CTC&G (Connecticut Cottages & Gardens) NOVEMBER, 2023

connecticut cottages & gardens | november 2023

COTTAGESGARDENS.COM | NOVEMBER 2023

cottagesgardens.com

HOLIDAY DRESSING!

residential architecture of distinction

Exquisite details & perfect proportions. traditional architecture for the modern world.

wadiaas sociates.com

NEW CANAAN 203.966.0048

PALM BEACH 561.282.9449

FULL SERVICE OUTDOOR FURNISHINGS STUDIO AND SHOWROOM 47 Old Ridgefield Road

Wilton, Connecticut

GlengateCompany.com

203.762.2000

203.861.4200 200 Pemberwick Rd. Greenwich, CT cor nerstone-builders.com

THE CORNERSTONE WAY

“Celebrating 30 years of building custom luxury homes, making your dream a reality”

WESTMINSTER TEAK L U X U R Y

T E A K

F U R N I T U R E

Outdoors ... at home.

Maya Collection

LONG AFTER TRENDS ARE FORGOTTEN

DEALER OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE

877.866.4038

www.teakfurniture.com/ctg

BUILT TO CONTRACT SPECIFICATIONS WITH PREMIUM QUALITY TEAK FROM RENEWABLE PLANTATIONS

VISIT OUR FLAGSHIP SHOWROOM IN ANAHEIM, CA Use Promo Code CTG2023 for additional 5% discount

From Our Home to Yours As a family company, we know exactly what goes into our high performance paints.

We make eco-friendly paints in our own factory in the UK, using only the very highest quality ingredients. These are blended by our dedicated team who have been creating lovely paints in wonderful colours for generations.

Showroom opening this Fall: 9 East Putnam Avenue, Greenwich, CT 06830 Order free colour cards on our website.

littlegreene.us

CHRISTIAN RAE STUDIO ARCHITECTURE | INTERIORS | LIGHTING DESIGN www.christianraestudio.com 203.292.3090

MICHAEL SMITH ARCHITECTS J I M F U H R M A N N P H OTO G R A P H Y CHRISTINE MCGOVERN INTERIORS

HOBI

AWARD WINNER HOME BUILDING INDUSTRY AWARDS HBRA OF CONNECTICUT

G R E E N S FA R M S , C T | ( 2 0 3 ) 8 5 2 - 6 7 8 9 | D O M U S L LC . C O M | @ D O M U S C O N S T R U C TO R S L LC

CONNECTICUT COTTAGES & GARDENS • NOVEMBER 2023 • COTTAGESGARDENS.COM

FEATURES

44

Natural Appeal Cozy choices and soothing neutrals combine for a hygge holiday setting

Doors of Shippan Celebrate the season with Shippan Garden Club’s holiday wreath contest

by David Masello photographs by Ellen McDermott

by Catriona Branca photographs by David Lasnick

58

From “A Coastal Christmas,” page 66. Photograph by Darina Todorova on the cover

“Natural Appeal,” page 44 Photograph by Ellen McDermott

52

66

Nantucket Sleigh Ride A Darien Christmas party takes inspiration from the Grey Lady

A Coastal Christmas Decking the halls with nautical notes and gorgeous greenery

by Jamie Marshall photographs by Paul Johnson

by Catriona Branca photographs by Darina Todorova

DOUGLAS GRANETO DESIGN Greenwich

www.douglasgraneto.com

Manhattan

203.622.8383

Miami

The Hamptons

info@douglasgranetodesign

CONNECTICUT COTTAGES & GARDENS • NOVEMBER 2023 • COTTAGESGARDENS.COM

74

74

16

Editor’s Letter

18

What’s New Out of the Box Creative makers share their passion and their process

Letter from the CEO

24

Contributors

26

Calendar

12

CTC&G | COTTAGESGARDENS.COM | NOVEMBER 2023

34

29

BY MARY FITZGERALD

32

Design Notes Buzzworthy A peek inside the latest design news happening in the area

BY MARY FITZGERALD

34

Jewelry Bespoke Beauties Serpentine Jewels breathes new life into jewelry

BY BARONESS SHERI DE BORCHGRAVE

76

Parties & Benefits

79

Resources

BY HARRIET MAYS POWELL

36

80

Deeds & Don’ts Inside stories behind area real estate deals

Meet the Craftspeople American College of the Building Arts Students acquire skills to preserve, restore, rehabilitate and build architecturally significant structures

BY DIANE DI COSTANZO

BY SHARON KING HOGE

WINE: COURTESY OF GODAWAN

36

Wine & Spirits Fit for a King An endangered bird, an Indian Royal and a whisky

innovative design ideas that defy gravity eggersmann since 1908

eggersmann Kitchens | Home Living

150 E 58th St, 10th Fl | New York, NY 10155 | 212.688.4910

eggersmannusa.com

new york | dania beach | naples | houston | dallas | chicago | los angeles | laguna niguel | pittsburgh | scottsdale | sand city | maui | honolulu | los cabos

cottagesgardens.com /cottagesgardens •

@cottagesgardens •

@cottagesgardens •

/cottagesgardens

SUBSCRIBE NOW Visit cottagesgardens.com/subscribe to cozy up with a copy of CTC&G every month.

SEE WHAT’S COOKING

RECIPE FOR SUCCESS View tasteful dining rooms at cottagesgardens.com/ dining-rooms

14

CTC&G | COTTAGESGARDENS.COM | NOVEMBER 2023

TOP LEFT: NEIL LANDINO JR.; TOP RIGHT: ELLEN MCDERMOTT; BOTTOM: ISABEL PARRA

Follow @cottagesgardens on Instagram for a daily dash of design.

RingsEnd.com | 800·390·1000

Scan to learn more about our Architectural Hardware Services.

Your Inspiration. Our Expertise.

E DI TOR’S L E T T E R

remember the thrill of heading into New York City as a young girl to see the city dressed in its holiday finery.

The crowds, the smell of chestnuts (which I tried and didn’t really like!) from street corners, the lights and, especially, the department store windows were magical. I would stare in wonderment at all the details and the stories created. Even as I grew older, I still remember those windows. To me, they were part of the fantasy of Christmas. Those childhood memories have stayed with me all my life, and each season, I again want to re-create those feelings in my own home. ■ All of those memories came rushing back when I went to gather all the holiday decorations in our basement. I will admit it’s always overwhelming, and it takes me a bit to get into the holiday spirit and to decorate the house. The stakes are high at our house. We entertain a lot during the holidays, so I try hard to keep things different from year to year. Some DJ Carey years, it is all about bright colors or silver and gold, Editorial Director or maybe the classic red and green, other times I like djcarey@candg.com a natural approach. No matter the look, our house is filled with fresh greenery, and beautiful garlands dressed in lights adorn the top of the mantel and windows. The tree is loaded with ornaments that I have collected over the years, and each one tells a story. They all happily coexist because it is a visual memory of our lives over the years! We each have our favorites to hang and know where it will look best on the tree. I am known to add a little holiday decorating throughout the house—even sleigh bells on door handles! Or adding a big red bow to our folk-art rocking horse that I found years ago. After all the work, I love the way the house looks. It sparkles! It reminds me that we all need a little magic in our lives.

A whale weathervane presided over designer Carey Karlan’s Nantucket-themed holiday party last year.

Read all about it in “Nantucket Sleigh Ride,” page 58.

CAREY: CHICHI UBIÑA; HAIR AND MAKEUP BY WARREN TRICOMI SALON AND SPA, GREENWICH; WEATHERVANE: PAUL JOHNSON

I

Deck the Halls

We Make ELECTRIC We Make ELECTRIC ...Too. ...Too.

bevolo.com• •504-522-9485 (504) 522-9485 • 521 Conti • French Quarter • New Orleans bevolo.com • 521 Conti • 304••318 316Royal • 318 Royal • French Quarter • New Orleans bevolo.com• •504-522-9485 (504) 522-9485 • 521 Conti • French Quarter • New Orleans bevolo.com • 521 Conti • 304••318 316Royal • 318 Royal • French Quarter • New Orleans

LETTER FROM THE CEO

Holiday Hearths

W

Interior designer Kerry Delrose included a fireplace in the “weekend hangout room” he designed for this year’s Hampton Designer Showhouse, presented by HC&G.

HOWATSON: DOREEN BIRDSELL; FIREPLACE: ANASTASSIOS MENTIS

ith a mesmerizing fireplace gracing the cover, it’s clear that this issue of CTC&G captures the essence of holiday warmth. Though our Holiday issue is traditionally reserved for December, this year it arrives early to pave the way for a comprehensive focus on the Innovation in Design Awards (IDAs) next month. ■ In tune with our cover art, let’s talk about fireplaces, which have become a sought-after feature in contemporary design, offering both practical warmth and aesthetic charm. At this year’s Hampton Designer Showhouse, presented by HC&G, fireplaces were a surprising yet welcome fixture. Not confined to living rooms, bedrooms, billiard rooms, games rooms or spa rooms, they extended to outdoor spaces, affirming that the hearth has indeed returned as the heart of the home. My favorite holiday scene is myself, reclining in front of the fire with its gentle hiss and crackle inducing a post-holiday Marianne Howatson meal drowsiness, while family and guests have been CEO/Publication Director shooed out for a walk. Heaven! ■ While fireplaces mhowatson@candg.com represent the warm traditions we hold dear, the IDAs showcase the future of design—sustainable, intelligent and transformative. ■ The December issue will showcase the winning projects that represent the best work in the state of Connecticut. From sustainable design solutions to smart home technologies, the issue aims to enlighten, surprise and perhaps even challenge your notions of what design can achieve. So, as you relish the early holiday cheer with this issue, stay tuned for a journey into the excellence in design coming your way this December.

Stone lasts for generations.

Celebrating 160 years.

Exceptional Products, Personal Service.

WESTPORT SHOWROOM 203.227.5181 gaultstone.com

BETHEL SHOWROOM 203.790.9023 STONE AND LANDSCAPE SUPPLIES

GREENWICH · VERO BEACH · WESTCHESTER · NANTUCKET · HAMPTONS

NOVEMBER 2023 PUBLICATION DIRECTOR MARIANNE HOWATSON EDITORIAL DIRECTOR DJ CAREY

D esig ned by S andy M or gan

ART DIRECTOR JOSEPH ULATOWSKI SENIOR ASSOCIATE ART DIRECTOR KRISTEN HOGE

EXECUTIVE EDITOR CATRIONA BRANCA

ASSISTANT ART DIRECTOR LYDIA MATTSON

SENIOR EDITOR MARY FITZGERALD

EDITORIAL AND DIGITAL INTERN CLAIRE CHMIEL

EDITOR AT LARGE SHARON KING HOGE

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

De s i gn ed b y Lair d Mor g an Tolan

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

PROOFREADER

SHERI DE BORCHGRAVE, ANN LOYND BURTON, DIANE DI COSTANZO, HELEN KLISSER DURING, EVA HAGBERG, ANN KAISER, JAMIE MARSHALL, TOVAH MARTIN, DAVID MASELLO, MINDY PANTIEL, HARRIET MAYS POWELL, ALEXA STEVENSON, SUSAN TAMULEVICH JULIE BIDWELL, WILLIE COLE, TRIA GIOVAN, JOHN GRUEN, HULYA KOLABAS, NEIL LANDINO JR., TIM LEE, TIM LENZ, ELLEN MCDERMOTT, ANASTASSIOS MENTIS, MARCO RICCA, RIKKI SNYDER ANNETTE ROSE-SHAPIRO

C&G MEDIA GROUP

EDITORIAL DIRECTORS

DJ CAREY KENDELL CRONSTROM

COTTAGESGARDENS.COM dailyDEEDS.COM

DIGITAL AND MARKETING ASSOCIATE DAILYDEEDS.COM EDITOR PRODUCER DIGITAL INTERNS PRODUCTION SERVICES

Laird Morgan Tolan

Sandy Morgan ASID

INSPIRING DESIGN STUDIO & ART GALLERY WWW.SANDRAMORGANINTERIORS.COM G REENW ICH Since 1 9 88 203· 629 ·812 1

V ER O B EA CH S inc e 20 1 8 7 7 2 ·2 3 4·2 9 1 0

JACQUELYN SHANNON ANNE GIORDANO MICHAEL EKSTRACT ISABEL GOUVEIA ANNIKA HOLMBERG INTERNATIONAL COLOR SERVICES

HEADQUARTERS

40 Richards Avenue, 5th Floor, Norwalk, CT 06854 Phone: 203-227-1400 Fax: 203-226-2824

Copyright © 2023 by Dulce Domum, LLC. All rights reserved. Cottages & Gardens is a trademark and a service mark of Dulce Domum, LLC. Reproduction by permission only. The publisher and editors are not responsible for unsolicited material.

GARRETT WILSON BUILDERS

1599 POST ROAD EAST I WESTPORT, CT 06880 I 203-259-3333 I GARRETTWILSONBUILDERS.COM Christian Rae Studio, LLC

NOVEMBER 2023 CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER MARIANNE HOWATSON PUBLISHER, HC&G ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER, NYC&G

MELISSA GROHER ROSENBLUTH 860-906-7182

ACCOUNT DIRECTORS

LISA HEISSAN | 917-294-1897 WENDY HORWITZ | 914-260-2738 JAMIE LEWIS | 917-744-8106 LAURA MEYER | 203-243-4057 ROBIN O’HARA | 646-245-8650

SALES INTERN PRODUCTION MANAGER

ROWAYTON

· NYC · PALM BEACH

CARLA EVANS 203-520-6533 JENNIFER BARBARO

MARKETING AND EVENTS SENIOR ASSOCIATE

STEPHANIE YALAMAS

BUSINESS MANAGER/HR

JULIENIGHTINGALEDESIGN.COM 203.246.9235

NICHOLAS MEACHEN

DIRECTOR OF MARKETING, EVENTS AND PR

CREATIVE SERVICES MANAGER

INTERIOR ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN

PAMELA ELDRIDGE 917-535-8226

SARAH RUSSO CAROL ABRAMS

FINANCE MANAGER

ROSEANN BROWN

FINANCE ASSOCIATE

JOY MARSHALL

DISTRIBUTION CONSUMER MARKETING

DIRECT MARKETING DISTRIBUTION NEXT STEPS MARKETING THEA SELBY AND KAREN L. CUNNINGHAM

FOLLOW #COTTAGESGARDENS

DIGITAL EDITION Please visit cottagesgardens.com/ctcgonline

WRITE TO US We love hearing from you! Email us at advertising@candg.com

NEWSLETTERS Sign up for Cottages & Gardens newsletters at cottagesgardens.com/candgnewsletters

Subscriptions to our publications are available at the following prices: CTC&G (11 issues): $49.95 NYC&G (5 issues): $39.95 HC&G (8 issues): $39.95

Offers are available if you purchase two or more titles online at cottagesgardens.com/subscribe.

To purchase a copy of the Connecticut Design Guide 2023 for $19.95 plus shipping go to cottagesgardens.com/CTCGShop. Subscription questions? Please call 203-227-1400 or email subscriptions@candg.com Please allow four to six weeks for your first issue to arrive.

To subscribe by mail, send check or money order, Attention: Subscriptions, to:

C&G Media Group 40 Richards Avenue, 5th Floor, Norwalk, CT 06854 Phone: 203-227-1400 Fax: 203-226-2824 cottagesgardens.com Dulce Domum, LLC.

DON’T MAKE LUNCH. MAKE THUNDER.

#COOKLIKEAGOD

THOR Kitchen: a complete line of full-featured, superbly crafted, stainless steel warriors. Dual fuel, gas and electric options. 4,000–18,000 BTU burners.

Infrared broilers. LED panel lights. Continuous cast iron grates. Heavy-duty tilt panel controls. Massive capacities. LightningBoil™ speed. Brilliant blue porcelain oven interiors. And more.

The real value in pro-grade performance.

MEMBER

THORKITCHEN.COM © Copyright 2023 THOR Kitchen, Inc. | All Rights Reserved.

23TINT01-24-149473-1

RANGES | OVENS | COOKTOPS | VENTILATION | MICROWAVES | REFRIGERATORS | WINE COOLERS | ICE MAKERS | DISHWASHERS | BBQ GRILLS | PIZZA OVENS

CONTRIBUTORS

NURSERY & GREENHOUSES, LLC EST. 1930

In This Issue D O Y O U H AV E A FAV O R I T E A R E A I N T H E H O M E T O D E C O R AT E F O R T H E H O L I D AY S ?

NIKKI GLAZER

“My favorite area of the house to decorate is the tabletop and tree. I love using seasonal fruits and greens like pomegranate, kumquat and magnolia on the table to warm it up. My mother and I used to put cloves in clementines and put them out in a bowl to scent the room when I was little. I think I need to bring that back this season! White paperwhites and amaryllis are always a classic. My tree is decorated in white lights with a neutral palette of ornaments from my shop, GrayGoods. Simple, natural and chic.” Designer, “Natural Appeal” (page 44), glazergroup.com.

Full Service Garden Center

PAUL JOHNSON

“Every year I look forward to decorating the Christmas tree. We unpack decorations that we have collected over the years and hang them on the tree based on their meaning to us. Places of honor go to ornaments our kids made in school and ornaments with pictures of pets who are not with us anymore. We hang the ark ornament given to my wife by her student, Noah. We find a nice place for the ornament from our wine tasting trip with friends in the Finger Lakes. Decorating the tree is a milestone; it reminds us of how lucky we are to have our family and friends around us and how lucky we were to have our Jack Russell terriers.”

Photographer, “Nantucket Sleigh Ride” (page 58), pauljohnsonphotography.com.

• Landscape Design & Installation • Premier Garden Care • On-Site Container Design & Seasonal Decor Services

437 North St. • Greenwich, CT 06830 (203) 869-3418

www.sambridge.com

MEG YOUNG

“I love decorating our six Christmas trees. I grew up with multiple trees in our home, and each tree had its own individual theme. I have kept that tradition alive with my own family. While the general themes stay consistent, every year I add new ornaments and often change the ribbon and/or tree picks. We typically have a classic tree in silver and gold, a coastal-themed tree and a blue and white grandmillennial tree, My daughters each have a Charlie Brown tree that they decorate. I love creating beautiful and unique trees.” Founder and Creative Director, Cailíní Coastal, “A Coastal Christmas” (page 66), cailinicoastal.com.

—Mary Fitzgerald

GLAZER: ANDREA CERASO; JOHNSON: JEFF SAMUEL; YOUNG: MOLLY ROSE PHOTOGRAPHY

Local Delivery & Christmas Tree Installation

Danbury, CT Fairfield, CT Farmington, CT Guilford, CT Hartford, CT Stamford, CT Torrington, CT Great Barrington, MA

www.waterwareshowrooms.com

C A L E N DA R

November 2023 FROM NEW CANAAN TO SOUTHPORT

Right Sizing

Reaching life’s most significant milestones (marriages, births, retirement…) often calls for a shift in our environment. Suddenly, we dream of a yard big enough for a swing set or a giant kitchen island. Or life gets smaller, and we opt to live in an association where someone else worries about the roof and the gutters while we spend our winters or summers (or both!) somewhere else. The ebbs and flows of life are inevitable. Fortunately, Greenwich offers the opportunity to “rightsize” your home without ever leaving the community that you’ve come to love.

Do you prefer the solitude and natural beauty of a tucked away backcountry gem? Are you more interested in a life full of friendly neighbors in and out at all times? Or perhaps you are a reluctant suburbanite, and your heart’s desire is a condo right off of Greenwich Avenue where you are moments away from the latest restaurants and a quick zip to Grand Central? I’ve got you covered.

A skilled real estate agent will really listen and carefully assess your needs to ensure that your move to Greenwich meets all of your expectations. Be it a cozy cottage by the shore, a modern sleek loft like condo, or an equestrian’s estate, we have it all.

When searching for your forever home in Greenwich, trust someone familiar with ALL that this cosmopolitan town has to offer. I will help you find a place to call home, and then I’ll do it again and again as your circumstances and lifestyle change.

Best, JGB

Julie Grace Burke Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker jgb@compass.com 203.253.0648

200 Greenwich Ave 3rd Floor Greenwich, CT 06830 compass.com

Julie Grace Burke is a licensed associate real estate broker affiliated with Compass, a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Photos may be virtually staged or digitally enhanced and may not reflect actual property conditions.

ROOMS WITH A VIEW

9-12

15

HOBI

Join CTC&G at the annual Rooms With A View, celebrating 28 years of outstanding design. Twelve designers utilize their talents to create vignettes staged in the library and great hall of the historic, Gothic Revival–style Southport Congregational Church. An opening party will be held on November 9 to kick-start the multi-day show. General show hours: Friday, November 10, and Saturday, November 11, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. and Sunday, November 12, 12–5 p.m.

Southport Congregational Church, 524 Pequot Ave., Southport. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit roomswithaview.org.

AWARDS

Housing industry professionals gather from near and far to celebrate the 29th annual HOBI awards with media sponsor CTC&G. The HOBI awards are Connecticut’s most prestigious recognition of excellence in home construction and are presented by the Home Builders & Remodelers Association of Connecticut. The evening’s program culminates with the 2023 HOBI Awards presentation and winners’ slide show. Wednesday, November 15, 5 p.m.

Aqua Turf Country Club, 556 Mulberry St., Plantsville. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit hobiawards.com.

NEW CANAAN HOLIDAY HOUSE TOUR

30-2

NOVEMBER DECEMBER

CTC&G is the proud media sponsor of the Newcomers Club of New Canaan’s Holiday House Tour! Don't miss your chance to explore six captivating homes, ranging from timeless Colonials to charming Midcentury Modern gems, at this year's house tour. Prepare to ignite your holiday spirit and discover endless inspiration for decking your halls and enhancing your home decor. Gather a group of friends and make it a festive holiday outing for all! The patron packages offer unique experiences for everyone. Join us in celebrating design and the holiday season. Preview Party: Thursday, November 30. Tour: Friday, December 1, and Saturday, December 2.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit newcanaanholidayhousetour.com.

ROOMS WITH A VIEW: ALAN BARRY; HOBI AWARDS: STEVE FREIHON; HOLIDAY HOUSE TOUR: JANE BEILES

#JulieKnows

28

th Annual Interior Design & Art Show

Show Dates - November 10th to12th Opening Party - November 9th A Night at the Hadley - November 10th 12 Vignette Designers

Ross Alexander, Amanda Essex, Smith Gardner, Jennifer Gresinger, Lindsey Coral Harper, Kayla Lowry & Carissa Pintello, MKDA, Robin O'Neil, Jasmin Reese, Amanda Reynal, Stamford Modern, Scot Meacham Wood

Platinum Sponsors: Waterworks, On The Harbor Real Estate, Mary McDonald Inc Corporate Sponsors: Benzinger Winery, Fifth State Distillery, Ring’s End, The Russell Agency, Vaughan Designs, Yankee Custom Builders Design Sponsors: Dunes & Duchess, Eleish Van Breems, OKA, Visual Comfort

Art Installation by TONK Gallery

Featured works by Sam Sidney, Katie Re Scheidt, Jennifer Badalamenti, Kathleen Palmeri /

POP-up Restaurant - The Hadley Designed by Christian P. Arkay-Leliever

roomswithaview.org For tickets and more information

A fundraiser benefitting 19 local charities

SAVE THE DATE

Hobbs Inc., Mackin Architects

15th November 2023

2022 PROJECT OF THE YEAR

CONNECTICUT’S 29TH ANNUAL

About Event

HOBI AWARDS GALA

You are Invited to the Premier Home Building Industry Social Event of the Year! The HOBI Awards recognizes CT housing industry professionals for excellence in home design and construction. Highlights of the evening include a presentation of winning homes and communities; announcement of Custom, Spec and Remodeled Homes of the Year, PLUS dispensing of the 2023 HOBI Awards.

Purchase Tickets Now! Visit hobiawards.com for dinner registration and to purchase tickets.

For questions, contact the HBRA of CT office at 860-500-7706.

Aqua Turf Country Club 5:00 to 9:30PM | Plantsville, CT Sponsored by:

HSL Building Company Peter Cadoux | Architect

2022 CUSTOM HOME OF THE YEAR

The Home Builders & Remodelers Association of Connecticut, Inc.

W H AT ’ S N E W

Out of the Box

C R E AT I V E M A K E R S S H A R E T H E I R P A S S I O N A N D T H E I R P R O C E S S | B Y M A R Y F I T Z G E R A L D

DENYSE SCHMIDT

Modern quilter Denyse Schmidt employs traditional techniques with a more improvisational style. Her mother taught her to sew when she was young, and that skill, along with a background in graphic design, has served her well. “I like to believe that my style is not just one note, that it has evolved over time.” The process begins by putting pen to paper to sketch out ideas, then grouping fabrics and playing with scale and texture. Color is the last component and is a “trial-and error “process.

Schmidt teaches others the craft and says, “It’s really something that requires you to be in the moment, to let go of learned ideas, to respond to the materials on hand.” dsquilts.com.

NOVEMBER 2023 | COTTAGESGARDENS.COM | CTC&G

29

W H AT ’ S N E W HELEN PRIOR

Helen Prior worked in fashion for many years, developing prints for Emanuel Ungaro and Anne Klein, before embarking on her ceramic career. That knowledge, along with an archive of textile patterns, is used to create her ceramics, and now—translating clay to cloth to paper—fabrics and wallpapers. Her work is deeply rooted in the landscape of her Hudson Valley, NY, studio. Found objects are pressed into clay, leaving impressions of leaves, wildflowers and seeds, as well as stylized flower patterns from her historical textile collection. “I am motivated each day to create something original and unique,” says Prior. “I love the transformative power of clay and use it to create original textile and wallpaper designs, as well as making sculptural vessels.” helenprior.com.

J.D. STARON

Jakub Staron works alongside the weavers and craftspeople who create his eponymous rugs. “We strive to bring to the world of contemporary interior design, the vanishing art of hand weaving,” says Staron. “I travel to the most remote places to find the finest materials and work with local artisans to weave rugs of unparalleled beauty and sophistication.” Staron began weaving as a teenager and had a job during college restoring antique carpets. He compares his rugs to “a painting in three dimensions.”

Staron’s latest assemblage, the Modern Antiques Collection, is an homage to ancient masters. “I have great respect for old masterpieces.

As an artist and weaver, connecting modernity with history is one of the most thrilling aspects of my work,” says Staron. jdstaron.com.

IAN LOVE DESIGN

Ian Love enjoys working with his hands, both as a musician and as a self-taught woodworker. He sources wood from local arborists—which would otherwise be discarded or used as firewood—to create sculptural furniture and art pieces. Letting the wood direct his design, he employs chainsaws, angle grinders and carving tools.

“It becomes an intuituive process,” notes Love. “There’s a synergy that happens.

I love woodworking because the material I work with is so organic and has so much personality that it’s different every time I work on a new piece. I never know if something is going to work out, and it’s my job to work through any frustrations and difficulties in the process and make something beautiful out of something that was going to be thrown away.” Available through Fair, fair-design.com, ianlovedesign.com.

30

CTC&G | COTTAGESGARDENS.COM | NOVEMBER 2023

JOHN POMP

Designer, artist and glassblower, John Pomp creates abstracted furniture and lighting. He experiments with elemental materials in transitory states like molten glass and warped metal. Each piece is made in his Philadelphia studio using a combination of modern techniques and Old-World craftsmanship.

Pomp’s latest work, Rift, combines polished and aged metals.

“In designing the Rift collection,” says Pomp, “my process was based heavily on the movements of otherworldly objects through space—a sense of existing in a timeless space somewhere between an ancient past and distant future.” johnpomp.com.

W H AT ’ S N E W

DARIO BURATTO/STORIES OF ITALY

DARIO BURATTO: COURTESY OF STORIES OF ITALY; J.D. STARON: AYANO HISA (PORTRAIT)

Born near Venice and now based in Milan, creative director of Stories of Italy design studio Dario Buratto wished to preserve the heritage of Murano blown glass, but with a more modern twist. He works with the Murano glassblowers to execute his complex designs. “I had no prior experience with blown glass,” says Buratto. “I entered a furnace and began experimenting from scratch with the help of several patient and supportive Maestros. After some time, I began to understand what could be ‘my style of glass,’ and slowly, the aesthetic of Stories of Italy started to take shape and become clearer–­a colorful reinterpretation of understated and playful luxury.” storiesofitaly.com.

ASSEMBLAGE

After many years of working in textiles and art in New York City, the husband-and-wife founders of Assemblage, Heidi and Christian Batteau, moved to the Ozark mountains of Arkansas.

They set out “to craft the most exquisitely handcrafted wallpaper.” Working in a converted seed mill with a team of talented artisans, they use all-natural materials, employing a combination of proprietary methods and age-old techniques, from hand-troweling to hand-carving to silk screen printing.

“It truly is art for the walls,” says Heidi. The newest collection of fine art design, Euclid, is informed by nature and inspired by limestone formations, birch bark and fossilized coral. The papers include marble plaster, ground mica, metal leaf and inks finished with wax or resin. Available through Holly Hunt, hollyhunt.com, assembledarts.com.

HERA FORD

DAVID HARBER

David Harber’s unique garden sculptures, sundials and water features were recently showcased at the prestigious Chelsea Flower show in London. He and his team of skilled craftspeople have produced commission pieces for clients all over the world. Fashioned in bronze, stainless steel and stone, his sculptures play with light and reflection, adding an interesting element to the garden that invites interaction and interpretation. “I absolutely love what we do,” says Harber. “I am fascinated by the optical quality of reflective surfaces, a mirrored sculpture in a beautiful garden becomes part of the garden. The sculpture has no ego, it is merely reflecting its environment.” davidharber.com.

ANDREW DOMINIC

With workshops in the UK and South Africa, Andrew Dominic is a designer and maker of fine furniture. He discovered woodworking while working on classic wooden yachts in the Mediterranean and honed his skills at Rowden Atelier. “The purpose of carefully made furniture is to achieve a level of handcrafted care that will leave a lasting mark and bring pleasure to the owner,” says Dominic. “Handmade is appreciated; factory made is expected. As a result, what inspires me is wanting to deliver carefully designed and made furniture that captures the time and handwork needed to produce it.” Available through Sarza, Rye, NY, sarzastore.com, andrewdominicfurniture.com.

Schumacher has partnered with textile and apparel artist Hera Ford.

A 2020 graduate of Rhode Island School of Design, her college thesis—a series of botanical studies—has been developed into a poetic offering of fabrics and wallpapers. The designs, drawn in charcoal and graphite, speak to Ford’s connection to the earth and her grandmother’s Mississippi home. “I feel inspired by the songs and stories of those who came before me,” says Ford.

“It feels important to know that there is a lineage of ancestors and artists who’ve been speaking to the land. My process is about honoring that lineage.” schumacher. com, heraford.com.

NOVEMBER 2023 | COTTAGESGARDENS.COM | CTC&G

31

DESIGN NOTES

Buzzworthy

A P E E K I N S I D E T H E L AT E S T D E S I G N N E W S H A P P E N I N G I N T H E A R E A

American Craftsmanship

The House of Scalamandré was given unrestricted access to the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s vast archives—including hidden treasures not on display—to create the Scalamandré x The Met collection. The result is a celebration of artistic and cultural traditions. Examples include a mural wallpaper based on an 18th century Indian wall-hanging, a fabric inspired by a Chinese scroll cover and an embroidered tape translated from a Marie-Antoinette chair found at Versailles. The collection debuted in October with more than 90 items, all taking cues from the rare antiquities, artifacts and ancient heirlooms found within the two-million-square-foot museum. scalamandre.com.

LUXURY LIVING

32

CTC&G | COTTAGESGARDENS.COM | NOVEMBER 2023

California-based Erik Lindström Rugs has expanded its presence on the East Coast with an NYC showroom.

Located in the Flatiron district, the 4,000-square-foot space was created with interior designer Anna Beeber to replicate a glamorous apartment with partitioned salons, chic black walls and bespoke furnishings. “The idea behind our gallery was to be the opposite of a typical rug showroom,” says designer and founder Erik Lindström. “No design center. No bright lights. No giant stack of rugs. Designers can enjoy a unique experience and feel inspired by the surroundings we’ve thoughtfully curated. Here, you’re transported into a world filled with splendor, where our rugs are complemented with art, curiosities and rare furnishings from around the world.” Rugs in contemporary, transitional and textural patterns are handmade by weavers from natural materials including Tibetan and New Zealand wool, fine silk, cashmere alpaca and mohair. Erik Lindstrom is represented in CT by Crans Baldwin. NYC showroom is open by appointment, 9 East 19th St., 2nd floor, NYC, 212-466-6360, eriklindstrom.com, cransbaldwinllc.com.

NATURAL BEAUTY Interlude Home has been busy this year opening a new 3,000-squarefoot showroom in Stamford’s Waterside Design District and introducing its biggest launch to date, the Naturals Collection. In rattan, sisal, grasscloth and wood, the latest assemblage melds contemporary style with a casual resort vibe. The extensive line-up features dining chairs, stools, cocktail and occasional tables, dressers, bedside chests, dining tables and more. The company has also aligned with Alonpi, a niche Italian brand, to offer luxe cashmere. The seven-piece, limited-edition collection of throws is woven in textural neutrals, staying true to Interlude Home’s signature aesthetic. 366 Fairfield Ave., Stamford, 203-274-5650, interludehome.com. —Mary Fitzgerald

LUXURY LIVING: BRITTANY AMBRIDGE, STYLING: MARTIN BOURNE

HISTORY LESSONS

Colonial Williamsburg has partnered with Charleston Forge to create the Craft & Forge collection of cocktail and end tables. Inspired by the time-honored techniques and craftsmanship of Colonial America metalsmiths, the furniture—in steel with wood or glass tops—is designed for today’s lifestyle. Made in the Charleston Forge headquarters in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Boone, North Carolina, skilled welders, forgers, woodsmiths and painters craft each piece to order. Sales support the preservation, research and educational programs of the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation and the artisan trades. The furniture can be purchased through Charleston Forge and interior designers. charlestonforge.com.

©2023 Heller, LLC

www.hellerfurniture.com | @hellerfurniture

J E W E L RY

Bespoke Beauties A

S E R P E N T I N E J E W E L S B R E AT H E S N E W L I F E I N T O J E W E L R Y

PORTRAIT, STONES, INTERIOR, AND FORNASETTI DISH & JEWELRY: ANDREA CARSON FOR SERPENTINE JEWELS

graduate of the Gemological Institute of America, Ali Galgano has been in the jewelry business for more than 15 years and opened the Serpentine Townhouse in Greenwich in 2022. A striking blonde with a bold sartorial style, she began by making engagement rings for her friends and quickly segued into custom designs. Frustrated that people were falling victim to inferior quality stones at inflated prices, she saw an opportunity.

And thus, Serpentine Jewels was born.

By appointment only, the process begins with an initial phone consultation. Galgano asks a plethora of questions, seeking to know the client’s jewelry history, the contents of their existing collection, and what it currently lacks. “Everyone has a jewelry story to tell,” she says. Next, she and her in-house team meet with the client at the Townhouse, sketching ideas and presenting stone options. Finally, the approved design is sent to her manufacturing team in New York City.

Galgano is passionate about “breathing new life into jewelry.” One way she does this is by the creation of “transformers.” For example, she takes an engagement ring and creates a bespoke jeweled

Be Jeweled (clockwise from near left) Serpentine Bookend rings with baguette and pear-shaped diamonds in 18k yellow gold. Jewelry designer Ali Galgano.

An assortment of colored gemstones.

Convertible diamond earrings with an emerald-cut stud base, and a lozenge, round, emerald and shield cut diamond attachment, in platinum.

A Fornasetti jewelry dish offers design inspiration at the Townhouse. Ring with fancy yellow, radiant-cut diamond with bezel set bullet side stones in platinum. Multicolored sapphire, emerald and diamond Dinner ring, in 18k yellow gold. Serpentine Townhouse interior. serpentinejewels.com.

34

CTC&G | COTTAGESGARDENS.COM | NOVEMBER 2023

“jacket” for it, which slips on and off the original setting to create a glamorous cocktail ring. Similarly, simple diamond stud earrings can be converted by using gemmed jackets that surround the central diamond. Additionally, the studs can get a cascade of diamonds, which attach to the earrings’ posts to create a dramatic dangling pair. (All of Galgano’s diamonds are ethically sourced, having been through the United Nations–sponsored “Kimberly Process” before reaching the market.)

Custom jewelry is having a resurgence, Galgano tells me, and it now accounts for 50 percent of her business.

“People don’t want what everyone else has,” she says.

They “crave individuality.”

Rings are the most popular category, and her explanation for this is simple: Unlike earrings or necklaces, the wearer can enjoy looking at a ring on themselves.

Value is also a critical factor. Galgano says she wants to deliver “beautifully crafted jewelry, but not at retail prices.” Overall, she says, her clients are less concerned about the delivery of a piece by a certain date, being “more interested in getting it right and not overpaying.”

When I ask why the business is called Serpentine Jewels, Galgano explains that she has always loved snake jewelry, especially the way such pieces slither around a finger or wrist. In addition, snakes can be symbols of eternity, as they constantly shed their skin and are transformed into something new. Exactly like many of her creations. —Harriet Mays Powell

NOVEMBER 2023 | COTTAGESGARDENS.COM | CTC&G

35

DEEDS DON’TS DEEDS & DON’ TS

I N S I D E S T O R I E S B E H I N D A R E A R E A L E S TAT E D E A L S

ONE AND

n keeping with a theme of this issue, we’ve curated homes that were crafted to suit the passions and preferences of their owners. And while the one-off amenities aren’t necessarily on everybody’s must-have list (waterfall, anyone?), the right buyers will be charmed by the offerings—that, safe to say, they’re not finding elsewhere. Here, our six favorite one-of-a-kind listings, from a Greenwich estate once owned by actress Mary Tyler Moore to an airy geodesic dome.

A-LIST LISTINGS

Moore’s Mansion Owned by actress Mary Tyler Moore, this grand Greenwich estate lists for $21.9 million with Joseph Barbieri of Sotheby’s International Realty in Greenwich. 203-940-2025.

36

CTC&G | COTTAGESGARDENS.COM | NOVEMBER 2023

Let’s start with a seven-acre Greenwich estate owned by the late, great actress Mary Tyler Moore. Its most striking amenity is a soaring, domed conservatory that’s ringed all around by French doors and, near the top of the dome, encircled with custom, half-moon windows. The wood-paneled billiards room is also a showstopper, with its patterned floorboards and custom

DANIEL MILSTEIN FOR SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY

I

ONLY

1 1.

7 Cobb Island Drive, Greenwich $18,500,000 WEB#119098 Christopher B. Finlay 203.969.5511

2. 232 Belden Hill Road, Wilton

2

3

4

$1,845,000 WEB#170598895 Bozena Jablonski 203.807.0012 3. The Vue New Canaan

2-3 BRs from $1.375M-$2.750M Bettina Hegel 917.842.3349 4. 1 White Oak Lane, Weston

$1,265,000 WEB#170592956 Ellen Garcia 203.981.5244

5

5. 1 Broad Street, Stamford PH 22E

$760,000 WEB#170599827 Matthew Oldham 203.604.5463 6. 73 Harbor Drive Unit 415, Stamford

6

7

$649,000 WEB#170600321 Jessica Gaglio 203.223.3473 Meghan Athnos 203.918.1215 7. 53 Keofferam Road, Old Greenwich

$4,600,000 WEB#118211 Rob Johnson 203.979.2360 8. 45 Sidecut Road, Redding

9

$2,995,000 WEB#170573899 Jill Sloane 917.509.7205 9. 126 Leroy Avenue, Darien

$1,350,000 WEB#170599392 Chris Merritt 203.550.9824 Allison Lister Boeckmann 203.273.0399 10. 84 Lawrence Hill Road, Stamford

8

10

$1,015,000 WEB#170582186 Meghan Athnos 203.918.1215

IT’S THE FUTURE. THE SMART YOGA FLOOR KEEPS YOU IN PERFECT BALANCE. BUT CAN IT FIND THE RIGHT BALANCE SHEET FOR THE DEAL? THAT STILL TAKES MASTERY. 150 YEARS AND COUNTING.

Mastery of the Craft.

It’s Timeless.

DEEDS & DON’ TS

A Connecticut Classic Singer and actress Lucie Arnaz once owned this classic Colonial in Weston, just listed for $1,849,000 with Karen Magee of Brown Harris Stevens in Westport. 203-952-1720.

of Time and Sports Illustrated magazines. The homeowner is perhaps best known for photographing models underwater in the pool, which is equipped with an underground tunnel, designed to give him a dry vantage point during photo shoots. Expanded over the years by architect David Specter—best known for the USTA National Tennis Center in Queens— the main house offers nearly 6,000 square feet of pristine, all-white interiors.

Along with that swimming pool, the 6.36-acre grounds boast a Har-Tru tennis court, a rose garden, hundreds of dogwood trees and an impressive allée of 25 birch trees. It lists for $2.3 million with Irit Granger with William Pitt Sotheby’s International Realty.

Picture Perfect Photographer Howard Schatz owned this midcentury modern home, listed for $2.3 million with Irit Granger with William Pitt Sotheby’s International Realty in Washington Depot. 203-803-3748.

38

CTC&G | COTTAGESGARDENS.COM | NOVEMBER 2023

BOTTOM: MICHAEL BOWMAN

bookshelves. Sold by Moore’s widower, the circa-1900 property also features a 65-foot-long pool with an outdoor fireplace, and spa facilities including a Jacuzzi, steam shower and sauna. It lists for $21.9 million with Joseph Barbieri of Sotheby’s International Realty.

Another celebrity listing popped onto the market this fall, once owned

by Lucie Arnaz, daughter of Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz. In Weston, the home has all the hallmarks of the classic Colonial, including clapboard siding, shuttered windows and a double-width front door opening onto a two-story entrance hall. Within the 5,207-square-foot interiors, the family room is especially well-appointed, with its stone fireplace and a wet bar complete with a copper counter and wine fridge. And on the lovely, two-acre lot, there’s a pool and spa, and a wood-paneled party barn. It’s offered for $1,849,000 by Karen Magee of Brown Harris Stevens.

Nearly every midcentury modern is singular in its own way—the architects innovating at that time were iconoclasts and, most of them, eager to use their designs to express their unique perspectives.

A circa-1963 modern in Sherman is no exception. It’s part of the cool compound owned by photographer Howard Schatz, whose images have graced the covers

DEEDS & DON’ TS

Best Of Both Worlds A thorough renovation of a circa-1850 New Preston home resulted in this modern “antique,” listed for $3,595,000 with Peter Klemm of Klemm Real Estate in Washington Depot. 917-864-4940.

In New Preston, in Litchfield County, a circa-1850 post-and-beam house has been entirely reconstructed to create a bright and airy— two adjectives not often associated with antiques— 5,000-square-foot home.

The great room is truly great with its genius blend of old and new. There are exposed stone walls, an oversized stone fireplace and industrialstyle posts and beams. But there is also a wall of modern sliders that open onto a patio and a pavilion overlooking the waterfalls that tumble along the East Aspetuck River. Back inside, a staircase crafted from antique threshing boards and a modern steel railing system leads to the open-plan living/dining space, built with wideboard white oak floors and another fireplace.

Private, but located close to charming New Preston village, the property lists for $3,595,000 with Peter Klemm of Klemm Real Estate.

Finally, a circa-1880 estate has hit the Salisbury market, residentially zoned but currently used

as a school. At the heart of the property is its impressive stone-and-shingle manor house, which sits on a high perch and offers sweeping views over bucolic Berkshire County, best enjoyed from the home’s wraparound covered porch. Story goes that it was built for wealthy Bostonians, who would drive their horse and buggies up the circular drive and through the handsome porte cochere.

Throughout the nearly 6,000-square-foot interiors original details include coffered ceilings, leadedglass windows, ornate fireplaces and antique woodwork—some of which was crafted by Italian artisans brought over to help build the place. The 85-plus-acre property also offers an auditorium, a dining hall with a professional kitchen, several additional buildings, a pond and hiking paths that connect to the Appalachian Trail. Juliet Moore and Elyse Harney Morris of Elyse Harney Real Estate share the $7.5 million listing.

—Diane di Costanzo Salisbury Sanctuary On 85-plus acres that straddle the Connecticut and Massachusetts state line, a grand, circa-1880 estate lists for $7.5 million with Juliet Moore and Elyse Harney Morris of Elyse Harney Real Estate in Salisbury. 860-480-0546 and 860-318-5126.

CURVES AHEAD Perhaps the most singular of all the listings on the fall market is a home shaped like a geodesic dome, located in the Brookside neighborhood of Norwalk, asking $789,000. Built in 2008 and thoroughly renovated by its current owners, the 2,347-square-foot interiors offer three bedrooms, a new kitchen and a multifunctional lower level with glass doors opening onto a pretty, private terrace. The .22-acre property is offered by Michael Carey of Sotheby’s International Realty in Greenwich. 203-645-0201.

Visit cottagesgardens.com/news to start receiving our dailyDeeds newsletter

40

CTC&G | COTTAGESGARDENS.COM | NOVEMBER 2023

CURVES AHEAD: REALTY PLANS FOR SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY

RURAL RETREATS

Like no other.

LY N N E M E R C E I N . C O M

Join us at the Greenwich Country Club on 10/24

2023 INNOVATOR

JAMES DOYLE

TROPHY SPONSOR

Photo by Paul Bickford

SPONSORS

B U Y TICK E TS AT C G I D A S . C O M

NOVEMBER

PAUL JOHNSON

CON N ECT ICU T CO T TAGE S & GA R DE NS

LET THE MAGIC BEGIN NOVEMBER 2023 | COTTAGESGARDENS.COM | CTC&G

43

NATURAL APPEAL

Cozy choices and soothing neutrals combine for a hygge holiday setting

BY DAVID MASELLO | PHOTOGRAPHS BY ELLEN MCDERMOTT

Dine-In Style Juliska plates and glasses are set among a garland designed by Stems + Co. The plate chargers are from the Linen Shop, with napkins and ribbon supplied by Heather Taylor Home and Terrain. See Resources.

NOVEMBER 2023 | COTTAGESGARDENS.COM | CTC&G

45

XX

CTC&G | COTTAGESGARDENS.COM | MONTH 2023

W Chic & Cozy A view from the living room into the kitchen reveals one of four decorated trees.

A festive seasonal bouquet from Hayfields Market is set on the kitchen island.

The island chairs are from Bungalow. See Resources.

ell before the start of December, with Thanksgiving leftovers yet to consume, New Canaan homeowner Elizabeth (Liz) Ariola already had all of her holiday decorations in place. Four ornamented Christmas trees stood tall in various rooms, with another winking white lights outside. A garland wrapped the staircase banister, neatly twined packages sat stacked in the living room, a giant wreath hung over a glowing fireplace, and her dining table was set for six, with each place setting a work of art in itself.

But even though Ariola—a digital creator and cofounder of Motherhood Media, the company behind the social media megastar Brunch With Babs—has a keen design sensibility, she had her friend and interior designer Nikki Glazer realize much of the decorations that filled the rooms of her modern farmhouse-style residence in the town’s historic Silvermine neighborhood.

“My husband and four children and I were so impressed with Nikki’s décor, that we kept it all in place and celebrated the holiday season with everything virtually unchanged,” she notes. Ariola, along with four other New Canaan residents had “loaned” out their homes in 2021 for what was the 28th biennial Holiday House Tour, an event hosted since 1957 by the Newcomers Club of New Canaan. The organization pairs several homes with local designers who transform the rooms at holiday time. Members of the public can purchase tickets and take tours, while also meeting their fellow neighbors. Proceeds benefit some dozen local charities, with this year’s event hosted on December 1 and 2 with media sponsor CTC&G (newcanaanholidayhousetour.com).

“We loved that the homeowner was able to mix textiles and materials seamlessly to achieve a warm, comfortable and approachable aesthetic in a newer home,” notes Townsend Katz, event chair. “Her casual and elegant style beams through the entire project.” Continues Natalie Jones, one of that year’s house tour committee members: “We served hot cocoa as NOVEMBER 2023 | COTTAGESGARDENS.COM | CTC&G

47

Finishes With Flourish (left to right from opposite page) When designer Nikki Glazer received a giant wreath donated by Designs by Lee in Stamford, she wove other greenery and elements into it, finishing it off with a velvet ribbon. Outdoor areas of the house were accented with elements that include this little red wagon.

Table settings feature Juliska plates and glassware. See Resources.

Wreath making is a whole creative, fun art form that doesn’t get enough play around the season NOVEMBER 2023 | COTTAGESGARDENS.COM | CTC&G

49

XX

CTC&G | COTTAGESGARDENS.COM | MONTH 2023

The Main Attraction The biggest tree—which features an apron of moss—makes a statement in the living room.

Many of the ornaments sourced from Terrain and the Adirondack Store replicate mushrooms and birds, what designer Glazer calls “a very organic, seasonal approach to the decorations.”

See Resources.

people came through, we had a firepit going in the backyard and carolers singing. The whole home exuded warmth.”

As a stylist, designer and owner/developer of Gray Barns—a chic country inn in town—Glazer is one of the area’s oracles of taste and hospitality. Ariola had commissioned Glazer for earlier home design projects, so the two knew each other’s aesthetics well. “There’s nothing precious or overdone about Liz’s interiors,” says Glazer. “She’s very family oriented and open to decorating ideas.”

Although Ariola was, at first, a bit reticent to opening her house to the some 1,000 people who would walk through to take in the decorations, she was convinced by Glazer. “The tour is a great way to give back to the community,” says Ariola, “and it’s such a unique way to raise money. It’s creative, it’s fun, and it’s super social, encouraging neighbors to get to know each other. And honestly, part of the reason I said yes to participating is that I felt super comfortable with Nikki.”

In record holiday shopping time, Glazer sourced everything from gingham napkins and fragrant fir trees to mushroomshaped ornaments and birch garlands. “Christmas is not just about green and red,” says Glazer, who was determined to create rooms filled with earth tones and natural elements.

Seasonal greens, bowls of chestnuts, spreads of moss beneath the trees, taupe-colored tapers, and craft-paper wrapped gift boxes were employed to create a cozy, soft focus to the rooms.

“I like to work with symmetry, with small things placed beside bigger things, and I have a special love for putting things in three, to create a kind of wabi-sabi effect,” says Glazer.

When presented with a giant wreath donated by Stamford’s Designs by Lee, Glazer “feathered” items into it, notably whatever seasonal greens had been left over from other decorations. She tied a velvet ribbon to the bottom for added emphasis, as if rooting the holiday symbol into the home.

“Wreath making is a whole creative, fun art form that doesn’t get enough play around the season,” she emphasizes.

As the installers transformed her rooms, Ariola and her children watched with the kind of anticipation that many feel on Christmas morning prior to opening gifts. “So many decorations were going up,” she says, “that it felt like an art install— as if a whole gallery of art was going up.” ✹ NOVEMBER 2023 | COTTAGESGARDENS.COM | CTC&G

51

TRADITIONAL

Doors of

Shippan Celebrate the season with the Shippan Garden Club’s holiday wreath contest

BY CATRIONA BRANCA PHOTOGRAPHS BY DAVID LASNICK

BY THE SEA

TRADITIONAL

CREATIVE & UNCONVENTIONAL

SOMETHING YOU BELIEVE IN

NOVEMBER 2023 | COTTAGESGARDENS.COM | CTC&G

53

A holiday tradition since 1989, the Doors of Shippan wreath decorating contest brightens neighborhood homes with a unique blend of grand, simple and joyful designs. Founded and sponsored by the Shippan Garden Club—which is celebrating 100 years in 2025—the project fosters community spirit while beautifying the southernmost shoreline section of Stamford.

More than 60 families entered the garden club’s first contest 44 years ago, and it remains a popular holiday tradition today. The contest is open to all Shippan residents, and entrants compete in eight categories: Newcomer (first-time entrants); Traditional (ribbons, bows, pine cones, berries, etc.); Creative & Unconventional (artistic and imaginative designs); Your Favorite Things (hobbies, toys, colors, pets, etc.); By The Sea (shells, driftwood, netting, etc.); All Natural (seasons, floral, garden, berries, citrus, spices, etc.); Arts & Culture (visual, dance, music, theater, etc.); Something You Believe In (religious, world peace, conceptual, etc.). All entries must include some fresh plant material, and no artificial flowers or foliage are allowed.

Here, we showcase a sampling of last year’s entrants to inspire you to break out your own seasonal swag and gorgeous greenery. And if you live in Shippan, the deadline for entry forms is usually the end of November, while judging—based on interpretation of the theme, craftsmanship and creativity—by a panel of garden club members is performed during the first week of December. Ribbons are awarded for category winners and runners up. For an entry form and guidelines, go to shippanpointgardenclub.org. ✹

54

CTC&G | COTTAGESGARDENS.COM | NOVEMBER 2023

TRADITIONAL

YOUR FAVORITE THINGS

BY THE SEA

56

ALL NATURAL

ALL NATURAL

ALL NATURAL

TRADITIONAL

CTC&G | COTTAGESGARDENS.COM | NOVEMBER 2023

NEWCOMER

SOMETHING YOU BELIEVE IN

TRADITIONAL

ALL NATURAL

NOVEMBER 2023 | COTTAGESGARDENS.COM | CTC&G

57

Nantucket Sleigh Ride A DARIEN CHRISTMAS PARTY TAKES INSPIRATION FROM THE GREY LADY

BY JAMIE MARSHALL PHOTOGRAPHS BY PAUL JOHNSON

Festive Flair Carey Karlan fashioned a holiday tablecloth from quilts from Country Door. The chairs, napkins and glassware are through Smith Party Rentals; the brass candlesticks and vintage plates are from the designer’s own collection; and the whale weathervane was an online find. See Resources.

C

arey Karlan’s enchanting Rose Cottage is a few miles from Long Island Sound and the wider ocean beyond. But when the Darien-based designer was mulling over ideas for last year’s annual holiday party, a Nantucket theme just felt right. “I love Nantucket,” she says. “I’d been there recently, and I thought this house would lend itself to a more casual vibe.” Inspired by the island’s seafaring past, Karlan combined nautical accents with more traditional holiday décor. A garland of glass floats twined with rope hung from the beams in the entry foyer.

Tiny Santas stood watch on a pair of antique Pond boats. Her NOVEMBER 2023 | COTTAGESGARDENS.COM | CTC&G

59

I’m a big believer in working with what you’ve got. So, I just put a lot of little trees everywhere

Holiday Magic Party favors (top) included jams from the Nantucket Historical Society and Christmas crackers decorated with lighthouse stickers from Nantucket Monogram.

Glass floats (above) add nautical flair to the entry foyer. Garland (right) in the family room sports red-framed pictures of family and friends. The Christmas tree (opposite page) stands next to a vintage dollhouse from Odesmith & Richards. See Resources.

60

CTC&G | COTTAGESGARDENS.COM | NOVEMBER 2023

To decorate every surface—the doors, the walls, the tree, the table—that is my pleasure. It’s my canvas, and I go wild with it

collection of ships in glass bottles graced the dining table— where a whale weathervane sporting a jaunty red bow rose from a bed of greens.

Decorating for the holidays has been a lifelong passion for the designer, one she developed as the only child of Christmas-loving parents. “I love decorating, so to decorate every surface—the doors, the walls, the tree, the table—that is my pleasure,” she says. “It’s my canvas, and I go wild with it.”

That feeling extends to Karlan’s mid-December dinner party, which she has hosted for nearly 25 years. By the time the holidays rolled around last year, after a break due to Covid, she was living in a new house with lower ceilings than her previous home, which could accommodate a very tall tree. “I’m a big believer in working with what you’ve got,” she says. “So, I just put a lot of little trees everywhere.”

The invitation set the tone by urging guests to “Join in for a Whale of a Good Time!” Most dressed for the evening in Nantucket-y togs—think madras shorts and topsiders, white slacks and espadrilles, blue blazers and Nantucket reds.

Meanwhile, the designer pulled out all the stops. She printed a menu and prepared the meal herself (with a little help from Rowayton Seafood, which set up a raw bar on a skirted table in the foyer). There was a piano player, carol singing and games with prizes. She set a lavish table for 20 in the family room, where blue-and-white painted floors and white walls evoke a

Classic Christmas (this page top and bottom). In the study, Lee Jofa wallpaper and applique pillows are from the Wakefield Design Center. A small bowl is filled with spools of Scalamandré silk thread, and the Santa made by a friend years ago is among the designer’s most cherished possessions. Ships Ahoy (opposite page) Two antique pond boats with tiny Santas top a vintage pine console from Fairfield County Antique & Design.

The amaryllis and the boxwood wreath are from East Coast Wholesale Flowers. See Resources.

NOVEMBER 2023 | COTTAGESGARDENS.COM | CTC&G

63

Exquisite Details (clockwise across spread from top left) On the banister, stockings are adorned with sprigs of greenery. A Nantucket lightship basket tops the entry hall table. In the living room, hurricanes from the Antique and Artisan Gallery top an antique desk that served as a bar. Brass sconces cast a warm glow above the mantel, where gold ornaments are from Nielsen’s Florist & Garden Center. See Resources.

64

CTC&G | COTTAGESGARDENS.COM | NOVEMBER 2023

beachy island vibe. Karlan rented chairs with red seat cushions and crafted a tablecloth from red-and-white quilted bedspreads that she ordered online. “Cheap and cheerful,” she says.

She set party favors atop each blue-and-white antique dinner plate—jars of Nantucket jam from the historical society and homemade Christmas crackers filled with taffy and chocolate. “I’ll never do that again,” she laughs. “It took too long.” A green garland stretched above the French doors was festooned with tiny white lights and cards filled with photos of family and friends. At one end, a beautifully decorated tree wore a red Frosty the Snowman–style top hat. “I’ve had it for many years, and it’s so happy and jolly,” Karlan says.

In the more formal living room and study, the decorations took on a warmer, richer tone. The fireplace mantel was thickly layered with magnolia leaves and pine branches. and accented with brass and gold. Here, she draped swirly gold paper cutouts that she bought “a hundred years ago. I’ve never seen anything like them since,” Karlan says. “They are among my most treasured possessions.” A drop-leaf antique desk did double duty as a second bar, and windows sported hanging wreaths, each with a little gold ball. “When you don’t have a room to put another tree, wreaths are a good option,” she says.

As always, the evening’s pièce de résistance was the afterdinner musicale, written and directed by a good friend. This year’s script was Moby Nick, Carey’s Nantucket Sleigh Ride. “He’s a Harvard-trained lawyer by day,” Karlan says. “He arrives with packets of scripts and assigns roles. It’s always silly and corny and very witty. And though some guests may say they are too shy to participate, everyone immediately opens their script looking for their part!” ✹

Seasons Greetings Goldendoodle George (this page) awaits guests at the front door, which is painted in Benjamin Moore’s Porcelain Glaze.

In the entry (opposite page), a tabletop tree with handpainted oyster-shell ornaments tops a vintagelooking rattan console, all through Cailíní Coastal.

See Resources.

A Coastal

Christmas DECKING THE HALLS WITH NAUTICAL NOTES AND GORGEOUS GREENERY

BY CATRIONA BRANCA PHOTOGRAPHS BY DARINA TODOROVA

NOVEMBER 2023 | COTTAGESGARDENS.COM | CTC&G

67

A

After a move to Westport from Los Angeles in April 2022, this family with East Coast roots and West Coast flair quickly embraced the area’s coastal lifestyle. Enthusiastic about her new town, Meg Young, founder of Cailíní Coastal, says: “We love Westport! It feels like a little California infused in New England. My husband and I both grew up in the New York City area and met while living in Santa Monica. After a combined 18 years of living in California, we decided to move back to raise our girls closer to our families.”

Their new-construction home—architecture by Donald Fairbanks, built by Rick Benson with interiors by Lynn Morgan Design—turned into a semi-custom build, evolving into a style that Young calls “New England coastal meets

68

CTC&G | COTTAGESGARDENS.COM | NOVEMBER 2023

traditional.” She notes, “We changed just about everything from the original plans, aside from the interior floor plan.

It’s inspired mostly by New England, with influences from California.”

Interiors are awash in a palette of blues complemented by pops of rattan—natural and painted—throughout the home. “I have a distinct style that is influenced by three key regions: New England, California and a touch of the islands,” says Young. “I really like to use natural materials like rattan, sisal rugs and bamboo to capture the coastal atmosphere.

The antiqued rattan console in the entry is a vintage-inspired piece we sell at Cailíní Coastal. And I have a large collection of about 40 ginger jars that remind me of summers in the

Blue Christmas (clockwise across spread from opposite page) In the living room, homeowner Meg Young puts finishing touches on blue velvet stockings; the Christmas tree is from Balsam Hill. Handmade oyster shell ornaments, dusty blue velvet bows, nautical nutcracker giftwrap and oyster shell gift tag, tree ribbons and ornaments are all through Cailíní Coastal. See Resources.

NOVEMBER 2023 | COTTAGESGARDENS.COM | CTC&G

69

Traditional With A Twist The Nutcracker King (above) reigns supreme over the dining room, where place settings (left) complement the berries and blooms in the Winter Floral tablecloth. The hurricanes and garland are from Blossom & Stem. See Resources.

Hamptons, where blue-and-white chinoiserie is mixed with corals and shells giving this very traditional porcelain a coastal flair.”

When it comes to decorating for the holidays, Young goes all out. “We put up six trees each year,” she says. “I grew up with parents who also loved the holiday season: We had three trees growing up, each with its own theme. I’ve continued that tradition with my own family. Two Charlie Brown trees go in my daughters’ rooms, and they love decorating them with plush ornaments.”

In the kitchen, glass upper cabinets sport small preservedboxwood wreaths with blue bows that complement a blue Waterworks backsplash and custom blue John Street Lanterns from Lantern & Scroll. On the countertop, an exclusive Cailíní Coastal Christmas Cottage is a modern take on a holiday village—the design inspired by a favorite Nantucket home.

A casual and festive vibe flows through the living room, which is where the family spends the most of their time. The blue-and-white striped rug and framed signal flags provide a backdrop for a tree filled with jeweled sea creatures, shell ornaments and two different ribbons—an ivory linen and a seafoam with gold lattice. A live garland from Blossom & Stem is finished with dusty blue velvet ribbon, while dark blue NOVEMBER 2023 | COTTAGESGARDENS.COM | CTC&G

71

velvet stockings by the fireplace are paired with handmade oyster ornaments. “We commissioned an artist to paint these natural oyster shells,” says Young. “I gave her four designs: Christmas Tree, Boxwood Wreath, Brant Point Lighthouse and Chinoiserie Nutcracker—inspired by the actual nutcracker we also sell.”

Dining room decorations center around a traditional Christmas table. “Each year, I select linens for the holiday season, and I create new tablescapes inspired by them,” says Young. “The Winter Floral linens are green and magenta, lending themselves to a more traditional look than my go-to blue.” Young stacked a simple white dinner plate and a scalloped gold trim salad plate on her green Summer Scallop placemats. “Our six-inch wreaths with navy blue ribbon were the perfect topper to this layered look,” she notes. “Leaning into a traditional Christmas, I added tall tapers and a custom cedar garland running down the center of the table.”

Small wreaths and greenery are sprinkled into spaces where there are no trees, like the mudroom, bathrooms and extra bedrooms. She says, “I typically add a few tabletop trees or a festive holiday house to the countertops or nightstands to add a pop of holiday magic.” ✹ 72

CTC&G | COTTAGESGARDENS.COM | NOVEMBER 2023

Sparkle & Shine (clockwise across

spread from top left)

In the kitchen, John Street lanterns are from Lantern & Scroll, and the custom window treatment is by Lynn Morgan Design.

Jeweled ornaments, Tinsel Trellis ribbon and Bottle Brush trees are through Cailíní Coastal, which is opening a store in Darien in 2025. A Villa & House bench anchors the foot of the bed.

The Christmas Cottage design was inspired by a home on Nantucket.

See Resources.

I typically add a few tabletop trees or a festive holiday house to add a pop of holiday magic

NOVEMBER 2023 | COTTAGESGARDENS.COM | CTC&G

73

WINE & SPIRITS

Fit for a King

I

ndian whisky is a colonial relic, the homegrown descendant of imported Scotch. In recent years, new producers have begun introducing much more distinctively Indian spirits. Godawan, a captivating new single malt from central Rajasthan, is entirely steeped in Indian lore.

The endangered bird on its label—a Godawan, or the Great Indian Bustard—was nearing extinction, down to its last 94 specimens in Rajasthan and likely to go the way of the Dodo, when the King of Jaisalmer, His Royal Highness Chaitanya Raj Singh, stepped in to save its vanishing habitat. The king, at 29, India’s second youngest monarch (there are more than 500 provincial kings across the country), partnered with international spirits giant Diageo to introduce a new whisky devoted to this majestic bird. He convinced the company’s Indian subsidiary to undertake substantial water conservation efforts in and around its Alwar distillery, and other areas of Rajasthan, to reverse the severity of the Godawan’s habitat degradation.

I met His Royal Highness in New York in late spring, at a launch event for his avian-themed whisky. The young king succeeded his father after his sudden death in 2021. More than 30,000 loyal subjects witnessed his coronation as the 44th Maharawal of Jaisalmer. Despite the Old-World pageantry that surrounds him, the king is a modern man engaged with contemporary issues. He spoke to me passionately about protecting Rajasthan’s critically endangered state bird.

74

CTC&G | COTTAGESGARDENS.COM | NOVEMBER 2023

Avian Inspired (top to bottom) The Godawan was nearing extinction when the King of Jaisalmer worked with Diageo to help preserve its habitat and introduce a whisky devoted to this majestic bird. godawansinglemalt.com.

Diageo India has made a long-term commitment to the conservation of the Great Indian Bustard, which is on the UN’s Red List of Endangered Species. The conservation effort started 18 months before the whisky launch. The initiatives include the restoration of water bodies by desilting ponds, bringing in tankers of water to support the growth of grasslands and other native bushes, and setting aside 250 acres of land for safe habitat development.

Produced from locally grown six-row Indian malted barley, Godawan whisky, released in two bottlings—both priced at $65—undergoes a painstaking handcrafted process. The first of two expressions, described as “rich and round,” is first aged in sherry casks before spending five years in bourbon barrels. Toward the end of the aging process, the whisky in the barrels is replaced with water infused with Indian botanicals. After a few weeks, the newly seasoned barrels are once again refilled with whisky, for a final two months of aging.

The bottled liquid is creamy and slightly smoky with complex botanical hints and lush aromas of dried fig, apricot and raisin, and woody notes and caramel sweetness on the finish.

The second release, described as “fruit and spice,” is finished in cherrywood casks, producing a lighter, more floral whisky. Though it undergoes less barrelswapping, it exhibits a remarkable lacey texture and lingering holiday spices like nutmeg and clove, and a peppery finish. Thanks to the hot desert climate in Rajasthan, the whiskies age at a ferocious clip.

The evaporation in the barrel (or angel’s share) is dramatic. The result is an intense, concentrated single malt. You might even say it’s whisky fit for a king. —Baroness Sheri de Borchgrave

CHAITANYA RAJ SINGH: BAJIRAO PAWAR

A N E N D A N G E R E D B I R D , A N I N D I A N R O YA L A N D A W H I S K Y

#CGInsiderKBIS

CALLING ALL EXHIBITORS!

PHOTO BY DAVID SUNDBERG

Apply to be a stop on the annual C&G Insider Tour at The 2024 Kitchen and Bath Show, led by CTC&G’ s Editorial Director DJ Carey.

For more information and to apply, visit cottagesgardens.com/KBIS2024

APPLY NOW! 13-15 Booths will be selected APPLY BY 12/1

PA R T I E S & B E N E F I T S

CT IDA Judging Breakfast

The 2023 CT IDA judges gathered at OKA in Westport to peruse through entries and pick this year’s finalists and winners 1. A gorgeous display of pillows at OKA 2. Designer Sarah Robertson of Studio Dearborn 3. The judges deliberate. 4. Designer Michael Cox of Foley & Cox 5. Michael Cox of Foley & Cox, CTC&G Editorial Director DJ Carey, designers Alison Rose and Sarah Robertson and CTC&G Senior Editor Mary Fitzgerald 6. Designer Alison Rose of Alison Rose NY

2

3

1 4

6

5

Rooms With A View Designer Cocktail Party

The Designer Class of 2023 gathered at the SOUTHPORT CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH to present their mood boards 1

2

5

76

CTC&G | COTTAGESGARDENS.COM | NOVEMBER 2023

4

1. Adrianna Tingley of MKDA, Erick Solano of Stamford Modern and Parker Whitmore of MKDA 2. Designers Cheree Goone and Robin O’Neil show off their mood boards. 3. NYSID Scholarship Winners Carissa Pintello and Kayla Lowry 4. RWAV’s Event Co-Chairman Patrick McGettigan, Design Chairman Parker Rogers, Event Co-Chairman Victoria Vought, Honorary Chairman Barbara Sallick, Executive Director Christopher Philip and CTC&G Editorial Director DJ Carey 5. Designer Lindsey Coral Harper presents her designs.

CARA GILBRIDE

3

PA R T I E S & B E N E F I T S

Greenwich Polo

A toast to another fabulous season at Greenwich Polo in the CTC&G Players’ Lounge!

4

2

1 6

3 5

1. Architect Rich Granoff, Jill Granoff, builder George Pusser and Dave Mann 2. Maddia Nares and Noah Granoff with their pup Max 3. A thrilling match underway.

4. Brian and Jessica Palazzolo 5. Rachel Foster of Northeast Building Supply, Beth and Greg Pepe of NBC, C&G Media Group Account Director Jamie Lewis, Chris Arelt of Nautilus Architects, Rebecca McKeown of xer0 group 6. The CTC&G Players’ Lounge was adorned with beautiful plantings from Morano Group.

Cocktails at Glengate

Glengate celebrated the opening of their new outdoor furnishings and décor showroom in Wilton 1. The new showroom features collections from Janus et Cie, Sutherland and Summer Classics.

2. Glengate’s Florence Mraz, designer Luke John and CTC&G Editorial Director DJ Carey with Glengate’s Director of Design Brandon Jones and Owner Jordan Scott 3. Delicious desserts by Marcia Selden Catering 4. Designer Chuck Wheelock and Miles Hartwell of Splinterworks 5. Landscape architect Cheryl Russ of Glengate, Mindy Gerhardt of Cornerstone Contracting and Lora Mazurak of LM Studio 6. Merrin Jones and Nick Campinelli of Michael D’Angelo Landscape Architecture

2

1

POLO: BOB CAPAZZO; GLENGATE: MARILYN ROOS

5

6

4

3

NOVEMBER 2023 | COTTAGESGARDENS.COM | CTC&G

77

DESIGNSTOPS MUST-HAVES FOR THE DESIGN-OBSESSED SHOPPER

THE POST

The aromatic snap of crisp Siberian fir needles in spectacular gold this season! Candles and diffusers to give your home the unmistakable scent of the holidays.

203.292.5700 / thepostct.com @thepostct

F O L LOW U S @ C OT TAG E S G A R D E N S | S P E C I A L P R O M OT I O N

RESOURCES

RESOURCES MORE H E R E ’ S W H E R E T O F I N D T H E D E S I G N P R O F E S S I O N A L S A N D P R O D U C T S F E AT U R E D I N T H I S I S S U E

58

from “Nantucket Sleigh Ride” CORRECTIONS CTC&G’s October cover and cover story, “West Coast Vibes,” were photographed by Read McKendree, readmckendree.com.

The feature story “A Designer’s Touch” was photographed by Jacob Snavely, jacobsnavely.com.

The feature story “Gorgeous Georgian” was photographed by Kirsten Francis, kirstenfrancisphoto.com.

NATURAL APPEAL

PAUL JOHNSON

Pages 44–51: For more information on the New Canaan Holiday House Tour and to purchase tickets, visit newcanaanholidayhousetour.com.

Designer/stylist, Nikki Glazer, Nikki Glazer Studio, theglazergroup.com.

Dining area: Plates and glasses, Juliska. Plate chargers, The Linen Shop. Napkins and ribbon, Heather Taylor Home and Terrain. Garland, Stems + Co. Kitchen area: Flower bouquet, Hayfields Market. Island chairs, Bungalow. Outdoor area: Tablesettings, Juliska. Living room: Fireplace Wreath, Designs by Lee. Tree ornaments, Terrain and The Adirondack Store.

DOORS OF SHIPPAN

Pages 52–57: Shippan Point Garden Club, shippanpointgardenclub.org.

NANTUCKET SLEIGH RIDE

Pages 58–65: Interior design, Carey Karlan, Last Detail Interior Design, careykarlan.com. Dining area: Quilts, Country Door. Chairs, napkins and glassware, Smith Party Rentals.

Blue votives, Foxtrot Home. Jams, Nantucket Historical Association.

Christmas cracker stickers and placecards, Nantucket Monogram.

Vintage dollhouse, Odesmith & Richards. Painted floors, Shelly Denning Decorative Painting. Living room: Vintage pine console, Fairfield County Antique & Design.

Amarylis and boxwood wreath, East Coast Wholesale Flowers. Mantel: Ornaments, Nielsens Florist and Garden Center. Bar area: Hurricanes, The Antique and Artisan Gallery. Study: Wallpaper, Lee Jofa through Wakefield Design Center. Applique pillows, Wakefield Design Center.

A COASTAL CHRISTMAS

Pages 66–73: Styling, Meg Young, Cailíní Coastal, cailinicoastal.com.

Interior design, Lynn Morgan, Lynn Morgan Design, lynnmorgandesign. com. Architect, Donald William Fairbanks, dwfarchitects.com.

Builder, Rick Benson, Benson Fine Homes, authorswaywestport. com. Front door: Paint, Benjamin

Moore. Wreath, Frontgate. Door mat, Cailíní Coastal. Entry hall: Console, Cailíní Coastal. Living room: Tree, Balsam Hill. Stockings, ornaments velvet bows, giftwrap and rug, Cailíní Coastal. Dining area: Tablecloth, tablesettings and chairs, Cailíní Coastal. Hurricanes and garland, Blossom + Stem. Kitchen: Backsplash, Waterworks. Lanterns, Lantern & Scroll. Custom window treatment, Lynn Morgan Design.

Ornaments, ribbon, bottle brush trees, Christmas cottage and bar stools, Cailíní Coastal. Bedroom: Bench, Villa & House through Cailíní Coastal. Nautical oars, bed and bedding, Cailíní Coastal.

SOURCE LIST Balsam Hill, balsamhill.com Benjamin Moore (see Ring’s End) Blossom + Stem, blossomstem.com Bungalow, bungalowdecor.com Cailíní Coastal, cailinicoastal.com Country Door, countrydoor.com Designs by Lee, designsbylee.com East Coast Wholesale Flowers, eastcoastwholesaleflowers.com Fairfield County Antique & Design, fairfieldantiqueanddesign.com

Items pictured but not listed here are either from private collections or have no additional details.

CTC&G relies upon the providing party of the image to give accurate credit information.

Foxtrot Home, foxtrothome.com Frontgate, frontgate.com Hayfields Market, hayfieldsmarket.com Heather Taylor Home, heathertaylorhome.com Juliska, juliska.com Lantern & Scroll, lanternandscroll.com Lee Jofa (see Wakefield Design Center) Lynn Morgan Design, lynnmorgandesign.com Nantucket Historical Association, nha.com Nantucket Monogram, nantucketmonogram.com Nielsens Florist and Garden center, nielsensflorist.com Odesmith & Richards, odesmithrichards.business.site Ring’s End, ringsend.com Shelly Denning Decorative Painting, 203-912-4145 Smith Party Rentals, smithpartyrentals.com Stems + Co., stemsandco.com Terrain, shopterrain.com The Adirondack Store, adkstore.com The Antique and Artisan Gallery, theantiqueandartisangallery.com The Linen Shop, thelinenshopct.com Villa & House (see Cailíní Coastal) Wakefield Design Center, wakefielddesigncenter.com Waterworks, waterworks.com

NOVEMBER 2023 | COTTAGESGARDENS.COM | CTC&G

79

MEET THE CRAFTSPEOPLE

Hands-On Learning Students (below) at the American College of the Building Arts (bottom left) receive instruction in a liberal arts curriculum and traditional building trades, such as timber framing, drafting and plaster.

hile traditional colleges focus on liberal arts and science, students at the American College of the Building Arts (ACBA) learn those disciplines—earning a four-year Bachelor of Applied Science degree—while perfecting hands-on abilities to preserve, restore, rehabilitate, build architecturally significant structures. The school traces its founding in part to Hurricane Hugo. When extensive damage from the 1989 Category 5 tropical cyclone highlighted the need for artisans to repair the wealth of historic properties in Charleston, South Carolina, local residents assembled a contingent of artisans capable of doing the restorations.

Originally set up along the lines of a trade school, awarding its first degree in 1998, the school was re-founded in 2004 and reconfigured as a proper college adhering to licensing regulations for bachelor’s degrees. The current enrollment of 140 includes men and women from around the country honing their crafts while acquiring broader knowledge. We talked with Wade Razzi, the school’s provost, who is also the college English teacher. acba.edu.

You studied English literature at Oxford University. What attracted you to ACBA? When I came to interview, I thought it sounded interesting, and I’ve grown to appreciate that what we’re doing is so important.

to trades—a feeling that people in liberal arts, desk jobs, were a little bit smarter. But there’s no reason they have to be separated. Nothing about being a blacksmith would preclude you from appreciating art or architecture.

State licensing stipulates academic studies for a liberal arts degree, but how does that benefit people working with their hands?

Students gain proficiency in both the trade and academic areas. They can be a carpenter, but can also be doing creative things. They get problem solving and leadership skills. It helps if they start their own business or work for a big firm. They can go on to become a foreman or manager.

We use literature as a way to study artistic movements in history. You see the romantic poets moving away from strict formality, incorporating elements of folk art. You start seeing that all the arts work together.

Why is the school’s mission important? It’s a reassurance that you know what you’re doing.

Well-meaning but untrained workers can do massive damage to historic properties. They don’t know the difference between modern and historic. They don’t use the same materials as the original. Old and new plaster don’t adhere, and cracks form.

Why is it an unusual approach?

There tended to be a stigma attached

How are your students helping thwart the concern that we’re losing the skilled historic workforce? The Classical American Homes Preservation Trust helps subsidize housing for student interns enabling them to work on projects for the national Architect of the Capitol, helping the AOC maintain the Supreme Court Building and

the Capitol Dome. Students have also worked with the National Park Service and on the White House Oval Office. Three ACBA alumni are employed at Mount Vernon.

Why is it important to save old structures? They represent one of the only real tangible parts of our history. You learn a lot about people by walking through an old building— you get a feel for how they lived.

Many are beautiful and ought to be preserved for that reason alone.

What are main courses of study?

Architectural carpentry trains students to custom make elements that are non-structural parts— paneling, wainscoting, molding, shelving, custom windows and doors. Timber framing is structural— building with wood, large wooden beams designed to support weight.

That is part of the built environment.

Blacksmithing is also popular, but we tend to focus on architectural blacksmithing—not horseshoes— gates, fire screens.

How do students apply? We require a portfolio. We want to see the desire to work with your hands and have some basic aesthetic understanding of what beauty is, and how it’s supposed to look.

People have sent in paintings, Lego

80

CTC&G | COTTAGESGARDENS.COM | NOVEMBER 2023

models—these show understanding of the principles of design, symmetry, layout. At first, people came to us from previous careers or the military, now most students come out of high school from all around the country. More than half of our valedictorians are women.

Who are the teachers? Most of the trade faculty is European or trained in Europe. They have maintained training centers better than we have.

What happens after graduation?

Nearly all—70 percent—are employed in their fields. Can Harvard say that?!—Sharon King Hoge

EXTERIOR: CHARLESTON PHOTOGRAPHY PAUL CHENEY

W

American College of the Building Arts

Anchored in Connecticut and proud to be #1 in the US.*

Serving 70 markets across 350+ offices, Compass is now the largest real estate brokerage in the US. Pairing a national network of top agents with the industry’s best technology, we’re delivering a seamless, flexible client experience. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned seller, our robust referral network offers unparalleled access to meet your real estate needs.

compass.com Compass Connecticut, LLC is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws.

203.343.0141. *Source: The RealDeal March 2022.

Darien I Fairfield I Greenwich New Canaan I Ridgefield Stamford I Westport