New England Home

Connecticut Celebrating Fine Design, Architecture, and Building

Personal Charm

Color and character make a home that is anything but anonymous.

Classic Glamour in Belle Haven Compact Poetry in Washington PLUS: MARVELOUS MOSAICS, CROCHETED SCULPTURES, AND COMPANIES THAT LAST FOR GENERATIONS Spring 2015

FIFTH ANNIVERSARY ISSUE

SPRING 2015

Display until July 13, 2015

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SPRING 2015 Volume 6, Issue 2

100

88

80

In This Issue

featured Homes

80

88

100

A Darien couple finally redecorate the house they’ve lived in for nearly two decades, and uncover a whole new passion for home.

A dramatic Greenwich home built early in the last century is as glamorous as ever, thanks to the nips and tucks of a talented design team.

Fab finds, curious collections, and lots of whimsy are the main characters in this small space.

LOVE STORY

TEXT BY PAULA M. BODAH

STAR TURN

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL PARTENIO

WRITTEN AND PRODUCED BY STACY KUNSTEL

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FUN HOUSE

TEXT BY MARIA L APIANA PHOTOGRAPHY BY LAURA MOSS PRODUCED BY KARIN LIDBECK BRENT

50

We’re Five!

New England Home Connecticut celebrates five years of showcasing the most beautiful architecture, interior design, and custom building in Connecticut.

On the cover: Designer Karen Bow aimed for the chic look of a European boutique hotel for a teenage girl’s bedroom in this Darien home.

Photograph by Michael Partenio.

To see more of this home, turn to page 80. spring 2015 New England Home Connecticut 17

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In This Issue

Kebabian’s Oriental Rugs has been a presence in downtown New Haven since 1882.

113

44

32

Art, Design, History, Landscape

People, Places, Events, Products

22 | From the Editor

113 | Perspectives Modern mosaics; Elizabeth Brosnan Hourihan’s ideas for a chic patio; renowned gardens that have inspired Tara Vincenta; Dan Weiss on helping Lillian August’s dream come true; opposites attract in a Cos Cob kitchen.

32 | Artistry: Not Your Grandmother’s Needlework Norma Minkowitz turns the age-old craft of crochet into sculptures that have put her at the forefront of the modern fiber-art movement.

By Kris Wilton

38 | In Our Backyard: Shades of Genius Cynthia Beebe parlayed a fascination for lampshade making into a wildly successful business, designing and crafting shades for the country’s top architects and designers.

By Allegra Muzzillo

44 | State of the Market: The Descendants These companies in the home design industry are no flashes-inthe-pan. See what it takes to make a business last a century or more.

(Hint: Have kids. Hire them.)

136

By Kristine Kennedy

124 | Design Life Our candid camera snaps recent gatherings that celebrate architecture and design.

130 | Trade Notes New and noteworthy happenings in the Connecticut design business.

BY PAULA M. BODAH

132 | Calendar of Events

BY LYNDA SIMONTON

136 | New in the Showrooms Unique, beautiful, and now appearing in Connecticut shops and showrooms. BY LYNDA SIMONTON 140 | Resources A guide to the professionals and products featured in this issue.

142 | Advertiser Index

55 Special Marketing Section: Portfolio of Fine Landscape Design and Outdoor Living

144 | Sketch Pad A desk from Charlotte Barnes’s new collection shows more than a hint of French Modernist inspiration.

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From the Editor

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that Connecticut deserved a “designer’s design magazine.”

By that I don’t mean a magazine geared toward the needs of designers (although we certainly have a hefty readership in the trade), but a magazine that treats the quality of design as its lodestar and central interest.

Superior design is not a matter of expense. Imagination and talent will trump a hefty budget every time, and sometimes a lean purse inspires solutions that go beyond the ordinary. It’s also not a matter of size; a few hundred square feet that are deeply personal will give more pleasure than tens of thousands of square feet created just for show. Design trends of the moment are just that, and will quickly be supplanted by the next new thing. The trick is to grasp which aspects of those trends can become a lasting part of our aesthetic repertoire, increasing the range of effects a designer can use to fulfill her or his deeper aims. The qualities that distinguish a perfectly and lastingly designed place can, I think, be boiled down to two—beauty (defined in part by the characters and aspirations of its occupants) and fitness for its purpose.

My editor’s note in our first Connecticut issue was entitled “Elegance, and Something More.” One of its primary observations was this: “We know that warmth and togetherness are two of the qualities fostered by a truly successful home, and we prize the best-designed houses for their sense of place and possibility as much as for any purely visual elegance.” Five years on, I see no need to change that pronouncement, and it is still an accurate guide to what we look for in the projects we showcase.

Beautiful places for living well, and the people and things that help make them, will continue to be what we share with you.

Five Years and Counting

A

s you will see when you reach page 50 (or as you may already have noticed from the designation on our cover), this is the fifth-anniversary issue of New England Home Connecticut. A bit of reflection is customary on such occasions, and that thought sent me back to leaf through the nineteen issues we have produced so far, since our 2010 debut.

By a quick count, the fruits of our efforts leading up to this issue amount to some 74 full-dress home features and roughly 204 departments and other stories, all revolving around different aspects of home and garden design, and largely focused on Fairfield and Litchfield counties. Isn’t it amazing that there can be so much to show and talk about, in such a tiny geographic area?

And even more amazing when you consider how high a bar we set. Early on we decided

—Kyle Hoepner

Find more at

nehomemag.com + Our editors and a fascinating lineup of guest blog­gers share beautiful photography, design ideas, and advice five days a week on the New England Home Design Blog + The site also features ongoing content updates, where you’ll encounter house tours, interviews and commentary, before-and-after stories, and other special items for lovers of great home design + Sign up for our Design Discoveries editorial ­e-newsletter and get weekly updates on luxury home style, including the latest products, upcoming events and green ideas /////

For subscriptions call (800) 765-1225 or visit nehomemag.com Pin us on

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22 New England Home Connecticut Spring 2015

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Editor-in-Chief Kyle Hoepner khoepner@nehomemag.com Homes Editor Stacy Kunstel skunstel@nehomemag.com Senior Editor Paula M. Bodah pbodah@nehomemag.com Art Director Robert Lesser rlesser@nehomemag.com Online and Market Editor Lynda Simonton lsimonton@nehomemag.com Managing and Copy Editor Susan Kron skron@nehomemag.com Contributing Editors Cheryl and Jeffrey Katz candjkatz@nehomemag.com Karin Lidbeck Brent klidbeck@nehomemag.com Louis Postel lpostel@nehomemag.com Contributing Writers Regina Cole, Caroline Cunningham, Megan Fulweiler, Charles Monagan, Allegra Muzzillo, Dan Shaw, Kris Wilton Contributing Photographers Robert Benson, John Gould Bessler, Bruce Buck, Tria Giovan, John Gruen, Laura Moss, Michael Partenio /////

Editorial Submissions Designers, architects, builders, and homeowners are invited to submit projects for editorial consideration. For information about submitting projects, e-mail ­edit@nehomemag.com.

Interior Design and Decoration Greenwich, CT www.shelldecor.com 203-422-2034 Follow us on

Letters to the Editor We’d love to hear from you! Write to us at the above address, fax us at (617) 663-6377, or e-mail us at ­letters@ nehomemag.com.

Upcoming Events Are you planning an event that we can feature in our Calendar of Events? E-mail information to calendar@ nehomemag.com, or mail to Calendar Editor, New England Home, 530 Harrison Ave., Suite 302, Boston, MA 02118.

Parties We welcome photographs from design- or architecture-related parties.

Send high-resolution photos with information about the party and the people pictured to lsimonton@nehomemag.com.

26 New England Home Connecticut Spring 2015

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Comfort.

In all the ways you value.

Publisher Kathy Bush-Dutton kbushdutton@nehomemag.com Associate Publisher, New England Home Connecticut Roberta Thomas Mancuso rmancuso@nehomemag.com

d e s i g n. r e n o v a t e. b u i l d.

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Executive Sales Manager Jill Korff jkorff@nehomemag.com Sales Managers Kim Sansoucy ksansoucy@nehomemag.com Robin Schubel rschubel@nehomemag.com David Simone dsimone@nehomemag.com Marketing Designer Jared Ainscough jainscough@nehomemag.com Production Manager Glenn Sadin gsadin@nehomemag.com Sales and Marketing Coordinator/Office Manager Alexandra Corrado acorrado@nehomemag.com /////

Subscriptions To subscribe to New England Home ($19.95 for one year) or for customer service, call (800) 765-1225 or visit our website, nehomemag.com.

Advertising Information To receive information about advertising in New England Home, please contact us at (800) 609-5154, ext. 713, or info@nehomemag.com.

Editorial and Advertising Office 530 Harrison Ave., Suite 302 Boston, MA 02118 (617) 938-3991 (800) 609-5154 /////

New England Home Magazine, LLC Managing Partners Adam Japko, Chris Legg VP Finance/Controller Melissa Rice mrice@nehomemag.com Circulation Manager Kurt Coey Newsstand Manager Bob Moenster

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LEFT: Stone Flowers (1975), crocheted and painted cotton, 16″H × 8″W × 8″D, Collection M.H. de Young Memorial Museum. BELOW: I Can’t Touch You (1988), crocheted cotton, acrylic paint, colored pencil, shellac, 17″H × 13″W × 21″L

ARTISTRY

F

bobby hannsson

iber art—works created by weaving, knitting, knotting, crocheting, braiding, stitching, or otherwise manipulating yarn, thread, and their spoolable counterparts—enjoyed a heyday of sorts in the 1960s and ’70s. But the enthusiastic response to several recent high-profile exhibitions, at the Institute of Contemporary Art/Boston, the Fuller Craft Museum in Brockton, Massachusetts, and the Drawing Center in New York, suggests that interest in fiber art hasn’t waned. Younger artists are adopting traditional practices, while the movement’s godmothers (the majority of fiber artists are female) are barreling ahead with new materials, ideas, and techniques.

Westport-based Norma Minkowitz is in the latter category. Since the 1970s, Minkowitz has been sculpting in crocheted cotton thread, creating shapes that are strong yet permeable and translucent. Painstakingly hand-hooked, their imperfect geometric repetitions recall natural patterns like spider webs or the veiny armature that remains when a leaf dries.

Minkowitz studied drawing at the prestigious Cooper Union in New York but returned to a childhood interest in fiber after starting a family. “When my kids were young, I thought fiber would be a good way to work,” she says. “You can put it down and start working with

Not Your Grandmother’s Needlework Bobby hansson

Norma Minkowitz turns the age-old craft of crochet into sculptures that have put her at the forefront of the modern fiber-art movement. ///////////

By Kris Wilton

32 New England Home Connecticut Spring 2015

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Artistry

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“I always crocheted around something to get the form.

What I was actually doing was casting the fiber like you would cast in bronze.” it whenever you want without having to take out a lot of materials.”

Like many girls of her generation, Minkowitz learned to crochet from her mother. “One day,” she remembers, “I started crocheting around a doll to make a hat, but then I just kept crocheting. Pretty soon the whole doll was covered with crochet. I think that was the beginning of my sculptural interest in using fiber.”

A pivotal moment came when she decided to crochet around a shoe for The Great American Foot, an exhibition at the CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Sisters (1998), crocheted cotton, 43″H × 21″W × 19″D, Path (2015), fiber and mixed media, 15″H × 58″L × 48″W; the artist with a self-sculpture; The Golden Child (2009), fiber and mixed media, 12½″H × 10″W × 7″D; Inner Sanctum (2012), fiber and mixed media, 9″H × 16″W × 14″D; I Give Myself (2010), fiber and mixed media, 21″H × 14″W × 14″D

Museum of Contemporary Crafts in New York in 1978. Experimenting, she stiffened the material with shellac, then carefully removed the shoe to create a hollow shape. “When I finished it, I realized I had this wonderful vehicle for using the line almost like I would in the crosshatching of a pen-and-ink drawing, but in fiber—and it had enormous potential. It was transparent, so I could have things inside of it and on the surface as well, so the process becomes part of the content, and structure and surface are achieved at the same time.”

The shoe gave way to earth-toned vessels whose open surfaces allowed for both exterior and interior shapes: bowls and cylinders with tornado-like forms at their cores, cubes with suspended human figures or skulls. Textured yet sleek, strong yet delicate, intimate yet universal, the vessels found a wide appeal.

Minkowitz began to win awards and be included in exhibitions alongside the

34 New England Home Connecticut Spring 2015

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carmine picarello

most important fiber artists of the day, and collectors and museums took note.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Museum of Art and Design in New York, and the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston are among many institutions in whose collections she is ­represented.

Over time, her pieces got bigger, and more figurative. “I always crocheted around something to get the form,” whether a dress form or mannequin, or handmade shape, she says. “What I was actually doing was casting the fiber like you would cast in bronze.”

Recently, Minkowitz has been filling in her hollow structures with claylike modeling paste, an approach that shifts focus to line and texture. In Inner Sanctum, a bowl-like shape appears almost to have small spheres growing from within. These Minkowitz created by tying a piece of crocheted fabric around beads of different sizes, hardening it, then removing the ties and beads. Rendered in dark colors, the effect is elemental and organic, dark and dreamlike.

Minkowitz has also been working on a series of self-portraits in mixed media.

In the striking sculpture Path, some 200 sticks, each encased in open-weave crochet, surround a life-size clay bust of the artist, painted in camouflage. The twigs, the artist says, symbolize the different paths one may follow; the camouflage suggests how we try to hide from our own mortality.

At the age of seventy-eight, Minkowitz is still experimenting. “Even though I’m not a young person, I feel like I’m growing all the time,” she says. “I just have all these ideas that are fresh in my mind.” • Editor’s Note Norma Minkowitz is represented in

Connecticut by browngrotta arts, browngrotta.com.

To see more of her work, visit normaminkowitz.com.

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in our backyard

LEFT: Cynthia Beebe with Lily, her petite Sheltie, in her studio. ABOVE: “Savannah,” a linen shade with a custom-embroidered border. BELOW: A four-sided contemporary shade, in a Lulu DK linen print, partners with a rounded version in solid green linen.

cathy zuraw, Connecticut post/hearst Connecticut media

Shades Of Genius Cynthia Beebe parlayed a fascination for lampshade making into a wildly successful business, designing and crafting shades for the country’s top architects and designers. ///////////

By Allegra Muzzillo

I

nterior designer Cynthia Beebe specializes in tough cases. Not of the people ilk, however, but of the lampshade sort. Nearly every day, she receives an urgent SOS from a designer requesting her expertise in meeting a challenge. The calls are welcome; indeed, they are the very lifeblood of Beebe’s Westport-based business—BB Custom ­Lampshades—where she designs one-ofa-kind lampshades that sell to the trade.

Beebe’s career trajectory didn’t start with interior design, though it was always her first love. “At the time,” she says, “my father said the industry was largely a man’s world.”

So, for fifteen years, she worked in advertising, developing and marketing

new products for blue-chip companies like Avon, Revlon, and Procter & Gamble.

When her position was downsized, an unperturbed Beebe enrolled at Parsons School of Design in New York City to study design—and never looked back.

“If you have an open mind, you tend to gravitate to what you’re good at,” she says.

“Thankfully, what I’m good at tends to be what I like to do.”

Beebe’s calling for custom shades (“A niche business, that’s for sure,” she admits) began in 1989 with a chance introduction to a shade maker who sparked her interest in the field.

Within two years, she was teaching lampshademaking classes at night throughout Fairfield and Westchester counties. What she calls her “green-light moment” occurred when, after showing her latest creations at the legendary antiques firms Florian Papp and Stair & Company, the owners asked her, “Where have you been?”

BB Custom Lampshades, begun in 1992, is unique in being designer-run.

Beebe conceives every product herself, although she outsources specialized labor such as hand-painting, embroidering, and

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in our backyard

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lamination. A stable of professional artisans executes her vision after they receive hand-sketched templates from Beebe herself. “For example,” she explains, “I send drawings, including dimensions, and communicate how deep the arch in a scalloped edge should be.”

Beebe keeps no stock in her colonialstyle townhome-cum-showroom/workroom, only a few lampshades and a large library of fine art, design, and trade books to which she regularly refers for inspiration on shapes and their applications.

She uses materials ranging from leather and woven paper to silk and linen. Much

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of her work is done via e-mailed images (before the Internet it was all house calls) and measurements.

3

Beebe’s most sought-after creations are composed of hand-sewn silk fabric that’s pleated or shirred over a wire frame. Reworked shades in traditional linen or cotton chintz also form a large part of her ­business.

Not everything she does is traditional though. She also designs contemporary-style hard-back shades, as well as shades with fabric that’s laminated onto a backing that may be thick and opaque or thin and translucent.

Lightweight paper shades—primarily bond paper, parchment, or wallpaper over

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translucent backings—are perhaps the most versatile of her products, while cut-and-pierced paper shades are popular with architects for their clean-lined and carved-inrelief look. “They give such a warm, ambient glow over light,” says Beebe. Perhaps most labor-intensive are her woven-paper shades, often requested by clients in Palm Beach, Florida, who find their delicate layering and vellum weaving well suited to the architecture and design popular in that historic area. “My math must be so spot-on in measuring out each strip of paper, and in predicting where it will drape over the upper and lower rings,” she says.

Box and sunray pleating, smocking, even string shades (vertically aligned strings that produce filtered light) are all within the breadth of the designer’s capabilities. She has crafted hundreds of shapes, too—from modified bells to

1. Palomino and black suede with Hermès-style stitched suede trim.

2. A wrap of iridescent metallic ribbon casts a warm glow on a multi-arm chandelier. 3. Tape and tassel fringe embellish a shade laminated with Scalamandré’s charming Kilkenny Cats toile wallpaper. 4. Traditional

box-pleated and smocked two-color shade with Scalamandré silk.

5. A hand-painted songbird and branches on a foil background offer a touch of the Orient.

4

5

fancy octagons.

Beebe has garnered worldwide recognition for her expertise and innovations,

and has lectured at Scalamandré and the Cooper Hewitt Museum. Gracious Home ordered hundreds of her proprietary French-ribbon-wrapped shades (inspired, she says, by a Neiman Marcus Christmas tree decorated in ribbon bows) after she developed her first one in 1994.

It might be surprising to learn that Beebe is most influenced by the fashion industry. But, she explains, “lampshades are just like dresses. They can be tailored and simple—like box pleating or color blocking—or they can be very elaborate and embellished.”

For an interior designer who is so well known for unwavering originality and artistry, it’s no surprise that Beebe is shining a new light on her field. • BB Custom Lampshades Westport (203) 849-9345 bbcustomlampshades.com

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state of the market

The Descendants These companies in the home design industry are no flashesin-the-pan. See what it takes to make a business last a century or more. (Hint: Have kids. Hire them.) ///////////

By Kristine Kennedy

E

photos courtesy kebabian’s oriental rugs

very once in a while, John Kebabian, owner of Kebabian’s Oriental Rugs in downtown New Haven, gets the thrill of meeting a rug his family sold many decades before. Well-loved but not too worn, the rug comes back in trade, returned by a customer whose greatgrandparent may have started buying from the Kebabians as far back as the company’s founding in 1882. “I’m the fourth-generation owner, and we’re dealing with fourth-generation customers,” says the fifty-nine-year-old Kebabian. “A lot of them have left Connecticut, and they’re still coming back to us.”

What’s more, some of the company’s suppliers—weavers in the Middle East and Asia—are also multigenerational family businesses. “We continue to import from some of the same families that my father and grandfather worked with,” Kebabian says.

In an age when selling your start-up is the height of business cool, some longestablished design-related companies in Connecticut are not only surviving, but thriving. Success can be partially attrib-

uted to the relationship-based company culture a family business has, especially in an industry that serves people in their homes. “We’re selling a very personal item,” says Kebabian.

Sam Gault agrees. Gault is president and fifth generation at Gault Energy & Stone, founded in 1863 as Gault Bros.

Gault Stone, with locations in Westport and Bethel, provides stone and masonry materials and fabrication for residential and commercial projects. “It’s a different kind of feel,” he says of the company culture. “We used to have a tagline: ‘Where you’re treated like part of the family.’ We still use that internally.” Some non-family employees have stayed with the company twenty, thirty, forty years. “We do right by our people, so they’re doing right by our customer,” says Gault.

In addition to cultivating close personal relationships internally and with customers, these family businesses have achieved longevity by continually adapting to changing social and economic environments. They’ve done so largely by recognizing and utilizing the strengths of the younger generation.

“With every transition between generations, there’s been a very different mind-set,” says Matt Cohn, twenty-three, vice president and fourth generation at Greenwich-based Decorative Crafts, an importer of high-end furniture from Italy and China that sells to the trade.

Matt’s great-grandfather

CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE: John

Couzu Kebabian, the first owner of Kebabian’s Oriental Rugs, circa 1898. The current Kebabian team, including fourth-generation owner John Paton Kebabian Jr. (third from left). Third-generation owner John Paton Kebabian.

Second-generation owner Mihran Haig Kebabian, to left of car, supervises a delivery.

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state of the market

­ ilton Cohn founded the company in M 1928, importing Italian ceramics and leather goods and traveling the U.S. to visit with customers. Maintaining the company through the Depression made Milton more fiscally conservative. Matt’s grandfather Richard Cohn focused on expansion. He introduced the catalog concept in the 1960s, then was one of the first American businesspeople allowed into communist China in the 1970s, exposing Americans to quality Chinese items they had never seen before.

Matt’s father, current president Jeff Cohn, took quality and refinement of the selection a step farther. “He wanted the company name to be synonymous with really nice pieces,” says Matt. “He completely upgraded our line.”

Quality of goods is a common theme.

“We can’t sell lesser qualities, because that comes back to bite you,” says Kebabian, “If we try to b.s. the public or play games, that’s going to affect the next generation. So you think about that.”

Kebabian’s next generation is twentyfive-year-old Josh Kebabian, who joined the company about a year ago, following an education in corporate finance and accounting, as well as a two-year stint in the corporate world. “I didn’t appreciate the product when I was young, even though I was surrounded by it,” says Josh. “As I got out into the real world, I absolutely saw the value of our business.”

Josh also recognizes the adaptability of his company, run by a series of Armenian Turkish Kebabians who came to the U.S. to study at Yale before joining the family business. “With each owner, it does take on a bit of a different personality,” he says. Josh’s grandfather expanded the antique rug part of the business and introduced the washing and restoration services. Josh’s dad, John, the current owner, does more traveling and built up the Afghan production, which has benefitted the whole industry. Josh hopes to be more directly involved in the production of pieces, and he wants to emphasize marketing. “He’s great on the computer,” says John, “good at promoting; we’re redoing our website. He’s been actively pursuing customers to write reviews for us. These are things that never occurred to me.”

“The older generation is very flexible and lets the younger generation find our way, make our path, and learn ourselves,” says FAR LEFT: Gault Energy and Stone (then Gault Bros.)

was founded in 1863 and put its first motor truck into service in 1912. LEFT: Founder Robert Gault and his dog Brownie in 1915. BELOW: The Gault Bros. team in 1908. BELOW LEFT: Three generations of the Gault family celebrate the company’s 150th anniversary in 2013. Bill Gault, the fourth generation to lead the company, kneels in front.

photos courtesy Gault Energy & Stone

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Weather Protection and Sun Control Solutions photos courtesy Decorative Crafts

FROM FAR LEFT: Three generations of Cohns, Matt, Richard, and Jeff. The founder of Decorative Crafts, Milton Cohn, with son Richard and wife Frieda, circa 1940. Jeff, Milton, and Richard circa 1980. Jeff Cohn, right, visits with the company’s Italian agent, the granddaughter of the agent Milton worked with, in Italy in 2002.

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Matt Cohn, who graduated from college in 2013. Cohn is focused on Decorative Crafts’s website, social media, e-mail marketing, advertising, and modernizing the company’s internal technologies. Doing more with the hospitality industry is also a

“The older generation is very flexible and lets the younger generation find our way, make our path, and learn ourselves,” says Matt Cohn of Decorative Crafts. goal. “My dad is very relaxed. He lets me do my own thing,” Matt says.

Gault Energy & Stone has its sixthgeneration workers already. Sam Gault’s nephew and two nieces both work in the company. Maybe someday his children, now teenagers, will be interested, too. But no pressure.

Over the decades, the businesses have experienced sibling rivalries, emotionally charged conversations, and piercing honesty. But also passion. “I know in some family businesses the next generation can be forced into it and aren’t passionate about it,” says John Kebabian. “If I didn’t want to take over this business, I would not have done it.”

Matt Cohn also wasn’t sure he was going to join the business, having pursued East Asian studies in college. Now he’s glad he did. “I’m always reminded that my greatgrandfather started this from nothing. It brings me a lot of motivation every day,” he says. “They’ve worked so hard to get it where it is, and now it’s transitioning to me, and that gives me a lot of pride.” •

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SPECIAL SECTION:

WE’RE FIVE!

➻ Making a great magazine cover is a finicky business—there are endless opinions on just what the most critical elements are—but among twenty covers we’ve produced so far, there are a few where, for me, everything really came together for a beautiful result.

This spring marks the end of our fifth year exploring the rich, fascinating world of Connecticut’s best residential design. Anniversaries are traditionally a moment to pause, reflect on your journey, and then turn toward the future with renewed commitment and energy. Keeping that in mind, we’ve asked our talented family of writers, photographers, and editors to share some of their favorite moments from the past five years of New England Home Connecticut—as we all look forward to many more seasons of searching out this region’s most compelling and sophisticated homes, personalities, and design resources.

➻ I’m lucky. For work, I get to do what lots of people want to do in their spare time: look at beautiful examples of inspired design. It’s always interesting and there are always things to learn.

But when I interviewed barn savior Edwin Cady of Roxbury for a story in the Fall 2011 issue, it did occur to me that some projects are extra special. For fifty-five years, he has been rescuing endangered barns, taking them apart, storing the pieces, then rebuilding them, often as the homes of A-list celebrities. In the process, exciting contemporary design and construction happen within these magnificent pieces of America’s rural history. It’s a marriage made in heaven.

—Regina Cole, contributing writer

— Kyle Hoepner, editor-in-chief 50 NEW ENGLAND HOME CONNECTICUT SPRING 2015

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➻ Photo shoots can sometimes be long and grueling, which makes it important to take a break and lighten the mood.

Here Karin Lidbeck Brent and photographer John Gould Bessler strike a pose while shooting in the studio of sculptor Cornelia Kubler Kavanagh, who was the subject of our first Connecticut issue’s Artistry department.

➻ Over the years that I’ve been writing and editing feature stories for the magazine, I’ve seen countless things—clever design ideas, beautiful fabrics, stunning chandeliers—that have made me sigh with delight, fantasize about my dream home, or (true confession here) given me a tiny pang of envy. But the things that inspire all those feelings at once are invariably handcrafted pieces, and frequently in the Arts and Crafts style. So you can imagine my emotions when I wrote a Spring 2013 feature about a Westport home whose designer, Joyce G. Clear, had commissioned a number of pieces of furniture by Wilton artisan Gregory Clark. Every room was a space I could imagine myself happy in. And my favorite element was the staircase, a contemporary take on Arts and Crafts, with its serpentine banister and filigree-inset newel posts.

—Paula M. Bodah, senior editor

➻ One of the most

memorable shoots photographer Michael Partenio and I did together had more to do with the weather than the house itself. The snow started the night before, and by the time we got to Westport in the morning, four or five inches already covered the ground. As we began shooting, we watched the snow pile up through a large picture window in the living room that overlooked a waterway. By the time we finished, we had to dig a path to the car and use the homeowner’s broom to brush the snow off. We stuck to back roads on the drive back to Danbury—a thirty-mile trip that took us more than two hours! In our photos in the Spring 2013 issue, the house looks warm and cozy, with no hint of the storm outside.

— Stacy Kunstel, homes editor, and contributing photogapher Michael Partenio SPRING 2015 NEW ENGLAND HOME CONNECTICUT 51

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SPECIAL SECTION:

WE’RE FIVE!

➻ Side stories resonate with us long after the writing is done. Take the remarkable South Kent abode belonging to Joanna and Bill Seitz that left me yearning for more time, more tales. The well-traveled couple’s lovingly curated nest is chock-full of personal treasures. But it was Joanna’s account of the special eggplant parmesan she cooks for guests that really brought the home to life for me. So heady was the description, I swear I could detect the aroma. Will I ever make my own (sadly, less interesting) version without recalling her sunny kitchen? Never. —Megan Fulweiler, contributing writer

➻ Perseverance is everything when you know a designer has a winning project. It took three years to get a photo shoot scheduled at the home of Joanna and Bill Seitz of J. Seitz & Company.

All good things come to those who wait, and when we finally were able to schedule the shoot, it ended up being one of my favorites. Joanna and I worked with photographer John Gould Bessler, pulling together beautifully rich images of every room.

Adding to the excitement was a curious furry visitor who wandered onto our set, drawn by the activity. I can laugh about it now, but, at the time, Joanna and I screamed and cowered as John fearlessly confronted our celebrity intruder with his camera. The bear took one look at us, then casually turned around and ambled away.

—Karin Lidbeck Brent, contributing editor

➻ When I first started writing for New England Home Connecticut, I was fresh from New York, where, even as an arts writer for leading national art publications, I found it difficult—if not impossible—to get access to artists.

My first experience for New England Home Connecticut was just the opposite. The printmaker Roxanne Faber Savage and I lingered over our coffees at the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, talking about her work, her history, what she’d been thinking about, art-making in general. To my surprise, she also turned the conversation around, asking about my work, my aspirations, what I’d been thinking about.

It was a true creative exchange, and I left the conversation inspired, not only to translate her beautiful work for readers but to create something of my own. —Kris Wilton, contributing writer 52 NEW ENGLAND HOME CONNECTICUT SPRING 2015

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➻ I grew up watching “I Love

Lucy” religiously, and when the Ricardos and Mertzes moved to Westport, I fell in love with Connecticut style. So when I walked into the classic country house decorated by Denise Davies and Kerry Rosenthal of D2 Interiors in nearby Weston, I felt like I’d gone back to the future. Denise and Kerry’s manic energy reminded me of Lucy and Ethel: it was reflected not only in their exuberant decorating style but also in the madcap way they seemed to run their business. I imagined that nothing could be more entertaining than being one of their clients.

— Dan Shaw, contributing writer

➻ Amy Beth Cupp Dragoo’s own home, featured in our Winter 2014 issue, stands out in my mind. Like Amy herself, the house is all personality— warm and unpretentious and with an eclectic appeal. I especially liked her many original “finds” displayed in unusual ways.

My favorite: a glass cake stand acting as a stage for a glass cloche filled with miniature clocks.

—Robert Lesser, art director

➻ Photo shoots have

many moving parts, and it is always terrific when all the pieces fall into place and the shoot runs without a hitch. A home we photographed during the fall of 2012 in Litchfield County stands out as one of those magical projects.

The homeowners, who own a popular antiques shop, were really interesting, and their style in furnishings reflected that. The highlight of the home was a wonderful vintage train collection that was cleverly arranged on the walls of a den.

The impact was graphic and dynamic without being cold or museum-like.

— Laura Moss, contributing photogapher

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Aqua Pool & Patio, Inc.

53 Newberry Road East Windsor, CT 06088 (860) 623-9886 (800) 722-2782 aquapool.com

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& Outdoor Living

Fine Landscape Design

or more than forty-five years, Aqua Pool & Patio, Inc., has been enhancing finer homes throughout southern New England with its unique, custom-designed, in-ground Gunite swimming pools. Using our outdoor-living room design concept, the staff at Aqua Pool can create special designs for customers’ homes that accurately reflect their individual lifestyles. Aqua Pool can provide a handcrafted addition to the home produced by trained and experienced artisans and craftsmen.

While traditional methods and values are important in Aqua’s family-owned business, the company also embraces the advantages of modern technology. Aqua encourages the incorporation of

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in-floor automatic pool-cleaning systems to reduce maintenance time to a minimum. We also recommend electronic controls for pool functions and water-feature controls.

The ability for customers to control their complete pool environments from inside their hot spas is convenient. The ability to exercise this control from in the home or even from the car is amazing.

From stone-covered natural pools tucked away in the woods to classical designs adjacent to the home, Aqua’s designers can fulfill all your wishes.

Aqua Pool also can provide Gunite pool renovations. From a simple coping or tile replacement to a complete pool refurbishing, We can give your pool a refreshing new look. And with the addition of new,

upgraded mechanical equipment, Aqua can create the feeling of a new pool.

For pool owners with very busy schedules, Aqua also offers pool service, maintenance, and repairs.

We can provide annual services, including spring openings, weekly cleanings and service, and fall closings. In addition, the company offers vacation pool-sitting or repairs as needed.

Special Marketing Section 57

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Austin Ganim Landscape Design, LLC

58 Special Marketing Section

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& Outdoor Living

Fine Landscape Design

ustin Ganim Landscape Design offers a full range of design, installation, and maintenance services for properties of all sizes and styles. Our staff includes landscape designers, horticulturalists, and a licensed landscape architect. Influenced by our backgrounds in horticulture, garden design, historic preservation and landscape architecture, as well as hands-on experience, our designers create a seamless transition between the home and garden.

Whether renovating an existing landscape or starting from scratch, our design-build team assists clients through the entire process. We can assist with project phasing and value

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engineering to help you achieve your desired results. Once the scope of work has been finalized our skilled crews will install your landscape and hardscape in a timely manner, with the utmost of professionalism.

After installation, proper maintenance by trained professionals who understand not only the appropriate pruning techniques for the specific plant material at your home but also the desired style is essential to the garden’s success. AGLD offers a variety of lawn and landscape maintenance services to keep your property looking its best. Our goal is to create timeless landscapes that our clients are pleased with not only at completion but that they will enjoy for years to come.

Austin Ganim Landscape Design, LLC Austin Ganim & Eva Chiamulera, ASLA, PLA 320 Kings Highway Cutoff Fairfield, CT 06824 (203) 333-2003 austinganimlandscapedesign.com

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Connecticut Stone

60 Special Marketing Section

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& Outdoor Living

Fine Landscape Design

or more than 60 years Connecticut Stone has been an innovator in the stone industry, offering a diverse array of natural stone products for interior and exterior use.

From custom countertops, vanities, and fireplace facings, to natural stone veneer, flagging, coping, and wall stone to enhance any landscape, Connecticut Stone can help you transform your environment.

Our commitment to sustainable practices has led us to develop ThinStone™, a revolutionary 100 percent natural lightweight stone veneer. ThinStone™ uses less of the earth’s resources in its manufacture, transport, and installation.

We offer a full spectrum of the finest traditional stone materials by

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importing natural granite, marble, and limestone slabs, as well as natural stone and porcelain tile from all over the world. At our fabrication facility we cut and finish materials to our clients’ exact specifications.

Connecticut Stone warehouses more than 250 types of natural limestone, marble, and travertine. We are also proud distributors of a select group of distinct, quality brands, such as Artistic Tile, AKDO, Island Stone, New Ravenna, Walker Zanger, and Sonoma Tilemakers.

When your next project requires stone or tile, talk to the professionals at Connecticut Stone. We are innovative, knowledgeable leaders in our industry. Call or visit us online or come into one of our showrooms in Milford, Middletown, or Stamford.

138 Woodmont Road Milford, CT 06460 (203) 882-1000 connecticutstone.com

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Erskine Associates LLC

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& Outdoor Living

Fine Landscape Design

© BARRY A. HYMAN, 2014

rskine Associates LLC is an award-winning, full-service design firm based in Redding, specializing in architecture, landscape architecture, site planning, and interiors. Principal Silvia Erskine is committed to a holistic approach to design through the careful integration of architectural and landscape form.

Over the past 20 years, Silvia has completed numerous residential projects, including new homes, additions, and extensive architectural and landscape renovations. Involved from the earliest consultations to the final stages of construction, Erskine Associates creates designs that meld the visions of their clients with the historical, regional, and natural contexts of each site.

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Each project, regardless of size, is approached with the same commitment to site stewardship and creative detailing, with special emphasis on quality materials and year-round interest. The natural characteristics of the site and the architecture of the home inform the design of each garden, and particular attention is paid to enhancing a sense of place through thoughtful artistic intervention.

Erskine Associates’s landscape portfolio also includes municipal and institutional projects, for which the firm has received Honor and Merit awards from the American Society of Landscape Architects. The company has designed several projects for the campus of Convent of the Sacred Heart in Greenwich.

Erskine Associates LLC PO Box 998 Georgetown, CT 06829 (203) 762-9017 erskineassoc.com

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Freddy’s Landscape

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& Outdoor Living

Fine Landscape Design

or more than 20 years, Freddy’s Landscape has offered a full range of services, from custom-designed landscapes to distinctive outdoor living spaces, partnering with architects, builders, and designers to create beautiful gardens and outdoor environments for their clients.

Freddy’s Landscape is also known for designing relaxing surroundings which include building artfully created fences, distinctive stone walls, block driveways, focused outdoor lighting, arbors, and pergolas. With expansion into natural swimming pools last year after partnering with BioNova®, chemical-free swimming has become a highlight, and a swiftly

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growing segment, of the business.

Located in Fairfield, Freddy’s Landscape is known throughout the county for quality landscape installation and maintenance.

Freddy’s Landscape offers clients comprehensive year-long maintenance programs to preserve and ensure a beautiful garden from year to year. With a reputation for maintaining fine homes and estates, Freddy’s Landscape enhances and preserves homes through every season.

Freddy Miraballes has a proven history of working with homeowners and designers to create award-winning gardens and outdoor spaces. “We maintain your outdoor spaces so you can enjoy a picture-perfect landscape,” he says.

Freddy’s Landscape BioNova® Natural Swimming Pools 40 Belmont Street Fairfield, CT 06824 (203) 855-7854 freddyslandscape.com

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Gault Stone

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&Outdoor Living

hether you need a rock wall to enhance your property, a fire pit to warm your patio, a built-in barbeque to accentuate your outdoor space, a meandering walkway, a stone deck for your swimming pool, or decorative landscape pebbles to spruce up your driveway, Gault Stone has one of the largest stone selections for you to explore in either of our Fairfield County showrooms.

Our stone associates are known for unparalleled customer service and are well equipped to answer any questions, or even to act as a consultant for your project.

And now you can turn to Gault Stone for all of your fabrication

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needs. In our state-of-the-art facility, we are able to turn projects around with superior quality, on time, and on budget. No matter the stone, from standard materials to exotic ones, we can bring your ideas to life.

Gault Stone Fabrication is where twenty-first-century technology meets the artistry of old-world stone craftsmanship.

Gault Stone has a proven history of being the premier choice for homeowners and contractors alike.

Our materials have been used in thousands of projects throughout Fairfield and Westchester counties; it’s no wonder that our business and homeowner clients come back time and time again, and it is this heritage that has become synonymous with trust for more than 150 years.

11 Ferry Lane West| Westport, CT 06880 (203) 227-5181 1 Paul Street | Bethel, CT 06801 (203) 790-9023 gaultstone.com

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Homefront Farmers

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Fine Landscape Design

here’s something about growing our own food that simplifies life, that literally “grounds” us.

Talk to most people about vegetable gardens and they’ll get nostalgic about their parents’ or their grandparents’ garden and wish they could have one of their own. But growing food is not something we’re taught these days; it’s been bumped from life’s curriculum to make room for texting and GPS navigation.

That’s where Homefront Farmers comes in. This unique, Connecticutbased company is dedicated to helping clients grow their own food, organically. The company is best known for designing and building beautiful, carefully crafted,

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raised-bed gardens. But it also provides many other services, including berry growing, fruit tree management, beekeeping, and even maple sugaring.

For those who want some help, Homefront Farmers also provides full-season garden maintenance, from the first snap pea to the last fall potato. Its trained organic gardeners use strategies like succession planting and season extension to keep things growing up to nine months of the year, ensuring the harvest is as bountiful as it is tasty, fresh, and healthy.

Whether you want a garden or have one that needs help, give Homefront Farmers a call and put a little farming in your life.

(203) 470-3655 HIC 0635987 homefrontfarmers.com

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Nukitchens

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Fine Landscape Design

ukitchens, a SoNo company that has mastered kitchens inside the home, is taking their 25 years of experience to the great outdoors. This spring, the company introduces a wide range of outdoor kitchens from renowned outdoor lifestyle brand Brown Jordan, among others. America’s love affair with outdoor living has never been stronger, and homeowners are even adding value to their homes with these outside rooms. “It was obvious to us that the great outdoors has become another room for family and friends. The trend is strong, and it only seemed natural to address the growing need for beautifully organized outside kitchens,” says Nukitchens CEO Joseph Najmy.

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He goes on to say, “We are kitchen specialists; that’s all we do.”

With the launch of the company’s outdoor division, Nukitchens | Outdoor, people can choose from a range of outdoor cooking areas, specialized cooking appliances, stainless steel cabinetry construction, and storage areas.

There is a vast array of designer colors and styles to choose from. See Nukitchens’s outdoor kitchens now on display in its showroom at 132 Water Street, South Norwalk.

132 Water Street Norwalk, CT 06854 132 Water Street Norwalk, CT 06854 (203) 831-9000 nukitchens.com

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Seventy Acres Landscape Architecture

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very property has a story… it begins with a vision.

At Seventy Acres Landscape Architecture & Design our first consideration is building collaborative relationships with our clients. We listen to the needs and wishes for each individual project, then bring together the best possible solutions through our unique, dynamic approach and refined aesthetics.

We love getting to know a property and using our expertise as landscape architects and designers to unlock the capability of the property. We specialize in understanding outdoor spaces and how people use them, resulting in enhanced outdoor experiences for

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our clients. Our designs add value while creating lasting connections with nature. We take pride in our attention to detail and commitment to strong design.

Seventy Acres designs dynamic landscapes to maximize the use, value, and enjoyment of your property.

49 New Street Wilton, CT 06897 (203) 470-2742 seventyacres.com

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Torrison Stone & Garden

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& Outdoor Living

Fine Landscape Design

orrison Stone & Garden is an award-winning, industry leader in landscape construction, specializing in hardscape and softscape design, installation, and maintenance. Since 2000, the company has been creating stunning landscapes throughout Connecticut with traditional stone walls, patios, poolscapes, walkways, and more. Torrison Stone & Garden sees every landscape as an opportunity to create one-of-a-kind spaces, whether they are beautiful, functional outdoor rooms or manicured garden backdrops.

Offering traditional and 3D designs, all phases of planning, construction, and project management are overseen by a

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knowledgeable, licensed landscape architect, ensuring that all elements are considered in one thoughtful design.

Torrison’s team of landscape installation and repair specialists includes expert masons who are ICPI Certified. This team of trusted and courteous professionals brings more than 250 years of experience to every project.

Thanks to a fully loaded stockyard, clients can choose from a variety of stones and materials, matching every aesthetic. Clients are also invited to stroll through the beautiful showroom to see and touch materials and installations before settling on a final design.

Conveniently located along the central corridor of Connecticut,

Torrison Stone & Garden can service all corners of the state, exceeding client expectations with year-round design, installation, and maintenance services.

Torrison Stone & Garden 422 Main Street Durham, CT 06422 (860) 349-0119 torrisonstone.com

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Visnapuu Design

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Fine Landscape Design

f given a choice, we at Visnapuu Design would always choose to begin a landscaping project at the front of the house, because if it is done right, you will feel good every time you drive up to the house.

Understandably, “curb appeal” is of the utmost importance when it comes to selling your home, and while we consider it practically a moral obligation to share a glimpse of landscaping magic to passersby, the most important aspect of the design will always be about you, the owner.

To us, the owner’s privacy is paramount. Once you pass through the garden gates, you must feel secure, an absolute luxury today.

We at Visnapuu Design consider all new commissions a complex

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collaboration; more than design, it is a way of life.

With an artist’s eye, we source and evaluate, carefully selecting the perfect bench, urn, statuary, or plantings.

Whether you choose a simple or bold design, or decide to go with “romantic disorder,” when a project

by Visnapuu Design is completed, we promise it will provide beauty, perhaps some laughter, and we know it will bring extraordinary comfort to its owners.

(203) 217-7406 kuldar@visnapuudesign.com visnapuudesign.com

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A&J CTFAL14:A&J-CTFAL14

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LOVE STORY

A Darien couple finally redecorate the house they’ve lived in for nearly two decades, and uncover a whole new passion for home.

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TEXT BY PAULA M. BODAH PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL PARTENIO PRODUCED BY KARIN LIDBECK BRENT INTERIOR DESIGN: KAREN BOW

The Phillip Jeffries wallcovering was the starting point for turning what had been an under-used space into a welcoming dining room. In a play on the traditional mirror above the mantel, designer Karen Bow hung three deep-framed mirrors. An iron-based table with a salvaged wood top is a rustic counterpoint to the contemporary rug.

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Common wisdom suggests that business and friendship don’t mix.

Susie Lindenberg and designer Karen Bow would beg to differ. The two have been friends for quite some time, though until recently Lindenberg had never called on Bow for interior design advice, and Bow was diplomatic enough not to offer.

Susie and John Lindenberg had lived in their Darien home since their children—a daughter now in college and a son in high school—were babies. They had added a high-ceilinged family room, but with all the energy involved in raising kids, they never quite got around to replacing perfectly serviceable furniture or painting over inoffensive (if a bit bland) neutral walls.

The day of reckoning came a couple of years ago

The living room’s neutral palette suits husband John’s classic tastes, while vivid accents satisfy wife Susie’s love of color. FACING PAGE: Susie’s favorite shade—orange—adds a zesty note to a sitting nook at one end of the kitchen.

when their daughter invited several friends to join her on a visit home from boarding school. “I was embarrassed, because it was still a little girl’s room,” Susie recalls. “I said to Karen, ‘I have two weeks. Can you do something?’ She said, ‘Of course! We’ll have fun.’”

The two women came across a damask wallpaper with a grown-up floral pattern in rich blue and gray that they knew would make the perfect starting point. Bow found a headboard with a motif of branches and had a contemporary platform bed made for it. A loveseat covered in plush blue velvet, a sweet occasional table with a flowerlike base, and a petite antique crystal chandelier were the finishing touches that gave the room the chic new look they were after.

“I wanted it to look like a room in a little European boutique hotel,” Bow says.

On the heels of that success, the two moved on to the son’s room. Years earlier, Susie and John had installed a built-in bed and paneling that gave the snug room the look of a ship’s quarters. Bow added deep-red vinyl wallcovering above the paneling.

David Hicks wall-to-wall carpeting with a geometric pattern of navy and white further enlarges the space.

A leather-cushioned recliner and a Jonathan Adler side table add a dash of sophistication.

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The children’s enthusiastic response to their new rooms encouraged Susie and John to spread the transformation to the rest of the house, beginning with the living room. Susie allows that the process became a bit more complicated at this point. “My husband is much more traditional, and I’m . . . more

fun, I would say,” Susie explains. “She’s joyous,” says Bow. “She wanted something lively, colorful, carefree.” John, she says, prefers a more classic look.

For this first change to the home’s shared spaces Bow began with a quiet color scheme to satisfy John’s penchant for neutrals. Above the white beadboard

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The challenge for Bow lay in pleasing both her clients. “I love it, she loves it, he loves it.”

paneling, the walls wear a burlap wallcovering that looks beige at first glance but is enlivened with thread-narrow stripes of orange, gold, and brown.

Not one to dispense with things that work, Bow kept the checked roman shades at the windows. The coffee table stayed, too, now centered on an oriental rug layered atop a sisal carpet. A pair of cushy lounge chairs that Susie says were covered “in some old chintzy thing” were reupholstered in gray-blue linen with a pattern inspired by the fleur-de-lis. They stand across the coffee table from a new sofa covered in neutral linen heaped with toss pillows in vivid orange, yellow, and purple—a nod to Susie’s fondness for bright hues.

The kitchen lies two steps up from the living room, and although it’s awaiting a more thorough renovation, one end of the space has been revamped to

The wallcovering from the dining room makes a repeat appearance—now in a different color—at the back of the family room bookshelves. FACING PAGE: The high-ceilinged family room strikes a nautical tone with shades of blue and sand.

become one of Susie’s favorite spots. Replacing the table and four chairs that once sat against the windows is a cozy sitting area with a loveseat, a table just big enough for tea for two, and a chair outfitted in a fabric whose background is the color of a fresh-picked orange. John isn’t wild about orange, Susie says, “but it’s my favorite color, so we said we’d just do a few pillows or accents. He laughs now and says we did too much orange. But he loves it.” The settee is backed in burlap and fronted with an orange-on-white print spring 2015 New eNglaNd Home CoNNeCtiCut 85

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“I wanted it to look like a room in a little European boutique hotel,” says Bow.

that’s the reverse of the chair fabric.

The smartest change, Susie says, was turning a space the family used to call “the pass-through room” into a dining room. “When we moved in, we threw a loveseat and a couple of chairs in there, but no one ever used it,” she says.

Here, as in the daughter's room, the wallcovering—in this case a Phillip Jeffries grasscloth— inspired the design. “We fell in love with the wallpaper first,” Bow says. “I always tell my clients, you start from a place of love.”

From there, the room fell into place. A table of reclaimed wood on an iron base that seats a dozen people comfortably but keeps a low profile stands

ABOVE, LEFT: Deep red wallpaper above glossy paneling gives depth to the son’s

cozy room, and Bow added sophistication with the David Hicks geometricpatterned carpeting, a leather recliner, and a Jonathan Adler side table. ABOVE, RIGHT: Damask wallpaper in a rich shade of blue sparked the plan for the daughter’s room. FACING PAGE: A velvet-covered loveseat and crystal chandelier give the daughter’s bedroom a chic look.

atop a wool-and-silk rug with a fresh, contemporary pattern of blue on white. The fireplace was painted navy blue (“my go-to color,” says Susie, and a hue John is partial to, as well), and, in a play on the traditional idea of a mirror over the mantel, Bow hung a trio of round mirrors with deep, distressed frames above it. “Their shape echoes the wallpaper, and they add dimension and depth,” she says.

There’s a nautical air in the family room, where navy and white predominate against a neutral background. Bow papered the backs of the bookshelves with the same wallcovering that’s in the dining room, but in a different color.

“I didn’t love my house before,” confesses Susie.

“And I didn’t want my life to be all about my house— it seemed too materialistic.” The decorating process gave her a new perspective, however. “It’s our home, where we live, where the love happens,” she says. “Of course you want it to be cozy, to be perfect.”

For Bow, the challenge lay in pleasing both her clients. “I think we did that beautifully,” she says. “I love it, she loves it, he loves it—everybody is happy.” • RESOURCES For more information about this home, see page 140.

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Written and produced

by Stacy Kunstel Photography

by Michael Partenio Timelessness, it seems, is the best anti-aging formula. Antiques, Gracie paper, and an animal-print stair runner in a luscious shade of pink stop time in its tracks in this historic Belle Haven home.

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StĂŠr Turn A dramatic Greenwich home built early in the last century is as glamorous as ever, thanks to the nips and tucks of a talented design team.

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The black-lacquered powder room takes its cues from a chinoiserie painted chest the homeowner found and that interior designer Cindy Rinfret turned into a vanity. FACING PAGE: The delicacy of the antique Charles Winston chandelier and goldleafed ceiling balance pine walls and cabinetry in the dining room.

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ike great actresses, houses also have to continually reinvent themselves. Born early in the last century, this grande dame on a peninsula within the confines of the famed Belle Haven enclave of Greenwich has gracefully repositioned herself from budding starlet to glamorous icon. But she isn’t ready to be pushed into the role of dowager just yet.

Nearly fifteen years ago, as a new family took over this waterfront manse with sweeping Long Island Sound views, her Gilded Age looks began to take on a new shine under the talented eye of interior designer Cindy Rinfret. Over the years since, Rinfret and her clients have brought the house to its current state of perfection. “A house is really never done,” says Rinfret. “This house has such a long history to consider. I remember seeing it on a house tour before my clients purchased it. It’s just a timeless and dreamy place.”

Rinfret has swathed the house in details that would make Daisy Buchanan swoon: Gracie paper in the large foyer, a black-lacquered powder room layered with silver brushes and cups, and a mirrored bar hidden under the stairs were mere finishing touches on a massive makeover. “Everything in the house was transformed,” says Rinfret. “This is a gorgeous client who loves her home and decorating and collecting. It’s not a quiet and understated house. It isn’t a blue and beige house.”

Her client, says Rinfret, “is a world traveler with a terrific eye. The house is a showcase for her collections.”

Case in point is a black dressing table with elaborate gold-painted Chinese scenes that Rinfret used as the inspiration for the black and chinoiserie powder room on the first floor.

The dresser was cut to accommodate a gold sink, and Rinfret designed a black cabinet to accompany it, adding intricate bamboo details to the walls of the space.

A new Clive Christian kitchen was installed, to which the designer added a wrought-iron lighting fixture and accessories. It bears all the hallmarks of a timeless cooking space, complete

Project Team

Cindy Rinfret Joseph Matto Builder: Brindisi & Yaroscak Custom Builders Interior design: Architecture:

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ABOVE, LEFT: Fretwork details on the windows accent the great-room addition. ABOVE, RIGHT: Garden elements such as statuary

reinforce the connection to the outdoors.

FACING PAGE: A massive window wall opens the great room to garden and water views.

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with corbels and fretwork details, cubbies for serving pieces, and a butcher block extension to the island supported by turned wood legs. A fireplace with a raised hearth, one of five in the house, sits opposite the range.

Just through the butler’s pantry, pine walls and built-ins give the dining room its cozy feel, while intricately carved woodwork surrounds the room.

Rinfret kept the original finish, balancing it with a gold-painted ceiling above and a large Aubusson rug below, then adding a stunning piece of jewelry in the form of a Charles Winston chandelier that seems to levitate in the middle of the room. Piles of coral

and painted china fill the open shelves, along with polished silver at the ready for entertaining at any moment.

These spaces, along with the large living room, the clubby family room, and children’s bedrooms have aged just as well as any Oscar winner with the help of nips and tucks—coming in the form of new pillows, a little paint, and some occasional fine-tuning. Things that have given out under dogs and children (there are two of each) are replaced with little fanfare. It’s just life.

Locked in the past, houses can become museums. Changing with the times keeps them from becoming relics. With the help of architect Joseph

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“It’s just classic

with a twist, not stuffy. It’s touchable, livable, and cozy,” says Rinfret.

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The Clive Christian kitchen plays with rich detailing in the cabinetry and turned legs of the island and range area. Rinfret accented the space with an iron chandelier and wallpaper. LEFT: A breakfast area off the kitchen makes the first meal of the day special, with upholstered wall details and a massive lantern above a custom table.

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Matto, the dwelling was given a large addition. Much of the house had originally been built to turn inward, but the family wanted to embrace their Gatsby-esque setting, including the sweeping lawn with sailboat-studded views, the stone walls, the hillside terrace creating a private spot for the

pool, and the gazebo with its latticework details.

Rinfret and Matto went about planning a new double-height great room with an office under the eaves on one end. Tracery-filled windows Rinfret designed fill the entire water view end of the room and overlook

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the garden, while pine beams soar overhead. A bamboo-framed television over the fireplace and a sectional sofa and oversize leather-topped ottoman make this the obvious choice for family gatherings.

Stone-topped tables, giant lanterns, and statuary add a garden element to

the space, as do an iron table and the wrought iron balcony above that holds the wife’s office.

Recalling the black powder room in the original makeover from previous years, Rinfret designed a complementary bamboo wainscoting for the addition. “It was really about bring-

CLOCKWISE FROM FAR LEFT: A lower terrace

below the house creates a private spot for the pool. Boxwoods, statuary, and white flowers give the garden its classic feel. The water feature sits just off the kitchen terrace. Iron accents, stone steps and walls, and statuary add to the park-like appeal.

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CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE: A deck above the

porch doubles the stunning views. On any nice day, the vista includes boats at the ready. A number of seating arrangements offer plenty of options for enjoying the outof-doors.

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ing inside and outside together,” she says, “putting the wrought iron on the inside to reflect the outside. It’s about the rough and the smooth, the shiny with the matte.”

Keeping the decorative elements neutral allows the architecture to stand out as well. Linen drapery panels and chairs covered in raw linen lend a casual air. Cut velvet Greek key pillows add elegance.

Besides the lawn and water views, the addition also yielded space for a cozy breakfast area, with walls upholstered in a botanical linen and bordered with the tiniest rivulet of Greek key

tape. Rinfret designed the window cornices, which she had custom built and painted to hide the tops of the bamboo blinds, and added a built-in seat covered in caramel-colored leather.

A sturdy walnut-topped pedestal table sits below a Charles Edwards chandelier. “It’s just classic with a twist, not stuffy,” the designer explains. “It’s touchable, livable, and cozy.”

Outside stand perfectly manicured boxwoods and white blooms that bob in the breeze. From the two main porches that overlook the pool, there’s a flurry of boats ripping through the water, darting about the

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“designing this house is almost like creating a glamorous backdrop for an experience,” says rinfret.

small islands that separate Connecticut from Long Island. The porch near the front door is covered, while the other, along the more private back of the house, is exposed to the sun. Both are filled with plenty of chairs, settees, and tables from which to enjoy the view.

“Designing this house is almost like creating a glamorous backdrop for an experience,” says Rinfret.

Or, perhaps, for a movie. In this case, the gorgeous home plays the starring role. • Resources For more information about this home, see page 140.

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Fun House

Fab finds, curious collections, and lots of whimsy are the main characters in this small space.

Text by Maria LaPiana Photography by Laura Moss Produced by Karin Lidbeck Brent Interior Design by Jonathan Bee

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Reclaimed wood on one wall, silk grasscloth on another, the furnishings a joyful mix of old and older.

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urely Jonathan Bee must have a serious side. After all, he has worked in social services for most of his adult life; he runs two businesses; he writes. He’s a filmmaker, too, having just completed his first documentary, Paper Trail, which examines the effects of technology on creativity.

It takes a serious thinker to balance so many pursuits, but you’d never know it by looking at his Washington cottage—what he calls his “700-squarefoot dollhouse”—where every room, every nook, niche, and cranny is filled with fanciful decorating turns and caprice.

This is where Bee’s inner artist lives. “In my free time I like to design and create small spaces that have a poetic feeling,” he says.

So when he discovered that the house was for sale, he jumped at it. “I was looking for a small house, a studio to do my art work in,” he remembers.

“I saw a listing for an artist cottage and when I saw this romantic, rundown bungalow from the 1940s, I saw its raw potential just begging to be revived.”

It has become his “Tuesday–Wednesday house,” he says. “I come up Monday nights and usually have dinner at Community Table, which is such a treat, and then I bunker in and work on all my creative projects.”

The rest of the time, Bee lives in nearby Sharon, with his partner, Kent Hunter, with whom he runs Hunter Bee, an antiques store in Millerton, New York.

While it was the scale of the cottage that appealed to him, Bee knew he’d have to devise ways to make it not feel too close. “It was a great challenge to make a small space feel big,” he says. “There is a wonderful intimacy in a small space that demands your attention at all times. Small details really make a difference. I know lots of decorators say if you want to make a space feel big, paint the whole room white— but kill me first!”

The building’s floor plan is U-shaped, and the

ABOVe, RIGHT: An antiques forager, Bee was mindful of creating homes for his collections of small things. Here, a niche accommodates everything from teacups to tiny china houses. RIGHT: The daybed designed by Bee with utility and comfort in mind sits below a cardboard wall hanging by Millerton, New York–based artist Henry C. Klimowicz. fACING PAGe: His friends thought he was crazy to hang toile shades in the living room, but Bee thinks they’re a perfect companion to the grasscloth wallcovering. spring 2015 New eNglaNd Home CoNNeCtiCut 103

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Left: The tea nook is a favorite spot for visitors: “I wanted a cozy space to enjoy good pastries with an exotic tea,” says Bee. BELOW, LEFT: The designer is drawn to unusual art. Disorientalism: Ready Mix tells the story of Aunt Jemima’s makeover “from slave mammy to modern working mother,” part of a series from Asian-American artists Katherine Behar and Marianna M. Kim. FACING PAGE: In the cozy country kitchen, the peninsula is supported by a reclaimed wood post and surrounded by industrialinspired stools.

front door opens directly onto the living room. Bee maximized the space by designing a daybed/sofa with bookshelves on both sides. The thoughtful placement of furnishings and treasured collectibles goes a long way toward making the cottage feel much more spacious than it is. “I love being eclectic, so I found lots of antique pieces that had storage and character,” he says. Inspired by the practical compactness of a ship’s cabin, he made room to store linens, pillows, and anything out-of-season inside cabinets, on shelves, and hidden under benches. “I made this house seem as large as my 7,000-square-foot house in Sharon,” he says.

Now that may be a stretch, but it’s clear Bee has a knack for putting things together in unusual ways.

His strategy? Mix fun collections with artwork to stimulate the eye, but not overpower. “It’s a delicate

“I created a million little stories that are just waiting to be discovered again and again. Each room was fun and challenging,” says Bee.



dance,” he says. “I created a million little stories that are just waiting to be discovered again and again. Each room was fun and challenging. When something felt like it was getting too serious, I’d try and make it a bit lighter. That’s why I used a woodland scene for my bedroom wallpaper. I like things to be nostalgic and current. I hope I succeeded in this space.”

Orchestrating so many pieces in a small space can be daunting, Bee admits, “but that’s the fun of decorating. It’s your home at the end of the day. And the joy of being surrounded by all the things you love is comforting. I hate it when someone comes into my antique shop and loves something. . . but has to call their decorator first for their approval.”

There are surprises at every turn: an old metal watch sign that’s been converted into a mirror, a bust covered in newspaper, a stone deer on a Chippendale demilune table, a Lalique sculpture next to a framed Woodstock stamp, a small black-and-white picture 104 New England Home Connecticut spring 2015

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Fearless about mixing styles and textures, Bee outfitted the sitting area off the kitchen with a distressed iron daybed, a plush upholstered Empire-style chair, and a rustic stone-topped table, above which hangs a painting by New York artist Eliska Smiley.

106  New England Home Connecticut  spring 2015

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Top LEFT: Glass-front cabinets like this one in the bedroom help maximize space in the tiny house. Bottom LEFT: A woodland-

scene wallpaper behind the bed brightens and enlarges the space. Facing Page: Another bedroom cabinet serves as a showcase for some of Bee’s treasured collectibles.

of Charlie Chaplin that isn’t Chaplin at all, but an impersonator. “I love that picture,” says Bee. It was important that added fixtures and architectural details feel authentic. “I remember searching fifty stores until I found the perfect light fixture for the kitchen,” he says. He installed a stained-glass window in the door to the attic to create light in a dark hallway. He built an old altar box into a wall. He hung an old carved wood door in the bathroom with mirrors on both sides “for more light and the illusion of space.”

While fun is good, comfort is even better. “I think a space should be comfortable, but that’s subjective.

Some people love living in a concrete box,” he says.

“For me, I love to know that there are nooks to sit in and pillows to grab.”

“Some people love living in a concrete box. For me, I love to know that there are nooks to sit in and ­pillows to grab.”



As a fiber artist (he owns a knitting bag company called Wooly Bully), Bee has a passion for textiles, and for brazenly mixing color, texture, and pattern. He let loose in the living room, where he used reclaimed wood to cover the fireplace wall. “My contractor said, ‘I take that stuff down, not put it up,’” he recalls. “I said, ‘Trust me.’”

Crazy about the toile curtains that came with the house, he found some vintage hand-painted wallpaper to go with them, and yet another living room wall is covered with vintage silk grasscloth. “Everyone thought I was nuts, that the patterns would clash, but in fact they dance together in a surprising and joyful way,” he says.

Works of art are showcased in each room (many pieces created by friends, making them all the more meaningful), as are Bee’s myriad collections. “I also wanted a place that showcased my favorite possessions and art collection,” he says. “I love small collections. I have a million, from teapots to dice. The hunt is always fun. I have four barns filled with treasures.

I just can’t stop.” • Resources For more information about this home, see page 140.

108 New England Home Connecticut spring 2015

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spring 2015 New England Home Connecticut 109

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CELEBRATING

40

YEARS!

21 ELM STREET | NEW CANAAN | CONNECTICUT 203.972.0433

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78°

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74°

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With the covers to his chest, 66° is where Grandpa sleeps best

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Control The Temperature Of Every Room, Independently, From A Single HVAC Source emme is a revolutionary home climate control system that turns an ordinary heating and air conditioning unit into a smart, multitasking climate machine that can monitor and adjust the temperature of each room throughout your home, independently. Set the unique temperature you want for each room, or set the temperature so every room is the same – the choice is yours. emme was designed to be retrofitted to existing HVAC systems, or it can be design-built into a new home – either way there’s a good chance emme will save you a lot of money, too. To learn more please call: 800.396.0523 or visit us online at: getemme.com.

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PERSPECTIVES Connecticut design considered from every angle

Surfaces 1

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MODERN-DAY MOSAICS: Whether they are precisely cut by a laser, or rustically handcrafted, tile mosaics bring interest, pattern, and movement to any surface.

—EDITED BY LYNDA SIMONTON

1. Revolve

2. Hillier

3. Astral Night

AKDO, Bridgeport, (203) 336-5199, akdo.com

Ann Sacks, Best Plumbing, Stamford, (203) 975-9448, bestplg.com

Walker Zanger, Karen Berkemeyer Home, Westport, (203) 454-0032, karenberkemeyerhome.com

4. Parramore Oval Overlay Mosaic Waterworks, Greenwich, (203) 869-7766, waterworks.com

5. Roosevelt Mosaïque Surfaces, Fordham Marble, Stamford, (203) 348-5088, fordhammarble.com

6. Paradise Arrow Porcelanosa, Greenwich, (203) 698-7618, porcelanosa-usa.com

SPRING 2015 NEW ENGLAND HOME CONNECTICUT 113

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PERSPECTIVES

Shopping Bag

PAUL WARCHOL

Elizabeth Brosnan Hourihan selects pieces to create a chic patio or poolside retreat, just in time for the warm weather ahead.

Large French Aviary ///

“This tall aviary was designed more than 130 years ago as both a great decorative piece and a functional birdcage.

At more than seven feet tall, it makes a lovely statement piece on a patio or poolside because of its green color, hexagonal shape, and whimsical scroll decorations.”

George Subkoff Antiques, Westport, (203) 227-3515, subkoffantiques.com

Janus et Cie Exterior Pillows ///

“Pillows are a must for adding a sense of comfort and relaxation to outdoor spaces.

These acrylic pillows are highly durable, with colors that stay vibrant with sun exposure.”

Dolce Vita Wave Chaise Lounge ///

“The natural curved shape of the Dolce Vita Wave Chaise Lounge designed by Paola Navone is, first and foremost, comfortable.

The wave shape complements the nature that surrounds it.”

JANUS et Cie, Boston Design Center, (617) 737-5001, janusetcie.com

JANUS et Cie

Iron Jardinière ///

“The low profile, oval shape, and high-level ironwork combine to create a refined planter.

Just imagine this jardinière filled with yellow pansies—wow!” United House Wrecking, Stamford, (203) 348-5371, unitedhousewrecking.com

EBH Interiors, Weston, (203) 349-5117, ebhinteriors.com 114 NEW ENGLAND HOME CONNECTICUT SPRING 2015

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A True Living Room Is Never Off Limits

J. NAMNOUN ORIENTAL RUG GALLERY

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PERSPECTIVES

What I’m Looking At The great cities and gardens of the world, as well as nature in all its richness, offer endless inspiration to Tara Vincenta, principal at Artemis Landscape Architects.

“I love to photograph patterns found in nature. Here, the spiral shape of the nautilus shell informed a design for a casual outdoor gathering space along the shoreline of Darien.”

“Studying gardens in Japan during my college years had a profound influence on my sensibilities as a designer.

The sinuous curve of the stepping-stones at the Heian Shrine in Kyoto provided inspiration years later in the design of a more contemporary interpretation, with the integration of floating bluestone platforms across a lily pond.”

SUZANNE FARRELL IN of the1965 Gulf

“The quiet, lapping waters of Mexico are emulated in a beach entry for this natural swimming pool.”

HEIAN SHRINE, KYOTO

“Travels to the great cities and formal gardens of Europe have offered many lessons in the organization of outdoor space. An allée of pollarded trees in the Tuileries Garden in Paris provided inspiration for a clipped row of pear trees as a defining layer to the planting in this driveway entry courtyard.”

TUILERIES GARDEN, PARIS

Artemis Landscape Architects, Bridgeport, (203) 683-1808, artemisla.com 116 NEW ENGLAND HOME CONNECTICUT SPRING 2015

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THE STRIPED WALLPAPER The patio furniture MAKES THE BATHROOM LOOK LIKE A JAIL CELL.

is bigger than the patio.

THE CLIENT WANTS

THE KITCHEN’S “COUNTRY” CABINETS SENT TO ANOTHER COUNTRY .

But the shutters , the shutters are absolutely perfect.

Back Bay S hutter c o. I nc .

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FA M

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GLAND DE EN S

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NEW

78i.22i.0i00 www.backbayshutter.com Offering Trade Accommodations.

•N EW

a designer’s best friend.

E PROUD

S

2/10/15 1:13 PM

Perspectives

➂

Are there special challenges that Lillian August faces these days? Or special challenges you see in the industry as a whole?

The biggest challenge is becoming truly omni-channel. The customer today wants a seamless experience, whether it’s online, via a catalog, or in-store.

➃

Do you have any notable initiatives planned for the near future?

We’re continuing to open stores, we’ll be getting back to producing our magazine, we continue to work on our online experience. We’ve been expanding our very successful proprietary lines of furniture and accessories as well, with Lillian August furniture for Hickory White, a new wall decor line with Wendover Art Group, and lighting with Currey & Company.

➄

Lorin Klaris

Five Questions Dan Weiss, president and CEO of Lillian August, discusses his journey from the business world to the business of home design—a process that took place during lunch breaks.

➀

What was the path to your present position?

I wrote a business plan for the company while I was working on Wall Street, in the late 1980s. That period really saw the beginning of modern fashion branding— companies like Laura Ashley and Ralph Lauren were moving into home design in a big way. My mother, Lillian August, had been doing some design licensing of wallcoverings and fabrics, and had come out with her first catalog of clothing, furnishings, accessories, and gifts. But she wanted to grow her business, and I realized that there was a fast-emerging market for designer “lifestyle” brands.

I had a full-time job and had just gotten married, so I did this on my lunch hours.

But we eventually raised the initial seed capital—and the rest, as they say, is history.

➁

How has the company’s engagement with home design evolved over the time you’ve been there?

When we started, we sold everything from furniture to women’s apparel. We had a mix similar to the original Laura Ashley shops, with more emphasis on home furnishings and interior design. As the concept evolved, we migrated away from apparel and focused specifically on home furnishings and interior design . . . to the point that, today, we are a “onestop shop” for designer home furnishings.

Designers these days are typically mixing and matching a range of products for their highend clients, including some things available to the public and some things from trade-only or custom sources. How do you see Lillian August fitting into that spectrum?

Our design-services staff actually makes us one of the largest design firms in Connecticut: we have more than thirtyfive designers working on anything from individual rooms to full homes. We have lots of published projects, and we just recently did the library at Holiday House NYC and last year’s Hampton Designer Showhouse. Our designers source from the store and through trade-only design centers; they’re no different than a private designer.

In the stores, we’ve pulled back the curtain between trade and retail a lot, with much of our product available to everybody—consumers and designers alike. We have a diverse mix of good/ better/best products that allows both our trade and retail customers to meet their varied needs. We have always had a wide variety of unique, artisan-made custom products, and that continues to be an important and growing part of our designer business.

—interview by kyle hoepner

Lillian August, Norwalk, (203) 847-3314, lillianaugust.com 118 New England Home Connecticut SPRING 2015

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PERSPECTIVES

What Makes It Work A Cos Cob kitchen gains sophistication through an interlocking arrangement of light and dark, hard and soft.

1.

The island, lower cabinets, and range hood are wrapped in natural walnut— which also lines glass-fronted upper cabinets flanking the window and steel farmhouse sink.

2.

Tie rods suspending the range hood find an echo in the stools’ chromed legs and Princetonian cabinet and drawer pulls from Top Knobs. Hanging glass pendants above the sink follow suit.

3.

Decorative screws that stud the hood’s metal strapping were inspired by a Cartier bracelet.

JANE BEILES

4.

A mother-of-pearl backsplash and Chroma countertops gleam in counterpoint to the room’s warmer, more organic surfaces.

5.

Running the grain horizontally brings out lighter, golden tones in the wood and conveys a feeling of calm modernity.

6.

Woven storage baskets for onions and potatoes provide still more texture, a note that continues in McGuire Furniture’s Woven Shelter Counter Stools.

PROJECT TEAM

Interior design: Susan Bednar Long, S.B. Long Interiors, Washington Depot, (203) 769-1030, sblonginteriors.com Kitchen design: Veronica Campbell, Deane, Inc., Stamford, (203) 327-7008, and New Canaan, (203) 972-8836, kitchensbydeane.com Builder: Dave Lavallee, Brass Ring Renovators, New Milford, (203) 470-8699 120 NEW ENGLAND HOME CONNECTICUT SPRING 2015

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203-966-3388 | 58 Pine Street | New Canaan, CT 06840 W W W . C M G B U I L D E R . C O M

Above Picture: Thermal imaging of radiant cooling and heating technology. This technology eliminates all conventional ductwork, ceiling or floor registers, and radiates chilled and warm water evenly throughout by using invisible radiant panels on the ceiling. It is environmentally friendly, provides ultimate thermal comfort, and mitigates dust and allergens. “This system achieves the highest standard in comfort; there is no close second!�

- Salvatore Zarrella

Winner of the 2014 HOBI Award for Best in Town Custom Home and Best New Construction Technology.

Sponsored by: HBRA of Connecticut, Inc. PHOTO: STEVEROSSI.NET

ConstructionManagment-CTSPR15.indd 1

ARCHITECT: ANDREW NUZZI ARCHITECTS, LLC

3/11/15 9:32 AM

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3/13/15

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Page 1

Save the Date May 7, 2015

Jamie Drake

New England Home Connecticut and Wakefield Design Center present

To The Trade Only Market Day Featuring the latest trends in home furnishings, new product introductions, book signings, and more including:

Elizabeth Pyne

12:30 – 1:15pm JAMIE DRAKE Adaptation: From Interiors to Product Design Jamie Drake explores the process behind adapting his interior design aesthetic into furniture, lighting, and accessories from inspiration to final project.

Erin Gates

1:30 – 2:15pm ELIZABETH PYNE Farrow & Ball Presents: A Colour Conversation with Elizabeth Pyne of McMillen Have the chance to hear an inspiring conversation on color and pattern in design between Elizabeth Pyne of McMillen and Christine Haney of Farrow & Ball.

Lite bites provided by Farrow & Ball

Harry Heismann

2:30 – 3:15pm ERIN GATES & STACY KUNSTEL A Q&A on Social Media Savvy and The Elements of Style The rising-star designer Erin Gates and author of the hit blog “Elements of Style,” as well as the new book of the same name, discusses technology tricks of the trade with Stacy Kunstel of New England Home. Book signing to follow.

John Douglas Eason

3:30 – 4:15pm STEVEN STOLMAN WITH JOHN DOUGLAS EASON, HARRY HEISMANN, AND CHARLES PAVARINI. Panel Discussion Author Steven Stolman hosts a lively discussion with Interior Design Stars from 40 Years of Fabulous: The Kips Bay Decorator Showhouse. Book signing to follow.

Charles Pavarini

4:30 – 5:15pm TILTON FENWICK WITH KYLE HOEPNER Connections, Collaborations, and Collections: Growing your Brand Anne Maxwell Foster and Suysel dePedro Cunningham of Tilton Fenwick discuss the role that networking has played in the growth of their business, from conception to their Duralee Designer fabric collection, with Kyle Hoepner of New England Home.

12:30 – 5:15pm DESIGNER PORTFOLIO REVIEW Bring two of your favorite projects and have a New England Home editor review them for possible consideration in an upcoming issue.

Presented by Karin Lidbeck Brent, contributing editor at New England Home.

Wakefield Design Center 652 Glenbrook Road | Stamford, CT

Steven Stolman

Suysel dePedro Cunningham

Presented by Anne Maxwell Foster

RSVP to: staff@imagesanddetails.com For more information, please contact 203 358-0818 or visit www.wakefielddesigncenter.com

Wakefield TTTD_CT-SPR15:WakefieldDesignCenter-CTFALL11

3/13/15

3:53 PM

Page 2

Thank you to our presenting sponsors

A purveyor of luxury linens and home furnishings since 1974, The Linen Shop offers exceptional quality, unparalleled choice and personalized service. And as specialists in custom linens, The Linen Shop is a destination for a devoted clientele of designers and architects.

Join our Designer Trade Program and enjoy the many benefits we offer. We look forward to the opportunity to serve your unique design needs from our vast collection of custom styles, fabrics, embroideries, and finishes.

Please contact us at thelinenshopinfo@aol.com for further information about our To the Trade Program benefits.

The Linen Shop 21 Elm Street New Canaan, CT (203) 972-0433

Designs by Town & Country / All Systems Go is a designerfriendly workroom in Greenwich, Connecticut. We specialize in giving the interior design trade the individual attention to detail that their clientele demands. We saw the future in integrated motorized shades very early in the game. We

Front Row Kitchens is a full-service, familyowned business, and we will be celebrating our 30th anniversary next year. Visit our showroom to see why so many clients have chosen Front Row Kitchens for their cabinet needs.

Exceptional space planning and kitchen design, cultivated from years of experience, yields exceptional results.

Front Row Kitchens 117 New Canaan Avenue Norwalk, CT (203) 849-0302 frontrowkitchens.com

British craftsmen in paint and paper, Farrow & Ball, create unparalleled paints and wallpapers using the finest ingredients and staying true to original formulations and production methods.

Since the company was founded in 1946, creating the highest quality paint and wallpaper has remained at its heart. From bright colours like St Giles Blue to the classic tones of Elephant’s Breath, Farrow & Ball paints achieve a signature chalky matt finish that transforms the homes of their customers around the world Farrow & Ball Inc 142 East 73rd Street | New York, NY 10021 (646) 915-4858 | farrow-ball.com

pride ourselves on enabling our clients to specify these products on their projects to create both function and a wow factor.

As a full service dealer, we carry the full line of Lutron, Crestron and Hunter Douglas window treatments, including the exclusive Alustra line. Our services include, consultation, measuring, ordering, installation and service. We also offer our clients all the national advertised rebate promotions.

Designs by Town & Country

also offers Old World craftsmanship to our design clients. In our own workroom we fabricate custom draperies, roman shades, bedding and pillows. For nearly 40 years we have been evolving to become the preferred workroom for the discerning designer.

Designs by Town and Country / All Systems Go 244 Mill Street Greenwich, CT 06830 (203) 531-0307 allsystemsgoct.com

Design Life

Out and about in celebration of design and architecture in Connecticut 2

Phil Nelson

1

3

connecticut

networking event

Getting organized appeared to be high on everyone’s New Year’s resolution list, so it seems only fitting that New E ­ ngland Home kicked off 2015 with a networking event at Closet

4

5

6

& Storage Concepts in

Norwalk. What better place to learn how to create great spaces for organized living? Guests were inspired by the latest in storage solutions in the showroom, and took a behind-the-scenes tour of the factory. Everyone enjoyed mixing and mingling with colleagues in the design field.

One lucky guest won a large flat-screen television from Aitoro Appliances.

7

8

9

10

11

12

(1) Charlene Kiernan and Angelo Fiordelisi from ProSource Wholesale Floorcoverings of Stamford (2) New England

13

Home’s Roberta Thomas Mancuso flanked by Cate and Ross Tiefenthaler of Tiefenthaler (3) Sandra and Kuldar Visnapuu of Visnapuu Design (4) Lee Tannenbaum and Joe Annunziato from Designs by Town & Country (5) Deb Nicoud and Dina Spaidal of LaBella Spaidal Interiors (6) Gordon Fraites of Brooks & Falotico with New England Home’s Kyle Hoepner (7) Karen Bradbury of Closet & Storage Concepts with Jay Hanseman of Michael Smith Architects and Frank Festini of Southport Construction (8) Jennifer Huestis and Bob Tucker of Huestis Tucker Architects flank Bobby Fahey from Closet & Storage Concepts (9) Susan Thompson and Patricia M. Miller of Patricia M. Miller Residential Design with Charles Moretz of Seventy Acres (10) Sam Gault, Meredith Donaher, and Andy Dehler of Gault Energy & Stone (11) Heidi Keelips of Heidi Keelips Interior Design, Jon Bradbury of Closet & Storage Concepts, and Nancy Steinborn of Steinborn Interiors (12) Lynn Garelick of LBG Interior Design, New England Home’s Stacy Kunstel, and Connie Cooper of Connie Cooper Designs (13) Bill Charney of Advanced Home Audio with Daniel and Tegin Conlon of Daniel Conlon Architects and Nicole Charney of Advanced Home Audio

124 New England Home Connecticut spring 2015

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A Mudroom In Name Only.

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Life

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Custom designed solutions for every room and lifestyle.

CALL US AT 888-THE-CLOSET OR 203-957-3304 TO SCHEDULE A COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATION TODAY! To see more, visit our Norwalk showroom at 356 Ely Avenue or our website at www.closetandstorageconcepts.com/norwalk. ©2015 Closet and Storage Concepts. All Rights Reserved.

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12/15/14 5:13 PM

Design Life

1

2

David Sloane

In February, some of the area’s most respected designers gathered at

Lillian August Design Center

in Norwalk for a designer round-table discussion.

The informal gathering was a chance for designers to discuss trends, best practices for using social media, and other issues important to their business. The forum was lively, and attendees welcomed the opportunity to learn from one another.

Everyone enjoyed a delicious lunch at the recently relaunched LA Café by Festivities located within the showroom.

3

4

5

(1) Lillian August’s John Weiss speaks with the group (2) New England Home’s Roberta Thomas Mancuso with Charlotte Barnes (3) New England Home’s Stacy Kunstel with Victoria Vandamm (4) Connie

Cooper, Janet Hiltz, and Michelle Morgan Harrison (5) Gathering at the LA Café by Festivities (6) Jennifer Orr, Alex Smith, Elizabeth Ethridge McGann, and Sharon McCormick (7) Fiona Leonard and Lauren Cooke (8) Céline Derreumaux and Shannon Manchester (9) Kirsten Arrix and Birgit Anich (10) Susan Glick and Holly Russo 6

8

7

9

10

126 New England Home Connecticut spring 2015

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DANIEL CONLON ARCHITECTS Daniel Conlon AIA LEED AP PO Box 418 Georgetown, CT 06829 (203) 544 7988 www.dconlonarchitects.com

Custom Homes Renovations Estate Care

WESTPORT

203-227-4134

GREENWICH

203-637-3210

www.wrightbuild.com

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Design Life

1

(1) Debra Herbertson (2) Lynn Garelick and Alex Lanuk (3) New

2

England Home’s Roberta Thomas Mancuso with Amy Eisenberg and Karen Davis (4) Donna Bonafide, Pierrette “PC” Schnell, Hilary Carlin, and Jenine Beck (5) Susan Reed and Barbara Schmidt (6) Rochelle Samuels, Andee Schell, Karen Varsano, and Catherine Cleare 3

4

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David Sloane

Could there be a better place to spend a cold winter’s night than Terrain in Westport?

Lush plants, garden accoutrements, and delicious scents all help to warm the soul. Members of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) Connecticut gathered at the shop in February to hear Terrain style specialist Debra Herbertson share her approach to “Bringing the Outdoors In.” Herbertson discussed techniques for creating plant arrangements that are richly composed with interesting textures, colors, and containers.

rebecca reynolds design

NEW CANAAN KITCHENS rebeccareynoldsdesign.com

203-972-8300

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Architecture

Interiors

Landscape

Master Planning

visit our new website: jmkarchitects.com

JMKA | architects A-List Finalist HOBI Award Winner Innovation and Design Awards Greenwich | 203.698.8888 Westport | 203.222.1222

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Trade Notes

New and noteworthy happenings in the Connecticut design business

ASID’s Connecticut chapter has a busy spring planned, with events geared toward design students. The March 24 Design Directions is an evening of socializing and dinner with a presentation by designer Kia Weatherspoon.

As part of the affair, the chapter will launch its first annual CHAIRity Challenge. Each participating design school will be given two Queen Anne–style chairs that students will refinish and reupholster. The completed chairs will be displayed at several Fairfield County stores in late April, and silent auction bids will be gathered. When the auction results are announced at the May 20 Design Matters Forum, the proceeds will be shared with the local charity Her Haven. Wilton, (860) 730-2955, asidct.org

After a decade in Guilford, Fletcher Cameron has opened a new showroom in New Haven’s vibrant Ninth Square Historic District. The stylish new space shows off the company’s many ideas and materials for creating custom fletcher cameron’s kitchens, including new showroom Box Kitchens, the firm’s innovative modular cabinetry and appliance system geared especially for smaller spaces. New Haven, (203) 777-

Julie Bidwell

Geoffrey Walsky, owner of Fairfield County Antique and Design Center, and Travis Worrell, of Westport Auction, have joined forces to launch a new company called Simply Estated. The new venture is an online company offering people who are moving, downsizing, or renovating the opportunity to sell items online. It’s convenient both for homeowners who don’t want the labor of holding an estate sale and for people looking for just the right piece for their own homes.

The website shows professional photos of items for sale and offers all the important details, such as the dimension, description, and condition of each piece. The company also offers shipping. simplyestated.com.

Fans of Heather Grahling’s popular decorating blog, Vivid Hue, will be pleased to know that she has a new brick-and-mortar (well, clapboard-and-shingle) shop in the works. The 1880s cottage is a cozy 500 square feet, and Grahling plans to fill it with fun gifts and unique items for the home, creating a storefront that embodies her own exuberant style. The opening is slated for late April. Farmington, grahling’s coming shop, via instagram

vividhuehome.blogspot.com

simplyestated.com

We were saddened to learn of the death of Kelly Wright, co-owner with his brother, Chris, of Wright Building Company. Kelly, who was just fifty-seven when he passed away suddenly, in January, was featured in our winter edition of New England Home Connecticut as the subject of “Five Questions” in our Perspectives section.

Chris and Kelly started their business in 1985, and over the years built a reputation for fine home building, additions and renovations, and estate care services. The company Kelly Wright has won a number of awards, including a 2007 HOBI award and the 1998 University of Connecticut’s Family Business of the Year award. Norwalk, (203) 227-4134, wrightbuildingcompany.com

(860) 677-0301, vividhue.blogspot.com

7707, fletchercameron.com, boxkitchens.com.

— Edited by Paula M. Bodah 130 New England Home Connecticut spring 2015

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The First Thing We Build Is Trust 1 8 R E Y N O L D S S T R E E T | N O RWA L K , C T | ( 2 0 3 ) 8 3 1 - 8 3 0 0 | W W W. S W B U I L D I N G R E M O D E L I N G . C O M

BioNova速 Natural Pool

Bio-Nova Natural Pool

creating distinctive landscapes ARTEMIS landscape architects, inc. | 203.683.1808 | www.artemisLA.com

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calendar Junior League of Hartford Decorator’s Showhouse April 25–May 17

April The Aldrich at 50 Through April 5

Nationally renowned master floral designer Ruth Loiseau will design eight floral arrangements celebrating the spring season. In addition to the floral arranging demonstration, there will be a slide show featuring the five administrations that Loiseau worked for as a White House floral designer. 10 a.m., registration required. $35 members, $45 non-members. Garden Education Center of Greenwich, Cos Cob, (203) 869-9242, gecgreenwich.org Influence and Evolution: Fiber Sculpture Then and Now April 24–May 3

Take a trip through time and explore the evolution of fiber art from the 1960s to the present at Browngrotta Arts. The 1960s and 1970s were a time of exciting change and innovation in fiber art as the medium made the jump from wall hang-

Ritzi Jacobi, Breeze (2000)

ings to three-dimensional sculptures.

See how artists from that formative era influenced sculpture arts in the decades that followed. Wilton, (203) 834-0623, browngrotta.com Lyme Art Association’s Elected Artist Exhibition April 24–June 5

Lyme Art Association’s most respected artists join together for a group show, carrying on the tradition of the Lyme Art Colony artists who first began showing their work in 1902. Old Lyme, (860) 4347802, lymeartassociation.org

May Habitat for Humanity of Coastal Fairfield County’s 30th Anniversary Gala May 2

Celebrate three decades of creating homes for needy families at the Habitat for Humanity 30th Anniversary Gala at the Wee Burn Beach Club in Darien.

There will be dancing, dining, a live auction, and plenty of fun. 6:30 p.m.– 11 p.m., ticket prices vary depending on donation level. Please visit habitatcfc.org for details.

Near and Far Aid House Tour May 8

This has become one of the most anticipated spring house tours in New England. See some of the most extraordinary homes in Westport, Southport, and Fairfield’s Greenfield Hill enclave.

ROSELAND COTTAGE PLANT SALE MAY 9 Kick off the spring planting season at the Roseland Cottage Plant Sale. A variety of annuals and perennials will be offered, along with cuttings from Henry Bowen’s original boxwood. A silent auction featuring a variety of gift packages will raise money for local ­student scholarship funds. 9 a.m.–noon.

Free admission. Woodstock, (860) 9284074, historicnewengland.org

courtesy historic New England

Ruth Loiseau: From the White House to Your House April 23

courtesy browngrotta Arts

The Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum will mark its 50th anniversary with a series of overlapping exhibits that celebrate the museum’s legacy and influence on the contemporary art scene. Standing in the Shadows of Love: The Aldrich Collection 1964–1974, Part 2, focuses on Larry Aldrich’s early collection, while six contemporary artists whose work is influenced by art and culture from the same era are also featured. Tuesday–Sunday noon–5 p.m., closed Mondays. Ridgefield, (203) 438-4519, aldrichart.org

Courtesy Junior League of Hartford

Courtesy The Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum

Left to right: Ellsworth Kelly, Yellow Piece (1966); Richard Artschwager, Pyramidal Object (1967)

Every three years the Junior League of Hartford works with designers to make over a local home, transforming the interiors and landscape. The 2015 house is a Tudor-style dwelling with Old World charm. In addition to viewing the grandly redecorated home, attendees can enjoy a catered lunch and a gift boutique.

Wednesday 11 a.m.–2 p.m., Thursday and Friday 11 a.m.–2 p.m. and 5 p.m.–8 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 11 a.m.–5 p.m.

64 Orchard Road, West Hartford, (860) 233-4300, jlhartford.org

The 1846 Roseland Cottage, Woodstock

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Start the day with a breakfast at the Patterson Club, featuring a presentation by celebrity designer Alexa Hampton.

E XC E P T IO NA L Q UA L I T Y C U STOM FA B R IC AT ION Breakfast 9:15 a.m.–10:45 a.m.; $65.

Tour 10 a.m.–4 p.m.; tickets are $65 in advance and $75 the day of the tour.

(203) 259-1710, nearandfaraid.org

F U L L WO R K R O OM C A PA B I L I T Y

Trade Secrets May 16–17

Trade Secrets celebrates its 15th year with a two-day event geared to gardening enthusiasts. Day one features a rare plant and garden antiques sale at Lion Rock Farm in Sharon. Day two offers a tour featuring four spectacular gardens, including event organizer Bunny ­Williams’s own expansive grounds. Proceeds will go to Women’s Support Services of Northwest Connecticut. Admission for plant sale: Early buying, 8 a.m., $125 includes breakfast; regular buying, 10 a.m.–3 p.m., $40. Garden tour 10 a.m.–4 p.m., $60 in advance and $70 on the day of the tour, tradesecretsct.com Brimfield Antique Show May 12–17

Time to cross the border to Massachusetts for the renowned Brimfield Antique Show.

Considered one of the best and biggest antique and flea markets in the country, this show features more than 6,000 dealers selling everything from vintage bric-abrac to fine antiques. Show hours and admission vary depending on field and venue location. See brimfieldshow.com for details.

June Darien House Tour—Homes with Heart June 4

This inaugural house tour offers the chance to see some of Darien’s most beautiful homes. The tour will showcase

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calendar

a handful of homes chosen for their unique architecture, historical significance, environmentally conscious design, and interiors. 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Advance purchase tickets $55 for tour, $75 for tour and lunch, $65 the day of the event at the First Congregational Church of Darien.

(203) 655-0491, d ­ arienhousetour.org Garden Conservancy Open Day June 7

Tour two of Fairfield County’s most beautiful private gardens, in Sandy Hook and Ridgefield, through the Garden Conservancy. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. $21 members, $35 non-members. gardenconservancy.org

Constance Schiano

The Mayflower Grace

day of design June 13–14 Day of Design will once again take place at The Mayflower Grace, a Relais & ­Chateaux hotel, situated in Washington.

Day of Design includes panels with renowned interior designers, architects, stylists, and industry VIPS, a sumptuous lunch on a porch overlooking the gardens, and a “Meet the Designers” cocktail party. Last year’s panelists included Robert Couturier, Robert Passal, and Philip Gorrivan, among many others.

Prices start at $170 for the day, with accommodation packages available for the weekend. For event details contact Sarah Parker Young, (203) 982-3403, ­sarahparkeryoung@gmail.com

Connecticut’s Historic Gardens Day June 28

Seven of Connecticut’s historic gardens will host tours and other special events.

Pack a picnic lunch and discover some of the area’s prettiest and most interesting gardens. Noon–4 p.m. See the Connecticut Historic Gardens website for details, cthistoricgardens.org.

—Edited by Lynda Simonton Editor’s note: Events are subject to change.

Please confirm details with the event organizer prior to your visit.

134 New England Home Connecticut spring 2015

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design. live. work.

JONATHAN WALLEN PHOTOGRAPHY

15 RiverPost Road, SuiteSuite 225 |#1 Wilton, CT CT 980 Boston Road, | Darien,

W E S T P O R T, C T VDGARCH.COM | 203-283-1561

203.761.9943 | www.berkshireconstruction.com

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NEW IN THE SHOWROOMS

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6 1. Ride ’Em Cowhide Pillows crafted from laser-cut cowhide are luxuriously rustic.

Find them in a variety of colors and shapes at Olley Court.

Fibre by Austin available at Olley Court, Ridgefield, (203) 438-1270, olleycourt.com

2. On the Ropes This rope bowl is so realistic it’s hard to believe it’s made of cast marble and resin, and not the real thing. Use it to add a nautical touch to any room. The Beehive, Fairfield, (203) 955-1122, thebeehivefairfield. com

3. Vintage Inspired The Zenith pendant is based on a nineteenth-century design, but the generous scale makes it oh-so-modern.

Waterworks, Greenwich, (203) 869-7766, waterworks.com

4. It’s a Wrap These petite tables wrapped in Rodolph fabric and found only at Axel Interiors are great for tight spaces where you need a spot to perch a cocktail.

Axel Interiors, Norwalk, (203) 299-3155, axelinteriors.com

5. Swing Thing Gaze up at the stars or bask in the sun in this ultra-cozy swing chair from Dedon.

This looks like the perfect spot to curl up with a good book on a warm spring day.

Lillian August, Norwalk, (203) 8473314, lillianaugust. com

6. Colorful Classic Brown Jordan’s classic Tamiami furniture now comes in a rainbow of colors.

Mix and match from a variety of frame and strap colors.

Patio.com, Westport, Ridgefield, Greenwich, and Stamford, (800) 728-4626, patio.com

136 NEW ENGLAND HOME CONNECTICUT SPRING 2015

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LaBellaSpaidal.com

203-659-0402

ONE MORGAN AVENUE NORWALK, CT 203-449-3190 DIMEOCC.COM

Dedicated to Exceeding Expectations Specializing in Additions and Home Renovations

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New in the Showrooms

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1. Grounded Casually elegant Ashley Hicks Textures are the latest designer collection from Lee Jofa’s Groundworks.

The inspirations are wide ranging—from Italian woodcuts to Hicks’s own curvy scribbles.

DesignSourceCT, Hartford, (860) 9513145, designsourcect. com

2. Luminous Blooms Jardin Secret, the latest pattern from the French porcelain house Philippe Deshoulières, inspires us to host a spring garden party.

LCRwestport, Westport, (203) 2218131, lcrwestport. com

3. Well-Rounded The Brigitte Lounge Chair has a fabulous sculptural quality thanks to channel tufting. It’s finished in chic navy felt with brushed brass legs.

Jonathan Adler, Westport, (203) 2214547, and Greenwich, (203) 622-1476, jonathanadler.com

4. Boho Chic Hand-cut capiz shells inlayed in an intricate pattern create a coffee table with plenty of interest.

The straightforward round shape keeps the piece, from Palacek, grounded.

Wakefield Design Center, 203-3580818, wakefielddesign center.com

5. Family Jewels THG’s Baccaratcrystal faucet handles add glamour to the bath. Klaff’s, South Norwalk and Danbury, (800) 552-3371, klaffs. com; and Modern Plumbing Supply, Berlin, New Milford, and Middletown, modernplumbing.biz

6. Multicultured Console Laura Kirar’s Arrowhead credenza demonstrates what happens when English Art Deco meets Japanese aesthetics.

Classic Home Furnishings, (203) 783-1312, Milford, classichome furnishings.net

­— Edited by Lynda Simonton

138 New England Home Connecticut spring 2015

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Resources A guide to the products and professionals in this issue’s featured homes LOVE STORY PAGES 80–87 Interior designer: Karen Bow, Karen Bow Interiors, Darien, (914) 953-1517, karenbow@mac.com Pages 80–81: Rings wallcovering from Phillip Jeffries, phillipjeffries.com; trio of mirrors from Lillian August, lillianaugust. com; Hail Navy mantel color from Benjamin Moore, benjaminmoore.com; dining table from Restoration Hardware, restorationhardware.com; dining chairs from Restoration Hardware, with seat cushions fabricated by Artistic Upholstery, Westport, (203) 849-8907, with fabric by C&C Milano, cec-milano.com; rug from Lillian August; wall light fixture from Restoration Hardware.

Page 82: Sofa from Lillian August; lounge chair fabric from C&C Milano; sisal rug and area rug from Stark, starkcarpet.com.

Page 83: Settee from Lillian August; table

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from Holly Hunt, hollyhunt.com; all fabrics from C&C Milano.

Pages 84–85: Rug from Lillian August; Rings wallcovering from Phillip Jeffries; sofa by Cisco Brothers, ciscobrothers.com; burlap and print chair fabrics and pillow fabrics from C&C Milano.

Pages 86–87: Red vinyl wallcovering by Wolf-Gordon, wolfgordon.com; Hexagons David Hicks rug from Stark; Nixon side table from Jonathan Adler, jonathanadler. com; Milo Baughman leather recliner from Design Within Reach, dwr.com; blue damask wallpaper from Anthropologie, anthropologie.com; headboard from Crate & Barrel, crateandbarrel.com; bed fabricated

by Artistic Upholstery; bedding from Home Boutique of Greenwich, homeboutique. com; rug from Stark; crystal chandelier from Fig Linens, figlinens.com; tulip table from Montage Vintage, montagevintage.com; bluevelvet settee fabric from Romo, romo.com.

STAR TURN PAGES 88–99 Interior designer: Cindy Rinfret, Rinfret Ltd., Greenwich, (203) 622-0000, rinfretltd.com.

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Architect: Joseph Matto, Joseph Matto Architects, Shelton, (475) 282-4183, joemattoarchitects. com Builder: Brindisi & Yaroscak Custom Builders, Old Greenwich, (203) 292-8062, brindisiandyaroscak.com Pages 88–89: Stair carpet from Mark Inc., markinccarpets.com; antique chandelier from Charles Winston (no longer in business); wallpaper by Gracie, graciestudio.com.

Pages 90–91: Antique chandelier from Charles Winston, rug from Abadjian Collection, abadjian.com.

Pages 92–93: Rug from J.D. Staron, jdstaron.com; custom coffee table from Rinfret Home & Garden, rinfretltd.com; sofa from Pearson Company, pearsonco. com; chairs in front of fireplace and floor lamps from Restoration Hardware, restorationhardware.com; chandelier from Dennis and Leen, dennisandleen.com; drapery fabric by Zimmer & Rohde, z­ immerrohde.com; pillow from Rinfret Home & Garden.

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Rob Sanders Architects LLC The Carriage House 436 Danbury Road Wilton, Connecticut 06897 p 203.761.0144 e info@rsarchct.com w rsarchct.com

140 New England Home Connecticut spring 2015

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Pages 94–95: Pillows and custom pedestal table from Rinfret Home & Garden; wallcovering by Zimmer & Rohde; floor by Country Floors, countryfloors.com; lantern from Charles Edwards, charlesedwards.com; kitchen cabinetry by Clive Christian, clive.com.

Pages 96–99: Outdoor furniture from McKinnon & Harris, mckinnonharris.com.

FUN HOUSE PAGES 100–109 Interior design: Jonathan Bee, beestyled.com Upholstery workroom: Leslie

Hoss Flood Interiors, Millerton, N.Y., (518) 789-0640, lesliefloodinteriors.com Pages 100–103: Grasscloth wallpaper from MR Architecture + Decor, mrarch.com; stone urns and statues from Pergola Home, pergolahome.com; vintage stone deer from Plain & Elegant Antiques, plainandelegantantiques. com; vintage mirrors and pillows from Clover Design, cloverdesignonline.com; reclaimed-wood coffee table from J. Seitz & Co., jseitz.com; glass vases from Gilmor Glass, gilmorglass.com; cardboard wall hanging by Henry C. Klimowicz, henryklimowicz.com.

Page 106–107: Vintage mirror and pillows from Clover Design; stone chemistry table from R.T. Facts, rtfacts.com.

Pages 108–109: Bedding from John Robshaw, johnrobshaw. com. •

Factory and Showroom

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spring 2015 New England Home Connecticut 141

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Ad Index

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A helpful resource for finding the advertisers featured in this issue A&J Custom Draperies and Shades 78 Advanced Home Audio 20 Amy Aidinis Hirsch 2–3 Antonio M Studio 40 Aqua Pool & Patio, Inc. 56–57 Artemis Landscape Architects 131 Austin Ganim Landscape Design, LLC 58–59

JMKA | architects 129 Karp Associates 139 Kebabian’s 16 Klaff’s back cover LaBella Spaidal 137

Berkshire Wilton Partners, LLC 135

Lillian August Furnishings + Design 29

Charles Hilton Architects 6–7

Linda Ruderman Interiors 14–15

Closet and Storage Concepts 125

The Linen Shop 110

Coldwell Banker Previews International 30

Marianne Donahue Interiors 115

Colony Rug Company, Inc. 133

Michael Smith Architects 111

Connecticut Stone Supplies 60–61

Morgan Harrison Home 8–9

Connie Cooper Designs 24

New Canaan Kitchens 128

Construction Management Group, LLC 121

Nukitchens 70–71

Country Club Homes, Inc. 28

Olga Adler Interiors 139

Daniel Conlon Architects 127

Orrick & Company 134

Designs by Town and Country 45

ProSource of Stamford 48

DiMeo Construction 137

Rachel Volpone 35

Douglas VanderHorn Architects 54

Rinfret, Ltd. Interior Design & Decoration 23

The Drawing Room 3–4

Rob Sanders Architects 140

Dujardin Design Associates, Inc. 48

Robert Cardello Architects 10–11

Emily Buchanan 19

Robert Dean Architects 21

Emme 112

Runtal North America, Inc. 39

Erskine Associates, LLC 62–63

S&W Building and Remodeling 131

Fairfield County Antique and Design Center 119

Seventy Acres Landscape Architecture 72–73

Finished in Fabric, LLC 143 Fletcher Development 37

Freddy’s Landscape and BioNova Natural Swimming Pools 64–65

Shade & Shutter Systems, Inc. 47 Sharon McCormick Design, LLC 12–13 Shell Decor 26 Shope Reno Wharton 1 Tiefenthaler, Inc. 43

Front Row Kitchens, Inc. 36

Tony Cappoli Interiors 33

Gault Stone 66–67

Torrison Stone and Garden 74–75

Heidi Holzer Design & Decorative Work 49

The Ultimate Bath Store 42

Homefront Farmers, LLC 68–69

Upstate Door, Inc. 41

InnerSpace Electronics, Inc. 31

Visnapuu Design 76–77

///////

CONNECTICUT

Jan Hiltz Interiors, LLC 143

Back Bay Shutter Co., Inc. 117

Fox Hill Builders 27

Call (800) 765-1225 today and subscribe to New England Home Connecticut with the special promotion code DCON10.

J. Namnoun Oriental Rug Gallery inside front cover

New England Home Connecticut, Spring 2015 © 2015 by New England Home Magazine, LLC. All rights reserved. Permission to reprint or quote excerpts granted by written request only. Editorial and advertising office: New England Home Magazine, LLC, 530 Harrison Ave, Ste 302, Boston, MA 02118, (617) 938-3991.

Vita Design Group 135 Wadia Associates inside back cover Wakefield Design Center 79, 122–123 Window Imagination, Inc. 141 Woodmeister Master Builders 25 Wright Building Company 127

142 New England Home Connecticut spring 2015

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The Balding Writing Desk is part of my new Collection Charlotte Barnes. Its mix of brass and leather was inspired by the French Modernist designer Jacques Adnet, who incorporated wood, mirror, leather, parchment, and chromed metals into his pared-down, linear designs. My desk is offered in unlacquered brass, which I love, and the top is covered in an embossed matte leather that is evocative of shagreen in its richness, but without the cost. The collection is being manufactured in Vietnam. We traveled outside Ho Chi Minh City to a suburban district where, among roaming chickens, we chose from hundreds of leather samples to ensure that the desk would have a vintage, yet completely new, look. The goal is for all of my furniture to sit happily in traditional surroundings as well as among modern or contemporary pieces. A “hidden” drawer makes the Balding Writing Desk work as a functional piece or as a console that can be placed behind a sofa or in an entryway or other narrow space—and it is finished so that it can also float freely in a room.

Charlotte Barnes, Charlotte Barnes Interior Design & Decoration, Greenwich, (203) 622-6953, charlottebarnes.com 144 New England Home Connecticut Spring 2015

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