FALL 2026
L I F E A N D C U LT U R E I N T H E C H A M P L A I N VA L L E Y
LIVERY HORSE FARM
BRINGING PEOPLE AND HORSES TOGETHER
DR ALEXANDRA SCHMIDT
ON PROCEDURES TO BOOST SELF-IMAGE AFTER WEIGHT LOSS
PEREGRINE DESIGN/BUILD
DESIGNING FOR THE LONG HAUL
VOLUME 19 NO.4
Ulla Johnson, Frank & Eileen, Aviator Nation, Veronica Beard, Mother, Rag & Bone, Nili Lotan, L'Agence, Enza Costa, Closed, Citizens of Humanity, Velvet, Herno, Favorite Daughter, Amo, Misa, Kinross Cashmere, TWP, Bella Dahl, Rails, Homers, Zadig & Voltaire, Freecity, Pistola, Paige, Gola, Agolde, SPRWMN, Guest in Residence, Frame, Kempton & Co, Staud, Alix of Bohemia, Autry, Freda Salvador, Penelope Chilvers, Tom Ford, Hobo, Frye, Lilla P, Clare V., AG, Apiece Apart, Xirena, The Great, Free People, Z Supply, Moon Boot, Saint Art New York, Kerri Rosenthal, Farm Rio, Sablyn, Sea New York
BURLINGTON | STOWE | MANCHESTER | PROVIDENCE RI
| SHOPCOCOGOOSE.COM
Timeless Craftsmanship + Employee Owned
RYAN BENT PHOTOGRAPHY
Who Will You Become?
At Saint Michael’s College, serious academics and genuine community reinforce one another. You’ll be challenged to think critically, pursue purpose and passion, and create a future that inspires and fulfills you. On our residential campus, professors know you well and support your goals, and classmates become trusted friends, fostering a community you can count on. Here, education is more than what you learn – it’s discovering who you are, finding purpose, and gaining the tools and confidence to make a lasting positive impact.
Think Deeply. Belong Fully. Make a Difference.
Learn more at smcvt.edu
BOARD MEETINGS TO BIG LAUNCHES Find the right space for your team gathering
events@hulalakeside.com | Events at Hula | www.hulalakeside.com
Handcrafted in New Hampshire
Take a tour of our cabinet shop
Custom cabinetry for every room in your home
Work with one of our in-house design professionals
800·999·4994
www.crown-point.com
Lakeshore Vermont Inn and Suites is located right on the beach in Malletts Bay with beautiful views of Lake Champlain and the Green Mountains.
LIFE IS SIMPLE
JUST ADD WATER
76 W Lakeshore Drive, Colchester, VT | 802-655-6371 | www.lakeshorevermont.com
Cheeks_BestOfBurlington_7.875 x 10_WomanWallpaper_Final.pdf
1
7/21/26
1:12 PM
Your skin deserves a strategy.
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
luxur y care of t he ski n
Healthy, beautiful skin isn’t created in one appointment. It’s built with a customized skin strategy designed specifically for you.
cheeks.cc I 802.871.5716
Schedule a complimentary consultation.
fall features
26 MORE THAN A HORSE FARM
For more than 30 years, Livery Horse Farm has brought people and horses together in Hinesburg BY MERYL SIEGMAN
32 THE WEIGHT IS OVER
Dr. Alexandra Schmidt talks about procedures that boost self-image after weight loss
Contents COVER PHOTO BY LINDSAY GARDNER PHOTOGRAPHY
14 | www.bestofburlingtonvt.com
“ E L E VAT E S C H O C O L AT E T O A N E N T I R E LY N E W L E V E L . ”
- M ERYL S
“ H ANDS DOWN THE BEST C H O C O L AT E I N V E R M O N T , M AY B E A N Y W H E R E . ” - H ANNAH R
BURLINGTON,
VERMONTTS
BOUTIQUE C H O C O L AT I E R 180
BBB BBBB
SS,
BBBBBBBBBB,
VT
NUCHOCOLATTCOM
••• SPECIAL SECTION •••
BURLINGTONHOME 38 CROWN POINT CABINETRY BY BRIAN STOWELL
42 SPOTLIGHT ON SLATE INSPIRING DESIGN
46 VERMONT CUSTOM HANDRAILS & METAL WORK BY CANDACE DARR
50 SPOTLIGHT ON A LITTLE SOMETHING A LITTLE OF EVERYTHING
52 RED HOUSE BUILDING | COLCHESTER BY MERYL SIEGMAN
56 RED HOUSE BUILDING | SHELBURNE BY MERYL SIEGMAN
60 ABODE VT BY ELIZABETH PENNEY
64 JOY OF HOME THE PILLOW EFFECT
66 PEREGRINE DESIGN /BUILD BY RACHEL CLOUTIER
Contents
Departments
19 PUBLISHERS’ NOTE 20 ONLINE HUB 22 ART SCENE
Burlington’s first mini museum is nestled inside Church Street’s newest cafe BY WENDIE PECHARSKY
70 MEET ME DOWNTOWN
42
A guide to downtown Burlington’s hot shopping and dining spots
74 FALL HAPPENINGS Calendar of events
FALL 2026 | Best of Burlington | 17
Burlington’s Contemporary Art Gallery
Free and open to the public, all are welcome
Coffee Table Publishing, LLC PO Box 4217 Burlington, Vt. 05406-4217 www.bestofburlingtonvt.com
PUBLISHERS
Robin Gales John Gales COPY EDITOR
Wendie Pecharsky ART DIRECTION/DESIGN
Robbie Alterio ADVERTISING DESIGN
Kitten Creatives WEB DESIGN Sian Fan, Stinger, 2022, digital animation (detail)
135 Church Street Downtown Burlington Wed-Fri: 12-5 pm Sat: 12-8 pm
BCA’s exhibitions are supported in part by the Maslow Family Foundation. Hospitality sponsors: Sugarsnap and Lake Champlain Chocolates. Burlington City Arts is supported in part by the Vermont Arts Council & the National Endowment for the Arts.
BURLINGTONCITYARTS.ORG/EXHIBITIONS
FOR A COLLECTED HOME. BECAU�E YOUR �PACE MATTER�.
Locable ADVERTISING
Robin Gales (802) 299-9086 John Gales (802) 558-2719 coffeetablepublishing@comcast.net
NEW + VINTAGE
FURNI�HING� & DECOR Furniture · Lighting Textiles · Art · Objects
Come wander.
Find something unexpected.
431 Pine Street • Burlington, Vermont • Th | F 12-5, Sat 10-4 • @abode_vt
18 | www.bestofburlingtonvt.com
Keep us posted. Best of Burlington wants to hear from our readers. Correspondence may be addressed to Letters to the Editor, Best of Burlington, PO Box 4217 Burlington, Vt. 05406-4217. Advertising inquiries may be made by emailing ctpublishing@comcast.net or coffeetablepublishing@comcast.net. Best of Burlington is published quarterly by Coffee Table Publishing, LLC, ©2026. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is strictly prohibited. Best of Burlington accepts no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, artwork, or photographs.
PUBLISHERS’ NOTE
A WARM WELCOME TO FALL Fall in Burlington invites us to reconnect with our surroundings, our neighbors, and the places that feel like home. In this issue of Best of Burlington, we celebrate the people and businesses inspiring confidence, connection, and creativity. Dr. Alexandra Schmidt, of Vermont Plastic Surgery, helps patients explore post-weight-loss procedures that restore comfort and build body confidence. At Livery Horse Farm, founder Kim Johanson has created a place where specialneeds children and adults can experience—or rediscover—the joy of riding and the power of the connection. We also step inside the Burlington Art Mini Museum, or BAMM, nestled within the new Artemus Cafe on Church Street. Small in scale but rich in imagination, BAMM brings art into an inviting everyday setting.
This issue also includes a dedicated Home section showcasing the craftsmanship, creativity, and expertise of firms like Slate, Abode VT, Joy of Home, Peregrine Design/Build, Red House Building, and Vermont Handrail & Metalworks, plus a special holiday gift guide from A Little Something. We hope these stories offer a fresh look at the people, places, and ideas shaping our region. From thoughtful care to local art and inspired design, each reflects the energy of our community. We’re glad to share their stories— and hope you’ll join us in supporting the local businesses featured in these pages. Cheers!
John and Robin Gales Publishers
FALL 2026 | Best of Burlington | 19
ONLINE HUB
WWW.BESTOFBURLINGTONVT.COM
Check us out online!
• ONLINE EXCLUSIVES •
FALL 2026
BEST OF BURLINGTON
L I F E A N D C U LT U R E I N T H E C H A M P L A I N VA L L E Y
VOLUME 19 NO.4
LIVERY HORSE FARM
BRINGING PEOPLE AND HORSES TOGETHER
DR ALEXANDRA SCHMIDT
ON PROCEDURES TO BOOST SELF-IMAGE AFTER WEIGHT LOSS
PEREGRINE DESIGN/BUILD
DESIGNING FOR THE LONG HAUL
Author Ann Schreiber shares how a lovable golden retriever inspired a sweet holiday romance about friendship, loneliness, and finding love when you least expect it. Go to www.bestofburlingtonvt.com
SUMMER 2026
MEET THE AUTHOR BEHIND A PAWSITIVELY MERRY MEET CUTE
SIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER What does our newsletter include? • A summary of our most popular articles and comments from our readers • Local event listings from our calendar • Special offers from Best of Burlington and local businesses • Exclusive insights into upcoming features and articles, and much more . . .
Join the conversation online... www.bestof burlingtonvt.com Share your comments on our site or on social media, or drop us a line at ryan@bestofburlingtonvt.com. You might even see your name in our next issue.
ENTERTAIN WITH EASE USING FRESH FALL FLAVORS This Baked Feta with Roasted California Grapes recipe delivers warm and rich flavors while being incredibly easy to prepare in a rush. See the recipe and a video at www.bestofburlingtonvt.com 20 | www.bestofburlingtonvt.com
Click on our online calendar to see local events happening in our community, and you can add your own event for free!
FROM SHAKY TO SHAKY-ER
If you don’t know what’s wrong, know where to go.
AN ER EXPERIENCE TO SUPPORT YOUR PET—AND YOU Around-the-clock ER: You can’t schedule an emergency; VEG is open 24 hours every day, including holidays Call and speak with a doctor: Get answers from an expert, or come right in and see a doctor right away No waiting and worrying: We’ll prioritize your pet; paperwork can wait Stay with your pet: We keep people and their pets together throughout all phases of treatment 225 Dorset Street, Suite A, South Burlington, VT (802) 255-4032 veg.com
We keep your pet comfy: We’ll sit on the floor with your pet, if that’s how they’re more comfortable We treat all pets: Dogs, cats, rabbits, snakes…if it fits through our door, we’ll treat it!
ART SCENE | ARTEMUS CAFÉ AND BURLINGTON ART MINI MUSEUM (BAMM) BY WENDIE PECHARSKY | PHOTOS COURTESY OF MICHAEL CHASE BY MARGARET THOMAS | PHOTOS COURTESY OF SOCAPA
BURLINGTON'S FIRST MINI MUSEUM IS NESTLED INSIDE A COZY NEIGHBORHOOD CAFE
M
ichael Chase, owner of the newly opened Artemus Café and Burlington Art Mini Museum (BAMM), “wanted to have a place where people could go and look at art for free and not have to buy anything, like in a museum.” That, he says, “has been my motive all along, and it colors everything I do.”
ART HOP, BOTTLED Michael says that with his new café and mini art museum, he hopes to “capture the spirit of Art Hop in a bottle.” Art Hop, a free family-friendly event run by Burlington’s South End Arts + Business Association (SEABA), features more than a 100 locations over a two-mile stretch of Pine Street, allowing people to not only view curated art exhibitions, but also go inside artists’ studios 22 | www.bestofburlingtonvt.com
and have the opportunity to meet and talk to the artists themselves.
A DOWNTOWN PARALLEL Though on a smaller scale, Artemus Café and BAMM, is doing for the Church Street Marketplace what Art Hop has done for the South End, and that’s been Michael’s aim from the beginning. An artist himself and the son of gallery owners, he says, “I’m on a mission to uplift and curate local artists in a collection of paintings for the public to enjoy. The main goal is to display our local talent in an easy-to-digest format.”
local artists, including some by Michael. Also represented are Burlington-area visual and fine artists Wesley J. Turner, Chip Haggerty, Kalin Thomas, and Dan Tomaino (see sidebar).
FROM GRIND TO GALLERY The idea for BAMM evolved organically. Michael had been exhibiting his art at Cosmic Grind, the coffee shop that formerly occupied the café’s space, as part of a mobile installation. Then, when he had the opportunity to lease the space after Cosmic Grind vacated it, Artemus Café and the Burlington Art Mini Museum were born. And although the enterprise is still in its infancy, talk of franchising has already been raised.
LOCAL ARTISTS FIRST Most of the art featured at BAMM will be part of its permanent collection, but about 25 percent will be for sale. All the artworks are by
KEEPING IT A ONE-OFF Michael, however, is against the idea. “To me, my art is like creating this whole
FALL 2026 | Best of Burlington | 23
Opposite page: The Artemus Cafe and Burlington Art Mini Museum, conveniently located on Church Street, features drip coffee from Brio Coffeeworks. This page: Some of the works displayed at BAMM: (clockwise from right) Cat Burglars, Wesley J Turner, collage on canvas; Hazy Sky, Dan Tomaino, ink, acrylic, and aerosol on canvas; and Dark Barns, Michael Chase, acrylic on canvas. Next page (in sidebar): Frontiers in Lobotomy, Kalin Thomas, print on paper.
concept,” he says, “and I don’t want to franchise it. I already have big people calling me, saying we could franchise this and make tons of money, but I learned early on that going too big too fast can kill a business. I want to keep this as a one-off, like a one of one.”
COFFEE, THEN ART He hopes people will come to the café, located on the second block of the Church Street Marketplace, for a good cup of drip coffee from Brio Coffeeworks, a local, woman-owned specialty roaster, and stay to admire, and perhaps purchase, a painting, sculpture, or piece of pottery. In addition, Artemus Café serves espresso drinks, including lattes, Americanos, cappuccinos, and cortados, and flavored lattes. Matcha, chai, hot cocoa, flavored drinks (vanilla, lavender, mocha, pistachio, maple, and honey), and light baked goods from local bakeries are also available. 24 | www.bestofburlingtonvt.com
Artemus Café and BAMM are open every day, Monday through Sunday, from 10am to 3pm.
Artemus Café & Burlington Art Mini Museum 104-1A Church Street Burlington, VT www.artemuscafe.com
BAMM Artists’ Guide Learn more about the local artists whose work is now on exhibit at Artemus Café/BAMM.
Michael Chase: Michael is an artist deeply immersed in the captivating realm of surrealism. Through vibrant colors and imaginative brushstrokes, he explores the boundless possibilities of the human mind. www.michaelchaseart.com @michaelchaseart Chip Haggerty: A self-taught artist, Chip won a blue ribbon at Art Hop 1995 for his largescale, one-of-a-kind artist’s books made with sleeping bags and bed-sheet fabric. He has also used supermarket paper bags and other found or repurposed materials to make his art. www.palmtreepapers.com @palmtreepapers Kalin Thomas: An artist and scholar steeped in Renaissance technique and Stoic philosophy, Kalin blends the ideals of historical art with contemporary themes. www.kalinthomasart.com @kalinthomasart Dan Tomaino: Dan is known in the local art community as the founder of Burlington Ink Zone, an art project and ink-drawing business. His intricate black-and-white pen-and-ink illustrations frequently spotlight natural landscapes, trees, and architecture. @burlington_ink_zone Wesley J. Turner: Much of Wesley’s work is figurative and abstract, using mainly acrylic paint, oil pastel, and aerosol. His work is expressive, often bright and playful, with serious themes related to current events and nature. www.bighomiewes.com/artwork @wjtartwork
ADIRONDACK AUDIOLOGY Reconnect with the people you love Call today to schedule a hearing evaluation Offering personalized hearing health care and the latest premium hearing aid technology for over 40 years
Shelburne, VT 802-922-9545
Plattsburgh, NY 518-562-0054
Saranac Lake, NY 518-891-0487
Potsdam, NY 315-276-3484
adirondackaudiology.com
FALL 2026 | Best of Burlington | 25
BY MERYL SIEGMAN PHOTOS BY LINDSAY GARDNER PHOTOGRAPHY AND COURTESY OF KIM JOHANSON
Kim and her horse, Freiminka Hero, a Belgium Warmblood. Opposite page: One of Kim's students, Kaia, leading a horse. 26 | www.bestofburlingtonvt.com
More Than a
HORSE FARM For more than 30 years, Livery Horse Farm has brought people and horses together in Hinesburg
W
hen you pass Livery Horse Farm on Lavigne Hill Road in Hinesburg, it may seem like just another horse farm. However, if you explore a little further, you’ll discover it’s anything but. It’s a place of growth, learning and healing for people of all ages and walks of life. It offers summer camp, after-school programs, lessons, and trail rides, with a mission of providing a safe and welcoming environment for children of all ages. but it’s also home to another barn, one devoted to therapeutic programs for children and adults, making horses accessible to people with a wide range of needs and abilities.
THE HEALING POWER OF HORSES Kim Johanson, the founder of Livery Horse Farm, explains that she added this component during the COVID pandemic, offering different options such as PATH therapeutic riding for both children and adults, as well as equine-assisted psychotherapy through Reins of Heart, where her daughter, Gabrielle, is a licensed clinical social worker and equine specialist, who offers equine-assisted psychotherapy. Working in partnership FALL 2026 | Best of Burlington | 27
Clockwise from above, Charlotte, Kim's granddaughter, with her horse. Charlotte and Kaia practicing balance while riding. Kim and Freiminka in the therapy barn. Kim working with her horse.
with horses, Gabrielle helps people navigate trauma, anxiety, life transitions, and other challenges in a setting that offers an alternative to traditional office-based therapy. Kim says, “I understand what horses can do for people with neurodiversity, such as autism. They tend to be drawn to horses because they are different to deal with than humans and very easy 28 | www.bestofburlingtonvt.com
to understand. Horses sense things intuitively and are believed to be able to sync up with the heartbeat of the people around them. I’ve been doing this a long time and am always amazed by the connection they make with horses.” She explains that sometimes the first words a person on the spectrum ever utters are to a horse. She continues, “I think a lot about how horses help people. Their experience here might be the first time in their life they actually have control over something, especially when they might not have any at home, because riding teaches them to guide the horse with the reins and their legs. Horses will do what they ask—it’s a very powerful experience.” It takes special animals to work with such clients. In fact, Kim and Gabrielle are often called in as consultants to therapeutic riding centers, helping to match them with appropriate horses. She says, “We handpick them. They are usually much older, and some are even rescues themselves. Horses all have different jobs in life. Here, we have a good assortment that excel in therapy.” There is even a certified therapy horse on the farm that visits hospitals and nursing homes to enrich the lives of patients.
HOW IT ALL BEGAN It all started in 1992, when Kim Johanson and her husband, Scott, bought the old Lavigne cow farm in Hinesburg, converting the original structure into a horse barn using wood from the silo. Kim is an accomplished equestrian and instructor, with over 25 years of experience teaching beginner through advanced riders in hunter, jumper, and equitation. Over the years, she has coached numerous children in shows and events, ranging from Beginner 4-H and VHSA to the Junior A circuit and NEHC. She is an Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning and holds an AS in Equine Studies, an Equine Appraisal Certification, and is in the process of becoming a PATH Intl. Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor (CTRI), a credential for professionals in equine-assisted services who provide riding instruction of therapeutic value to people with disabilities.
ALL IN THE FAMILY Kim and her extended family enjoy life together at the farm. Scott has been an integral FALL 2026 | Best of Burlington | 29
Above and right: Kim and Freiminka in the field outside the therapy barn. Kim giving Kaia her riding lesson.
part of Livery from the very beginning. When he and Kim bought the Lavigne cow farm, he built the interior of the original barn by hand. For the next 35 years, while also working full-time, he handled much of the farm’s upkeep. His handiwork and years of hard work helped create the place that generations of family members, riders, and visitors continue to enjoy today. Grandchildren Levi, Charlotte, and Laine are often at the barn, busy advancing their own horsemanship skills.
LESSONS FOR LIFE With over 35 years of teaching at Livery, Kim certainly knows schoolchildren—hundreds of them. She says, “I’ve noticed some changes in kids, perhaps because of their constant use of technology. What stands out is that the kids in the five- to eight-year-old age group who are really into the horses. They’re the ones who know how to clean horses’ feet and tack, walk them on a lead line, bathe them, and ride them at a walk and trot. These skills build a lot of confidence in these kids, 30 | www.bestofburlingtonvt.com
some of whom don’t often barely know how to tie their shoes.” She goes on to say, “The children learn empathy from horses. A horse will teach them every emotion there is to learn, whether good or bad, even if it means experiencing loss, which helps them learn the grieving process. The students who stay throughout the programs learn how to ride, but also do the work and become a horse person, as well.”
BACK IN THE SADDLE For adults who might be inspired to relive childhood memories of horseback riding, or a former equestrian fantasizing about getting back in the saddle, Livery Horse Farm is the perfect place to get started. Kim says, “We’re seeing a huge uptick in people calling us for riding lessons. It’s often the same story—they used to ride, their kids are grown up, they’re not working full-time, and now they want to reconnect with horses. I help them find different ways to enjoy being with them, whether it’s a walk/trot lesson or a trail ride.” She takes the time to talk to these prospective new clients about their expectations, telling them that it’s okay not to ride at the same level they once did. “I help them understand that this is the new normal,” she concludes.
A LIFELONG CONNECTION After more than half a century, Livery Horse Farm continues to evolve, but the relationship between people and horses remains at the heart of everything Kim Johanson has created. Some visitors to the farm arrive as children, learning to groom a horse and hold the reins for the first time. Young and old people with special needs come to find confidence, connection or healing, while adults return decades after they last sat in a saddle to pursue a childhood passion. Whatever brings them to Lavigne Hill Road, Kim believes horses have something to teach them. “Our journey with horses can evolve over time,” she says. At Livery Horse Farm, that journey can begin at almost any age—and lead somewhere unexpected.
OUTERKNOWN
Livery Horse Farm 601 Lavigne Hill Road Hinesburg, VT 802-888-3498 www.liveryhorsefarm.com
WOMEN
MEN
KIDS
JEWELRY
ACCESSORIES
GIFTS
BURLINGTON VERMONT • WNDNWVS.COM • 802-540-2529 • FREE SHIPPING
FALL 2026 | Best of Burlington | 31
PHOTOS COURTESY OF VERMONT PLASTIC SURGERY
Dr. Alexandra Schmidt talks about procedures that boost self-image after weight loss
T
he health benefits of weight loss are undeniable. Patients often report having more energy, less joint pain, improved mobility, and a more active lifestyle. These days, GLP-1s, such as semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy), tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Zepbound), and others, are helping many people achieve significant weight loss after years of struggling with obesity, diabetes, sleep
32 | www.bestofburlingtonvt.com
The Weight Is Over apnea, or metabolic disease like hypertension. But substantial weight loss often marks the beginning of a new challenge: changes to the body’s largest organ, the skin. After losing the weight, excess skin, weakened tissue, and changes in body shape often remain, affecting everything, from your clothing choices to your self-image. We asked Dr. Alexandra Schmidt of Vermont Plastic Surgery, a Board-certified plastic surgeon with fellowship training in body contouring and facial rejuvenation following weight loss, for ways to manage your transformation and look and feel your best.
THE NEXT STEP “Patients commonly feel frustrated that despite their hard work, diet, and exercise, they still don’t look the way they hoped,” says Dr. Schmidt. “For these patients, excess skin, often around the abdomen, arms, thighs, breasts, back, and neck, represents the final obstacle between achieving better health and fully embracing the life they’ve worked so hard to build.” Though skin that has been overstretched for many years often remains so, even after massive weight loss, this obstacle can be overcome with body contouring procedures.
Following massive weight loss, many patients have significant amounts of extra loose skin remaining. Extended brachioplasty removes fat and loose skin from the arms and upper side of the chest, creating a more defined profile. Similarly, chest lifts and circumferential body lifts (see below) remove extra skin from the torso to give massive weight loss patients the fit appearance they worked hard to achieve.
“Procedures may include tummy tucks, arm lifts, thigh lifts, lower body lifts, breast reshaping, liposuction, or combinations of these surgeries tailored to each individual’s anatomy and goals,” she says. “Rather than focusing solely on removing excess skin, modern body contouring aims to restore proportion, improve function, and create natural-looking, beautiful results. But it’s important for patients to see a surgeon experienced with massive weight loss patients and their specific needs.” Body contouring procedures are designed to
remove excess skin and improve overall shape and proportion. While recovery varies from patient to patient, most are back to light activities within a few weeks. As swelling decreases, the final results become increasingly visible.
BEYOND “OZEMPIC FACE” Significant weight loss can bring changes to the face as well, a phenomenon often referred to in the media as “Ozempic face.” As facial fat diminishes, the cheeks may appear less full and the skin may seem looser, which can create a more tired or aged appearance. Some patients
are surprised by these changes after working so hard to improve their health and reach their weight-loss goals. It’s important to understand, however, that these facial changes are not a side effect of the medication itself, but rather a natural result of substantial weight loss and the loss of facial volume. Dr. Schmidt suggests an individualized approach depending on a patient’s anatomy and goals. “I may recommend dermal fillers to restore lost volume or a face and neck lift with or without fat grafting for a longer-lasting natural look. During a consultation, I listen to
FALL 2026 | Best of Burlington | 33
Vermont Plastic Surgery’s office in Williston welcomes patients from across northern New England and as far away as Alaska and Florida.
the patient’s history, how much weight they’ve lost, look at any pictures they have from before they lost the weight, and develop a personalized treatment plan based on their ideal result.”
A NEW REFLECTION Plastic surgery has often been viewed primarily through an aesthetic lens. However, Dr. Schmidt describes it as something deeper. She tells us, “Many patients spend years imagining what life will look like after losing significant weight. While improved health is life-changing, lingering excess skin and facial changes prevent them from fully enjoying and embracing their transformation success. Patients frequently say they’re still self-conscious about wearing fitted clothing, exercising comfortably, or participating in activities, like swimming, despite losing the weight. “With body contouring and facial rejuvenation, we want to give patients the look and feeling they’ve worked so hard for.
34 | www.bestofburlingtonvt.com
The emotional impact can be profound. Completing a surgical transformation allows years of determination, discipline, and resilience to finally be reflected in the mirror.”
A PERSONALIZED PLAN No two weight-loss journeys are identical, which means no two body contouring plans should be either. The amount of skin excess, areas of concern, overall health, medical history, nutritional status, and future weight goals all influence surgical recommendations. Experienced plastic surgeons typically spend considerable time helping patients understand which procedures will provide the greatest benefit, what recovery involves, and what realistic expectations should be. That emphasis on individualized care has become a defining characteristic of practices that focus on post-weight-loss surgery. Building trust through detailed consultations allows patients to make informed decisions while understanding both the possibilities and limitations of surgery.
COMPLETING THE JOURNEY The remarkable success of GLP-1 medications has changed the conversation surrounding obesity treatment. For many patients, these therapies have opened doors that once seemed permanently closed. Yet the end of a successful weight-loss journey is rarely measured solely by pounds lost. As medicine continues to reshape what’s possible in weight management, plastic surgery is evolving alongside it—not as a shortcut, but as the final chapter for patients seeking to fully realize the results of extraordinary personal change. In many ways, body contouring represents more than removing excess skin. It is about restoring comfort, confidence, and proportion after a life-changing achievement. As GLP-1 medications continue to help thousands of people transform their health, surgeons like Dr. Schmidt, with specialized training in postweight-loss reconstruction, are helping many of those patients take the final step toward feeling truly at home in their own bodies.
Vermont Plastic Surgery 372 Hurricane Lane, #201 Williston, VT www.vemontplasticsurgery.com
NOW OPEN IN COLCHESTER
Attention Vermonters
GET BACK TO FEELING LIKE YOURSELF Expert Spine Care and Pain Treatment
More Options When Other Treatments Have Not Worked Accepting New Patients Without Long Wait Times Call 518-324-7246 for an Appointment. 463 Mountain View Drive, Suite 103, Colchester, VT 05446 Learn More:
champlainspine.com
FALL 2026 | Best of Burlington | 35
VT 802-865-0000 NY 518-561-9000 NH 603-306-0035 Nichole@culligan4u.com
www.culligan4u.com
design • build • decorate
BURLINGTON home
38 CROWN POINT CABINETRY BY BRIAN STOWELL
42 SPOTLIGHT ON SLATE INSPIRING DESIGN
46 VERMONT CUSTOM HANDRAILS & METAL WORK BY CANDACE DARR
50 SPOTLIGHT ON A LITTLE SOMETHING A LITTLE OF EVERYTHING
52 RED HOUSE BUILDING COLCHESTER BY MERYL SIEGMAN
56 RED HOUSE BUILDING SHELBURNE BY MERYL SIEGMAN
60 ABODE VT BY ELIZABETH PENNEY
64 JOY OF HOME P H OTO B Y J E N C Y P R E S S , D W E L L I N G P H OTO G R A P H Y COURTESY OF ABODE VERMONT
THE PILLOW EFFECT
66 PEREGRINE DESIGN /BUILD BY RACHEL CLOUTIER
BURLINGTON HOME BY BRIAN STOWELL | PHOTOS COURTESY OF CROWN POINT CABINETRY
Built Around You CROWN POINT CABINETRY BRINGS YOUR KITCHEN VISION TO LIFE
W
hen it comes to kitchen design that works—and wows—there is one factor that determines the outcome: collaboration. When a client’s vision meets a designer’s expertise, the result is a beautifully tailored space that can bring joy for decades. As president of Crown Point Cabinetry, I and my wife, Becky, have put together team of expert designers who can make this happen. Architects, building professionals, and interior designers can also be involved in your design. Everyone wants the same result: client satisfaction. The entire team being on the same page allows each professional to contribute their expertise toward a cohesive, functional, and beautiful space. 38 | www.bestofburlingtonvt.com
From left: Beautiful inside and out. Walnut interiors provide a stunning contrast to the soft green exterior. An island oasis for the entire family to share.
Clockwise from above: Custom-fit open shelves paired with reclaimed chestnut built-ins create beautifully crafted storage space. A custom-built pantry so gorgeous, it is easy to overlook its functionality. The perfect blend of old and new: a reclaimed chestnut hood over finely painted custom cabinetry
THE POWER OF PROACTIVE PLANNING However, as kitchen cabinetry experts, we know that a design that endures demands time to unfold. Engaging with our design team at the earliest conceptual stage—well before the first blueprints are finalized—transforms your project from a construction site into a curated experience.
ARCHITECTURAL HARMONY Josh Doon, one of Crown Point’s longtime designers, notes, “Cabinetry serves as the bridge between raw architecture and refined living. By involving us early, we can influence architectural details, ensuring your cabinetry integrates as a seamless, built-in extension of your home’s character, rather than an afterthought.”
MASTERING THE LEAD TIME Jim Balcom, a designer with more than 30 years’ experience, emphasizes that early engagement
is the safest way to prevent any hiccups along the way. “Once a client has determined they are moving forward with a project, they should contact us as soon as they can,” Jim says.
“That ensures your custom, artisan-made pieces will arrive precisely when the project requires, maintaining a seamless flow and preserving your peace of mind. FALL 2026 | Best of Burlington | 39
The Design Process ONCE YOU HAVE CONNECTED WITH ONE OF OUR TALENTED KITCHEN DESIGNERS, THE PROCESS BEGINS. SET A BUDGET
MAXIMIZE STORAGE
This allows your designer to provide feedback on what can be achieved in your design. All Crown Point cabinetry is of the finest quality, but certain materials and details can dramatically affect the final price of the project. This feedback allows a client to make value judgements for their individual project.
Josh is an advocate for having a variety of storage options in your kitchen layout. “Mixing drawers with various heights, roll-out trays, pullouts, and dividers helps give everything its proper place.” Knowing what all of your storage options are can help elevate your space, bringing you one step closer to your dream kitchen.
DETERMINE FUNCTIONALITY
IMPROVE WORKFLOW
Do you entertain regularly? Do you enjoy collaborating when you cook? Do you have a family that eats together regularly? These are just a few of the many questions that need to be answered. Our designers want to create a space that works best for you.
Every homeowner has a kitchen workflow that makes the most sense to them, i.e., where the utensil drawer is, where the pots and pans go. Keeping that layout familiar helps the space feel natural and comfortable. “I try to keep things simple, but even the best designed kitchen can’t replace discipline, so making things convenient and easier lends itself to better organization,” says designer Josh Watkins. Designing for how you already live turns familiar routines into effortless organization.
SHARE YOUR VISION Provide photos, an appliance list, architectural plans, and anything else that will help your designers understand your vision and lifestyle.
Visit us on Church Street!
40 | www.bestofburlingtonvt.com
Providing financial confidence with proactive strategies.
Proactive Tax Planning
Business Accounting Services
Fiduciary, Fee-Only Financial & Investment Planning
dh-cpa.com 802-878-1963 Locations in Williston & Rutland
convergentclientaccounting.com 802-878-1963 Locations in Williston & Rutland
copperleaffinancial.com 802-878-2731 Locations in Williston & Rutland
Copper Leaf Financial is an affiliated and separately registered entity.
BURLINGTON HOME SPOTLIGHT ON SLATE | PHOTOS COURTESY OF SLATE
INSPIRING DESIGN
Slate features beautifully handcrafted, ethically sourced, and locally made products. Promoting the value of connections, cultures, concepts, and people, they help bring beauty into your life and home
REBECCA SWIVEL CHAIR One of our best-selling chairs, Cisco Home’s Rebecca pairs exceptional comfort with a compact, versatile profile. Fully customizable, it works beautifully in living rooms, bedrooms, and smaller seating areas. With a swivel base, it’s especially at home in open-plan spaces or tucked beside a fireplace or window, offering flexibility without overwhelming the room.
TEDDY SOFA The Teddy sofa by Cisco Home proves that a smaller scale doesn’t have to mean less personality. Handcrafted in the USA with a solid hardwood frame, its striking silhouette makes a big design statement. Fully customizable, it’s a memorable way to add personal style to a seating area, spacious entryway, or bedroom.
SEASIDE SECTIONAL The Seaside Sectional by LEE Industries is our most popular sectional for good reason. An exposed oak base gives it a distinctive, timeless silhouette, while its thoughtful proportions and slightly more upright seat offer an inviting balance of support and comfort. Fully customizable, the Seaside Collection also includes a chair and several sofa sizes, bringing the same signature look to a wide range of spaces. 42 | www.bestofburlingtonvt.com
GRAND SOFA The Grand Sofa by LEE Industries pairs a clean, modern block frame with deep, cozy seating designed for settling in. Its generous proportions create a strong visual anchor for a living room, while complete customization allows it to suit a range of interiors. The Grand Collection also includes chairs, ottomans, and multiple sectional configurations.
JEFFERSON COFFEE TABLE The Jefferson Coffee Table feels substantial without looking heavy, thanks to its clean geometry and warm, bleached-oak finish. The open, architectural frame brings quiet structure to a seating area, while the generous top and lower shelf provide ample room for books, decorative objects, and the realities of everyday living.
CAMERON CREDENZA The Cameron Credenza turns practical storage into a focal point. Vertically textured doors and slim hardware give its clean silhouette subtle dimension, while the light wood finish keeps the substantial piece feeling airy. Adjustable interior shelving and a felt-lined silverware drawer make it especially useful in a dining room, although the design works beautifully in a living area, as well.
SKI HOUSE SWIVEL CHAIR The Ski House Swivel Chair by LEE Industries is one of those rare pieces that looks as good as it feels. Its distinctive silhouette and exceptionally comfortable seat make it an inviting choice for a den, reading nook, or living area, while the swivel base adds flexibility. Customizable in any of LEE’s fabrics or leathers, it can be made entirely your own.
SLATE
27 Sears Lane Burlington, VT www.slatehome.co
FALL 2026 | Best of Burlington | 43
IVERSON OAK EXTENSION DINING TABLE The Iverson Oak Extension Dining Table is a great example of why simple design works so well. Its clean silhouette and narrow legs let the natural oak finish take center stage, making it easy to pair with many chair styles. Two extension leaves provide plenty of room for larger gatherings without sacrificing its streamlined everyday look.
LUMAL ROUND OAK COFFEE TABLE We love the Lumal Round Oak Coffee Table for its simple shape and subtle texture. The round top works well in a variety of seating arrangements, while the ridged oak base adds just enough detail to make it feel special. Built-in casters also make it easy to move when the room needs to adapt.
MODERN BAR CABINET The Modern Bar Cabinet makes entertaining feel effortless. Its warm natural-oak finish and subtle ridged texture give it a clean, distinctive look that feels polished without being overly formal. Open the doors to reveal a thoughtfully organized interior, complete with built-in lighting and a pull-out stone surface for mixing and serving.
AVA ARMCHAIR One of our best-selling dining chairs, the Ava combines a light, graceful silhouette with the comfort of a plush upholstered seat and back. Slender legs and a gentle curve keep it from feeling bulky, whether used around a dining table or pulled up to a desk. It’s polished, comfortable, and exceptionally versatile.
44 | www.bestofburlingtonvt.com
BURLINGTON HOME | BY CANDICE DARR PHOTOS COURTESY OF VERMONT CUSTOM HANDRAILS & METALWORK
Made to Measure
Vermont Custom Handrails & Metalwork designs and builds staircases and railings worth showing off in homes old and new
S
ome of the most memorable features in a home are the ones people walk on every day. A well-designed staircase makes an impression the moment guests step inside, and a deck built around the view becomes the place everyone wants to be straight through foliage season. Those are the projects most customers bring to Vermont Custom Handrails & Metalwork, the Hyde Park company owned by James Lambert and his wife, Katy. For some, it’s a remodel that turns what’s already there into the highlight of the house. For others, it’s a standout feature in a newly built home. As the company motto puts it, “You dream it, we can build it!” Once work begins, a job often grows, and the company is set up to grow right along with it. James manages larger projects alongside a carefully selected group of trusted local subcontractors. Keeping the work local matters to the Lamberts. They fabricate every stair and railing system in their Hyde Park shop and focus on supporting fellow Vermont businesses, buying materials and supplies from them whenever possible.
FROM THE ENTRYWAY TO THE DECK Customers bring all kinds of ideas to the shop. Along with full staircase and deck projects, the company’s work includes: upgrades to outdated interior stair railings and exterior deck and porch railings; cable railing systems, indoors and out; one-of-a-kind Craftsman-style railings; spiral staircases that make the most of a compact footprint; and floating and monorail staircases with clean, modern lines. Cable railing makes up a significant share of that work, and in Vermont, the appeal is easy to see. A deck overlooking a ridgeline is no place for a row of heavy balusters. Thin 46 | www.bestofburlingtonvt.com
Opposite page and above: The company's work includes floating and monorail staircases, with clean, modern lines, and spiral staircases that make the most of a compact footprint. Next page: Outside, thin horizontal cables provide the necessary guardrail without blocking the view the deck was built to enjoy.
horizontal cables provide the necessary guardrail while keeping the view you built the deck to enjoy. Craftsman-style balusters take a different approach, adding visible structure and pattern that suit a traditional home, where a minimalist design might look out of place. Metal is the company’s specialty, but the finished work doesn’t have to feel cold or industrial. Wood caps, varied textures, and careful finishing can add real warmth to a steel railing. A new railing can suit a farmhouse porch so naturally that no one would guess it was recently installed. Homeowners updating an older home get metal’s durability without losing the character that drew them to it. Some of the newest systems James has designed include integrated lighting, with cascading LEDs set into monorail treads and
handrails. Sensors turn the lights on in whichever direction you’re walking. It looks striking in photos, and it’s a real help when you’re heading downstairs at two in the morning.
NOTHING IS STANDARD Vermont homes don’t come in standard shapes, sizes, or styles. They range from 1840s farmhouses to modern mountain retreats, with plenty of history in between. Floors settle, and porches and decks may have been added at angles the original builders never imagined. On hilly lots, the terrain often decides where a staircase can go. That’s one reason prefab railing kits sold at home stores and online often fall short. James points to two common problems with them: The first is fit. Kits come in standard sizes, so
installers often have to adjust the components and force them into position. The systems James and his crew build are measured and made for the exact space they’ll occupy. “We’ve actually been called in to repair some prefab installations,” he says. “If a post doesn’t align, for example, the kit installer might shim it, and after a while, the entire structure starts to shift.” Choosing a custom system from the start sidesteps those issues, and it doesn’t necessarily cost more. James has found that his company’s turnkey custom railing projects can run 10 to 20 percent less than what a homeowner would pay for a prefab kit plus separate installation. The second is where the kits come from. Nearly all are made in overseas factories, packed in wood, cardboard, and plastic to survive the trip, then shipped across an ocean and much of a continent before they’re installed on a Vermont deck. All that shipping and packaging takes a toll on the environment, and none of it supports American FALL 2026 | Best of Burlington | 47
manufacturing. A railing fabricated in Hyde Park skips the ocean crossing, and the work of building it stays in Vermont.
A BACKGROUND TO BUILD ON James has been fabricating metal for more than 20 years, starting as a teenager in his father’s garage in Milton. After graduating from Burlington Technical Center, he gained extensive hands-on experience in production manufacturing, construction, quarry equipment, and food-grade processing systems. He and Katy opened Vermont Custom Handrails & Metalwork in 2021. Since then, the company has taken on residential and commercial projects throughout Vermont, New Hampshire, and New York, including ADA-compliant installations. Along the way, it has earned a long list of five-star reviews.
BRIDGING THE GAP Five years and hundreds of completed jobs later, the company continues to grow, with spans as its next focus. After all, a railing
48 | www.bestofburlingtonvt.com
supports you as you navigate a gap, a staircase is a gap approached at an angle, and a deck is the same idea laid flat. Extend those same challenges over greater distances, and you get catwalks connecting buildings, bridges over streams, and spans across the dips and low areas that come with any substantial piece of land. It’s less a new line of work than a natural extension of the existing one. The porch railing upgrade, the spiral staircase, and the eventual footbridge all begin the same way, with James and his crew on-site,
tape measures in hand, documenting what they see in reality, rather than what the plans suggest should be there. That’s why homeowners and businesses trust Vermont Custom Handrails & Metalwork to build their dreams.
Vermont Custom Handrails & Metalwork, LLC 52 VFW Drive, Suite 103 Hyde Park, VT www. vthandrailsandmetal.com
FALL 2026 | Best of Burlington | 49
BURLINGTON HOME SPOTLIGHT ON A LITTLE SOMETHING | PHOTOS COURTESY OF A LITTLE SOMETHING
A LITTLE SOMETHING has a little of everything!
These bubblegum-pink pup bookends bring a playful pop of personality to any shelf—an utterly fetching gift for dog lovers and design devotees.
Layered beads, artisan-inspired jewelry, and playful miniature accents make these keepsakes ideal gifts for collectors, creators, and lovers of beautiful things. 50 | www.bestofburlingtonvt.com
With frosted finishes and gilded tree silhouettes, these twinkling votives bring instant festive charm to mantels, tablescapes, and cozy corners alike.
Beautifully crafted keepsake ornaments, each adorned with a heartfelt sentiment, make thoughtful gifts that celebrate friendship, gratitude, and life's sweetest moments.
Angels are near when cardinals appear! These vibrant holiday cardinal designs will brighten your home.
From pretty patterned soaps and dainty glass trinket boxes to coordinating vases and decorative accents, these charming little luxuries make thoughtful gifts for anyone who loves the art of a beautifully styled space.
Garden-inspired floral bowls feature softly sculpted, petal-like edges and a beautifully textured finish, adding a touch of whimsy. Available in soft shades of blush, rose, green, and lavender, they bring an elegant touch to your table.
A LITTLE SOMETHING 2989 Shelburne Road Shelburne, VT www.alttlesomething.com
Ornate glass ornaments, antique-inspired bells, cozy candles, and richly textured accents make this collection a dream for the home decorator who loves timeless holiday charm. FALL 2026 | Best of Burlington | 51
BURLINGTON HOME BY MERYL SIEGMAN | PHOTOS BY ROBERT BENT, COURTESY OF RED HOUSE BUILDING
t View from Home RED HOUSE BUILDING BRINGS LAKESIDE LIVING INTO FOCUS
A
local Colchester couple with two young children envisioned a home where their children could grow up and one day return with families of their own. They decided to build on an exceptional 1.5-acre parcel with its own beach on Lake Champlain. For design, they chose Goldsmith and Davis Architects, a highly regarded Burlington-based architectural firm specializing in custom residential design, which, in turn, called on Red House Building to handle the construction.
THE TEAM GETS TO WORK Red House Building, an employee-owned, fullservice building company, is known for its timeless craftsmanship and exceptional attention to detail. Its skilled team specializes in distinctive and demanding projects, from custom contemporary homes to meticulous historic restorations, with an unwavering commitment to quality at every stage.
TRANSITIONAL MEETS TRADITIONAL The result of the collaboration was a spectacular two-story house with six 52 | www.bestofburlingtonvt.com
bedrooms and seven bathrooms in a generous 5,750 square feet of living space. Walking through the front door into an open and flowing space offers a magnificent view of Lake Champlain, the Adirondacks beyond, and breathtaking sunsets. Adam Davis, a partner at Goldsmith Davis, who was involved in the project, describes it as “a transitional-style home with a lot of the traditional design elements of a shingle-andclapboard-style gabled house with layers of trim. Inside, its open space plan is very clean and simple, not overdone.”
EVERYTHING FLOWS TOGETHER Despite its generous size, the house was designed to feel intimate and connected, rather than sprawling. As Adam explains, “It’s a large house, but the family lives ‘small.’ They’re not going down endless corridors.” He continues, “The beauty of the house is how everything flows nicely together, but the main goal was for all the principal spaces to have a view of the water, even the laundry and mud rooms.”
AN EFFICIENT OPEN KITCHEN The spacious, open kitchen combines timeless detailing with a clean, understated aesthetic. Jed Emerson, the project manager at Red House, points out the custom Shaker-style cabinetry with layers of different types of trims by Simpson Cabinetry of Essex that extends throughout the space. He points out that one of the kitchen’s cleverest features is a hidden pantry concealed behind a door designed to appear as part of the surrounding cabinetry. Set up as a chef ’s kitchen with an expansive water view, its well-thought-out design features an efficient work triangle, with the sink, refrigerator, and range positioned for easy movement among the three. Cambria Inverness Everleigh quartz countertops provide the look and subtle veining of natural marble, while eight-inch-wide rustic white oak flooring brings warmth to the space. Overhead, a coffered ceiling extends from the kitchen into the adjoining dining area, visually connecting the two spaces.
Clockwise from above: The shop team at Red House built the beautiful walnut dining table to work seamlessly with interior designer Mika Frechette’s vision for the space. A patio with lounge chairs, adjacent to the covered porch, provides a view of the pool and the lake beyond. Lake views and understated elegance define the kitchen space.
With expansive views of Lake Champlain and opening into the dining and living spaces, the kitchen was designed not only for cooking, but as a natural gathering place for the family. Adam says, “The owners like to cook, but also be part of the conversation, so everyone tends to hang out at the large central island, rather than adjourning to the dining area. Jed adds, “The floorplan itself and how the house flows demonstrate that this is a place that’s great for large gatherings.
which Red House custom-built the supporting legs. A wall-mounted faucet and distinctive mirror complete the composition, turning a small, functional space into an unexpected architectural moment.
A POWDER ROOM WITH POW Located just off the formal entry, the powder room makes an immediate impression with a white oak accent wall and matching white oak flooring. Its focal point is a one-of-a-kind vanity incorporating a reclaimed marble basin sourced by interior designer Mika Frechette of Stoneledge Studio VT, for
A NEXT-LEVEL BASEMENT Although finishing the basement wasn’t part of the original plan, the space quickly evolved into another important gathering area, with a comfortable place for the kids to hang out, along with a bar and pool FALL 2026 | Best of Burlington | 53
Above, from left: An outdoor kitchen, complete with built-in grill, sink, and cabinetry, works well for a family that likes to entertain year-round. A woodplank shower, adjacent to the outdoor kitchen, provides a place to rinse off after a dip in the pool or the lake.
54 | www.bestofburlingtonvt.com
table for entertaining. Adam adds, “Beyond the grand space upstairs are pockets of space for additional use.”
EXTERIOR REFINEMENTS Outside, the home has a somewhat different personality. Adam deliberately kept the architecture refined and understated as seen from the street, tucking the garage around the corner so it remains largely out of view. “We went through a lot of effort to make the house feel reserved in front, while blowing it out in back,” he explains. “It’s a lovely sight to see.”
MULTILEVEL ARCHITECTURE On the lake-facing side, the architecture expands across multiple levels, with a gracious porch overlooking a terraced landscape centered around a large pool and patio. Designed for a family that likes to spend time outdoors, the backyard maximizes the view of Lake Champlain, with a series of terraces and a meandering path leading down to the beach. The pool, porch, patio, and lake views make the rear of the property the home’s dramatic showpiece, serving as a natural extension of the gathering spaces inside.
A COLLABORATIVE SUCCESS For both Adam and Jed, the success of the house reflects not only the finished home, but the collaboration that brought it to life. “The clients were wonderful to work with, and Red House is always amazing to do a project with,” says Adam. “It was a wonderful experience with everyone involved.” The result is a home, dubbed “The Gathering House,” that realizes the family’s vision for both the present and the future, a place for their children to grow up, family and friends to come together, and the next generation to return to the shores of Lake Champlain.
Red House Building 382 Hercules Drive #5, Colchester, VT www.redhousebuilding.com
Goldsmith and Davis Architects 7 Kilburn Street Burlington, VT www.goldsmithanddavis.com Stoneledge Studio VT 375 Bay View Road Ferrisburgh, VT www.stoneledgestudio.com FALL 2026 | Best of Burlington | 55
BURLINGTON HOME BY MERYL SIEGMAN | PHOTOS COURTESY OF RED HOUSE BUILDING
A House Reframed RED HOUSE BUILDING REIMAGINES A LANDMARK HOUSE FOR MODERN LIFE
T
his is the story of an extraordinary home located on 10 spectacular acres in Shelburne, with sweeping western views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks beyond. Designed by the acclaimed architect Marcel Beaudin, the five-bedroom, six-bathroom house was built in 1997 and expanded three years later. The layout, featuring a screened three-season porch, was unusual because it was an “upside down” house in which the principal living spaces sat on the second floor to capture the breathtaking views, with the bedrooms and rec room on the level below.
56 | www.bestofburlingtonvt.com
AN ARCHITECTURAL LEGACY A lifelong Vermonter, Marcel, who was born in 1929, was formally trained in international-style architecture and was credited with being one of the influential architects who brought the modernist movement to Vermont. However, he designed this particular house in the Adirondack or gambrel style, with cedar siding, vaulted ceilings, and the extensive use of natural wood. The home was purchased in 2020 and underwent substantial renovations by the new owners shortly after. They hired Red House Building, a full-service building company in Colchester, specializing in highly crafted
projects with a focus on timeless craftsmanship. On Red House’s recommendation, Ramsay Gourd Architects, with offices in Manchester and Burlington, was brought on board. The firm is known for an approach that combines classical architectural traditions with fresh ideas, carefully considering a home’s setting, materials, and the way its owners live. The firm’s experience adapting traditional architecture to contemporary lifestyles made it a natural choice for the project. According to Ramsay, “The owners fell in love with the site and setting, but the house didn’t fit their aesthetics and lifestyle. The renovation was
Clockwise from left: The kitchen features custom cherry cabinetry by Simpson Cabinetry, fitted spice drawers, and full marble slab counters and backsplash. Outside of the primary suite, the owners have their own private deck to enjoy coffee and views of Shelburne Farms and Lake Champlain. The primary suite bathroom glows in natural light from the spread of new windows and wellness vibes from the sauna beyond.
about tailoring the house to them.” Another goal of the design program was to accommodate the purchasers’ extended family, creating spaces to accommodate its many members when they were visiting.
RETHINKING THE EXTERIOR The renovation was extensive, with the work focused on the exterior of the front entry, as well as the kitchen, library, and master suite. Dunbar Oehmig, the project manager at Red House Building, explains, “The purchasers weren’t happy with the exterior of the house—its coastal shingle style just didn’t work. They wanted to make it more ‘high shingle’ style like the rest of Shelburne Farms,” the adjacent waterfront property formerly owned by the Vanderbilts. The renovation transformed the exterior with a deep blue-gray palette, a cedar-shingle roof accented with standing-seam copper, and the addition of a grand front porch. Dunbar continues, “We changed out every window to achieve a different color on the sash and frame.” Ramsay reinforces the owners’ motives for the extensive remodeling, saying, “They preferred a more modern aesthetic to the mock-colonial detailing. To accommodate their tastes, we reworked FALL 2026 | Best of Burlington | 57
Above and right: The hipped cherry ceiling of the library creates a cozy space to gather or relax in an otherwise airy home. The main living room received an update with elegant Simpson cabinetry, a revised fireplace, and glass doors to open the space. Opposite page: The staircase in an upside-down home sets the tone, and this one was modernized to match the owners style.
the entry by bringing the porches around to soften the approach.”
DESIGNED AROUND DAILY LIFE Dunbar explains that kitchen space was awkward and needed more storage, resulting in the creation of custom cherry cabinetry by Simpson Cabinetry, fitted spice drawers with dovetailed maple boxes, full marble slab counters and backsplash, and rolling library ladder leading to an aerie overlook that is used as a getaway space. Ramsay says that the design of the kitchen was predicated on the clients’ lifestyle, right down to who does the cooking, how they move about, and even where they keep their animals. “Everything was thought through in that regard,” he says.
character in what was otherwise a drywall box, giving it layers of color, texture, and warmth. The room is particularly elaborate, capped by a hipped cherry ceiling of radiating beams and V-groove paneling, wrapped in built-in cherry casework, and anchored by a window seat. The firm reviewed many species of wood with the clients, who chose cherry for its warmth, color, and texture. He adds, “The millwork itself helped to bring scale to the space.” LAYERS OF WARMTH Ramsay calls the library an “evening For the architects, the library renovation translated room—a warm evening space,” saying, “It’s into taking an existing space and developing
58 | www.bestofburlingtonvt.com
more introverted than other spaces, which look out to the lake. The idea was to create a cocoon-like feel that envelops the occupants. Something to consider with a house like this is that, while it’s beautiful in the summer, it’s a year-round house. So it’s important to have a space that is cozy and comfortable.”
A PERSONAL RETREAT In the primary suite, Ramsay says, “We looked at the clients’ personal routines in the morning and at night, who sleeps in, who gets up early,
Onsed quiae pro conse derendi aut dolorerum quuntiis rerro officienim audionest que aut aliquam fugiat. Incte ea pos ad moste molupta
Elevate your home with our custom stair and railing solutions
Contact us for an estimate today! what view they wanted to wake up to, and even how they use the bath and connecting sauna.” The bedroom is notable for its generous scale, unexpected angles, and a broad, projecting window bay that lets ample natural light into the room while opening it up to the surrounding landscape. Large floor-toceiling windows wrap the bay, reinforcing the connection between the architecture and the wooded setting beyond.
vthandrailsandmetal.com | sales@vthandrailsandmetal.com | 802-888-3498
A COLLABORATIVE EFFORT Throughout the renovation, the close collaboration between architect and builder was essential to transforming an already distinctive house into one reimagined for its new owners. “We’ve worked with Red House for years and are always impressed by the quality of their craftsmanship,” says Ramsay. The result balances the home’s architectural roots and extraordinary setting with the new residents’ lifestyle, while giving it a new identity, one shaped as much by the way they live as by the views that first drew them to the house to begin with.
Red House Building 382 Hercules Drive #5, Colchester, VT www.redhousebuilding.com Ramsay Gourd Architects 1 Mill Street, Suite 185 Burlington, VT www.rgavt.com FALL 2026 | Best of Burlington | 59
BURLINGTON HOME BY ELIZABETH PENNEY | PHOTOS BY JEN CYPRESS, DWELLING PHOTOGRAPHY
Found, Styled, Loved AT ABODE VT, JULIET PALMER CREATES ROOMS WITH HISTORY, HEART, AND MODERN EASE
T
o Juliet Palmer, founder of Abode VT in Burlington, design is more than just the latest trends. It’s about telling a story about the people who live in a space—who they are, what they love, and where they’ve been. Her goal is to take a personalized approach to interior design, weaving together elements of a client’s lifestyle, history, and personal taste to create a narrative. The finished space looks and feels like them and supports the person they are today. In her eclectic South End shop, she curates antique and vintage items that blend seamlessly
60 | www.bestofburlingtonvt.com
with modern pieces. “Good design, to me, is personal. It should have character, create conversation, and reveal something about the people who live there,” Juliet says.
A LIFE LAYERED IN STORY Juliet says her own past informs how she approaches her work today. Growing up in Vermont and New Hampshire, her family turned to antiquing to help make ends meet, and she would spend mornings alongside her father at flea markets. She says growing up around antiques and vintage items taught her to appreciate their
beauty and potential. She learned not only to see value in things others might overlook, but also to recognize the lives and stories behind them. Juliet studied sociology in college, which has also impacted her design instincts. She is curious about people and how they live and strives to create spaces that feel good and elicit a sense of connection. But perhaps the biggest influence in her method stems from her work in restaurants. There, she learned how to listen, how to anticipate needs, and how to create spaces that make people feel cared for.
Clockwise from above: The main living space of Abode's Bomoseen project: a new addition that they layered with earth tones, textures, and vintage pieces to create a lived-in feel, with artwork that pays homage to the lakeside setting. A view of Abode VT in its ever-changing arrangement. A gorgeous antique sideboard and green stool live beautifully and effortlessly alongside artisan baskets, block-print pillows, design books, and hand-forged candle sconces.
FALL 2026 | Best of Burlington | 61
From left: The very first “vignette” before opening the shop on Pine Street: pieces often found at the shop: vintage portraits, dressers, chairs, live plants and a custom hand-painted lamp from a VT artisan. A sampling of decor and styling pieces for sale at the shop that are thoughtfully arranged and displayed, including a pottery vase (holding tulips) belonging to Juliet’s aunt.
FINDING HER WAY HOME Juliet’s foray into the world of home design began in 2020. Laid off from her restaurant job due to the pandemic, she wasn’t sure what to do next. She cleaned houses to earn money and found herself imagining how she could make the spaces better by moving furniture and reworking what was already there. She expanded her services to include organization and styling, officially launching Abode VT in 2021. “It feels less like I found an entirely new career and more like I finally found the place where all these seemingly unrelated parts of my life could come together,” she says.
FROM STUDIO IDEA TO STOREFRONT Juliet never intended to open a storefront. Rather, she was looking for a studio space where she could work outside the home. She ended up subletting a space from a woman who encouraged her to sell some of the pieces she had accumulated. This planted a seed, 62 | www.bestofburlingtonvt.com
and she leaned into the idea of creating a true brick-and-mortar store.
INSIDE THE ABODE VT AESTHETIC Now housed in the Maltex Building, the Abode VT shop is a true reflection of Juliet’s style. Brick walls and wood floors give off a vintage vibe, while individual rooms encourage guests to move from one moment to the next. Rather than a traditional retail space, it’s intimate and residential, allowing visitors to imagine how the pieces and settings they see might work in their own homes. “Ultimately, I don’t want the shop to feel dictated by trends or like everything came from the same place. I want it to feel layered, soulful, and a little unexpected—the way I want a home to feel,” she adds.
VINTAGE FINDS, MODERN VALUES Juliet says the shop is intentionally eclectic. Vintage goods represent a range of periods and styles, while new items are ethically sourced and responsibly made. Many of the products she carries are from women-owned businesses and those with a focus on community or giving back. She chooses antique and vintage pieces based on instinct. Sometimes, it’s a certain patina, texture, or a color she finds interesting. Sometimes, it’s because the item will work well with something else or bring
a space together. But most of the time, it’s just a feeling, a vision of what a piece can become in the right setting. “For me, vintage and antique pieces are the storytellers in a room,” Juliet says. “They bring a soul, history and patina that simply can’t be replicated with something new. I love that you might not know exactly where a piece has been or who owned it before you, but you can see the evidence that it had a life before yours, and now you get to become part of its story.”
DESIGN THAT FEELS PERSONAL A visit to Abode VT is a way to experience Juliet’s aesthetic, even for those who aren’t in need of design services. Her curated collection of furnishings, textiles, artwork, and lighting, encourages visitors to rethink design and inspires them to personalize their own homes. “Ultimately, I’m less interested in creating a beautiful room for the sake of creating a beautiful room than I am in creating a beautiful room for a particular person,” she concludes. “I want a client to walk into their finished space and recognize themselves in it. That’s when I feel like I’ve done my job.”
Abode VT 431 Pine Street, Suite 112 Burlington, VT www.abodevermont.com
Inspiration starts in the showroom EXPERT GUIDANCE FROM VISION TO PLAN
Visit frankwebb.com to find a showroom near you
WILLISTON 80 Park Avenue • 802-879-6018 PROUDLY PART OF THE F.W. WEBB COMPANY
FALL 2026 | Best of Burlington | 63
BURLINGTON HOME | JOY OF HOME PHOTOS COURTESY OF JOY OF HOMEBY MARGARET THOMAS | PHOTOS COURTESY OF SOCAPA
the
PILLOW EFFECT EASY STYLE UPDATES THAT INSTANTLY ELEVATE YOUR LIVING SPACE
D
ecorative pillows may seem like a small detail, but they can have an outsized impact on the look and feel of a room. According to the pros at Joy of Home, a few thoughtful pillow swaps are one of the easiest ways to refresh a space, express personal style, and keep interiors feeling current—without a major investment. Simple, flexible, and endlessly adaptable, pillows remain one of the most effective tools in home styling.
64 | www.bestofburlingtonvt.com
TEXTURES ADD INTEREST When decorating with neutral furniture, texture does most of the work. Mixing materials adds visual interest and prevents a calm palette from feeling flat. Designers at Joy of Home often recommend layering tweeds, plush fabrics, and embroidered textiles on the same sofa or chair to create a look that feels both polished and inviting. Varying finishes and
softness adds dimension while keeping the palette cohesive.
MUTED COLORS SOOTHE For those easing into color, muted tones offer a soft, approachable option. Gentle pinks, subtle greens, and warm yellows bring life to a room without overwhelming it. These hues work especially well in spaces meant for gathering or unwinding, lending a calm,
Opposite: Patterned pillows in woven blues and reds layer in softness and contrast, and give the room a touch of visual rhythm. Left, from top: Softly patterned pillows in gentle greens and neutrals bring a calm, grounded mood to the space. Brightly colored pillows in warm oranges, deep blues, and sunny yellows energize the room, adding a cheerful burst of contrast that makes the whole space feel more vibrant and lived‑in.
For more inspiration and expert guidance, visit Joy of Home and discover how thoughtful design details can make every space feel more inviting.
Joy of Home 1140 Williston Road South Burlington, VT www.joyofhomevt.com
collected atmosphere. Muted shades also pair naturally with wood and other organic materials, creating a look that feels timeless and welcoming.
BRIGHT SHADES ENERGIZE A SPACE If bold style is more your speed, pillows are the perfect place to experiment. Bright colors can instantly energize a room, adding personality and contrast to simple furnishings. The pros at Joy of Home suggest using vibrant pillows as accents—mixing them with solid or neutral pieces to keep the overall look balanced and intentional, rather than chaotic.
BOLD PATTERNS REFRESH Patterns are an easy way to introduce movement and a contemporary edge. Graphic designs, geometrics, or playful motifs can quickly update a room without the commitment of new furniture. When mixing patterns, stick to a shared color palette and vary the scale—pair larger prints with smaller, more detailed designs for a layered, polished result. FALL 2026 | Best of Burlington | 65
BURLINGTON HOME BY RACHEL CLOUTIER | PHOTOS BY RYAN BENT
Designing for the Long Haul
W
hen planning a new home or major renovation, it’s easy to focus on what you need right now. Maybe you want a larger kitchen, a more functional mudroom, additional natural light, or an accessory dwelling unit for an aging parent who needs to move in. But some of the most successful homes are designed not only for today, but with an eye toward how life may change over the next 10, 20, or even 30 years. Designing for the long haul does not necessarily mean building a larger home or adding features you may never use. It means making thoughtful decisions early in the process that allow a home to remain comfortable, functional, and adaptable over time.
START WITH HOW YOU LIVE One of the first steps in the design/build process is to look at how you use your space today. Where do you naturally gather? What creates clutter? What feels inconvenient? Do you expect family members to move in someday? Will you work from home? Do you 66 | www.bestofburlingtonvt.com
entertain often? Which spaces help you feel most relaxed? Will your kids return home after college? Do you want separate guest quarters for long-term visitors? And are you hoping this is the last house you’ll build?
BUILD IN FLEXIBILITY Flexibility is one of the most valuable things a design can offer. A room that serves as a home office today could become a guest room, nursery, hobby space, or even a future firstfloor bedroom. A nearby powder room might be designed with enough space to someday accommodate a shower. Small considerations like these provide options later, without changing the way the home functions today. The first-floor primary suite has become an increasingly common request, especially among homeowners thinking ahead about how they want to live in their home over time. Beyond the convenience of having everything on one level, it makes the home easier to navigate and allows owners to remain comfortably in place for years to come. When planned thoughtfully, a first-floor suite feels like a natural part of the home and a place of retreat, rather than a feature added solely for the future.
Accessibility deserves a place in the plan from the start, even for younger homeowners. Wider doorways, curb-less showers, easyto-reach storage, and thoughtful lighting make a home more comfortable for people of all ages. These elements do not have to feel institutional or obvious. When they are incorporated from the beginning, they simply feel like good design.
time. Natural light, views to the outdoors, quiet spaces, good ventilation, comfortable temperatures, and places to move, rest, or recharge all contribute to a greater sense of well-being. For some, that may mean a soaking tub, sauna, home gym, or yoga space. For others, it may simply mean a sunny reading nook, a screened porch, or a kitchen where the whole family can gather comfortably.
DESIGN FOR WELL-BEING
CHOOSE MATERIALS THAT LAST
More homeowners are thinking about how their surroundings affect the way they feel each day, and building wellness routines into the design of a home will support you over
Quality materials and finishes that withstand daily life often prove more valuable than something selected simply because it is currently popular. Flooring, cabinetry, countertops,
PLAN FOR EVERY STAGE OF LIFE Layout matters as much as size and square footage. Laundry rooms, bathrooms, and frequently used storage should be placed where they support everyday routines and reduce unnecessary trips through the house.
FALL 2026 | Best of Burlington | 67
windows, roofing, and exterior materials all play a role in how gracefully a home ages. Timeless does not have to mean traditional. It means choosing materials and details that feel appropriate to the home and are made to last. Energy efficiency and comfort are always part of the design/build conversation. Good insulation, efficient windows, well-designed mechanical systems, and thoughtful building practices may not be the most visible parts of a project, but they have a significant impact on comfort, operating costs, and the longevity of the home.
MAKE IT PERSONAL A home that reflects the people who live there is far more likely to feel right for years to come than one designed around a passing trend. That might mean incorporating heirloom furniture, choosing materials that develop a beautiful patina, creating a dedicated space for a hobby, or designing around the way your family cooks, entertains, works, and relaxes. The most memorable homes include details that tell a story and could not simply be copied into someone else’s house.
A HOME THAT EVOLVES WITH YOU There is no single formula for a “forever home.” The goal is not to predict every 68 | www.bestofburlingtonvt.com
possible change, but to create a home with enough flexibility, character, and comfort to evolve along with you. The best homes are more than beautiful on move-in day. They continue to work, feel personal, and support well-being for many years to come. If you’re beginning to plan a project, bring these questions to your designer and builder at the very start. Share your “future dreams” too, even the ones that feel a long way off. When
your team understands where you hope to be in 10 or 20 years, they can help you design for it from day one, and the earlier they’re part of the conversation, the easier it is to build a home that grows with you.
Peregrine Design/Build 49 Commerce Avenue South Burlington, VT www.peregrinedesignbuild.com
LUNCH | DINNER | BRUNCH
BURLSDOWNTOWN.COM
FARMHOUSETG.COM FARMHOUSE TAP & GRILL GUILD TAVERN PASCOLO RISTORANTE BURL’S DOWNTOWN KITCHENETTE
WOOD-FIRED GRILL
GUILDTAVERN.COM
HANDMADE ITALIAN CUISINE
PASCOLOVT.COM
Dining DOWNTOWN BURL’S DOWNTOWN KITCHENETTE Southern inspired diner classics, and breakfast served open to close! Stop by for dinner (open until 8pm) Friday or Saturday nights for halfpriced cocktails. www.burlsdowntown.com
PASCOLO RISTORANTE Enjoy the last few nights on the patio! Serving handmade pizza, pasta, and other Italian classics for dinner nightly. www.pascolovt.com 70 | www.bestofburlingtonvt.com
FARMHOUSE TAP & GRILL Try their blue plate lunch special; choice of a half sandwich (roasted ham, fall squash, or egg salad) and a crock of soup (cheddar ale or mushroom farro). Serving lunch from 11am–4pm daily. www.farmhousetg.com
BISTRO DE MARGOT Feast on their Massachusetts bluefin tuna, rice pilaf, red curry/butternut squash compote, yellow wax and green beans, and basil in a green peppercorn cream sauce. www.bistrodemargot.com
FALL 2026 | Best of Burlington | 71
Shopping DOWNTOWN 4T2D Born in Burlington, 4T2D [Fourtitude] is a modern Vermont lifestyle boutique designing and manufacturing apparel locally while curating a collection of USA-made brands they genuinely love to wear themselves. Visit their new Church Street store to explore elevated everyday clothing focused on comfort, quality, and style. www.4t2d.com COCO GOOSE Coco Goose offers elevated essentials and laid-back, luxe style with a curated selection of over 150 brands, including Ulla Johnson, Veronica Beard, Frank & Eileen, Aviator Nation, and Nili Lotan. Women-owned, with 15-plus years in the industry, Coco Goose offers a personalized boutique experience to every shopper. Visit them in Burlington, Stowe, Manchester Center, and Providence, RI. Shop online at www.shopcocogoose.com.
NU CHOCOLAT On the Lake Champlain waterfront, Nu Chocolat crafts all their small‑batch, European‑style chocolates on-site. Stop in for free truffle samples, sip an iced chocolate in their bright café, or watch the chocolatiers at work through the viewing window. www.nuchocolat.com THE OPTICAL CENTER You’ll find a diverse selection of eyewear at Optical Cener. We carry independent labels, such as Garrett Leight and the Pellicer collection from Etnia Barcelona, plus sunglasses by brands like Ray Ban, Costa, Maui Jim, and Smith. Our premium optical brands include Oliver Peoples, Barton Perreira, Gucci, and Kate Spade. Everything in the store is designed to be custom-fit. Stop in or check us out online. www.opticalcentervt.com 72 | www.bestofburlingtonvt.com
OUTDOOR GEAR EXCHANGE For 31 years, Outdoor Gear Exchange has helped Vermonters make the most of every season. OGE is packed wall to wall with gear for skiing, snowboarding, biking, hiking, camping, backpacking, trail running, paddling, traveling, and whatever adventure you’re planning next. They stock everything from top-quality new arrivals to gently used finds at unbeatable discounts. Backed by a knowledgeable crew and expert service techs, OGE has earned the title of Burlington’s Best Outdoor Outfitter for an impressive 21 years running. www.gearx.com
DANFORTH PEWTER Visit Danforth Pewter on Church Street to see Vermont-made pewter goods that celebrate traditional craftsmanship and lasting quality. Each piece is thoughtfully designed and individually cast, finished, and polished by skilled artisans, using high-quality, lead-free pewter. Our collection includes ornaments, jewelry, key rings, home goods, and keepsakes, all known for their durability, and timeless design. Because every item is handcrafted, each piece carries subtle variations that make it uniquely its own while reflecting the heritage and care behind Vermont metalworking. www.danfortpewter.com
HOMEPORT Since 2002, their selection of cherished home furnishings have put a delightful touch on every space. Browse their collection of treasures for every room. And be sure to stop in at their second location at The Essex Experience. www.homeportonline.com
ECCO CLOTHES Ecco Clothes is a local boutique offering stylish, high-quality women’s fashion with a curated selection of clothing, accessories, and seasonal must-haves. www.eccoclothesboutique.com
FALL 2026 | Best of Burlington | 73
Whether you are hosting a casual business luncheon, or throwing the wedding of the year, let Fin Catering handle all your food & beverage needs.
Let us serve you. Burlington, VT & Beyond
74 | www.bestofburlingtonvt.com
www.fincatering.com
Follow us: @fincateringvt
FA LSponsored L HbyAChamplain P P EValley N Expo INGS RACHEL FEINSTEIN
JUDY COLLINS
OCTOBER 31, 3PM
VSO AT THE FLYNN THE SORCERER’S APPRENTICE Flynn 153 Main Street Burlington, VT
FLYNN
153 Main Street Burlington, VT www.flynnvt.org
OCTOBER 8, 7PM
CIRQUE ALFONSE LA NOCE OCTOBER 10, 7PM
RANDY FELTFACE OCTOBER 14, 3:30PM & 6:30PM
WILD KRATTS LIVE 2.0 OCTOBER 21, 7:30PM
MANIA: THE ABBA TRIBUTE OCTOBER 22, 7:30PM
BURLINGTON CITY ARTS 135 Church Street Burlington, VT www.burlingtoncityarts.org Downtown Burlington
MYSTIC PIZZA
OCTOBER 31, 3PM
THE SORCERER’S APPRENTICE NOVEMBER 12-15
ELF THE MUSICAL
Thursday & Friday, 7pm Saturday & Sunday, 1pm & 6pm
NOVEMBER 18, 7:30PM
JOHN SCOFIELD ELECTROSPECTIVE NOVEMBER 20, 7:30PM
HUG YOUR FARMER
JUKEBOX TURNS TEN Burlington Beer Company 180 Flynn Avenue Burlington, VT
NOVEMBER 14, 7PM
OCTOBER 16, 5 PM
JUDY COLLINS WITH THE VERMONT SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
BCA Center
Paramount Theatre 30 Center Street Rutland, VT
OCTOBER 24, 11AM
NOVEMBER 15, 4PM
Fourth Floor, BCA Center
Paramount Theatre 30 Center Street Rutland, VT
FALL 2026 EXHIBITIONS OPENING RECEPTION
FAMILY ART SATURDAY NOVEMBER 21, 11AM
JUKEBOX TURNS TEN
FAMILY ART SATURDAY Fourth Floor, BCA Center
BORED TEACHERS
OCTOBER 26 & 27, 7:30PM
NOVEMBER 13, 7PM
VERMONT SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA 2 Church Street, Suite 3B Burlington, VT www.vso.org
OCTOBER 16, 6PM
VSO WOODWIND QUARTET WINDS IN MOTION Old South Church 146 Main Street Windsor, VT
VERMONT COMEDY CLUB 101 Main Street Burlington, VT www.vermontcomedyclub.com
OCTOBER 16 & 17, 7PM & 9PM
RACHEL FEINSTEIN OCTOBER 22–24
SAM JAY
Thursday, 7pm Friday & Saturday, 7pm & 9pm
NOVEMBER 5–7
REGGIE WATTS Thursday, 6:30pm Friday & Saturday, 6:30pm & 8:30pm
FALL 2026 | Best of Burlington | 75
FA LSponsored L HbyAChamplain P P EValley N Expo INGS NOVEMBER 12–14
ADAM CONOVER
PINK TALKING FISH
Thursday, 6:30pm Friday & Saturday, 6:30pm & 8:30pm
NOVEMBER 19, 6PM
MICHAEL PALASCAK
CHURCH STREET MARKETPLACE 131 Church Street, #209-211 Burlington, VT www.churchstmarketplace.com
OCTOBER 31
HOWL’WEEN DOG COSTUME CONTEST NOVEMBER 27
TREE LIGHTING & SANTA PARADE
CHAMPLAIN VALLEY EXPOSITION
CLUTCH
105 Pearl Street Essex Junction, VT www.cvexpo.org
OCTOBER 11, 8:30AM NOVEMBER 15, 8:30AM
GIGANTIC INDOOR FLEA MARKET NOVEMBER 7-8, 10AM
VERMONT CRAFTERS EXPO NOVEMBER 16-18, 10AM
CHAMPLAIN VALLEY CRAFT AND ANTIQUE EXPO
HIGHER GROUND 1214 Williston Road South Burlington, VT www.highergroundmusic.com
OCTOBER 10, 8PM
OCTOBER 27, 7PM
NOVEMBER 6, 8PM
OCTOBER 29, 8PM
NOVEMBER 7, 7:30PM
OCTOBER 31, 8PM
NOVEMBER 11, 8PM
GAELIC STORM
OCTOBER 31, 7:30PM
NOVEMBER 11, 7:30PM
OCTOBER 22, 7:30PM
NOVEMBER 3, 7:30PM
NOVEMBER 12, 7PM
OCTOBER 25, 7:30PM
NOVEMBER 4, 7:30PM
Capitol Center of the Arts 44 South Main Street Concord, VT
LEVEL 1 SKI FILM OCTOBER 20, 7:30PM
REHASH
OCTOBER 20, 8PM
ALL THEM WITCHES OCTOBER 22, 7:30PM
DANA AND ALDEN CARSIE BLANTON
76 | www.bestofburlingtonvt.com
ALLISON RUSSELL THE GRINGOS
PINK TALKING FISH UPSTATE CLUTCH
PORCH LIGHT
FRUIT BATS
WILLI CARLISLE SLEEP
WEATHERDAY
PUNCH BROTHERS
FA LSponsored L HbyAChamplain P P EValley N Expo INGS NOVEMBER 12, 7:30PM
TROPIDELIC
SHEBAD
NOVEMBER 12, 7:30PM
WINYAH
NOVEMBER 13, 8PM
CARBON LEAF
NOVEMBER 14, 8PM
PHILLIP PHILLIPS NOVEMBER 15, 7PM
STEWART COPELAND NOVEMBER 15, 8PM
SIDE STORIES
NOVEMBER 16, 8PM
IN COLOR
NOVEMBER 19, 8PM
CHARLIE PARR
NOVEMBER 19, 7:30PM
TOM HAMILTON
NOVEMBER 21, 8PM
GREG FREEMAN
NOVEMBER 22, 7:30PM
THE BONES OF J.R. JONES NOVEMBER 28, 7:30PM
CHIN HO!
NOVEMBER 29, 7:30PM
NATE SMITH
NOVEMBER 30, 8PM
BONOBO
FOAM BREWERS 112 Lake Street Burlington, VT www.foambrewers.com
OCTOBER 8, 7PM
THREE PIECE MEAL OCTOBER 9, 8PM
DJ LUIS CALDERIN OCTOBER 15, 7PM
THE EYETRAPS, MOONCUSSER OCTOBER 8, 7PM
PHOENIX BOOKS 89 Church Street Burlington, VT www.phoenixbooks.biz
OCTOBER 14, 7PM
THREE PIECE MEAL
CHUCK WENDIG IN CONVERSATION WITH DELILAH DAWSON | THE CALAMITIES
OCTOBER 10, 7:30PM
OCTOBER 15, 7PM
ALI MCGUIRK
OCTOBER 23, 9PM
WILD LEEK RIVER OCTOBER 31, 8PM
SHEBAD WITH PSYMON SPINE + A HALLOWEEN SURPRISE
ANNALEE NEWITZ | A WALL IS ALSO A ROAD NOVEMBER 8, 7PM
ANTHONY COTTO | CUCINA TIPICA AND CUCINA ROMANA Virtual
SWITCHBACK BREWING COMPANY 160 Flynn Avenue Burlington, VT www.switchbackvt.com
THURSDAYS
HALF-PRICED WINGS OCTOBER 16, 5:30PM
LIVE MUSIC: RADIO COWBOY OCTOBER 25, 1PM
BARKTOBER HALLOWEEN BASH AT THE TAP ROOM NOVEMBER 29, 1PM
PINTS & PUPS IN THE OLD TAP ROOM FALL 2026 | Best of Burlington | 77
FA LSponsored L HbyAChamplain P P EValley N Expo INGS
SOUTH BURLINGTON RECREATION AND PARKS 180 Market Street South Burlington, VT www.facebook.com/SouthBurlingtonRec
THROUGH NOVEMBER 2
AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE–LEVEL 1 Mondays, 6pm
THROUGH OCTOBER 20
ITALIAN LANGUAGE CLASSES Tuesdays, 5:30pm
THROUGH NOVEMBER 4
INTRO TO ACOUSTIC GUITAR Wednesdays, 7pm
OCTOBER 3, 8AM
FLY BY 5K
Patrick Leahy Burlington International Airport 1200 Airport Drive South Burlington, VT
OCTOBER 15, 7PM
ALI T MUSIC CONCERT
78 | www.bestofburlingtonvt.com
OTHER NOTEWORTHY EVENTS OCTOBER 7, 6PM
DEEP DIVES: VALCOUR BAY RESEARCH PROJECT www.lcmm.org/event/deep-dives-100726
OCTOBER 30, 3PM
TRICK-OR-TREAT AT THE MUSEUM! www.lcmm.org/event/trick-or-treat-at-themuseum-2026
SEPTEMBER 26, 11AM
ARCHAEOLOGY DISCOVERY DAY! Ethan Allen Homestead Museum 1 Ethan Allen Homestead Burlington, VT www.plan.vermontvacation.com/events/66872
SEPTEMBER 30, 6:30PM
SWITCHBACK PRESENTS ARTY & FRIENDS Halvorson’s Upstream Cafe 16 Church Street Burlington, VT www.halvorsonsupstreetcafe.com
OCTOBER 16, 6PM
BLOOD ECLIPSE Burlington VT Odd Fellows 1416 North Avenue Burlington, VT www.facebook.com/events/889608026896730
OCTOBER 24, 7PM
CANDLELIGHT: A HAUNTED EVENING OF HALLOWEEN CLASSICS First Unitarian Universalist Society of Burlington Vermont 152 Pearl Street Burlington, VT www.feverup.com/m/184082
ADVERTISERS INDEX A Little Something, 7 Adirondack Audiology, 25 Bare Medical Spa + Laser Center, 1 Bistro de Margo, 34 Burlington City Arts, 18 Burlington Marble & Granite, 17 Champlain Smile Solutions, 49 Champlain Spine and Pain Management, 35 Champlain Valley Exposition, 80 Cheeks Luxury Skin Clinic, 10 Church Street Tavern/Splash at the Boat House, 12 Coco Goose, Inside Front Cover Compass Chiropractic, 49 Crown Point Cabinetry, 8, Inside Back Cover Culligan Water Services, 36 Cushman Design, 25 Daily Planet, 63 Davis & Hogdon Associates, 41 Ecco Clothes, 3 Essex Family Dentristy, 54 F.W. Webb, 63 Fin Catering, 74 Furchgott Sourdiffe Gallery, 18 Hen of the Wood, 29 Hula, 6 Inspired Closets of Vermont, 45
Jamie Two Coats, 55 Joy of Home, 79 Kitchen Tune-Up, 48 L’ivresse Lingerie, 11 La Bella Derma Med Spa, 29 Lake Champlain Chocolates, 40 Lakeshore Vermont Inn and Suites, 9 Morning Dew Landscaping, 59 Nu Chocolat, 15 Otter Creek Awnings, 55 Paw Print, 78 Peregrine Build/Design, 31 Phoenix Books, 74 Rachel Oblak Counseling and Psychotherapy, 49 Radiance Medical Aesthetics and Wellness Spa, Outside Back Cover Red House Builders, 2 Saint Michael’s College, 5 SD Ireland Companies, 13 The Farmhouse Group, 69 VEG, 21 Vermont Custom Handrails & Metalwork, 59 Vermont Kitchen Design by Bourchard Pierce Wolf, 35 Vermont Plastic Surgery, 4 Volansky Studio Architecture, 19 Wnd&wvs, 31
FALL 2026 | Best of Burlington | 79
A whole new line of custom built inset and frameless cabinetry with the impeccable Crown Point fit and finish Handcrafted in New Hampshire and available direct, nationwide
Beautifully designed and engineered to be budget friendly
www.crownselect.com 603 • 542 • 3399
Available only from Crown Point Cabinetry
COFFEE TABLE PUBLISHING, LLC PO BOX 4217 BURLINGTON, VT. 05406-4217