FALL 2020
COLONIAL REDO | VIEW IN VERONA |
SPARTA HOME SHINES AFTER FIRE
DESIGNER CHALLENGE
DESIGNER CHALLENGE: YOUR VOTE COUNTS REDO AND A VIEW IN VERONA
FA L L 2 0 2 0
A WARM WELCOME IN WESTFIELD
FOR QUESTIONS CALL: Kollette Greene 214-891-2947
From the first toast to the final bite, relish every moment and meal.
Cooking. Refrigeration. Dishwashing. Manhattan • 150 East 58th Street, 5th Floor, New York, NY 10155 Roslyn Heights • 170 Mineola Avenue, Roslyn Heights, NY 11577 Pine Brook • 25 Riverside Drive, Pine Brook, NJ 07058
James Yarosh
Fine Art Gallery & Interior Design With an Artist’s Eye
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James Yarosh Associates
Fine Art Gallery & Interior Design Services Established in 1996, the James Yarosh Associates Fine Art Gallery in Holmdel was founded upon and remains loyal to its vision: to represent fine art for art's sake and to curate gallery collections and thoughtfully present art with an artist's eye and understanding. Yarosh, an artist and well-published interior designer who honed his eye for selecting and representing artists by managing galleries in Manhattan and New Jersey, offers a full-scale gallery and design center where clients can associate with other like-minded individuals to celebrate art and the
ON VIEW NOW THROUGH
SHEBA SHARROW, Love in the Time of Death, 1995, 60 x 52 inches, Mixed Media on Arches Paper, DETAIL
talents that create it.
jamesyarosh.com 45 East Main Street, 2nd fl. loft, Holmdel, NJ Open to the Public Sat. 12-4p.m. & by appt | 732.993.5278 JAMES YAROSH ASSOCIATES FINE ART & INTERIOR DESIGN GALLERY | PHOTO: Peter Rymwid
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CONTENTS FALL 2020
features ‘close’ quarters | 42
“Downsizing” to a ranch in Westfield— then making it over—gives a designer’s brood a more intimate and relaxed lifestyle.
rhapsody in blue | 50
Pattern and color harmonize in an elegantly redone Upper Saddle River kitchen.
colonial update | 54
A home built in the Roaring Twenties gets a comfy redo with strategic furniture and color swaps.
the view’s the thing
For her own home, a designer wanted a fabulous Manhattan skyline vista. When she found it, she made it the centerpiece of a stylish, outwardlooking renovation.
p.
66
inspired by fire | 60
When the first floor of a Sparta home burned, it was the homeowners’ cue to invest in a party-friendly redesign with “sparkle.”
vote for your favorite | 74
A breakfast room cries out to be reborn, and three designers offer their visions. NJ Home readers will decide: Which one works best?
ON THE COVER:
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Designer Judy Sturdevant gave a 1920s Westfield colonial a much-needed, modern and bright update. Photo by Vic Wahby.
IMAGINE | DISCOVER | RENEW THE WORLD’S LEADING BRANDS WHERE LUXURY DESIGN DEFIES EXPECTATIONS ARTISTIC TILE • B&B ITALIA | MAXALTO • BAUTEAM GERMAN KITCHEN TAILORS • BILOTTA KITCHENS OF NY • BOSCH DESIGN CENTER • CARLISLE WIDE PLANK FLOORS • COSENTINO SURFACES • DACOR KITCHEN THEATER • DRUMMONDS BATHROOMS • EDWARD FIELDS CARPET MAKERS • EGGERSMANN KITCHENS | HOME LIVING • FANTINI USA • FERGUSON BATH, KITCHEN & LIGHTING GALLERY • FISHER & PAYKEL | DCS EXPERIENCE CENTER • FLORENSE KITCHENS | SYSTEMS | FURNITURE • GAGGENAU DESIGN STUDIO • HANS KRUG FINE EUROPEAN CABINETRY • HASTINGS TILE & BATH COLLECTION • HOLLY HUNT NEW YORK • JENNAIR NEW LUXE APPLIANCES • J GEIGER SHADING • LEFROY BROOKS | COOPER & GRAHAM • LISTONE GIORDANO WOOD FLOORS | 3L & COMPANY • MIDDLEBY RESIDENTIAL | VIKING | LA CORNUE • MIELE EXPERIENCE CENTER • NOLTE KÜCHEN • ORNARE KITCHENS | CLOSETS | BATHROOMS • PARIS CERAMICS • POGGENPOHL • POLIFORM • SCAVOLINI USA • SIEMATIC • SMEG • SNAIDERO USA • ST. CHARLES NEW YORK • SUB-ZERO | WOLF | COVE • THERMADOR DESIGN CENTER • WEST | WOOD ARCHITECTURAL SURFACES
VISIT US NOW | OPEN TO THE PUBLIC | ADBUILDING.COM
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contents 54
departments memo | 10
vintage finds | 28
42
In this issue of NJ Home, we’re reminded that beauty comes in many forms.
Wind back the clock with one of these centuries-old time-tellers (and showstoppers).
60
the guide | 13
top choices | 82
What’s up, what’s new and what to do.
real estate | 18 These luxury homes on the market each have a sunroom with floor-toceiling windows, so you can take in the view just as the chill of fall sets in.
material world | 22 Thinking of adding this strong alloy to your home décor? Forge ahead!
hot stuff | 24 Fresh takes on a dining room staple will have everyone coming back for seconds.
fine art | 26
The sofa’s little sister is having a moment. Add accent seating and style to your space with one of these lovely loungers.
trend report | 84 Feel good about furnishing your home with these sustainable stunners, made from repurposed materials.
finishing touch | 88 A custom suspended staircase can bring drama— and brightness—to a home’s interior.
Every home needs a “where’d you get that?” piece of art. You’re looking at them.
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a world of design possibilities. Karen Arakelian, President
White House Designs for Life is proud to announce the opening of our new
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Editor in Chief RITA GUARNA
still at home
When I conceived and put together the summer issue of our quarterly NJ Home from, well, home, as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, I thought it an anomaly, a one-time occurrence the stuff of which might make for a good story. Although my team’s transition to telecommuting was practically seamless, I didn’t expect it to become the new normal. But several months later, my home, like yours, is now not just a sanctuary (and a super sanitary one at that), but an office, classroom, gym and movie theater. And no doubt, also like you, I find myself pondering new projects and enhancements and doing my best to make my space the best version of itself. That means editing: the coffee table, the china cabinet, the nightstand. I find myself moving things around, rearranging furniture and accessories in an effort to ensure that the vignettes that used to bring me joy still do. Yes, we want our homes to be functional, completely utilitarian— that’s a given. But we want them to be beautiful too, whatever that means to each one of us.
Creative Director STEPHEN M. VITARBO Senior associate editor DARIUS AMOS
Lifestyle editor HALEY LONGMAN
I’m reminded of the poet John Keats’ words, “A thing of beauty is a joy forever: Its loveliness increases; it will never pass into nothingness…” The designers featured in this issue remind us that beauty comes in many forms—it can be taken from the outdoors and echoed by the interiors. Take, for example, interior designer Judy Sturdevant, who was asked by a Westfield family to breathe life back into their center-hall colonial. With a scenic landscape outside the windows and built in 1920s architecture, the home already had character—but the family wanted a change. Turn to “Colonial Update” on page 54 to see how Sturdevant introduced lighter, soothing hues to create a new and welcoming space. Francyne Federici played off the existing features when she designed a two-bedroom condo in Verona. Located on the 11th floor, the home had a breathtaking panorama of New York City, which Federici knew she could not disturb. In “The View’s the Thing” on page 66, you’ll see how the designer kept the city the center of all the sight lines when she transformed the condo into a lively and stylish living space. They say beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and I’m certain you’ll agree that the three breakfast room concepts in our Design Challenge are equally spectacular. But for this issue of NJ Home, we’re asking you, our readers, to look beyond beauty and decide which proposal best suits the needs of a young couple and their family. Turn to “Vote for Your Favorite” on page 74 and read about the designers’ concepts, then visit njhomemag.com and let us know which plan you like best. After you vote, take a look at your own space. Sure, your eyes might focus on the areas you’d like to change, but remember to admire the things you do like and bring you joy—those are the pieces that make it your home.
Contributing editors LESLIE GARISTO PFAFF, KATHRYNE MCCANN, DONNA ROLANDO, NAYDA RONDON Contributing Photographers TONI DEIS, DAVID NELSON, VIC WAHBY, WING WONG PUBLISHING STAFF Publisher THOMAS FLANNERY advertising account executives KAREN AZZARELLO, JODI BRUKER, CHRISTIE COLVILLE, BRIDGET JULIANO, MARY LIMA, MARY MASCIALE, MAURA HUNTER TEMPLETON
MARKETING, DIGITAL & OPERATIONS director of marketing & digital media NIGEL EDELSHAIN
production director SUSAN WINDRUM Advertising Services director JACQUELYNN FISCHER
circulation manager KATHY WENZLER graphic designer, ad services VIOLETA MULAJ production Art associate CHRIS FERRANTE Accounting KASIE CARLETON, MEGAN FRANK, STEVEN RESNICK, KATIE TORRE communications manager CATHERINE ROSARIO executive assistant PENNY GLASS BOAG PUBLISHED BY Chairman CARROLL V. DOWDEN President & CEO MARK DOWDEN Senior Vice Presidents SHAE MARCUS, CARL OLSEN Vice Presidents NIGEL EDELSHAIN, THOMAS FLANNERY, RITA GUARNA, STEVEN RESNICK, DIANE VOJCANIN NJ HOME magazine is published by Wainscot Media, 1 Maynard Drive, Park Ridge, NJ 07656. Copyright © 2020 by Wainscot Media, LLC. All rights reserved. Editorial Contributions: Write to Editor, NJ HOME, 1 Maynard Drive, Park Ridge, NJ 07656; telephone 201.782.5730; email rita.guarna@wainscotmedia.com. The magazine is not responsible for the return or loss of unsolicited submissions. Subscription Services: To inquire about a subscription, to change an address or to purchase a back issue or a reprint of an article, please write to NJ HOME,
Rita Guarna Editor in Chief editor@wainscotmedia.com
Circulation Department, 1 Maynard Drive, Park Ridge, NJ 07656; telephone 201.573.5541; email kathy.wenzler@wainscotmedia.com. Advertising Inquiries: Contact Thomas Flannery at
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201.571.2252 or thomas.flannery@wainscotmedia.com.
PREPARE YOUR HOME FOR THE ELECTRIC CAR HOME CHARGING STATION INSTALL ATION EXPERTS
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the guide
WHAT’S UP, WHAT’S NEW AND WHAT TO DO.
THE FUTURE OF COLOR We’re unanimously looking forward to 2021 after the exhausting 2020 we’ve had, and so is the design world. To get us excited for the next calendar year, Sherwin-Williams has revealed its color predictions for the coming season. It divided the 40 hues into four palettes that celebrate the Rhythm of Color—“the balance between fast and slow, quiet and expressive and virtual and physical,” reads the press release—each of which will freshen up those four walls you’ve been staring out for the last six-plus months of quarantine. Here are 16 of our faves: Sanctuary: Neutrals inspired by nature White: Pure White SW 7005 Gray: Modern Gray SW 7632 Green: Oakmoss SW 6180 Red: Canyon Clay SW 6054 Encounter: Earthy tones Blue: Blustery Sky SW 9140 Rusty red: Reddened Earth SW 6053 Mustard yellow: Tarnished Trumpet SW 9026 Taupe: Hardware SW 6172 Continuum: Bold bursts of color Yellow: Limón Fresco SW 9030 Purple: Novel Lilac SW 6836 (shown) Dark gray: Cyberspace SW 7076 Teal: Great Falls SW 6495 Tapestry: Modern jewel tones Pink: Jaipur Pink SW 6577 Periwinkle: Perfect Periwinkle SW 9065 Peach: Jovial SW 6611 Forest green: Cape Verde SW 6482
CHALK PAINT 101
The distressed look has been an interior design trend for some time now, but you need not ferret your grandma’s vintage coffee table out of the attic to achieve the vibe at home. All you’ll need to do it yourself is some chalk paint, a water-based solution that can be used on furniture to create a matte, aged and rustic appearance. It almost instantly gives a shabby chic vibe to nightstands, dressers and dining room tables, and it doesn’t require help from farmhouse queen Joanna Gaines to make it look presentable. The pros? The product is pretty easy to use, as it doesn’t demand that you to strip the previous layers of paint or to add a layer of primer; it doesn’t drip as easily as the regular stuff; and it needs minimal cleanup— just soap and water on the brushes will do the trick. It’s also pretty widely available. Your best bet is getting it online from Annie Sloan (anniesloan.com), who created the original chalk paint and its accompanying accessories (brushes, waxes, etc.), but The Home Depot and Lowe’s stores carry the stuff as well. Just make sure you look for chalk paint and not chalkboard paint, which turns any surface into a chalkboard surface one can write on.
BOTTOMS UP!
NJHome
Why go out for drinks when you can have your very own bar at home? Whether you are looking to unwind after a hard day of work or entertain guests in style, a small bar has a lot to offer. Display your favorite selection of spirits and use the extra counter space to whip up drinks or serve apps. Looking for something portable? Find a small bar cart to move it about while impressing guests. With an array of designs, from sleek to more traditional styles, and a variety of sizes, these bars can elevate a room’s aesthetic without taking up too much space.
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the guide
EYES UPWARD
For a statement that’s more than a bright piece of furniture or an ornate figurine on your coffee table, look up at the blank canvas overhead. Rather than letting your ceiling go unnoticed, let it draw your visitor’s eyes and become your next home design element. Here are a few ideas that will make your ceiling pop—and we don’t mean by adding the popcorn texture: Color me. To enliven a room, you usually add an accent color, be it in a throw pillow, a wall or an area rug. Create an easy statement ceiling by matching those pieces or other elements of the room décor. A funky color demonstrates your flair more than any white or beige shade would. Beam me up. Installing raised beams is a simple way to give any ceiling a threedimensional look. Add even more visual interest by using the beams to frame light fixtures, or paint them in bold hues. The shape of things. Squares, circles, octagons: Defined shapes never fail to grab one’s attention, so use them to pull eyes toward the sky. Wood beams or paneling can be arranged in eye-catching patterns, or get a pro to paint geometric designs. (You don’t want your kids painting on your walls or ceiling!) Artist in the house. Take painting on the ceiling to the next level by creating designs that match your personality or play off the theme of the room. Think about the conversations that will start when your friends see florals, foliage or Moroccan ogee when they look up.
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ULTRA FLATTERING, ULTRA CHIC
Ring light mirrors are so 2019. The “it” mirror of today is—well, it’s technically 50 years old. This curvaceous beauty was designed by the late architect Ettore Sottsass for Poltronova and debuted at a trade show in Milan in 1970, along with a few other pieces of out-there bedroom furniture. But this 6-foot-tall mirror, called Ultrafragola (Ultimate Strawberry), was the only item from the collection produced en masse. Its unique, feminine shape resembles a woman’s curves—those of her body, her hair or whatever—and its blushtoned light is flattering for everyone. It’s the ultimate conversation starter in a room (and on social media) and the perfect selfie mirror; supermodel Bella Hadid, actress/writer Lena Dunham and singer Frank Ocean each have one of their own. Today’s version is produced in Florence and made from the same materials as the original one—plastic and fiberglass—but it’s also now available in LED. The Ultrafragola will run you about $10,500, but email info@poltronova.it to request a quote.
THE CESCA RETURNS
If you need a retro-style chair to match your Ultrafragola mirror, why not a Cesca chair or two? This minimalistic piece, created by Hungarian furniture designer Marcel Breuer, first achieved widespread popularity in the 1920s. It was inspired by a bicycle frame (and named after his daughter Francesca), and Breuer was ahead of his time when designing this mixed-materials chair with tubular steel and beechwood and woven cane inserts. The Cesca hit its peak in the 1970s and ’80s when rattan and wicker furniture was the hottest trend, but it’s now making a comeback in the homes of designers and influencers. Why? The timeless style fits in with any aesthetic and is multi-purpose—Cescas can be a set of dining chairs or one can be an accent chair in a hallway or bedroom nook, or paired with a desk in a home office. A licensed version of the original design retails for about $1,000, but there are plenty of less expensive dupes online in (armless and/ or upholstered) variations that will fit your style and budget.
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the guide
OCTOBER HOME SALES
Join the club if you’re hoping to fall in love with a new home this season, as an increasing number of city folk are looking for greener pastures on this side of the river. Consider New Jersey Realtors’ real estate stats from last October while you’re scoping out the market (and maintaining your social distance, of course):
7,120
The number of single-family homes that closed in October 2019, down 0.3 percent from the previous year.
9,893
New listings of single-family homes in October 2019, down 8.4 percent from the year before.
$335,000
Median sales price of the single-family home in October 2019, a 9.8 percent increase over 2018 statistics.
$418,970
Average sales price of singlefamily homes in October 2019, up 9.9 percent from the previous year.
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Average days properties had been on the market in October 2019, down 3 percent from the previous year. Source: New Jersey Realtors
MUST-READS
If you’re counting down until you can host a real indoor party again, why not start planning it? Get a head start with A Home for All Seasons: Gracious Living & Stylish Entertaining (Rizzoli, $46) by designer Danielle Rollins. This hostess extraordinaire takes readers room by room, offering practical advice on how, effortlessly and anywhere in your home, to host gatherings that range from cocktail hours to intimate dinner parties, plus general organization tips. Meanwhile, Nicole Hollis of the eponymous San Francisco architecture and interior design firm creates refined spaces conducive to modern living that integrate environmental elements. And her new book, Curated Interiors (Rizzoli, $60), is a perfectly assembled collection of homes in cities, suburbs and shore towns that mix natural materials with dramatic touches. Each room featured pays homage to Hollis’ appreciation of texture, craft and nature and her ability to create livable works of art that’ll inspire your own design decisions. We all love a good marble countertop or vanity, but in Splendor of Marble: Marvelous Spaces by the World’s Top Architects and Designers (Rizzoli, $75), author Karen Pearse shows readers other innovative ways to utilize the stunning stone. Rooms devised by some of the world’s most prominent creatives, such as Kelly Wearstler and the Haas Brothers, are featured in the tome and showcase how natural material can bring warmth, color and “pop” into a space. And we’re not just talking kitchens or bathrooms, but also walls, flooring, family rooms, patios and even staircases.
THE FIRE NEXT TIME The scent of burning wood and the sound of crackling flames can be comforting, conjuring memories of simpler times around a campfire. They’re reasons why fireplaces have become the focal point of many living rooms. But there is a shift among today’s homeowners that is even more comforting: There are more and more ways to have an environment-friendly fireplace, creating the ambiance we crave while being less harmful to nature. Typical masonry fireplaces that use wood give off more air pollutants via chimney than those that burn other fuel sources. Burning wood releases carbon monoxide, which can be deadly in poorly ventilated areas. If you want a “greener” burn when the temperatures dip, consider these alternatives to the old-fashioned wood fireplaces:
Gas. Though this type burns fossil fuels, they have lower emissions and are more efficient than wood when used for heat, as they produce hotter fires. A flue is not needed because they don’t create smoke, but these fireplaces should still be installed by a professional. Alcohol gel. Alcohols such as ethanol are biofuels so they emit clean, safe steam vapor. Like the gas type, alcohol gel fireplaces do not require a flue, but they are easier to install in any house or apartment. Electric. Like those fueled by gas or alcohol, electric fireplaces do not produce smoke or toxic fumes. Though it’s 100 percent efficient, meaning that all energy is used to create heat, electricity is usually more expensive than gas. Smarter wood. If you do burn wood, consider hardwoods such as oak and cherry, which burn more slowly and emit less smoke. Use seasoned firewood that has dried for a minimum of six months outdoors. Avoid burning printed paper, plastic, rubber and refuse in the fireplace.
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THAT FEELING OF PEACE
For home decor that can effortlessly cultivate a sense of Zen, Tia MowryHardrict has you covered. The actress, entrepreneur and busy mother of two teamed up with nine Etsy creators to co-design the exclusive Tia Mowry x Etsy collection. Taking inspiration from her family’s LA home, this collection relies on a calming neutral color palette and boho patterns to create spaces that are simultaneously serene and chic. It includes items such as sleek ceramic serving ware, berry baskets and pitchers, cozy pillows and versatile storage. View the entire limited-edition collection at etsy.com/collections/tia-mowry.
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your place in the sun
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These luxury homes on the market each have a sunroom with floor-to-ceiling windows, so you can take in the view just as the chill of fall sets in.
30 BAYVIEW TERRACE, MIDDLETOWN $2,300,000, 8 beds, 8 baths, 7,480 sq. ft. Scenic views of the ocean, trees and the New York City skyline are at the epicenter of this updated Queen Anne Seaside Victorian home in Monmouth Hills. Large windows abound almost everywhere, from the circular sunroom drenched in natural light to the wide-tiled hallway leading to it. Guests will be awed and entertained with a media room, full bar, gym and two full kitchens. Plus, the space extends outside onto a 2,000-square-foot brick patio featuring another bar and a stone fireplace. CONTACT: KERRY O’BRIEN, O’BRIEN REALTY, 917.791.1027
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real estate 8 CATAMOUNT DRIVE, MEDFORD $1,150,000, 4 beds, 5 baths, 7,200 sq. ft. Situated above Lake Centennial, this expansive home offers coveted views within one of Medford’s most sought-after communities. A sunroom featuring two sets of French doors provides a comfortable spot for reading or relaxing with exceptional sights of the lake. In addition to an elegantly designed interior and a remarkable open floor plan, you’ll get luxury resort vibes with an exercise room, a basketball court and a sauna. CONTACT: ELAINE JACKSON, CENTURY 21 ALLIANCE-MEDFORD, 609.351.1616
10 EDWARDS POINT ROAD, RUMSON $3,200,000, 6 beds, 6 baths, 7,200 sq. ft. This home with waterfront views and rich green lawns is an entertainer’s dream both inside and out. A wall of glass windows in the open sitting room and kitchen peek out onto the patio and pool, and help bring the outdoors in no matter the season. High ceilings, a wow-factor entryway and numerous porches overlooking the vast property only add to the appeal of this rare Monmouth County gem on a quiet cul-de-sac.
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CONTACT: LINDA GILLESPIE, BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HOMESERVICES FOX & ROACH, 732.770.9908
7 QUAKER RIDGE ROAD, MORRISTOWN $2,700,000, 6 beds, 6 baths, 4,051 sq. ft. With both proximity to the Loantaka Brook Reservation and ultimate privacy thanks to lush foliage, this bucolic Morristown mansion has it all. Owners and guests will get the perks of country club living with the estate’s tennis court, indoor heated pool, library and sunroom that leads onto the deck and soaks up natural light from all angles. It’s ideal for the times we’re in, as exercise, work and recreation space abound so you never need to leave your home if you don’t have to. CONTACT: MARTHA MORITZ, COLDWELL BANKER REALTY, 201.602.8815
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material world
The Quatrefoil tray in antique gold iron can be used for serving, or put it on display in the dining room, bathroom or bedroom. Available at houzz.com.
Whether it’s set up in a bedroom or a corner in the living room, the handforged iron tripod floor lamp will be a unique addition to your home. Available at timelesswrought iron.com.
Camino’s hand-forged, 24-bulb chandelier brings a rustic style and graceful touch to your décor. Available at gallerychandeliers.com.
iron out the details
THINKING OF ADDING THIS STRONG ALLOY TO YOUR HOME DÉCOR? FORGE AHEAD!
Make a grand entrance by mounting Bushere & Son Iron Studio’s elegant fleur-de-lis knocker on your door. Available at bushereandson.com.
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For a touch of the Old World, deck the halls with this torchiere indoor sconce. The wrought iron reflects a traditional Spanish design. Available at santabarbara lighting.com. Inspired by French designer Gilbert Poillerat, this Art Deco wrought iron chair is the best seat in the house thanks to its blue/green finish, plush orange cushion and balled arm and leg ends. Available at 1stdibs.com.
“C” describes its shape, but the iron Duke C-table is also charming and captivating thanks to its antique bronze finish. Available at Pottery Barn, multiple locations.
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hot stuff
buffet lines
FRESH TAKES ON A DINING ROOM STAPLE WILL HAVE EVERYONE COMING BACK FOR SECONDS.
The Jada buffet’s starburst design and golf leaf pulls may be the only things to outshine a meal served in your dining room. Available at madegoods.com.
What’s inside matters most— unless you own the Virginia Carved Wood Buffet. With hand-carved, floral-pattern doors, the mango wood piece makes an unforgettable first impression. Available at Pottery Barn, multiple locations.
Inspired by designer Tracey Boyd’s worldly adventures, the Lacquered Regency Buffet—available in sky blue and white— will bring global glam to any home. Available at Anthropologie, multiple locations.
Though made of sturdy oak and cast iron, a tufted front gives a soft look to the Bernhardt Rustic Patina buffet. Available at Neiman Marcus, multiple locations.
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Serve, store, style, separate.... There are countless ways to use the mahogany and rosewood Lexington Take Five Carnegie table in your space. Available at perigold.com.
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Natural Stone & Quartz
art
The 1960s Italian Ceramic Curvilinear Vase by Raymor with pink, yellow and purple painted curves is a groovy mantel topper. Available at 1stdibs.com.
"La Petite Sphere" Bronze Abstract Sculpture by French artist Emile Giliolie sits on a marble base—and, bonus, gives off the reflection of the rest of the room in which it's placed. Available at 1stdibs.com.
abstract thought
You can configure the glowing bamboo polyhedrons of the Ivy 6 Bamboo and Brass Mobile Chandelier vertically or horizontally, so it’ll fit in with and illuminate almost any space. Available at Andrea Claire Studio, Brooklyn. Spain-trained painter Elliot Twelvetrees uses classic, modern techniques of decorative painting in her masterpieces, like this yellow-and-blue beauty. Available at Gary Rubinstein Antiques, Miami, FL.
EVERY HOME NEEDS A “WHERE’D YOU GET THAT?” PIECE OF ART. YOU’RE LOOKING AT THEM.
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The Curtis Jere Kinetic Wave Wall Sculpture looks like a windchime, or perhaps a harp, but makes music of its own as a decorative wall piece. Available at 1stdibs.com.
Designed and handmade in Italy by Sebastiano Bottos, the “Cortina” screen acts as a room divider or simply as a conversation piece. Available at 1stdibs.com.
Equal Housing Opportunity
Luxury 1-3 Bedroom Condominiums I Convenient to Downtown Sq. Footage 1,500 to 2,800+ I Prices from $825,000 - $2M
Represented by Turpin Realtors Molly Tonero, Sales Associate +1-888-948-7764
vintage finds
London clockmaker Charles Gretton designed this 17th century walnut longcase clock featuring latched pillars and countwheel striking, two defining features of the era. Available at british-antiqueclocks.com. This 10” Marine Mechanical Clock originated in 1904. The time-only piece features its original red brass finish and hand-silvered dial, but the movement has been completely updated. Available at Hamilton Jewelers, Princeton.
The Renaissance Turret Clock was considered a luxury during its time in the early 17th century, and that still rings true today. Its exquisite detail resembles the giant striking clocks set within the turrets of buildings in Germany. Available at 1stdibs.com.
about time
This Renaissance-inspired timepiece by German clockmaker F.S. Rosenlehner of Munich—whose name is on the face—tells the time with just a single hand. Available at 1stdibs.com.
TURN BACK THE CLOCK WITH ONE OF THESE CENTURIESOLD TIME-TELLERS (AND SHOW-STOPPERS).
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Your fireplace will take second stage when you place Howard Miller’s hand-rubbed Windsor cherry Webster clock on top of the mantel. Available at Time Pieces Clock Shop, Keyport.
“Cupid Washes the Arrow”—and he rings a bell every half hour—on this Empire Pendulum circa 1810. Place it on your mantel for an instant conversation starter. Available at 1stdibs.com.
DREAM BIG!
Jumbo Mortgages Now at Historic Low Rates
Let Kearny Bank help you open the door to your new luxury home. Local decision making, fast turnaround, close personal service.
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800-273-3406 kearnybank.com
SPECIAL PROMOTION
FACES OF
2020 A SHOWCASE OF IN N O VAT I VE B U S I NE S S ES AROUND NEW JERSEY.
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2020
THE FACES OF
THE PERFECT APPLIANCE RENO’S APPLIANCE
235 McLean Blvd., Paterson, NJ 07504 973.247.1860 | renosappliance.com SHOPPING FOR AN APPLIANCE CAN BE AN OVERWHELMING EXPERIENCE. What makes the journey stress-free is knowing you are in the hands of the “family” team at Reno’s Appliance, made up of knowledgeable sales professionals familiar with all brands and manufacturers. Always dedicated to offering new and improved services, Reno’s Appliance also has an on-site Corporate Chef available to demonstrate a variety of appliances, as well as offering tasty recipe ideas. What began in 1951 as Reno’s Radio and TV Repair Shop has grown into a 15,000-square-foot designer showroom serving the tri-state area and offering a full range of appliances. Reno’s three sons continue the tradition, highlighting customer satisfaction and creating a unique shopping experience at every visit.
FACES OF
2020 THE FACE OF
AWARD-WINNING INTERIORS DIANE DUROCHER,
ASID, IIDA, CAPS, C.I.D.
DIANE DUROCHER INTERIORS, INC. Ramsey, NJ 07446 | 201.825.3832 Dianedurocherinteriors.com AN AWARD WINNING DESIGNER FOR MORE THAN 25 YEARS, Diane Durocher believes that the foundation of successful design is built on trust and confidence. Connecting on a deeply personal level enables Diane to design inspired spaces that reflect the individual personalities and lifestyles of her clients. With a keen eye for color, outstanding space planning skills, and the ability to design customized pieces, Diane brings her clients’ vision to life. Rising to the challenge of transforming a blank slate into a stunning reality, her ultimate goal is to exceed expectations. From an early age Diane enjoyed spending weekends browsing antique shops and poring through design magazines. Memories of Thanksgiving dinners at her aunt’s house cemented her love for interior design. From the matching tie-back, pinched pleat panels to the antique chandelier and from the crackling fire to the impeccably set table, the perfect ambiance seemed to make the meal taste even more delicious. That was when Diane realized that a well-designed home is not just a lovely backdrop, it also influences how we live our lives. She strives to recreate that feeling with each and every project.
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2020
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DISTINCTIVE NATURAL STONE JOE IACONO, OWNER | BEDROCK GRANITE
803 Shrewsbury Ave., Shrewsbury, NJ 07702 | 732.741.0010 | bedrockgranite.com BEDROCK GRANITE IS A ONE-STOP SHOP for your most important home design needs. For over 30 years, our family-owned business—now in its third generation—has built long-standing relationships with award-winning designers, dealers and builders, all working together to ensure every detail is considered to create the look you envision. Bedrock Granite sources its natural stone, quartz and porcelain slabs from various wholesalers in the tri-state area. Our expert craftsmen produce elegant, clean and exact results that withstand the test of time. Visit our showroom to browse our wide selection of granite, marble, quartz and other natural stones for your kitchen, bathroom, fireplace, office or outdoor space. Our highly skilled staff will provide exceptional customer service and assist you throughout the entire process, from selecting the perfect stone all the way through installation. As Monmouth County’s most experienced stone specialists, we mastermind the details that turn your dream project into reality.
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2020
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ARCHITECTURE PLAN ARCHITECTURE
125 Paterson Ave., Little Falls, NJ 07424 | 973.837.8399 | plnarc.com EXPERIENCED PROBLEM SOLVERS, Plan Architecture creates client-driven architectural design that is not only innovative, but practical. Founder Dan D’Agostino has nearly two decades of experience in architecture and design. He has served as a visiting critic at NJIT, from which he holds a Bachelor of Architecture Degree, and is a member of the American Institute of Architects. He has been acknowledged in both print and television as an expert in his field, and one who holds a true passion for creating
and inspiring unique spaces. His work encompasses a wide range of styles. Dan has been awarded an AIA Gold Medal and has consecutively received the coveted “Best Of” award on Houzz. Plan Architecture’s team is dedicated to listening to their clients’ needs. With Dan at the helm, clients know they will receive solutions that are aesthetic and functional, which translates to a design process that is memorable and timeless. Follow us on Facebook and instagram@planarchitecture.
FACES OF THE FACES OF
THE NEW GENERATION OF LEADERS IN POOLS AND SPAS
2020
B&B POOL AND SPA CENTER
787 Chestnut Ridge Rd., Chestnut Ridge, NY 10977 | 201.825.7665 | bbpoolandspa.info WHENEVER LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS AND CONSULTANTS require aquatic masterpieces for clients, they turn to B&B Pool and Spa Center’s accomplished team to design and produce engineering miracles. With their youthful inspiration, cousins Derek Bagin and Drew Bagin Jr., continue the family-owned, full-service pool provider’s mission: to build and service exceptionally designed and uncommonly durable pools for the challenging Northeast climate and terrain. Derek and Drew Jr. honed their skills working beside their fathers at B&B. Derek designs and builds pools within panoramic settings, confirming that every project meets the region’s strict hydrology, engineering and efficiency requirements. Drew Jr. heads the company’s award-winning year-round service department and well-stocked showroom conveniently located a mile from the New York/ New Jersey border. The B&B team is also renowned for their work in the pool safety regulations industry. With their breadth of experience, they’re always ready to rise to the rigorous demands of pool design and construction with ingenious solutions.
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2020
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INTERIOR DESIGN THAT MAKES A DIFFERENCE
SHEILA RICH, CID, IIDA, CAPS SHEILA RICH INTERIORS LLC Monmouth Beach, NJ 07750 | 732.870.3012 | sheilarichinteriors.com “WHERE AND HOW YOU LIVE IS MORE IMPORTANT TODAY THAN EVER,” says award-winning designer Sheila Rich. For over 30 years, Sheila has been designing rooms that make a difference. Her flair for optimal space planning and true appreciation of gracious style are beautifully reflected in the timeless interiors she creates. A strong believer in the importance of supporting individual tastes, she designs rooms that speak uniquely to the needs and lifestyles of her commercial and residential clients. Sheila’s belief that “A beautiful room is a given, but a healthy room is a must” is at the root of every design she creates. Her focus on the health and wellness of design has become particularly important now, at a time when people are more environmentally and health-conscious than ever. Winning “Best of Houzz” for Design and Service for seven consecutive years as well as 20 Design Awards, Sheila is a New Jersey Certified Interior Designer (CID) and has earned the Certified Aging-In-Place Specialist (CAPS) designation. She is affiliated with both the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) and the International Interior Design Association (IIDA). Her long-running newspaper column, “Rich Ideas,” provides tips on current trends and helps homeowners solve design challenges.
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MONMOUTH ST. TILE
AVRA KARAK, OWNER | MONMOUTH ST. TILE
44 Monmouth St., Red Bank, NJ 07701 | 732.933.1760 2175 Highway 35, Sea Girt, NJ 08750 | 732.974.0048 monmouthsttile.com
FACES OF
2020
WHETHER IT’S PORCELAIN, STONE, HANDMADE TILE OR GLASS, this designer can dress your home’s interior just right. Meet Avra Karak, owner of Monmouth St. Tile for over 20 years (with locations in Red Bank and Sea Girt). Upon entering Avra’s doors, you feel an extension of her creative energy and dynamic style. She is passionate about collaborating with clients and creating beautiful spaces that will be enjoyed for years to come. Avra has carefully cultivated a unique selection of tile, stone, custom mosaics and handmade artisan tiles that can’t be found anywhere else in Monmouth County. She also has assembled a talented staff that holds to her ideals. Avra feels grateful to have built a meaningful business doing something she loves.
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2020
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NORTH JERSEY LUXURY REAL ESTATE TAYLOR C. LUCYK
313 Westwood, NJ 07675 | 201.360.1292 christiesrealestate.com/nnj TAYLOR C. LUCYK IS ONE OF THE TOP REAL ESTATE AGENTS in Northern New Jersey and is accredited with multiple publications and industry recognized sales awards. Young and ambitious, he prides himself in providing a smooth transaction for each and every one of his clients. Taylor believes in setting the bar high by his tremendous over-achieving mentality and love for his clients. They can rely on his expertise and insider’s knowledge of New Jersey’s ever-changing real estate and economic markets, but it’s his can-do and positive attitude that has enabled him to have a steady stream of referrals and repeat clients. His knowledge of the regional/local markets, raw energy, and affinity for customer service has quickly made him an industry recognized name. Taylor was recently recognized with the prestigious 2019 NJ REALTORS® Circle of Excellence Sales Award- Platinum Level. He is also a member of the prestigious Christie’s Master Circle, an elite group of high-performing luxury real estate specialists from across the Christie’s global network.
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2019
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PERSONALIZED INTERIOR DESIGN KARLA TRINCANELLO INTERIOR DECISIONS, INC.
140 Columbia Tpke., Florham Park, NJ 07932 | 973.765.9013 | interiordecisions.com EVOKING THE UNEXPECTED IN EACH PROJECT, no matter how small or large it is, Karla Trincanello Interior Decisions has won 19 ASID Design Excellence Awards and specializes in creating beautiful and personal interiors. With 30 years of passionately designing interiors, Karla’s relationships are very important to her, and she strives to provide complete satisfaction for every client. With no limits to design capability, Karla and her staff also travel for re-locating clients, or with vacation homes, helping them design their homes and adjust to their new spaces. Client presentations provide a complete visual and comprehensive understanding of the design along with a color plan of coordinated fabrics and materials. Karla and her staff work with architects and builders on new construction and renovation projects, personalizing each home and always aiming for creative, unique details that add memorability to all long-lasting interiors. Karla believes everyone should live in their dream spaces.
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WEALTH MANAGEMENT
DEBORAH A. RICHIN, CFP® UBS FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC.
61 S. Paramus Rd., 4th Floor, Paramus, NJ 07652 | 201.441.4091 | 844.831.0227 | ubs.com/fa/deborahrichin THIS TIME LAST YEAR, NONE OF US WOULD HAVE DREAMED ABOUT OUR CURRENT REALITY. Life teaches us the best laid plans can go off-course, but with uncertainty and trepidation come opportunity and growth. And sometimes, the bigger the risk, the greater the outcome. During these unprecedented moments, it’s natural to question the future. Perhaps your well-crafted financial plan has been knocked sideways and you’re not sure where to turn. This may be just the time to seek an objective second opinion -- a fresh set of eyes -- someone to offer straightforward guidance to help you evaluate and make good decisions to protect your financial foothold. Deborah A. Richin takes your financial security to heart. Her years of valuable, sustainable experience aim to help you and those you care most about financially thrive. Deborah is a trusted advisor and perhaps, most importantly, a true partner who’s there to make sense of even the most uncertain times. Grab a hold of Deborah’s hand by scheduling a complimentary discovery and review session today and together you can safely navigate even the most perfect storm.
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2020
Deborah A. Richin is a Financial Advisor with UBS Financial Services Inc. in Paramus, NJ. All Rights reserved. UBS Financial Services Inc. is a subsidiary of UBS AG. Member FINRA/SIPC. Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. owns the certification marks CFP® and CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ in the U.S. which it awards to individuals who successfully complete the CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements. In providing wealth management services to clients, we offer both investment advisory and brokerage services which are separate and distinct and differ in material ways. For information, including the different laws and contracts that govern, visit ubs.com/workingwithus. In providing financial planning services, we may act as a broker-dealer or investment adviser, depending on whether we charge a fee for the service. The nature and scope of the services are detailed in the documents and reports provided to clients as part of the service. Financial planning does not alter or modify in any way a client’s existing account(s) or the terms and conditions of any account agreements they may have with UBS. IS1903685.
fall 2020
“When I was at home, I was in a better place.” —William Shakespeare
‘close’ quarters “Downsizing” to a ranch in Westfield— then making it over— gives a designer’s brood a more intimate and relaxed lifestyle. Text by Nayda Rondon Design by Miriam Silver Verga and Hillary Kaplan Photography by Toni Deis
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Whether in life or interior design, a paradoxical truth is that one can live large on a small scale. Just ask interior designer Miriam Silver Verga, co-owner with Hillary Kaplan of the Westfieldbased firm Mimi & Hill. Silver Verga and her family—husband Joe, four daughters (Tessa, 20; Ruby, 18; Ali, 16; and Libby, 13) and her mother, Edith Sands—went from a 5,500-square-foot traditional colonial with six bedrooms, five-and-a-half bathrooms, a separate dining room and full finished basement in Westfield to a 3,400-square-foot expanded ranch that, after renovations, featured five bedrooms, four full bathrooms and a finished basement. “Our old house was wonderful, but it just wasn’t for us anymore,” explains Silver Verga. “We were ready as a family to try something new.” She cites financial considerations and the “empty nest” prospect of four In the dining room area of this renovated ranch in Westfield, it’s all about bringing in the outdoors. The Marvin sliding doors and almost-to-the floor paved windows surround the family in soul-replenishing natural elements. “The back of the house faces a wooded area,” says designer Miriam Silver Verga. “I find that the sight of all those trees gives me a powerful, almost spiritual connection to nature.”
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kids soon heading off to college as rationales for downsizing—if a five-bedroom home can be considered “down.” Less formal and intimidating than their old colonial, their new ranch—also in Westfield—reflects a casual, relaxed and integrative lifestyle the family was eager to embrace. “Family connection is key,” says Silver Vega. “We have older teens, and we wanted to enjoy their company as much as possible.” She also emphasizes the multi-generational bonding value of having her mother live with them for most of the year. Collaborating with Kaplan, Silver Verga set about turning the “ugly duckling” ranch that had languished on the market for more than a year into a timeless beauty. “My family trusted us to design something that was going to meet our changing needs for a simpler lifestyle with a stronger connection to family,” she says. Achieving that simplicity, however, was far from an easy process. As soon as the family made the move in March of 2019, the
design pair—working with architect Hildie Lazar of Lazar Architecture in Scotch Plains—embarked on extensive renovations. On the main floor, they absorbed a smaller bedroom to enlarge the master bedroom and en suite full bathroom and add a walk-in closet. They left a home office—one thing Silver Verga was not willing to forgo in the downsizing—located near the master bedroom for a convenient home-to-work commute. In the existing living room, they revived the original wood-burning fireplace with a new reclaimed wood-beam mantel, while in the family room a new gas fireplace was created by Scotch Plainsbased faux painter/plasterer Kerri Walsh, who used a mineralbased plaster to fashion a centerpiece with the look and feel of natural stone. The main floor’s primary living space—the heart of the home—was reconfigured into an L-shaped design that incorporates kitchen, dining area and family room. The kitchen was
This page, top left: The wood-beamed high ceiling, understated Circa chandelier and potted greenery sitting atop a delicate vintage campaign table all help draw the eye to the soothing sights of nature. The casual-style custom Vanguard dining table and chairs, light oak floors and the walls and ceiling painted in Benjamin Moore Distant Gray also contribute to the light-in-spirit ambiance. This page, top right: “Something I wasn’t about to give up from our old home was a giant island,” says Silver Verga. “This island is just as big as my old one.” She’s referring to the kitchen centerpiece, which gleams in durable, man-made Silestone in Iconic White and features a brass-finish Waterstone faucet. Opposite page: The black Decorá cabinetry serves as a breakfast nook and entertainment bar area with plenty of stylish storage space. “It’s morning on top and party down below,” says Silver Verga of the visually anchoring piece from designer Pattie Andrews of Island Kitchen & Bath by Tri County in Long Beach Island.
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This page, left: Shelves of quartzite, a natural stone, are by Adrienne Gallman from Short Hills Marble & Tile. They harmonize with the soothing kitchen walls and ceiling painted with Benjamin Moore Distant Gray. Made in Vietnam, the Cle tiles look handmade with their intentional flaws. The slight color variations in the softest, subtlest of blues, greens and blushes give off an ethereal, cloud-like effect. Opposite page: The six-burner gas Thermador stove with griddle is perfect for a family that loves to cook and bake together. The range hood was fashioned in plaster by Scotch Plains-based faux painter/plasterer Kerri Walsh to achieve a cost-conscious custom look. After a contractor had laid a foundation of sheetrock over plywood, Walsh primed the surface, then plastered it with a mineral-based product before finishing with a custom-tinted color wash to make it look like stone. “We started out with a gray, concrete-looking sample that Miriam liked the texture of, and we decided to match it to a white a bit lighter than the wood on the kitchen cabinets,� Walsh reports.
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In the basement, Tessa, who in pre-COVID-19 days was primarily away at school, and Grandma, who divides her time between living with her two daughters and traveling, each have their own bedroom and share a full bathroom with a separate hall entrance. Tessa’s room was previously a craft room; Grandma’s bedroom was upsized with a walk-in closet built from space formerly used as a storage/ mechanical area. The full bathroom, including sauna, was constructed in what had been the former owners’ wine room. Also in the basement is a recreational den area, which at the time of this writing is set to receive the addition of a kitchenette section. Throughout the house, the designers’ intentional use of space amplifies the clarity of design and purpose. In contrast to the family’s former home, whose closed-off rooms made it feel isolating, the current living space is more integrated, contributing to greater human interaction. Rather than cramping their style, the closer-knit quarters have enhanced the family’s relationships with one another and with outside friends. “Believe it or not, our living arrangement during the renovations invited a sense of harmonious communal living with our kids,” explains Silver Verga, who
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flipped to the front of the house and received all new cabinetry, tiles, countertops and floors. Ceilings were raised and new 5-inch white oak floors were laid throughout. The existing floors in the home office were bleached to blend in well with the new white oak floor installations; for even more cohesiveness, all floorings were given a uniform matte finish. On the second level, youngest daughter Libby scored her own bedroom with two new dormer additions: one to hold her bed, the other her desk. Ruby and Ali share a larger bedroom, which also includes two dormer additions (one houses a walk-in closet; the other is open with two dressers, one for each sister). “I don’t mind sharing a bedroom,” says Ruby. “My sister and I get along really well, and the room is roomy. We both love our bedroom; it’s light and airy with lots of white and wood tones. We each had a say in the design, showing Mom and Hillary things we liked from Pinterest and other sources.” She acknowledges that Ali rightly had more of a voice because she’ll be the primary occupant once Ruby heads off for college—presumably—in the near future.
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This page, left: The master bedroom’s en suite bathroom is Silver Verga’s “sexy Earth Mother” sanctuary. “I wanted to make it sophisticated and sensual,” she says. “It’s a special room that reminds you as a woman to take a minute.” The limestone floor, wood cabinetry stained in a driftwood color and natural stone mosaic wall offer earthy accents while the Arteriors chandelier, Restoration Hardware mirrors, three sconces by Kelly Wearstler for Circa Lighting and a vintage area rug from Mimi & Hill provide the feel of pampered luxury. Opposite page: The family room, featuring a Chaddock custom sectional with white boucle fabric and a large antique mirrored lighting piece from Arteriors, is designer Kaplan’s favorite spot. “I love how the whole room is balanced and has lots of interesting features like the fireplace,” she says. Although at first glance it might look and feel like seamless stone, the new gas fireplace’s surround is actually troweled on Italian Venetian plaster over a drywall base. Created by Walsh, the artful illusion delivers a custom fireplace with a high-end look at an affordable price.
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new home, Silver Verga sought a brighter, freer vibe, featuring a contemporary casual style interspersed with black and metal accents for elegant touches of modernity. “Hillary is great at mixing and transcending trends without being stuck in any one of them; she borrows from many to come up with something fresh, sophisticated and original,” Silver Verga says of her longtime business partner and close friend. Earth tones, textured fabrics, wood floors, wainscoting and nature-inspired design elements all combine to create a house that “now walks a fine line between mid-century and West Coast California casual, with some farmhouse elements,” says Silver Verga. While still a work in progress, the home already has the lovely patina of livedin permanence built on layers of memories shared by three generations coming together in harmony. The well-thought-out home is living testament that a simple life can be the richest of all. “Now that I’m in my late ’40s, I’m looking for a quieter, simpler way of life, with a more organic connection to nature, spirituality and family,” reflects Silver Verga. “I’m discovering that simplifying your life is the biggest gift you can give yourself.”
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laughingly recalls that for a while the family was essentially camping out in the living room while the rest of the house was being worked on. “We dragged the refrigerator in and basically lived out of there. Yet despite this, my daughters still wanted to bring friends to the house. From the start, the house has always had good energy, and there’s been a sense of enough space for everyone. It’s the cool house; everyone says so.” “Our new home is so family- and friend-friendly,” says Ruby. “My friends love coming over and spending time. It’s not intimidating; it’s all very relaxed and casual.” She adds that guests are easily accommodated in the main floor’s L-shaped living area, a backyard with a fire pit and a tree house, and a basement den that features a TV and a comfy couch. Thanks to the designers’ refined sensibilities, the place is graced with a soothing sense of home. “Hillary added soul to the house,” says Silver Verga, who credits Kaplan with helping to impart layers of nuanced depth and richness— subtle textures that don’t overwhelm, quality furniture pieces that anchor the spaces, soft colors, restful sight lines and points of interest. When it came to decorating aesthetics, the design pair basically started from scratch. The furniture and accessories from the family’s former colonial home were more traditional in style and darker in color schemes. For their
rhapsody in blue Pattern and color harmonize in an elegantly redone Upper Saddle River kitchen. Text by Donna Rolando Design by Anthony Albert Passanante Photography by Wing Wong
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Taste is joyfully apparent in one Upper Saddle River kitchen before anyone even starts to cook. That’s because of a makeover that combines elegant functionality with a sleek, modern look. The heart of the home for a family with two kids, ages 8 and 5, the kitchen is inspiring new recipes these days, says the homeowner mom, with its ease of motion for both daily life and entertaining. “The flow of the [old] kitchen didn’t make much sense,” she explains. “It always felt hectic, crowded, not usable.” Yet as the biggest project in the ’90s colonial, the kitchen landed on the back burner when the family moved in about two years ago, despite a list of undesirable feaWhat bliss for a family that loves the color blue and wanted a modern vibe for their kitchen! Designer Anthony Albert Passanante steered away from navy and baby blue and toward a more “striking” gray-infused shade, which harmonizes with the quartz counters and floor tile in travertine-like hues. There is drama in the hood created by Passanante’s metal artisan, but nothing like the wow in the chevron backsplash of assorted stone. Many of the room’s elements are one-of-a-kind.
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This page: Martini, anyone? This conveniently located bar continues the gray-blue hues in its custom cabinetry but with a softer backsplash. Just ahead in the kitchen is the quartztopped island lined with blue-leathertopped stools over a satin brass base that ties in the cabinet hardware. Opposite page: Dazzle meets minimalism in the modern makeover of this ’90s kitchen. The Restoration Hardware dome lights over the sleek island were chosen by the homeowner for their glass design, which doesn’t stand in the way of the backyard vista. Floating walnut shelves with copper cookware complete the look.
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porcelain in complementary shades. The simplicity of the design allowed Passanante to get a little wild with the sizable backsplash. Custom-made for the space through Mediterranean Tile in Fairfield, the chevron mix of stone in various hues is what he calls a “big wow factor,” and the family loved it at first sight. “It’s a pop; it’s dramatic, but it also ties in all the colors; it ties in the kitchen,” the homeowner says. The gray-blue continues in the bar area, where the backsplash softens a bit with a herringbone pattern of dolomite. To cook up those new recipes, the 36-inch-wide Wolf stainless-steel stove is all business with an artisan-crafted hood, as is the three-foot-wide sink from The Galley, always up to the task with removable cutting board, a colander and other accessories. Another focal point, the Restoration Hardware twin dome lights, which the homeowners selected, are mostly glass with brass trim—they wanted nothing to block the backyard view from the enlarged windows. “It’s a completely different look, and the family absolutely gets more use out of it,” says the homeowner of the new space. With all this inspiration, arrive hungry; you never know what’s for dinner.
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tures including a stove top smack in the middle of an island. When it finally came time in 2019 to transform the kitchen from traditional to modern, the couple reached out to Anthony Albert Passanante, a certified master kitchen and bath designer from Waldwick’s Anthony Albert Studios, and he delivered on all counts, including added counter space. Both husband and wife cook—usually while the kids are being entertained nearby. Now they have a designated work area in a design geared to their lifestyle needs as well as to their aesthetic wishes. “The style didn’t fit their narrative,” says Passanante, recalling the old kitchen. He also knew they were fans of the color blue. So he introduced a grayish blue with “a rich tone” for the cabinets on the island and perimeter and teamed it up with counters that mimic Calacatta marble’s veining in easycare quartz. Passanante’s studio created these cabinets so that they max every inch of space—a necessary touch, along with a 9-foot-tall pantry, because the family’s minimalist style meant less cabinetry. Another no-fuss element is the large-tile flooring, which hints of natural travertine, although it’s actually
colonial update A home built in the Roaring Twenties gets a comfy redo with strategic furniture and color swaps.
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Text by Darius Amos Design by Judy Sturdevant Photography by Vic Wahby
Color is key in this Westfield living room, where shades of blue and gold shine. Throw pillows, floral drapery and a pair of modern occasional chairs from Century Furniture with upholstery in Shiko Indigo by the Romo Group complement the gold accents of the antique coffee table and wall-mounted mirror.
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The Albanese family has lived in their Westfield center hall colonial for more than 30 years, surrounded essentially by the same formal and dark décor they brought on move-in day in 1988. There were small updates along the way, but nothing that quite matched the longtime homeowners’ warm personalities. “Our style of entertaining has become much more casual over the years, so a stuffy, formal living room did not fit that approach,” says Nancy Albanese, who with her husband raised three grown children in the 3,357-square-foot home, which was built in 1923. “We were looking for a better use of the space and more welcoming, comforting seating.” When they finally opted for change two years ago, they had a vision for the entire home, not just the living room. That’s when the couple’s architect, Hildie Lazar of Scotch Plains-based Lazar Architecture, introduced them to designer Judy Sturdevant of Freeman Hall Design in Westfield. “Judy and I hit it off right away,” Albanese recalls. “She listened to my needs and allowed my style to come through while gently encouraging me to explore new ideas.”
The project began in the master suite, where the husband and wife wanted to create a sanctuary and take advantage of the view of the lush greenery outdoors, Sturdevant says. The designer painted the bedroom walls with Sherwin-Williams’ Ethereal White, a mood-soothing shade that suits the tranquil space. Though side dormer windows typically present a design challenge, Sturdevant took the quirky architecture in stride. “We decided to embrace the unique shape, fabricating cornices and panels with Dhara Stripe in aqua from Thibaut,” she says. “The soft, muted tones of the drapery along the curve of the upholstered winged bed further enhanced the soothing nature of the bedroom.” Traverse Travs Celadon carpeting from Nourison added another component of repose and relaxation. An extension of the bedroom’s spa-like vibe, the en suite bath was outfitted with a marble parquet floor and a glass-tile shower. Inside the shower is a dynasty white marble bench, which complements the Furniture Guild vanity. Work expanded from the master bedroom into the second-floor hallway
This page, right: Taking a cue from the living room, designer Judy Sturdevant installed a gold lantern above the main entryway. An organic grasscloth wall covering from Thibault “tempers the gold,” and a natural wool carpet runner adds to the “visual balance,” she says. Opposite page: The designer incorporated a baby grand piano and several pieces of art from the clients’ collection, including a colorful mantel painting and an oil on panel of a horse from Great House in Summit.
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This page, left: A view from the secondfloor hallway peeks into the master bedroom, where an 1800s cherry and birdseye maple dresser from Kentucky blends with the modern ebony and gold mirror. The gallery walls of family photos were matted by a local merchant. Opposite page: To update the traditional look of the home, Sturdevant selected transitional swing arm sconces that wrap around the wings of the headboard. Perfectly proportioned bedside tables coordinate with the painted details of the bed. The upholstered chair and ottoman provide a relaxing, quiet space for reading.
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she fixed an antique mercury trumeau with original gold paint above the textured velvet sofa and facing a vintage French plaster planter that sits on the marble hearth. For more of the inviting feeling the family craved, the designer framed the custom-cut Stanton wool carpet. “Such attention to detail truly transforms this living room,” she says. Adds Albanese, echoing her designer’s choice of verb: “The living room was transformed into exactly the type of space I was looking for—comfortable, welcoming and beautiful. Judy incorporated existing pieces—antique furniture and artwork—that were important to me into the new design while adding new pieces for an updated look.” But Sturdevant isn’t done yet. At press time, she was working with the family and her team on a redo of the home’s office and three additional bedrooms. When those spaces are complete, it’s off to do the kitchen and family room. In ’23, this home should be a youthful-looking centenarian indeed. “This project has been gratifying for me on a personal level,” says Sturdevant. “I have been collaborating very closely with the family, and they are very happy with the transformation.”
NJHome
and stairwell, which were filled with family photographs and artwork collected from the homeowners’ travels as well as from local merchants. Sturdevant also commissioned artist Joan Gantz of Essex Fells to create a series of paintings inspired by the Albaneses’ koi pond and hung the art along the staircase wall. Adjacent to the staircase is the Albaneses’ living room, the room where the family gathers and entertains most and the genesis of the redesign project. “It sets the tone for the entire home, so we were most thoughtful as to the design selections for this space,” Sturdevant says. She incorporated one of the clients’ favorite colors, blue, into various elements of the room: the drapery pattern, the lumbar cushions on a pair of tufted chairs, the modern occasional chairs and upholstery and the throw pillows on the chevron stripe velvet sofa. The mix of darker blues with the cream walls and sofa adds depth and interest to the overall color scheme. A third hue in the living room, gold, stems from the central coffee table, a piece held over from the space’s previous design. “The client wanted to keep her existing coffee table that was finished in gold, so we incorporated this tone into the space to maintain a cohesive look, being mindful of juxtaposing the gold metal with natural materials,” Sturdevant says. For instance,
inspired by fire
When the first floor of a Sparta home burned, it was the homeowners’ cue to invest in a party-friendly redesign with “sparkle.”
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Text by Haley Longman
Design by Susan Barbieri
Photography by David Nelson
NJHome
Hawthorne-based interior designer Susan Barbieri transformed a Sparta family’s kitchen, dining room and playroom into one large, more livable open space. She infused the design with plenty of light, lots of seating and a touch of sparkly glamour.
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This page, top: The four-seater island made of low-maintenance quartz is just one seating area among many in this revamped, open-concept dining room and kitchen. This page, bottom: The last step in the design process was accessorizing. Barbieri went with yellow and green décor such as vases, plants and fruit to add a pop of sunny color to the neutral-toned room. Opposite page: Double doors that now open from the kitchen to the pool and backyard make entertaining a breeze. “Guests can come in and grab drinks out of the beverage fridge,” the designer says. “It’s set up for easy entertaining and lots of crowds.”
says Barbieri of the owners. “They have three sons in their teens and 20s at home, and they always have people in the kitchen. They wanted it to be a functional space for lots of guests to come in and out.” The clients envisioned something “clean and modern with a little bit of sparkle,” which inspired a warm, neutral palette. The sparkle came via a duo of Lamps Plus crystal fixtures hanging above the oversized island. Barbieri also had an artist refinish the couple’s existing corner cabinet, changing it from green to metallic silver for an extra dose of glamour. Barbieri made sure to accommodate the family’s needs in the kitchen as well. Next to the fridge is a beverage station with a large pantry. The island is extra-large to accommodate both seating and food prep, and the Teltos quartz is durable and easy to maintain. But ease wasn’t always priority one. Barbieri also went with all-wood flooring per the client’s request, with an area rug only under the dining room table. “As long as you wipe up spills quickly, it shouldn’t be too prob-
NJHome
“If life hands you a lemon, make lemonade,” they say, but that’s easier said than done. For a family of five in Sparta who had to move out of their home when a mid-winter electrical fire destroyed its first floor, the process brought some inconvenience. Still, they came to see the disaster as an opportunity to redo the main level of their large colonial—with an old friend’s help. “The homeowner and I grew up together; our backyards were next to each other,” says interior designer Susan Barbieri, who owns an eponymous Hawthorne firm. “I hadn’t spoken with him in years, but we got back in contact through Facebook, and then I met his wife and family.” Thus a friendship was renewed, and a collaboration was born. The designer says the original layout comprised three separate areas: a kitchen, a dining room and a playroom. But Barbieri and her contractor, J. Spina Construction of Boonton, knocked down some walls and redesigned the main floor as one large, open space. “They like to entertain,”
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This page, left: The designer’s favorite part of this project? “I love that you can have family or children’s friends over,” she says. “I love the openness and cleanliness of the end result that we achieved together.”Opposite page: Sixteen square mirrors and a crystal light fixture found online add shimmer to the dining room. Throw pillows on the window bench pick up the yellow in the upholstery.
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The homeowners worked closely with Barbieri throughout the almost one-year-long process of selecting paint colors, finishes, moldings and tiles. They also showed the designer a number of photos they liked and were inspired by, many of which featured lemons and bits of yellow here and there. “When we went in at the end to accessorize,” says Barbieri, “I thought bits of yellow and green would be nice as accents to give a pop of color.” (Lemonade, anyone?) The entire project was done before the pandemic; finishing touches were completed in the nick of time before all the stores in New Jersey started to close. But Barbieri is hopeful that once things return to normal, she can resume work with these clients on their great room, living room and master suite. “It was a long process, and I know it was difficult for them, having to relocate during all of this,” she concludes. “But in the end they got a beautiful, personalized kitchen and dining space.”
NJHome
lematic,” the designer says of this higher-maintenance choice. A standout feature in the kitchen is surely the Native Trails concrete farmhouse sink. It does require some maintenance and needs to be sealed, the pro says, but it adds an urban, rustic feel to this otherwise transitional design. “It contrasts with the crystal and works with the gray veining in the countertops too,” she notes. Natural light was also important, and the team achieved that by enlarging an existing kitchen window, adding an arched window over the sink and creating a second back door that leads out to the pool area, so that entertaining could go swimmingly. Seating is as abundant here as the sunlight: There are a kitchen table and chairs by Safavieh in the dining nook; a dining table by Legacy Classic Furniture; island stools from Wayfair; a window bench seat from Homesense that adds “a bit of coziness,” as well as the opportunity to pull up some chairs at the peninsula.
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For her own home, a designer wanted a fabulous Manhattan skyline vista. When she found it, she made it the centerpiece of a stylish, outward-looking renovation. Text by Leslie Garisto Pfaff
Design by Francyne Federici
Photography by Vic Wahby
In the common room, separate tray ceilings and a large pale-gray area rug delineate the dining and living areas. A pair of vintage lamps, dating back to the designer’s parents’ wedding, sit atop sleekly modern glass-and-chrome Kravet tables. The light fixture from Fine Art Lamps was chosen for its rectilinear shapes that echo the New York City skyline, visible from the window, and the fact that they don’t impede the extraordinary view. The diptych over the sofa was painted by the designer; the two paintings were originally intended to hang vertically, but because the ceilings in the apartment weren’t high enough for that configuration, they’re now hung side by side.
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When interior designer Francyne Federici was looking to move from her five-bedroom house to a two-bedroom condo, she had three “musts”: She lives alone, so she wanted a secure building with a 24-hour doorman. For optimal privacy, she wanted the bedrooms to be sited on opposite sides of the common room. And for the sheer aesthetic delight of it, she wanted a spectacular New York City view. She got all three in an 11th-floor apartment in a building that overlooks the city from a ridge high in the township of Verona. Federici put in an offer, and when it was accepted, she immediately went to work gutting the place to make it her own. The apartment’s galley kitchen was tight and claustrophobic, so she took down the wall separating it from the common room and installed a combination floor-to-ceiling bar and breakfast bar. Now she can talk to her guests—and take in the stunning skyline view—while working in the kitchen. To make the most of that view, she placed her dining table directly in front of the common room’s large, east-facing window and situated a sofa and matching upholstered chairs just beyond the table. A chandelier over the table features a series of lights within open, dangling rectangles that echo the shapes of the city skyline. There are no window treatments to mar the view, which is panoramic. “It literally runs from the George Washington Bridge to the Verrazzano,” Federici says. “And on a clear night it’s amazing.” Her goals were to differentiate the common room’s living, dining and office areas yet maintain a sense of flow throughout. To achieve the former, she created three separate tray
This page: Sleek white Kitchen Craft cabinets and a white breakfast bar are warmed by walnut on the dry bar, echoed in the walnut top on a dining table from Il Pezzo Mancante in Florence. Opposite page: An inset of pale maple adds contemporary interest to the dining table; the curio cabinets against the wall were older pieces that designer Francyne Federici incorporated from her previous homes.
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This page, right: The office area of the common room incorporates a desk and chair that have been with the designer for years. Her large abstract painting offers a modern counterpoint. Opposite page, left: The designer’s painting of an open tulip beckons in the entryway, along with a custom bench covered in orange velvet. Opposite page, right: Also in the entryway, the Biedermeier cabinet from Decorative Crafts complements a pair of clean white lamps from the same brand. The abstract hanging above the cabinet is one of the designer’s paintings.
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ceilings, each highlighting a different section of the room. But she tied everything together two ways. One was with a continuous palette of neutrals—pale grays and whites on everything from the sofa and upholstered chairs to the living area’s large, pale-gray rug and the white upholstery on the dining chairs. The other was the repetition throughout of various materials: pale walnut on both the bar and dining table, for instance, and chrome on the dining table and chairs and the living area’s side and coffee tables. Orange accents pop up throughout the space, including orange velvet throw pillows on the sofa, a bench (upholstered in orange velvet) in the entryway, and the bed in the master bedroom. She also installed the same flooring—four-inch rift-cut white oak with a dark stain—in every room but the two bathrooms and the laundry room (though the tile in the latter mimics the look of the dark oak). That same sense of openness continues in the master bedroom, where a sliding barn door affords a view into the master bath. “Because it’s just me, I have the luxury of keeping it open,” she says. It’s easy to see why she’d want to. The bathroom draws on the same aesthetic that prevails elsewhere: clean and simple, but with enough flourishes—chinoiserie detailing on the front of the vanity and a delicately veined marble vanity top, for example—to add softness and visual interest. Federici literally opened up the bedroom by removing a partial wall that split the space into two sections and taking out two closets to create a single large closet just off the bath.
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Another element that unites the design is art. Federici is also a painter, and many of her works adorn the walls: a stunning diptych of a single large orange tulip over the sofa, another oversized tulip in the entryway (florals are a favorite subject), two abstract paintings in the entryway and dining area. They join other works of art she’s collected over the years, including a figurative sculpted wooden nude in the entryway, which appears to be peeking through into the common room. The art adds one very personal touch to the overall design. Another comes with a few sentimental pieces she’s owned for many years. Two ornate china cabinets offer a counterpoint to the pared-down furniture in the common room, as do a pair of lamps that were a wedding gift to her parents 60 years ago. “I just couldn’t get rid of them,” she says. They, too, contribute a deliberate sense of contrast, atop a pair of Kravet glass-and-brushed chrome end tables. The china cabinets have personal resonance for her as well. “When I was younger, I worked for Duffy, Incorporated, and Mancini Duffy in the World Trade Center,” she remembers. “I did corporate design for them and they sent me to Florida to open an office in 1984; those cabinets are from my apartment in Florida.” What emerges from this felicitous mix is a home that’s at once intensely personal and extremely welcoming, the kind of space that’s perfect for entertaining friends and family or curling up in an overstuffed chair with a cup of tea to take in the art that beckons from every wall—not to mention that eye-popping Manhattan view.
This page: In the master bedroom, a dropped soffit draws the eye upward and adds space for over-bed lighting. The upholstered bed from Master’s Interiors is one of many soft touches in the room. Opposite page: The bathroom, visible through the open barn door, was designed to have a sleek but feminine feel, thanks, in part, to detailing on the vanity from The Furniture Guild.
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vote for your favorite A BREAKFAST ROOM CRIES OUT TO BE REBORN, AND THREE DESIGNERS OFFER THEIR VISIONS. NJ HOME READERS WILL DECIDE: WHICH ONE WORKS BEST? This time you needn’t request an absentee ballot or vote by mail. Just visit njhome.com and vote! A fortysomething couple just moved to the suburbs from New York City and were told that their two grade-school children would spend the fall learning virtually. So they knew they’d need more out of their 14-foot-by10-foot breakfast room. His job called him back to the office three days a week, but she continues to work full time from home, taking Zoom calls with the kids
and a playful puppy always nearby. To help them, we asked three New Jersey designers, each a member of the American Society of Interior Designers, to conceptualize a space adjacent to the family’s contemporary kitchen that fulfills all their parenting, WFH and just plain living needs. The results are on the following pages. Now we’re asking you, our readers, to vote for the proposal you think best suits our hard-working and happy couple. So read on—and then cast your vote!
THAT FAMILY FEELING KARLA TRINCANELLO, INTERIOR DECISIONS, FLORHAM PARK DESIGN ANALYSIS Having just completed a similar project, Trincanello knew exactly what this family needed: a place to sit and watch TV or dine in when they weren’t using the kitchen island. It required a warm and inviting feeling, as the room also features a doorway leading to the driveway. “The room welcomes you to feel like you are home now, as the colors are soft, warm and interesting with a soft, muted green geometric pattern wall covering,” she says. The designer chose a cozy sectional for seating with
a multifunctional cocktail table by Connubia—with an easy adjustment, it converts into a full-sized table when additional dining space is required. A small shelving unit sits between the sectional and the kitchen, serving as a counter and storage for cookbooks, platters or trays. To cover the family’s home office needs, Trincanello claimed a corner for work purposes and filled it with a desk and a cozy swivel chair, making it easy to turn away from the laptop and view the TV or the kids. Opposite the work and main seating area is a narrow console table with two small ottomans beneath a
wall-mounted flat-screen. A shelving unit with storage for keys and mail is in place near the entry door. “And all the fabrics are stain-resistant,” adds Trincanello. “Indoor/outdoor performance fabrics are easy to clean, as is the area carpet for an active family with a dog.” Trincanello says her proposed design is not only useful but also promotes everything important to the family. “Happiness,” she says, “is to be in your own comfortable space to work, relax and share meals with those you love, especially in difficult times.”
Clockwise from top left: Zephyr Êtagère by Universal, island lights chandelier by ABC Lighting, Modern Bergman scatter stool by Universal, swivel desk chair by Kravet, console table by Sherrill, Nina Magon DuChamps writing desk by Universal, Yacht Club wall covering by Phillip Jeffries, Shibori stripe chair fabric by Fabricut, Floral Frenzy drapery by Maxwell Fabrics.
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CITY STYLE IN THE ’BURBS ASHLEY BERDAN, ASHLEY BERDAN DESIGN, WAYNE DESIGN ANALYSIS Knowing that our couple just escaped the hustle and bustle of the city, Berdan created a nook that’s both family friendly and reminiscent of their urban lifestyle. To keep things fresh and fun, the designer chose a sage green shade for the ceiling and a modern, geometric design block in mustard yellow for one of the walls. In the corner to the left of that element is the office space. “For this new work-from-home era, a Scandinavian-style leaning desk and bookcase is a perfect spot to get some work done and display books and other
accessories,” Berdan says. Though there’s a focus on work in this space, there is plenty of room remaining for play. In the middle of the area is a mid-century dining table with clean lines and room for four Atticus side chairs. Beneath the setting and covering the hardwood is Ruggable’s Domo Sage Rug, a flooring option that’s machine washable and can withstand the toughest juice spills and puppy accidents. To catch up on news or stream the latest Neflix show, Berdan installed the Samsung Frame within the geometric design block. Its first function is a smart television, but switch it to
art mode to display works like Van Gogh’s “Starry Night” or family photos that “turn the room into an instant art gallery.” “With multiple finish options for the frame and accessories like a display easel, this is the perfect accessory for this family’s dining nook,” she says. And speaking of art, Berdan chose a fiber wall piece by Lauren Williams, which “adds great texture to the wall with an extra splash of color.” “In all, this room has functionality while still having a stylish edge that isn’t sacrificed for a familyfriendly room,” says the designer.
This page, clockwise from top left: The Frame television by Samsung, Bowery LED brass chandelier by Frederick Ramond, Mid-Century wall desk by West Elm, Anderson expandable dining table by West Elm, Atticus side chair by AllModern, Domo sage rug by Ruggable. Opposite page: Hendrix 29 fiber wall art by Lauren Williams.
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Wall Mounted TV
7' x 9' Rug
KITCHEN Diane Durocher Interiors 375 S. Central Ave. Ramsey, NJ 07446 201-825-3832
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NJ Home Great Room Challenge Breakfast Room Floor Plan
PG 1 OF 1 July 2020 SCALE: 1 2"-1'-0"
FOREVER YOUNG DIANE DUROCHER, DIANE DUROCHER INTERIORS, RAMSEY DESIGN ANALYSIS A vision of various types of family time (including activities with Shelby the puppy) served as inspiration for Durocher and her design team. “We imagined this space as a multifunctional gathering place where the family can eat, work, watch TV and all be together,” she says. To open the 140-square-foot area, Durocher positioned the four-person dining table against the wall adjacent to the kitchen. “Doing this,” she says, “allowed us to include a small sectional, a cocktail table and additional
lighting”—all of which were placed in the corner to create a separate sitting nook. On the opposite wall, the team mounted a TV above a “fabulous” Bungalow 5 credenza, which provides ample storage for books, games and even work files. “It makes the most of this underutilized space,” the designer says. Because of the room’s multiple uses and the multiple generations that would go in and out of it, Durocher paid extra attention to the fabrics and textures and opted for a “cheerful palette
and a whimsical chinoiserie theme. In combination with the plush yet extremely durable navy chenille upholstery [of the Kravet sectional], it is perfect for a young family.” Just as cozy and resilient are the Kravet rug and the wipeable faux leather cushions on the dining chairs. And thoughtfully selected accent pieces such as the Thibaut fabric of the Roman shades and the Ballard Designs artwork support the room’s motif. “It’s fresh, fun and functional—traditional with a youthful twist,” Durocher says.
NJHome
This page, clockwise from top left: Roman shade fabric by Thibaut, Petite on the River framed art by Ballard Designs, Dayna side chair by Ballard Designs, Owen table lamp by Curated Kravet, carved wood coffee table by West Elm, Ansel four-door cabinet by Bungalow 5, Benjamin Moore Berber White wall paint, accent fabric by Thibaut. Opposite page: sectional by Kravet.
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top choices
have a settee
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The sofa’s little sister is having a moment. Add accent seating and style to your space with one of these lovely loungers.
Part modernistic, part boho, the Mikko Settee Sofa is mixed materials done right, with its rattan frame, metal base and upholstered cushions for optimal comfort. Available at Urban Outfitters, multiple locations.
Chic, romantic and tufted just enough is how we’d describe the Adeline Upholstered Mini Sofa. Leave as is or decorate it with accent pillows to make it your own. Available at Pottery Barn, multiple locations.
If your room is missing a fun, printed piece, the Charlotte Modern Fabric Loveseat will do the trick. Birch wood legs ensure durability too. Available at Walmart, multiple locations.
Linen upholstery and a distressed finish infuse charm into the Modern Gray French Louis Settee, the ideal seating situation for a small sitting area or master suite. Available at belleescape.com.
This pretty-in-pink Daisy Petite Blush Velvet Settee will add old Hollywood vibes to your home—and the extra seating doesn’t hurt. Available at Comfort Pure by Futonland, Newark.
Ultra-glam velvet and deep diamond tufting make the Kitts Classic Loveseat a dramatic accent to any room. The pair of round pillows is included. Available at Macy’s, multiple locations.
Two can comfortably unwind in the striped Crawford Upholstered Settee, which lends a subtle touch to your reading nook or common space. Available at Cost Plus World Market, multiple locations.
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British designer Sebastian Cox transformed two unlikely materials—mushroom mycelium (fungus) and waste timber—into this light fixture masterpiece. Available at sebastiancox.co.uk.
The Gwen 10-Drawer Wood and Metal dresser is as beautiful as it is spacious thanks to its contrasting materials, curvaceous profile and structured iron legs. Available at Crate & Barrel, multiple locations.
reduce, reuse, recycle
FEEL GOOD ABOUT FURNISHING YOUR HOME WITH THESE SUSTAINABLE STUNNERS, MADE FROM REPURPOSED MATERIALS.
Is this Oval Drum Table from Strata a stool? A footrest? A side table? Well, it’s functional and fashionable no matter what. Available at Comfort Pure by Futonland, Newark.
Be sure to call dibs on the Field Lounge Chair from Blu Dot, a curvy beauty with comfy cushions, a steel base and a just-right recline. Available at Shelter Home, Asbury Park.
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Unique is an understatement when describing Berlin-based Werner Aisslinger’s Hemp Chair, in which natural fibers like hemp are molded under heat and transformed into furniture. Available at aisslinger.de.
One man’s trash is another man’s treasure: The Ombra Table by designer Jasna Mujkic was constructed using small pieces of wood that would’ve otherwise been discarded. Available at zanat.org.
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finishing t ouch
stairs in the air
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A custom suspended staircase can bring drama—and brightness—to a home’s interior. Want to add a wow factor to your home? Here’s a step in the right direction: a floating staircase. Such a structure is built along a single, central stringer—a mono-stringer—to support its construction. This design allows for the treads (steps) to stand alone and appear as if they’re hovering above ground. The result is an aesthetic that is more minimalistic, more spacious and more modern than that of a closed-riser staircase. Floating staircases also allow light to travel through and around the entire design, so that they afford added brightness too. “Floating stairs take up the same amount of space as conventional stairs,” says Steve Hasse, president and founder of Legacy Stairs & Millwork in Wall. “There are really no limitations because the steel stringer allows for unlimited designs and spans.” And there are many different stylistic elements to ponder when considering a floating staircase—besides where you want to put it, of course. “The most popular styles are glass panels, stainless-steel cable or horizontal rod railings because these rail systems complement that contemporary style,” Hasse says. People get used to staircases, of course, whatever their design. But this bold feature promises to imbue an interior with a continuing implicit sense of wonder, step by step.
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