also educating ourselves, as we, too, learn in the process. We have been known to go to the ends of the earth to look for that one elusive artwork or object the client is seeking.

What’s a typical working day for you?

There is no typical day. We go on studio visits, attend art fairs, plan exhibitions, and take artworks to clients. Many times our very structured agenda for the day can change on a dime when a client walks in and wants to see have a conversation and see artwork. Lunch typically happens at three o’clock.

What’s the biggest challenge to your role?

Not having enough hours in the day.

Dream project?

We have been fortunate to work on dream projects already, including placing artwork in a state-of-the-art Children’s hospital in Virginia and corporate collections, where art was central to their mission. We have also placed artwork in magnificent homes (and even yachts!) all over the country and abroad. But I would say the dream is about enrichment and enhancing the lives of others through art.

left: Morgan Harrison Home worked with Gaudio to place Black Matter I, by Simona Prives. right: Framed Abstraction, by Martin Kline graces the dining room in this North Carolina home.

this photo: Works by Jill Moser and Cassandria Blackmore elevate this JLayton Interiors-designed stairway.

PHOTOS: MORGAN HARRISON HOME BY JANE BEILES; DINING ROOM & STAIRWAY

this photo: The travertine marble table has a stone top with a honed finish and a custom reeded oak base, all made in Connecticut. opposite page: Zikas sits on a locally made white gesso textured table, flanked by Paula Scher’s London on the left and Snow Bison by Pete Zaluzec on the right.

A family’s art collection inspires easy, chic living spaces

CALM & COLLECTED

Who lives in this home?

Husband, wife, daughter, and son. They’re New York City transplants who found themselves in the Greenwich suburbs.

How were you initially connected to the client?

I was referred to the client through our long-time Connecticut workroom team, who had been brought into the home to quickly fabricate several privacy shades for the client’s immediate move-in needs.

Did they have any immediate requests or non-negotiables that helped guide this design?

The clients’ immediate needs included our team designing a large, functional mudroom that was located in a precarious traffic flow: between their indoor pool, the front foyer, and the adjacent formal living room. We knew the mudroom space needed to be attractive, as it was highly visible

from several points of view, but also very functional so that it could serve as an everyday storage reprieve suitable for their young, active family. Both parents are very fit and athletic, with multiple sports and hobbies, and each child had daily school storage needs and their own share of sports and hobbies.

What was the starting point for the design of this space?

How did the destination change over time?

We wanted to consider the client’s personal belongings and their beautifully bold art collection in each of the spaces that we touched. They also had this exquisite Balinese temple door that they brought back from a trip, and I knew right away that I wanted it to anchor the space. I used the door as inspiration for the color story—it has a beautiful green patina. The rest of the room yielded to those stronger elements and supported them with subtle, light upholstery color and luxurious pillow textures.

“We wanted to consider the clients’ personal belongings and their beautifully bold art collection in each of the spaces that we touched .”

—georgia zikas, georgia zikas design

left: A piece by artist Léo Caillard, titled Miami Beach, hangs next to the natural granite fireplace, complete with a custom fire screen. right: A painting by Raphaela Simon anchors the living room. opposite page: The pièce de résistance, a temple door from Bali, is the star of this space. Arm chairs combine oak frames with caning and ground everything in a more neutral palette. In the dining room beyond, artwork by Barbara Kasten adds dimension and color.

What is your personal relationship to art as a designer?

Are there any mediums you prefer, or artists you like?

Art is incredibly important to all of our room designs, and generally it’s very appreciated by our clients, too. I personally love all art. From incorporating a client’s valuable collection that is often loaned out to museums, to their personal findings on travel trips, to special kids’ art that we have professionally framed, I truly appreciate it all. I also love sculptural art and decorative arts, like handmade crafts or interesting objects that can be used in styling and sprinkled into a variety of accessories. I personally purchase paintings often to mark an important milestone in my career or in my personal life. When I look at the pieces that have hung in my home over the years, I smile knowing their importance and how they take me right back to that exact moment of purchase. For example, I bought a large landscape that hangs in my dining room that depicts a sturdy oak tree in a forest, and it’s something that I purchased after I finished my first, big GZD (Georgia Zikas Design) job. For me, it signifies strength, prosperity, courage, and commitment.

We see lots of fun, textural moments in this space: the wallpaper in both bathrooms, the stone fireplace, and the texture pulled in from various art pieces. How did texture play into this design?

Texture was a pillar element in this design project, for sure. As I mentioned, the bold art and the temple door from Bali were centerpieces in the main living room, so the supporting pieces were decidedly quieter around them, yet they maintain their own sophistication with their unique textures. The large, white sofas are covered with a performance linen-like natural fabric, and the curved sofa and swivel chairs were upholstered in soft, chenille blends. The custom pillows featured in the space were all unique and, namely, luxury embroidered silks. As for the foyer, the table is a custom design created by our office and made locally in Connecticut. We purposely used a strong stone top made of honed travertine marble with a sturdy base of reeded oak. It sets the tone at the entrance, almost saying, “We have fun here! We have loads of style, but we also have incredible strength. Come on in and see!” The bathroom

above: In the living room, leather wrap details on the oak chairs and a cast concrete round table complement the mixture of textiles.

wallpapers are all bold and fun, but also have a timelessness that you won’t tire of quickly. That is always top-of-mind for us; to create spaces that feel fresh but that also have longevity.

What role did art have in this design?

Art played a huge role in this project. It created a launching point in both style direction and color palette. When working with large-scale pieces, the placement and hanging height of each piece are so impactful. We were also very lucky that our clients had such great pieces to work with!

Tell me about your approach to designing living spaces. What do you look for, and what do you like to create?

Our process is all about learning who the client is, what they love, and how they like to live. We have a very robust intake process with our new client onboarding that helps inform the design program of the house, what we need to accomplish for them in terms of function in each space, and what type of lifestyle they would like to achieve, and/or create, in

the end. In every case, we aim to leave them with a truly inspirational setting that exceeds all of their wildest expectations. And we nail it every time! It’s within these new settings where our families can launch a new business idea, have a comfortable space for intimate conversations, and enjoy a cozy backdrop for countless family memories. We always strive for open, honest communication that leads to incredible trust. Once we have mutual trust, magic happens!

As an artist yourself, what role do you believe art has in the wider world outside of our design community?

As a creative artist myself, I feel strongly about supporting all artistic expression in every way we possibly can within our interior design projects. Our clients appreciate that shared ethos, too. We actively seek to find unique paintings, emerging artists, and handmade furniture to bring back and introduce to our clients when suggesting a variety of pieces for their homes. We value fine, handmade quality and handmade anything, really. As for the role of art outside of our immediate design community,

below: A custom oak cocktail table is large enough for hosting friends and family.

this photo: A Phillip Jeffries mural in grasscloth echoes the use of texture throughout the spaces and brings in a familiarly cool blue tone.

I strongly support any form of artistic expression in our children’s schools and within the youth at large. I personally donate to many art-related programs, including music programs, like youth choir and band. As creatives, we stick together!

Did the outcome of this design surprise you in any way? How? Every project surprises me every time! But in an incredibly good way! They are always even better in the end. And the styling is such a necessary completion layer. It’s funny: even when you have a carefully thought-out process and beautifully executed plans, there are little twists and turns along that way that require a designer to pivot or to do a boband-weave kind of action. This project, thankfully, did not have any big construction surprises that caused us to change major directions; however, I think the biggest surprise for us as a team was experiencing our client’s positive reaction to their finished design. They hadn’t worked with a designer before, so they naturally were a bit nervous, and they were committing to a sizable project during a pandemic, no less. Despite the annoying product delays and scheduling multiple delivery phases, we far exceeded their expectations in the end. To us, this is gold.

interview by veronica schorr

Resources:

Interior Design: Georgia Zikas Design, West Hartford, 860-904-5902; georgiazikasdesign.com

Work Room:

The Finishing Room, Weatogue; thefinishingroom.com

above: White penny tiles create a classic foundation for this bathroom. The custom vanity with Kohler Purist plumbing fixtures, Visual Comfort sconces, and a walnut framed mirror complete the space. right, above: A faux sisal rug with leather trim detail was created for the blue mudroom. right, below: An Acacia wood stool, bold Abnormals Anonymous wallpaper, and Visual Comfort sconces perfectly accent this bold powder room.

above: A Verellen sofa in Schumacher steel blue velvet and swivel chairs in cream bouclé create a chic and cozy space for the client to enjoy their art. The piece on the left is Charlie Hewitt’s Iron Pebble

interview with michelle morgan harrison, morgan harrison home photographer jane beiles

A custom design plan allows for creative ways to incorporate the owners’ beloved pieces

APPRECIATION ART

Who is the client, and how were you introduced to them?

The clients are an amazing couple, both enjoying a second marriage to one another. They had been living in the husband’s home—an incredible piece of property on the water—but it was time to make it truly theirs. They were open to either a renovation or to tearing it down, and started looking at other waterfront properties in the area, eventually visiting a Lorono Construction home. I had worked with the Loronos on in the past, and they had asked me to design a few of their investment properties, including the one the clients visited. The clients fell in love with the Lorono Construction house but wanted to create a design especially for them on their existing property. They hired the Loronos to build the home, Mark Mustacato from RMG as the architect, Jenny Anderson as landscape designer, and me, as the designer to create their dream home.

What did the client want?

We work on a lot of ground-up construction projects, and we start every project with concept presentations, where we offer the client a few directions for every aspect of the look and feel of the home, from the exterior to architectural details, like stair design and millwork, to the interior finishes. From there, we work with the client to edit it down to one clear direction that serves as the playbook for both us (as designers) and the architect. Mark designed the home, and we designed the millwork, kitchen, baths, and finishes in addition to the interiors. I love working on construction projects, because it gives me the ability to really integrate the architectural details and finishes with the interiors.

above: The clients’ existing bench was upholstered in Zimmer + Rohde blue, black, and cream tweed. A Century tufted steel blue leather ottoman and Lawson-Fenning stools in charcoal leave plenty of room for entertaining.

“In this home, the design is more of a quiet luxury , with layers of textures and colors; their art ended up becoming the graphic pattern in each space , but the architectural details of the home are equally important.”

—michelle morgan

harrison, morgan harrison home

above: Boyd Lighting’s Branch Pendant hangs over custom counter stools in Brentano light gray faux leather. right: Interlude Home dining chairs in ocean gray fabric surround the clients’ own Knoll Saarinen table. left: In the kitchen, the stove hood was designed by The Iron Designer and the marble counter and back splash were sourced from Dushi Marble and Granite.

top, left: An Arteriors 12-light chandelier is just as much a piece of art as the sculpture near the staircase. top, right: The custom rift oak coffee table perfectly contrasts the stone fireplace. The bookshelf’s wallcovering is by Phillip Jefferies. bottom, left: The crystal chandelier from Generation and Lightmaker Edie Sconces keep the powder room bright and modern. Phillip Jefferies silver and blue-gray grasscloth lines the walls. bottom, right: The Baker sofa is begging someone to put their feet up and relax.

Can you tell me more about some of the pieces specifically, like the one in the powder room and the larger, blue horizontal piece in the office?

One of my absolute favorite pieces of art from this project is the large Aaron Wexler piece in the husband’s office. I love his work and the textural quality to it—this piece in particular is paint, painted paper, and print material adhered to linen—and how the piece pops against the textured, blonde ceruse millwork and neutral furnishings in the room. It’s titled The Way to Walk Into a Wave, which I think is very fitting, considering the home’s waterfront location. The piece in the formal powder room is part of the homeowner’s art collection. Another favorite piece of mine is the one by Charlie Hewitt that hangs in the family room on the left side of the fireplace. That one is oil and acrylic paint with collage on canvas.

How did the art affect your design plans for this home?

From the onset of the project, it was clear that art was very important to the clients. They had an impressive art collection, including some amazing sculptures, and we designed the spaces to incorporate them: we placed sculpture pedestals within the floor plans and art in millwork elevations. Although they had a robust collection, the home required additional art. When we were near completion, I introduced them to Heather Gaudio of Heather Gaudio Fine Art. I love working with Heather, because she represents amazing artists with a variety of styles and a variety of price points, and she dedicates herself to finding the right pieces, no matter

this photo: Aaron Wexler’s The Way to Walk Into a Wave, 2020, is front and center. Below it, the client can relax into a Thayer Coggin sofa in Fabricut gray chenille. The patterned gray wool pillows are from Holland and Sherry, and the striped ones are Lance Woven Leathers. below: A Baker swivel lounge chair in textured Cowtan and Tout beige and camel fabric and a Vanguard side table in fumed oak with gold accents create an inviting reading nook.

“Art can transform any room into something truly special, and a home is never complete without it .”

—michelle morgan harrison, morgan harrison home

this photo: A stunning Bocci Armature chandelier and Visual Comfort buffet lamps set the mood for a stylish, contemporary dining space.

Above: A Theodore Alexander side chair in Holland and Sherry textured stripe fabric and a marble side table by Seer Design add elegance to the passageway.

this photo: Eleish Van Breems candlesticks add pops of the blue tones used throughout the home.

the size and budget of a project. When we started working with Heather, I sent her pictures of each space, floor plans, and images of their existing art and then let her and her team’s expertise take over to pull the best pieces. We pre-selected a wide variety of art, invited the homeowner to come to the gallery to see everything in person, and from there, Heather arranged to deliver numerous pieces to their home. Her team placed each piece in different locations and different rooms so the homeowners could edit their selections at home. Seeing and feeling art in a space is critical before committing to a piece, and I love how Heather makes it so easy for her clients to experience that. Art is very personal. It’s an individual expression of style that I often find takes time for a client to select and build their collection, especially if they are not coming into the project with an existing one. So, when finishing a project, we strive to identify the key areas that should be focused on for finding art first. Art can transform any room into something truly special, and a home is never complete without it. I think the most important role for an interior designer when it comes to the selection of art is to understand the style of art each client appreciates but to also push them to mix things up a bit. Just like how we mix textures, colors, and patterns in the design of a room, it’s similarly important to mix the media of art within a space. We aim to have the client build an art collection that mixes oil paintings with sculpture, drawings, and photography. But the best and most cohesive results always happen when we work closely with Heather.

Speaking of blue, we see a lot of blues and blue tones in this design. How did that colorway come about?

The client identified a desire for shades of blue early in the design process, so we played with layered shades and textures of blue throughout the house. We added dimension by layering in shades of black and ivory with warm accents of camels and cognac with blonde woods.

left: Studio Zen’s sisal and metallic steel blue/silver wallcovering provides the perfect transition from the wet bar to the kitchen. below, left: In the mudroom, a bench upholstered in Fabricut steel blue chenille and a Regina Andrew lantern are ready to help keep things bright and comfy. below, right: In the guest bathroom, Phillip Jeffries white and blue seagrass wall covering sets a calming tone.

this photo: Tech Lighting’s Paravo Pendant hangs by a window in the laundry room.

“seeing and feeling art in a space is critical before committing to a piece.”

—michelle

morgan harrison, morgan harrison home

left: A Stark stair runner lines the way up or down. The mirror above the console table is by Baker. below, top: Hammerton Studio’s Mistro Square fixture in smoke gray glass is a showstopper at the front door. below, bottom: Black-and-white patterned wallpaper from Bradley USA lines the back of custom, built-in bookshelves.

What is your personal relationship to art as a designer? Any mediums you prefer, or artists you like?

I minored in art history when I was in school. Having a strong foundation in art history is important to understanding the styles and movements that have shaped design. This, combined with my background as a magazine fashion editor, allowed me to build a strong sense of aesthetics and an understanding of art’s influence on design. I feel privileged to work with clients who have some incredibly notable pieces in their collections. My personal taste in art is broad. I love soft, abstract oils, black and white photography, smaller-scale abstract sculptures, and the simplicity of pencil drawings and charcoals. I also have a soft spot for vintage Swedish oil and watercolor paintings.

Take me through your design process for this space. Did it begin with a single element, like a piece of furniture or an art piece, or with one of your own ideas?

The process really starts with the concept presentation we give at the beginning of the project. Afterwards, each room comes together in our studio, often based on a single pattern, fabric, or rug. But, in this home, the design is more of a quiet luxury, with layers of textures and colors; their art ended up becoming the graphic pattern in each space, but the architectural details of the home are equally important.

this photo: Visual Comfort’s Graphic Grande chandelier hangs over a Taylor King sectional in charcoal fabric. A game table with a perfect view is a great space to entertain. below: A Mr. and Mrs. Howard swivel chair in teal chenille fabric is a centerpiece in this space.

left: Visual Comfort’s Paxton Ring Chandelier adds height to the bedroom, and a light blue linen bed set echoes the Phillip Jeffries seagrass wallcovering in pale bluegray. below left: A Worlds Away bench with a faux ostrich leather seat is the perfect companion to the beautiful stonework by Dushi Marble and Granite. below right: The clients’ existing lounge chair was covered in Cowtan and Tout cream linen to complement the Baker desk, which has a blonde ceruse finish. The floor lamp is from Generation Lighting in a worn brass finish, and the side table is Julien Chichester in a raw brass finish.

this photo: Grays, creams, and beige neutrals keep things calm and collected in the bedroom. left:Stacked subway tile lends a glossy, classic look to the bathroom. below: A room with a view, and a CB2 side chair in black boucle to enjoy it on.

As an artist yourself, what role do you believe art has in the wider world outside of our design community?

As interior designers, our job is to create beautiful, functional, and stimulating spaces that have a lasting impact on peoples’ lives. We are surrounded with design that serves practical purposes, but the only function of art is to express emotion, create connections, ignite conversations, and inspire creativity.

Art helps us create a connection with a space and to express emotions in a way that we cannot through other mediums.

interview by veronica schorr

Resources:

Interior Design: Morgan Harrison Home, New Canaan, 203-594-7875; morganharrisonhome.com

Builder: Lorono Constrcution, Rye, 914-967-1117; loronohomes.com

Architect: Mark Mustacato, RMG Associates, Rye, 914-998-5589; rmgarchitects.com

Landscape Designer: Jennifer Anderson, Wilton, 203-834-9666; jenniferanderson-designs.com

top: The home’s elevation and stone retaining wall give it a commanding yet contemporary presence along the waterfront. left: Cane-line dining chairs surround an RH table on the deck. above, right: A statue from the client’s own art collection emerges from tall grasses in the front yard. opposite page: The best views are made even better when taken in on comfy Sunset West chaise lounges.

“As interior designers, our job is to create beautiful, functional, and stimulating spaces that have a lasting impact on peoples’ lives.”

—michelle morgan harrison, morgan harrison home

CHRISTA CARR

FAMILIAR FACES SHARE THEIR LOCAL FAVORITES

As Communications Director for The Glass House, Christa Carr ensures that Philip Johnson’s architectural works and a rotation of on-site exhibitions provide inspiration and an artful education for visitors. Let her guide you on your next walking tour of the idyllic grounds, or take her recommendations for exploring her native New Canaan.

The one thing that makes me feel at home a home-cooked meal sitting around a table with friends and

My guilty pleasures getting massages. Restore Massage Studio in New Canaan is my goto. I also love grabbing Veuve Cliquot from Franco’s Wines in New Canaan and always have a stash of chocolate from Sweet Pierre’s in

My favorite place in the world is … Provence, France.

My favorite thing about living here is experiencing the seasons.

You can find me shopping at … Togs, for a quick fun dress or top for a last-minute event; Groove, for clothes for my teen, tween and kid; New Canaan Toy Store for kids’ gifts—they wrap them beautifully; The Whitney Shop, for the most beautiful gifts.

Art is important because … it inspires, gives joy, and connects us with our humanity.

My latest local obsession is … Mercantile at GrayBarns.

My own design style is … modern chic. My mother is from Paris, so I grew up around her eclectic style of mixing 18th-century finds with modern elements.

On the weekends, I love to … do anything with my kids, especially outdoor sports or a trip to NYC.

Five of my favorite things in my house are …

1. Sweet pottery objects and drawings made by kids over the years. (I keep them all).

2. My Iittala Aalto vase and Klong tableware, bought at the Glass House Design Store.

left: The vase is named for Alvar Aalto, regarded as Finland’s most famous architect.

3. A Frans Lanting photograph of a tropical jungle in Malaysia, where we went on vacation after my brother’s wedding in Bangkok.

4. A blue and white handmade porcelain bowl from a Japanese artist.

5. My lavender oils and soap collection that I pick up every time I’m in Provence in the summer.

above: Provence—and her Parisian mother—provide inspiration for Carr.

right: One of Carr’s indulgences: Champagne from Franco’s Wines. below: The New Canaan Toy Store has been a local institution for decades.