MAY/JUNE 2019 | THEDIGESTONLINE.COM
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May | June 2019
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Penthouse on the River Empty nesters move into a posh home on the Weehawken waterfront by Toledo Geller.
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Jersey City Style at the Shore A masterpiece at the beach by Hudson County’s Jeff Jordan Architects.
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7 Houseplants for Beginners Low maintenance plants for those of us without a green thumb.
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CoCo Gallery: Where Art Gets Personal Commissioning a custom work of art has never been easier.
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New Homes on the Hudson A roundup of the latest luxury rentals and residences.
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Inside Marina Cheban’s Closet The NJ interior designer talks creating her own custom walk-in.
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Building the Modern Home Bar Super Buy-Rite JC recommends the essential spirits and equipment to stock up on.
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Urban Loft Playful and vibrant accents liven up this Jersey City interior by The New Design Project.
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How to Navigate a Changing Real Estate Market Tips from Liberty Realty’s Jessica Nelson.
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Local Events
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A Modern Row House Renovation Mowery Marsh Architects gives an old Jersey City home a major update.
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FROM THE EDITOR One of the reasons I love putting out a home issue in Hudson County—besides all of the amazing designers and realtors we get to work with—is that my team and I get to see some of New Jersey’s best work firsthand. I’m not sure if it’s our geographical location to Manhattan or the abundance of creative minds in such a small area, but our stretch of the Hudson River coast always seems to be at the forefront of architecture and design. In this issue, it was not only great to meet so many talented designers, but to see the variety and uniqueness in all their work. From a stunning waterfront penthouse in Weehawken by Toledo Geller with sprawling city views to an urban Jersey City loft by The New Design Project, Hudson County truly has the most diverse portfolio in our state. When it comes to architecture, local firms like Mowery Marsh and Jeff Jordan Architects are putting New Jersey on the national map in a big way. Their projects draw inspiration from styles past, modern architecture, their clients’ personal aesthetic, and everything in between. Elsewhere we’ve curated some helpful tips whether you’re planning to add some new décor to your home, or simply want to sell it. Being a houseplant fanatic myself, I’ve also received many questions about which plants to add to a home first. Here, I’ve detailed a small list of easy-care plants to bring into your home (all of which look great, too!). Lastly, we spoke with Vani Krishnamurthy of CoCo Gallery, who provides an easy gateway to choosing the right artwork for a space. Her brand is a reminder that, when it comes to design, sometimes a little expert advice can go a long way. Have a wonderful summer!
MICHAEL SCIVOLI Editor
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May | June 2019
Publisher JASON UNDERBERG Publishing Director BRIAN KOVENER Editor MICHAEL SCIVOLI Editorial Assistant ABBY MONTANEZ Marketing & Event Director JAMIE LAWRENCE Senior Designer CHRISTINE CHIMENTO Photographers MAGED SAMUEL Cover Photo HARIS KENJAR Distribution Manager CRAIG KOVENER Contributing Writers BRENNA HOLLAND JESSICA NELSON NEIL SHRODO
A Unity Media Group Publication 201-850-1300 | www.thedigestonline.com
The publisher takes no responsibility for the accuracy of the information or claims of any advertiser in this publication. The advertiser is solely responsible for the info, statements, claims or warranties mentioned in their advertorial or advertisement. Reproduction of, or use without written permission of the publisher, of editorial, periodical, or design content of any manner is strictly prohibited.
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For some empty nesters, it makes more sense to downsize than turn their space into a fully functional house for two. In the case of a New Jersey couple, they chose to trade their suburban home in Alpine for a penthouse apartment on the Weehawken waterfront to live out the next chapter of their lives. BY ABBY MONTANEZ
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DESIGNER: Toledo Geller LOCATION: Weehawken PHOTOGRAPHER: Jacob Snavely
o ensure a smooth transition, the couple sought out Englewood design firm Toledo Geller who knows a thing or two about creating turnkey, custom residences for their clients. The design duo’s primary goal, aside from helping the couple settle into a more compact living space, was to establish an artful balance between his and her needs—the husband being partial to jewel tones and the wife, a native California girl looking for something reminiscent of the sea and sand. The décor aesthetic was built around a palette that has beachy undertones like shades of aquamarine and chartreuse and the overarching hues of blue and gray proved to be a point of connection throughout the home. The designers intended for the color-heavy nature of the space to serve as a “...coastal backdrop for the breathtaking city view.” The glass-enclosed living area quickly became a meeting place for both pattern and color. A vibrant statement rug serves as the apartment’s anchor and is balanced by subtle neutrals such as the beige, multidirectional sectional sofa and additional seating. For contrast, a custom tracklight chandelier was installed spanning the entire length of the room, studded with precious hand-blown glass spheres that act as a burst of character and brilliance. Both the bedroom and study take on a more masculine, serious tone and the cheery ocean blues fade to a moodier, hazy gray. Pulling from a wider palette of colors and textures, each room layers a range of handsome furnishings, rich accessories and creative artwork by Teters Art.
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The cozy, man cave-inspired study features custom millwork—a Toledo Geller trademark—with cerused chocolate-colored cabinetry. The warm, earthy tones give the room a more liveable feel that suits the husband’s style and are enhanced by sculptural chairs, a luxe recliner and low slung sofa by Ferrell Mittman. In the bedroom there’s a rugged mix of materials including a leather-covered headboard and chocolate wood paneling matched by floating end tables. To tie-in the breezy, oceanic vibe accents of sea-glass green and odes to water are embedded throughout
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By Michael Scivoli A stone’s throw from the beaches of Sea Bright, a boxy, modernist structure parts a sea of typical waterfront homes—a beacon paying homage to styles of both past and present. Lines of clad cedar wrap around every sharp corner, systematically separated only by bold vertical glass and a breathtaking mezzanine offering unchallenged views of the Atlantic. Though Jersey City firm Jeff Jordan Architects set out to design a beach home for a busy Manhattan couple looking to entertain friends and family, the end result simultaneously carved some much welcomed style into the Jersey Shore landscape. Already located in an area known for its affluence,
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the structure serves as a promise of what our beach communities could be while also using materials that elude to a familiar aesthetic. Raised on stilts, the project features a two-story plan. This was meant to adhere to Sea Bright’s zoning code which prohibits homes from going beyond that. And so, Jeff Jordan—who established the firm in 2010—and his team set out to create a plan that would give its inhabitants different ocean views within the strict limitations imposed by the city. The design of the home’s top level and mezzanine became a focal point while simultaneously offering the homeowner functional outdoor space.
ARCHITECT: Jeff Jordan Architects LLC PHOTOGRAPHY: Gregory Maka LOCATION: Sea Bright, NJ
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The entrance stairway is preceded by a stone path which leads into the home’s first level. Inside, the soft coastal tones and configurations are enhanced by the sun by day and illuminated with warm interior lighting at night. Here, the structure’s three bedrooms are distributed along a main hallway with the master suite separated for more privacy. Above, the second story features double height ceilings, a floating staircase and a glass wall which serves to bring the essence of coastal-living, indoors. This level also serves as the home’s social area, with its kitchen, living and dining rooms in one open-room floor plan. Outside, the sun deck extends out from the second floor and up to its mezzanine. “The house’s form is an expression of its programmatic distribution,” the architects say. “The horizontally-oriented first floor massing contains private spaces such as bed and bathrooms. The larger cubelike massing which sits atop the first floor contains shared spaces such as the living and kitchen areas. The vertically-oriented massing that is offset from the other two contains the stairway and provides access to the ground level. The overall result is a terraced structure that offers large outdoor spaces that are perfect for sunbathing and cookouts. While the house’s form is clean and modern, its cedar board siding serves to tie it into a well-established beach house typology.” 26
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In truth, the project was a way for the firm to showcase their conceptual innovation through visuals that can remind us of a modern Hudson County row house yet, an old mid-century beachfront masterpiece. Ultimately, this Sea Bright home stands at the intersection of detail and function—a place to marvel at each piece of carefully placed cedar cladding while concurrently serving as a perfect summer escape from city life. 28
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BY MICHAEL SCIVOLI
We don’t like to admit it, but we spend most of our time indoors. And if you’ve ever thought a space was missing something (barring a disappearing sofa) the answer is almost always: plants. I’m not talking about that small bamboo dish behind your kitchen sink (though it’s a start), I’m talking about some real wellplaced greenery. You might consider incorporating more green into your space simply to add a little style and break its stagnation, but there are also mentally beneficial reasons to do so as well. Though some of the more hype-based claims like providing clean air are nice in theory, studies have shown as much as a 15 percent increase in productivity and concentration for those who had plants in their home or office. It’s true, plants and nature can have an amazing calming effect on our spirits, and there’s an insurmountable amount of evidence to prove it (just take a walk in the park and see how you feel). If you or someone you know is avoiding houseplants because of the imminent doom you envision the moment you pick up a new tree, flip the script and get something that’s hard to kill. After all, there are plenty of plants to choose from that those of us without a green thumb can get by with. Here are seven of our favorites.
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Sansevieria (Snake Plant) Sansevieria, aka the snake plant, is not only resilient but it is an interior designer’s dream. Able to match any number of home décor styles, the snake plant can literally go weeks without water and can survive in lower light spaces if needed. Its green, architectural-like leaves tend to look pristine no matter how forgetful you might be.
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Epipremnum Aureum (Pothos) If you’ve run out of room on the ground and tabletops, a hanging Pothos (aka Devil’s Ivy) is a good bet for a newbie. Pothos don’t like to be watered all the time and you can allow soil to completely dry out before watering again. Though low care and indirect sunlight are ideal, they do require some hand maintenance (and detangling) if you want to keep them looking full and healthy.
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Zanzibar Gem (ZZ Plant) The ZZ is perhaps one of the best plants a beginner can buy, simply because it’s one of the toughest to kill (unless of course, you over water). They typically don’t mind being rootbound in their pots and can put up with your self-induced droughts quite well. The ZZ plant can even thrive without being fertilized and typically enjoys moderate, indirect sunlight.
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Peperomia Peperomias need a ton of light and should be watered weekly, but they’re still ideal plants for beginners. As long as you have a bright space and don’t completely neglect them, they can thrive. There are many variations for inquiring minds, typically the kind with awesome little spoonshaped leaves. Peperomia is another species you would take care not to over water.
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tip:
No matter what plant you choose, it’s important to become familiar with the care they require, however minimal that may be. When it comes to care tips or repotting, following influencers who specialize in plant care and styling can go a long way to simplifying your green endeavors.
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Aloe It may seem basic, but aloe make perfect plants for someone who is just earning their green thumb. They are perfect for a window with bright light and can survive with ease even in the case that they’re watered only once every few weeks. They are usually best for containers that are as deep as they are wide.
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Crassula Ovata (Jade Plant)
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In college, I once forgot to water my jade plant for nearly an entire semester. Yet, against all odds, it never quit. Even in full sun (its preferred amount of light) it did not dry out and die. Although the soil can be kept slightly moist, they clearly don’t like much water and you should never wet the leaves. A jade plant is a great small option for a starter.
Cactus This one may seem obvious, because cacti are like spikey slices of Southwestern design heaven, but they’re not as foolproof as you might think. Cacti round out this list because in winter you should take care not to water more than once a month. However, in summer, they can blow through water and require a once a week watering regimen. If you’re feeling risky (and don’t have small kids or overly curious pets), a large cactus is as good as new sculpture.
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COCO GALLERY: WHERE BY A B BY M O N TA N E Z
e all know the debate about what’s considered “good” art. Some people say it has to be expensive, or maybe it’s something super rare and hard to track down. Others base the value of a painting off a feeling. I admittedly shop for art at my local craft store so I’m not at liberty to say who’s right and who’s wrong. But once you’ve decided to incorporate artwork into your home, finding a painting that embodies your vision is another story. As it turns out, sourcing art does not come naturally to a lot of us. Aside from identifying if something speaks you, there are other, more technical factors to consider including choosing the right size, medium or price range. Not
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ART GETS PERSONAL
to mention the intimidation factor that goes along with buying art. An easier route would be to commission something custom, and that’s exactly what prompted Hoboken resident Vani Krishnamurthy to start CoCo Gallery. One part commision and one part collaboration, CoCo Gallery is an online network that pairs people—everyone from regular folk like you and I to interior designers—with artists to create one-of-a-kind pieces that are uniquely inspired. Krishnamurthy set out to fulfill two separate needs when she started CoCo Gallery back in 2015, the first of which was making art more accessible to middle of the market people who were looking to purchase pieces that were meaningful and made sense within their space.
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Clients who find themselves turning to CoCo Gallery are often in search of something more personal—maybe it’s a gift for someone special, a painting of a vacation home or family pet. Krishnamurthy believes that more people would buy art if it was something they could feel connected to, not necessarily because it’s the work of the next big artist. On the other hand, CoCo Gallery can provide ease and guidance to those less experienced with buying art. In terms of determining what kind of artwork suits your home, where it’s going to go, or if you’re someone who just has no idea where to start, Krishnamurthy’s word of advice is to recognize that art can change the entire mood of a home. A great jumping off point into personalized art is to think about what’s meaningful to you. “Color can be personal. Anything that has a lot to do with you, your space or your life,” Krishnamurthy said. You’ll value your investment by how much joy it brings you each day more than if you bought it for any other reason. Interior designers, she explained, tend to think of spaces differently according to their plans. Interior designers might look for an abstract painting that goes along with their design concept of a room—something of a certain size or that matches their color palette. On the other hand, if they don’t have a lot of experience working with artists, CoCo Gallery can be that middle man to help guide them in the right direction. The process is not unlike a matchmaking service and begins with clients first filling out a brief form with information pertaining to what they’re looking for—things like subject matter, size, time frame and cost—the latter of which can range from $300 or over $5,000, the deciding factor ultimately being a matter of how the artist prices his or her work, scale, detail and what materials are being used. The client will then be contacted by a CoCo Consultant whose job it is to better understand their vision and curate a portfolio of three to five artists for them to choose from. A CoCo Consultant is a trained expert in the art field, perhaps someone who’s worked in galleries before, and they’re available to help brainstorm (or hand-hold) whether you feel the need to include them as part of every conversation or email exchange. Up until this point in the process, everything comes at no cost and if a client doesn’t like any of the portfolio choices they’re presented with, they can request more recommendations from Coco Gallery’s network of over 250 artists. 36
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Krishnamurthy also offers in-home consultations for clients local to the area. “Those are for a charge, not for free,” she explained, “but we literally come in with blue tape and help people measure how big a work of art should be on a wall or figure out where it should be placed and what they should be thinking about in terms of a commission. We’ll do as many or as few rooms as they want.” The next step is working up a contract that appeases both parties, artist and client, without compromising creativity. This will ensure that the client ends up with a piece that’s personal to them and works within their space while the artist feels they have the freedom they need to create. Once the non-negotiables are agreed upon, the artist will send over a sketch to which the client can provide feedback. The final commission is then shipped and delivered in about four to six weeks. Through both her personal and professional experiences, Krishnamurthy saw the problems associated with having a sustainable career as an artist. So the second need she set out to fulfill was in support of the artist community. Before getting an MBA from Harvard Business
School and working for Bain & Company and The Boston Consulting Group, Krishnamurthy got her start as a professional dancer and studied temple art and architecture in India. Today, she’s found her niche with CoCo Gallery as the bridge between both her personal and professional careers and more importantly, the artist and their audience. “There are scores of artists willing to collaborate but they don’t have time to deal with and figure out the logistics. They’re looking for commissions and for someone to handle all the stuff they don’t want to handle,” Krishnamurthy told me. A commission through CoCo Gallery guarantees the artist a sale at the end and eliminates the uncertainty that a project they’ve been working on may or may not be profitable. While some artists can be unsure of how to connect with clients and buyers equally as wary of commissions and whether or not they’ll be satisfied, CoCo Gallery’s platform fosters the fragile relationship between artist and muse. That way, you can view art as a means of expression and turn your most personal moments into memorable pieces of art. May | June 2019
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BY MICHAEL SCIVOLI When Jennifer and Brian Marsh first began working on residences in Hoboken in 2004, they did so by integrating interior design into their architecture. It wasn’t long before they became known as a top high-service residential firm and their projects began to shed light on what “could be” for Hudson County. They achieved this by working from a client’s personal style. And in New Jersey, where design can at times seem a bit contrived, the husband and wife pair have aimed to create an aesthetic that is cleaner, simpler and lets the materials be the strength.
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Location: Jersey City Architecture & Design: Mowery Marsh Architects Photography: Haris Kenjar
Mowery Marsh’s incredibly personalized approach and dedication to quality has undoubtedly set them apart. Most recently, the duo completed a modern makeover on an old Erie Street row house for a young couple in downtown Jersey City. The challenge was to create a bright, open space from a dim, tight-quarted 1850s structure. Another important goal for the project was to reconfigure the home with a more modern aesthetic. “When we came to the property, [the clients] lived on the first floor and ground floor with a rental space on the second floor and the attic. We basically flipped it,” Brian explained. The new plan gave the family the kitchen, dining and living rooms on the first floor, with a straight staircase connecting to the second floor with the master bedroom, the guest room and the homeowners’ son’s room. The first floor’s kitchen was where the architects brought in a ton of natural light via triple-glazed windows (which also required them to rebuild the back wall of the home). Here, the well-lit space paired with Carrara marble countertops and backsplash results in that clean aesthetic the clients had hoped for. The room is also a great example of the completed project’s blend of new world and old, with modern lighting fixtures from Lambert & Fils and décor from before the renovation like the wood dining table. The kitchen overhaul came as a particularly challenging situation given the fact that like everything else, it too, had to be reconfigured. “The existing kitchen was up a step or two because when the original addition was put on, they didn’t line up any level. There was a lot of trying to forget what was there and reimagine how it could work. We try to show our clients what’s possible and to not be limited by what they see,” Jennifer said.
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The architects had initially hoped to save more of the home’s original framing, but in many instances it was simply easier to start over. In the case of the home’s original master suite, the layout had a few imperfections to iron out due to the fact that the original structure had two overlapping roofs. Some old characteristics such as original wood beams made the final cut inside the master to preserve that old charm—but even those had to be readjusted as they weren’t previously straight. The attic above was reinvented to be a sort of mezzanine master office. The purpose of this was twofold: create an extra space for the family and make the room feel more spacious and airy. “We opened the ceiling up to the loft area. It’s a bonus room up there for the client. They can go up the ladder to an office, exercise area or whatever they might use it for as part of their master. I would say a bigger component of that was just to give the room more volume and make it feel more special,” Jennifer added. A fresh coat of Benjamin Moore Decorator’s White throughout the home was another key in making these rooms feel larger.
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Outside, the architects aimed to make it look like it was an addition to the historic house. The home’s front facade, a charming old brick row house, is much like its neighboring homes which all have additions on the back. In the rear though, it was an opportunity for the design team to once again seamlessly blend modern and traditional with a mahogany wood deck and steel railings. “Traditionally, an addition would have come later and would’ve been a wood clad structure,” Brian said. “We didn’t want it to just be brick or stucco, we wanted it to have that charm of a wood clad shed addition that gets attached to these traditional homes. There’s the twist with all the glass and the clean modern railing that almost seems to disappear. We’re trying to make the house feel more connected and larger to the outside.”
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AT THE HOBOKEN PUBLIC LIBRARY Countdown to Summer Reading! A great summer’s in store at Hoboken’s Public Library! From June through August, HPL’s Summer Reading is the ideal program to help young readers learn new things and have fun with friends. Go to www.hobokenlibrary.org/src2019 to find out about the events, live concerts, and activities for kids, teens and adults, too.
Come to HPL’s Library Festival
Summer Reading starts Saturday, June 8, when Church Square Park becomes an outdoor Library Festival featuring musical performers, activities and fun for everyone … even a surprise visit from one of our favorite authors. Rain or shine.
Look what else is taking off?
HPL’s Learning Center at the Hoboken Housing Authority
Please visit this new literacy corner, right next the the Mama Johnson Field. Get some books, use our free WiFi, and find out what else you can do there.
www.hobokenlibrary.org
The
Hoboken Public Library
500 Park Avenue | Hoboken, NJ 07030 201.420.2346 • reference@hoboken.bccls.org Pop Up Library:124 Grand St
NEW HOMES
ON THE HUDSON BY ABBY MONTANEZ
Despite being distracted by developments across the river, we’re still very much in the midst of a building boom ourselves. And as the demand for luxury rentals continues to grow, there are a few major projects we have our sights set on. Whether it’s commuter’s paradise you’re after or top-notch amenities and a cosmopolitan atmosphere quick to rival NYC, here are some of North Jersey’s newest real estate offerings we’re most excited about.
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QUINN LOCATION: JERSEY CITY UNITS: 153 PRICE: STARTING AT $2,490/PER MONTH
A new high-rise has landed in Jersey City, known simply as Quinn. The Paulus Hook property balances lavish amenities and generous floor plans with a cozy, tranquil environment that matches the neighborhood’s friendly vibe and tree-lined streets. New York architecture and interior firm Fogarty Finger—also behind Van Vorst’s Madox and Lenox residences—designed the 16-story mixed-use building. Quinn’s leasing units range from one, two and threebedroom apartments that are alongside 7,300 square feet of ground-floor retail space. The interiors reflect the urban, chic style of the neighborhood and feature wood-style flooring, open layouts and floor-to-ceiling windows for unparalleled city views—not to mention gourmet chef-inspired kitchens with quartz countertops, stone backsplash, state-of-the-art appliances and custom cabinetry. Quinn boasts a rich list of amenities including a landscaped rooftop with a pool and barbecue grills, kids play room, library and media center, fitness facility, solarium, packaging room with Amazon Locker System and 24/7 concierge service. Wi-Fi has also been installed across all of the communal areas of the building. www.quinnjc.com
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1425 HUDSON STREET AT HUDSON TEA LOCATION: HOBOKEN UNITS: 99 PRICE: RESIDENCES BEGIN IN THE $500,000’s
The latest Gold Coast project to come from Toll Brothers City Living—1425 Hudson Street—is the final piece that makes up Hoboken’s Hudson Tea community. Its brick façade harks back to the town’s heritage and elements of glass and steel give the tower a contemporary, architectural edge. The residences at 1425 Hudson Street extend from studio-sized to four-bedroom, all with warm color schemes and lots of lighting to give the modern space a more homey vibe. Buyers can expect hardwood flooring, soaring windows and decorative finishes that soften the interior. Homes also come equipped with kitchens that balance oak and blackened-metal cabinets, quartz countertops and Thermador appliances, as well as bathrooms that include custom double vanities, Kohler fixtures and limestone floors. To emulate an indoor/outdoor space, select residences have glass doors that open up to a balcony or private rooftop terrace with a built-in kitchen. The stylish interiors are paired with an array of amenities including a fitness center, playroom and on-site parking. A 24-hour attended lobby and lavish roof deck with a pool, bbq, fireplace and flat screens are also among the privileges that come with living at 1425 Hudson Street. www.1425hudson.com
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GLASS HOUSE, TOWNHOME COLLECTION
LOCATION: EDGEWATER UNITS: 15 PRICE: $1,700,000 - $2,400,000
Last year we covered the unveiling of Edgewater’s Glass House residences and this April, they revealed to the market the Townhome Collection—their most exclusive, high-design offerings to date. The 15 new townhomes remain as part of the Glass House condominium project but offer the privacy and seclusion of a two-story home with all the resort-style amenities of a luxury high-rise. Some notable design details include handmilled white oak hardwood floors, crown molding, oversized solid-core interior doors, floor-to-ceiling Marvin windows and expansive glass balconies. The two or three-bedroom layouts are also outfitted with high-end appli-
ances, fixtures and features from brands such as Kohler, Bosch and NEST. The designer kitchen package includes Caesarstone quartz countertops, a built-in wine fridge, custom wood cabinetry, glass tile backsplash, and the master spa bathroom includes a glass-enclosed shower, free-standing soaking tub and dual vanity. The apex of any development property are the amenities, which range from indoor offerings like the fitness center, conference room and library and extend outside with Glass House’s roof deck overlooking New York City, outdoor pool, sundeck, cabanas and firepits. www.glasshousenj.com/townhomes
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INSIDE
Marina Cheban’s Closet BY BRENNA HOLLAND Marina Cheban and I are sitting on matching green ottomans in the bedroom of her newly-constructed, Hudson County condominium. Behind us is a large window overlooking the water and an unobstructed view of the New York City skyline; but today, the insane view from the eighth floor barely gets a second look from us, because the star of this show is Cheban’s walk-in, floor-to-ceiling closet. Luckily for me, the round cushion I currently sit upon has a 360-degree field of motion, allowing me to spin round and round, marveling at what Cheban has constructed here. Cheban has always had a passion for interior design. Even when she was working in hospitality in her 20s, all of her extra cash was allocated to one thing: furniture shopping. She had a knack for making even the smallest of apartments feel spacious and comfortable. While her peers were living out of bins and off wire racks in tiny closets, Cheban was hanging 10-inch floating shelves and discovering that women’s shoes are the same depth as hard cover books, making any old book shelf the perfect home for her abundance of footwear. So when Cheban grew tired of the hospitality industry and began considering a career change, it was clear what she would do next. She went back to school and set out on a path to become a bona fide designer. “Back then, blogs were just becoming big. I came across self-taught designers, who had great careers in the industry. So, when I finished school, I decided I was going to work for myself,” Cheban said. This was the inception of Cheban Interiors. What started with one or two residential clients, quickly grew into a business that now includes restaurants and multi-unit buildings throughout the Jersey City and Hoboken area.
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“I feel like I was an architect in a past life. Nothing excites me more than a floor plan. As soon as I take a look at one, I’m bombarded with ideas to make it better. That’s why I urge the clients I work with to bring me on earlier in the project. They often approach a project thinking about how to make things fit and be up to code, while I look out for functionality and flow. You need all of those things to make a space really great.” When it came time to make her own place great, Cheban took the job as seriously as she ever has. “When we toured the condo, I saw that the storage space consisted of a half closet in the living room and a half closet in the bedroom. The bedroom closet was cluttered with unnecessary walls and doors. It was claustrophobic and difficult to access the small, L-shaped, wire rack in the very back,” Cheban said.
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Over a few months, she created an entirely new floor plan to fix their closet problem. The plan consisted of sealing off the entrance to the half closet in the living room and completely deconstructing the maze of walls and doors in the bedroom. She broke through the wall that separated the bedroom closet from the hallway closet and opened up the space for one, walk-in closet. For the construction of racks, shelves and drawers, Cheban enlisted the help of California Closets, the popular manufacturer of custom storage products. “Condo living requires that you utilize every nook and cranny you have. I knew 52
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we needed a ton of hanging space and a place to house all my shoes and bags. It was important that everything be visually-accessible because, the truth is, if you can’t see it, you’re not going to wear it. Denise Ilavsky, the designer I worked with through California Closets, was an amazing help with this. She took my crazy ideas and somehow made them happen.” Today, Cheban’s closet is set up much like a store. You walk in and are greeted by a light fixture that bares a remarkable resemblance to a sea urchin. The light from the urchin fades up slowly and reveals Cheban’s entire wardrobe. Clothes are or-
ganized by color and occasion, a floor-length mirror is positioned perfectly for outfit inspection and, most importantly, everything has its place. Far from the days of utilizing book shelves as shoe storage, Cheban sips sparkling water through a straw made of compostable corn, sits back on her velour ottoman and enjoys her creation. “I just care about interiors, you know? I might even care too much. For me, something as simple as where the outlets, light switches and thermostats are placed truly matter. My clients may not initially care, but once I’m done, they often say, ‘Oh, it does look way better now.’”
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BY NEIL SHRODO | SUPER BUY-RITE JC
Whether you are a busy socialite or a casual entertainer, cocktails are both a time-honored tradition and a way to relax after a long day. Having a well-stocked bar in your home can also enhance your living space. The first thing to do is decide what sort of bar meets your needs? Are you primarily looking for something to enhance your home, or is portability your main goal? Something mobile and easy to move, or a more substantial piece of furniture? These days there are numerous options available online that offer great value and can be delivered right to your doorstep (Amazon and Wayfair both have an excellent selection). It has never been easier to accomplish this, and just like cooking or entertaining, all you need are the right tools. Whether it is a cabinet designed to be storage for your supplies, spirits and glassware, or a mobile island on wheels that can be moved to the optimal position for parties and dinners, your home bar can be as large (or as small) as you wish.
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Equipment checklist • SHAKER • JIGGER • MUDDLER • STRAINER • OPENERS • KNIFE & SMALL CHOPPING BOARD • ICE STORAGE & TONGS •GLASSWARE
liquor checklist VODKA – This is the foundation of so many modern cocktails – Cosmos, Screwdrivers, Tonics and more. GIN – Perfect for a Gin and Tonic and the Classic Martini, the big names here are Bombay, Beefeater and Tanqueray. RUM – You will need a light rum and a dark rum. Light rums for Mojitos, Daiquiris, and Coladas. Dark rums are more potent in flavor and vary in use from Cuba Libre’s to Dark ‘n’ Stormy.
TEQUILA – Used on the rocks or for classics like Margaritas or Tequila Sunrises. Common styles are Silver, Reposado, and Anejo, which vary depending on how much oak aging they see. SCOTCH – These are complex whiskeys to be savored neat or on the rocks and have flavors of fruit, peat, smoke and caramel, among many others depending on the barrels used in aging. The Single Malt expresses a huge array of styles and finishes. BOURBON – It is smoky and sweet, with hints of dark fruit. Producers are often small and hand-crafted distilleries that are making bold and distinct whiskeys. RYE – Emerging from classics like Canadian whiskeys, Rye is now in a major renaissance. Similar to Bourbon in taste, it is a bit more dry and not as smooth but with a spicy edge. OTHERS – Sweet & Dry Vermouth, Triple Sec/Cointreau, Elderflower, Amari, Mixers (Club Soda, Tonic, etc.), Bitters, Fruit
home bar recommendations (AVAILABLE AT JERSEY CITY SUPER BUY-RITE) CORGI “PEMBROKE” GIN $34.99/750ml – Made locally in Jersey City and gluten-free, this gin has lovely botanical flavors of zesty citrus and floral accents. SAVAGE & COOKE “LIP SERVICE” RYE $34.99 750ml – Small production Rye finished in wine barrels distilled in Tennessee by Dave Phinney, the winemaker who became famous for making The Prisoner. FORTALEZA TEQUILA REPOSADO $54.99 on sale, 750ml – This is a 100 percent agave small production reposado made by the Sauza family in Jalisco for over 125 years.
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by abby montanez
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For a young couple, this rustic loft residence proved to be the ideal setting to infuse their personality. Fanny Abbes of The New Design Project updated this urban Jersey City apartment by combining bold colors, playful textures and modern pieces that add up to create a cool, youthful space. The result is an eclectic motif that juxtaposes the existing woodwork and exposed brick with graphic prints and artful accents. In the entry area, the designer positioned green velvet armchairs from Ikea in front of the built-in fireplace where George Nelson bubble pendants hang from overhead. Black and white graphic print rugs from Ikea and CB2 complete
the room, alongside custom block-shaped side tables by The New Design Project. A mid-century table from Circa60.com anchors the dining room and is met with assorted Jean Prouve chairs. Against the wall sits a walnut buffet with warm brass accents from Organic Modernism and vintage mushroom lamps from Brooklyn Auction Barn standing atop. A trio of Tom Dixon copper pendants make the space feel more sculptural and an abstract art piece provides a backdrop for the buffet.
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The living room balances style with comfort and the orange settee from Crate & Barrel and matching kilim rug from Sophie’s Bazaar provide the room’s boldest pop of color. The marble and walnut coffee table from BluDot decorated with accessories from CB2, H&M Home and Ikea give off a minimalist vibe, while the three-arm ceiling lamp from Serge Mouille and graphic wall prints—all by The New Design Project— add eccentricity.
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In the bedroom, the design takes an unexpected twist with shades of turquoise and a jute rug from West Elm as both wall décor and the room’s focal point. Simple touches such as geometric Shayk pendants, the cord bench from CB2 and a Beni Ourain inspired rug from Burke Décor tie the space together to create a cohesive look. The furnishings embody a mid-century aesthetic with clean lines, straight edges and walnut coloring that preserves the rustic yet urban look of the home.
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By Jessica Nelson
The market we have been experiencing over the past six years has created a great deal of wealth for both buyers and sellers. Much of this money has been made simply because we have been involved in an unusually fast-paced rising market. As we enter into what is now either a stable or declining period, it is important to keep in mind that real estate is and will always be, one of the very best investments you can ever make. If you are thinking about selling (or buying) a home, here are some tips to assist you in your sale in the current market conditions. 60
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SELLERS
BUYERS
Know the Current Market The available homes inventory is growing, so more homes are on the market providing buyers with more choices. When buyers have choices, prices tend to stabilize and even decline. Therefore, if your home is not desirable to a buyer and is perceived as overpriced, you will be overlooked.
Establish Purchasing Power Nothing is worse than looking at dream homes you can’t afford. Contact a mortgage banker first to discuss what you feel comfortable making as a down payment on your mortgage and how much is your desired monthly payment.
Find a Reputable Realtor In an ascending market, nearly everything sells. The skill set and motivation of your realtor is less of a factor in achieving a satisfactory sale of your home. In a stabilizing and declining market, however, you will want to hire someone who is aggressive, motivated and possesses a keen knowledge of the statistics of your market. Order an Appraisal If your home isn’t receiving many showings, it may be overpriced. In this case, ordering an appraisal will determine your home’s actual value. This will help you not only because you want to find a buyer, but also because your buyer will need an appraisal in order to obtain financing and close the purchase. Keep Up With Appearances According to leading industry expert, Mike Ferry, there are two factors that sell a home: price and condition. In a stabilizing and descending market, you will want your home to look its best. Whether it’s landscaping or painting, do the necessary updates prior to listing your home, so you can stand out as the best possible choice (great photos can go a long way as well).
Understand Pricing Your lender will also help you to understand how prevailing rates, taxes and monthly fees (condos, townhomes) will affect the price of the home you are able to finance and purchase. In a stabilizing and declining market, you will have many choices and more time to make a decision. Be Specific A good buyer’s agent will have a strong grasp of the inventory in your desired market and will be able to choose three or four of the very best homes available within your budget and other criteria. Seeing too many homes will confuse and overwhelm you. Be very specific with your realtor about what you do and do not want in your next home.
About Jessica Jessica Nelson of Nelson Global Real Estate Group at Liberty Realty is the 2018 Realtor Associate of the Year, as awarded by The Hudson County Realtor Association. Jessica and her team have completed sales ranging in price from $150,000 to $6.2MM and in New Jersey locations from Sparta in the Northwest to Avalon in the Southeast. Visit Jessica at nelsonglobalrealestate. com or reach out directly to jnelson@ libertyrealty.com.
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Events MAY 17-19 NEW JERSEY SEAFOOD FESTIVAL Belmar at Belmar Plaza, Pyanoe Plaza and Main Street in Belmar, NJ 07719 Friday 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm Saturday 11:00 am - 8:00 pm Sunday 11:00 am - 6:00 pm $ - Free
MAY 18 4TH ANNUAL JC FITNESS FAIR City Hall Plaza: 280 Grove Street, Jersey City, NJ 07302 10:00 am - 1:00 pm • Free
IN THE TRENCHES: A HALE & HARDY COCKTAIL PARTY American Legion Post 107: 308 2nd Street, Hoboken, NJ 07030
MAY/JUNE 2019
JUNE 1 JC KIDS RUN 2019 J. Owen Grundy Park at Exchange Place Plaza, Jersey City, NJ 07302 10:00 am - 3:00 pm • $45
White Eagle Hall: 337 Newark Ave, Jersey City, NJ 07302
OLG HOBOKEN NITEFEST & 3RD ANNUAL CORNHOLE TOURNAMENT
8:00 pm - 10:00 pm • $10 (Must be 21+)
Our Lady of Grace Church / Church Square Park: 400 Willow St., Between 4th & 5th Ave., Hoboken, NJ 07030 6:00 pm - 11:00 pm • Free
JUNE 1-2 9TH JERSEY SHORE WINE FESTIVAL
12:00 pm - 5:00 pm • $20 Admission, $30 on the day of the event, $5 Designated drivers
MAY 19 CHEESEFEST!
WORLD DOG EXPO
2:00 pm - 5:00 pm • $20: 21+ and includes a beverage ticket, $5: Under 21 and designated drivers
MAY 25-26 NEW JERSEY RENAISSANCE FAIRE Liberty Lake: 1195 Florence Columbus Road, Bordentown, NJ 08505 11:00 am - 6:00 pm • $25: Adult Single Day Ticket, $10: Child Single Day Ticket
MAY 26 CHRIS YOUNG: RAISED ON COUNTRY TOUR PNC Bank Arts Center: Exit 116, Garden State Pkwy, Holmdel, NJ 07733
JUNE 20-JULY 7 MEADOWLANDS STATE FAIR 1 MetLife Stadium Dr, East Rutherford, NJ 07073 $0 - Monday through Wednesday, $5/Vehicle Thursday through Sunday
FirstEnergy Park: 2 Stadium Way, Lakewood, NJ 08701
6:30 pm - 9:30 pm • $100
Crane House & Historic YWCA: 110 Orange Road, Montclair, NJ 07042
JUNE 15 CHILLTOWN FUNK AND R’N’B DANCE PARTY FEAT. ZAPP
Meadowlands Exposition Center: 355 Plaza Drive, Secaucus, NJ 07094 10:00 am - 5:00 pm • $15 Admission, $25 Weekend Pass, Free for kids 12 and under
JUNE 5 YES WAY ROSÉ! Sorellina Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar: 1036 Washington Street, Hoboken, NJ 07030
JUNE 22 HOBOKEN SUMMER SOLSTICE Lulu’s Lounge at W Hotel Hoboken: 225 River Street, Hoboken, NJ 07030 9:00 pm - 2:00 am • $30 – $60
THE HUTTON’S JC 2ND ANNUAL GUINNESS, OYSTER & MUSIC FESTIVAL The Hutton: 225 Hutton Street, Jersey City, NJ 07307 1:00 pm - 9:00 pm • Free
7:00 pm - 9:00 pm • $35
JUNE 8 KEVIN JAMES NJPAC: 1 Center St, Newark, NJ 07102 8:00 pm • $49 - $129
JUNE 29 HOBOKEN WINE TOUR 740 Washington Street, Hoboken, NJ 07030 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm • $75
7:30 pm • $39.50+
MAY 28 PRESUMMER BBQ (GLUTEN FREE)
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JUNE 9 RASCAL FLATTS: SUMMER PLAYLIST TOUR 2019
Hudson Table: 1403 Clinton St, Hoboken, NJ 07030
PNC Bank Arts Center: Exit 116, Garden State Pkwy, Holmdel, NJ 07733
6:30 pm - 9:30 pm • $90
7:30 pm • $40+
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JULY 2 NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK: THE MIXTAPE TOUR Prudential Center: 25 Lafayette St, Newark, NJ 07102 7:30 pm • $39.95+
FIRST TIME? YOUR FIRST WAX IS FREE!* CHOOSE FROM AN EYEBROW, BIKINI LINE, UNDERARM, NOSE OR EAR WAX.
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