CTC&G (Connecticut Cottages & Gardens) December 2025

connecticut cottages & gardens | december 2025

COTTAGESGARDENS.COM | DECEMBER 2025

INNOVATION

cottagesgardens.com

IN DESIGN AWARDS

Create Where You Belong

VIS IT OUR GREENWICH S H OWROOM, OR F IND US O NLINE TO S CHED ULE YOUR COMPLIMENTARY D ESI G N CO NSULTATIO N

Westchester Connecticut

16 Saw Mill River Rd, Hawthorne

914.592.1001

48 W Putnam Ave, Greenwich

203.924.8444

@caliclosetsct

CA L I FO R N I AC LO S E TS . C O M

©2025 California Closet Company, Inc. All rights reserved. Each California Closets® franchised location is independently owned and operated.

Local contractor licenses available at californiaclosets.com.CT HIC #0657205.

Reading Room.

DESIGNED FOR MODERN LIFE DWR.COM

YANKEECUSTOMBUILDERS .COM

lauramichaelsdesign.com | Follow us @athomewithlauramichaelsdesign | 203.461.3800

SOUTHPORT, CONNECTICUT @TUSKHOME

CONNECTICUT COTTAGES & GARDENS • DECEMBER 2025 • COTTAGESGARDENS.COM

on the cover

“Architecture winner” page 70. photograph by Read McKendree/JBSA Hardware by Accurate Lock & Hardware

From “Garden Design Winner” page 44.

Photograph by Anthony Crisafulli

AND THE IDA WINNERS ARE…

44

Garden Design

50

Kitchen Design

56

Interior Design

62

Bath Design

66

Small Space Design

70

Architecture

76

Builder Recognition

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

www.waterwareshowrooms.com

CONNECTICUT COTTAGES & GARDENS • DECEMBER 2025 • COTTAGESGARDENS.COM

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Editor’s Letter

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Letter from the CEO

Contributors

Calendar

Out of the Box Innovative Product Awards The IDAs top 10 Innovative Product winners

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BY MARY FITZGERALD

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BY MARY FITZGERALD

Jewelry A Cut Above The elegant and feminine marquise cut is back in fashion

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

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BY DIANE DI COSTANZO

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Wine & Spirits Passport to Premium Winemaking Invest in the best viticulture to access the high-level Napa wine world

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BY BARONESS SHERI DE BORCHGRAVE

Travel By Design Island Hopping Exploring the Greek islands of Mykonos and Folegandros

Parties & Benefits

BY DJ CAREY

Resources

Innovator Young Huh Meet this year’s CTC&G Innovator Award recipient

Meet the Judges CTC&G asked the IDA judges for their insights on this year’s winners and finalists

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BY CATRIONA BRANCA

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80 85 88

BY HARRIET MAYS POWELL

CTC&G | COTTAGESGARDENS.COM | DECEMBER 2025

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BY MARY FITZGERALD

TOP: COURTESY OF KALESMA MYKONOS; MIDDLE: COURTESY OF ADAM NEELEY; BOTTOM: GRACE WILCOX PHOTOGRAPHY

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

Naïka Andre NJA Interiors

Tyler Del Vento TDV Interior Design

Lina Galvão & Erin Coren Curated Nest

Stephanie Rapp Stephanie Rapp Interiors

Representing the Ring’s End WE DESIGN CT Class of 2026, these four local designers are raising the bar in interior design while celebrating Connecticut with inspired spaces.

ringsend.com/wedesignct

cottagesgardens.com @cottagesgardens •

@cottagesgardens •

/cottagesgardens •

@cottagesgardens

’Tis the Season For festive decor inspiration, follow us on Pinterest @cottagesgardens

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CTC&G | COTTAGESGARDENS.COM | DECEMBER 2025

ELLEN MCDERMOTT; DESIGN: NATHALIE SCHUBERT, FROM THE NEWCOMERS CLUB OF NEW CANAAN’S 2023 HOLIDAY HOUSE TOUR (WITH MEDIA SPONSOR CTC&G)

/cottagesgardens •

We help responsible owners of the finest built homes care for the place that matters most. www.pureinsurance.com

high value homeowners | automobile | watercraf t | jewelr y, ar t & collections | personal excess liability | flood | fraud & cyber PURE Insurance is the marketing name used to refer to Privilege Underwriters Reciprocal Exchange (PURE), a Florida domiciled reciprocal insurer. PURE Risk Management, LLC (PRM), a for-profit entity serves as PURE’s attorney-in-fact for a fee. PRM is a subsidiary of Privilege Underwriters, Inc., a member of the Tokio Marine Group of Companies.

This material is descriptive only. The precise coverage offered is subject to the terms and conditions of the policies issued. PURE membership requires an executed Subscriber’s Agreement & Power of Attorney. Allocations to Subscriber Savings Accounts are subject to the terms of this agreement and approval by the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation. This agreement and additional information are available at pureinsurance.com. Trademarks are property of PRM and used with permission. ©2022 PRM. All Rights Reserved. 44 South Broadway, Suite 301, White Plains, New York 10601. PURE HNW Insurance Services, CA Lic. 0I78980.

E DI TOR’S L E T T E R

Celebrate Design

W

Bringing Projects To Pages (from far left) CTC&G’s Executive Editor Catriona Branca, Senior Editor Mary Fitzgerald, Art Director Kristen Hoge, Associate Art Director Shelby Nine-Durso and (front) Assistant Art Director Lydia Mattson

CAREY: TIMOTHY BURKE MANNLE

elcome to the CTC&G Innovation in Design Awards (IDAs) issue. These awards— now in their 18th year—were created to celebrate the great work of design professionals in Connecticut. We have published more than 400 IDAs projects in the past 18 years and along the way launched many careers and discovered many innovative products. In fact, this year was no different. ■ I was thrilled with the number of entries this year. More importantly, we had more entries than ever before and received projects from designers entering the IDAs for the first time. All of this speaks to the caliber and importance of these awards. ■ The IDAs are judged by professionals. This year I would like to thank the following judges: architect Elizabeth Dillon; interior designers Charlotte Barnes, Matthew Patrick Smyth and Bennett Leifer; landscape designer Matthew Bromley; garden writer Tovah Martin; and Lauren Luskey of ABC Stone. This year’s entries elicited lively conversations about the skill of the designer to solve problems for their clients. In the end, the judges not only were impressed with the caliber of projects but the depth of talent around our state. ■ This year the recipient of the CTC&G 2025 Innovator Award recipient, Young Huh, got her career started with these awards in 2011 by winning in the category of interior design. Shortly after winning her IDA, her career took off and now Young is one of the busiest designers today, not only creating beautiful homes all over the country but designing products, boutique hotels and writing a book. Young serves on many industry boards, including NKBA and NYSID, among others. She is not only talented but is committed to helping future generations of designers with their careers. We could not be happier to see these awards come full circle. Now DJ Carey sit back and enjoy reading about some of the best design Editorial Director projects in Connecticut! ■ From all of us at CTC&G, we djcarey@candg.com wish you and your family the warmest of holidays!

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

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LETTER FROM THE CEO

We Appreciate You

A

s we celebrate the 2025 Innovation in Design Awards (IDAs) we do so with heartfelt gratitude for the exceptional sponsors whose vision, generosity, and belief in design excellence made our awards celebration possible. At the forefront of this support is Design Within Reach (DWR) returning for a second consecutive year as Presenting Sponsor. We are honored by their continued partnership and proud that DWR recognizes the strength of our market and the talent within our design community. Their unwavering commitment to Design Professionals (DPs) not only elevates this celebration but underscores the essential bond between inspired brands and the DPs who bring their products to life. ■ We’re equally proud that more than 90 percent of our sponsors return year after year—a powerful testament to the enduring reach and impact of the IDAs. From PURE Insurance, Advanced Home Audio, and Ring’s End with Marvin, to Aitoro Appliance with Monogram, Gault Stone & Landscape Supplies, Shoreline Pools, Torrco, West Out East, California Closets, and Kohler Store by Plimpton & Hills, to Plexi-Craft—and with contributing sponsors like Sam Bridge Nursery & Greenhouses and Lindt Chocolate—these companies have stood beside us as steadfast champions of creativity and craft. ■ With such longstanding loyalty, space for new sponsors is rare, which made it exciting to welcome two newcomers this year: Royal House and Cornerstone Contracting. To all our sponsors—from celebrated icons to promising newcomers—thank you. Your investment in design, in the makers and visionaries behind it, and in the future of our built environments is what powers this event. You help ensure that design continues to inspire, to evolve, and to connect us.

2 oz. Vodka 1/2 oz. Cointreau 1/2 oz. Fresh Lime Juice 1 oz. Pomegranate Juice Ice Cubes

Combine ingredients in a cocktail shaker, and strain into a chilled martini glass. Makes one drink. *Sponsored by California Closets

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CTC&G | COTTAGESGARDENS.COM | DECEMBER 2025

Marianne Howatson CEO/Publication Director mhowatson@candg.com

HOWATSON: DOREEN BIRDSELL

Cheers!

This year’s IDA’s signature cocktail was the festive California Closmopolitan.

CALIFORNIA CLOSMOPOLITAN

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

THE CORNERSTONE WAY

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

DECEMBER 2025 CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER & PUBLICATION DIRECTOR MARIANNE HOWATSON EDITORIAL DIRECTOR DJ CAREY EXECUTIVE EDITOR CATRIONA BRANCA

ART DIRECTOR KRISTEN HOGE

SENIOR EDITOR MARY FITZGERALD

EDITOR AT LARGE SHARON KING HOGE

ASSOCIATE ART DIRECTOR SHELBY NINE-DURSO

ASSISTANT ART DIRECTOR LYDIA MATTSON

PROOFREADER ANNETTE ROSE-SHAPIRO

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS 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 CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS JANE BEILES, JULIE BIDWELL, WILLIE COLE, TRIA GIOVAN, JOHN GRUEN, HULYA KOLABAS, NEIL LANDINO JR., TIM LENZ, ELLEN MCDERMOTT, READ MCKENDREE, ANASTASSIOS MENTIS, MARCO RICCA, EMILY SIDOTI, RIKKI SNYDER

C&G MEDIA GROUP

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR DJ CAREY

DIGITAL EDITOR JACQUELYN SHANNON

COTTAGESGARDENS.COM dailyDEEDS.COM

DAILYDEEDS.COM EDITOR ANNE GIORDANO

PRODUCER MICHAEL EKSTRACT

DIGITAL INTERNS TALIA DONINGER, CHLOE GJURAJ

PUBLISHER, HC&G AND DIRECTOR, PALM BEACH COTTAGES & GARDENS PAMELA ELDRIDGE | 475-292-2645 ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER, NYC&G MELISSA GROHER ROSENBLUTH | 475-292-2644 LISA HEISSAN | 475-292-2641

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ACCOUNT DIRECTORS JAMIE LEWIS | 475-292-2637

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SALES ASSISTANT ESTELLE WIDMER PRODUCTION MANAGER DIRECTOR OF MARKETING, EVENTS, AND PR MARKETING AND EVENTS ASSISTANT CREATIVE SERVICES MANAGER BUSINESS MANAGER/HR

CARLA EVANS 475-292-2633 JENNIFER BARBARO ALEXA FERRONE SARAH RUSSO CAROL ABRAMS

FINANCE MANAGER

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JOY MARSHALL

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Offers are available if you purchase two or more titles online at cottagesgardens.com/subscribe. To purchase a copy of the Connecticut Design Guide 2025 for $19.95 plus shipping go to cottagesgardens.com/CTCGShop. Please allow four to six weeks for your first issue to arrive. Subscription questions? Please call 203-227-1400 or email subscriptions@candg.com To subscribe by mail, send check or money order, Attention: Subscriptions, to:

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Copyright © 2025 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.

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CTC&G | COTTAGESGARDENS.COM | DECEMBER 2025

PREMIER OCEANFRONT FIRST OFFERING Ideally positioned along the most prime stretch of pristine Atlantic Ocean frontage within Quogue Village on Eastern Long Island, lies this classic and timeless shingle-style residence. Thoughtfully designed with the most keen eye and curated to the highest level, the masterfully crafted residence was constructed using the finest of custom materials. The attention to detail is evident from the moment one enters the gated 2-acre property. Every bit of the perimeter landscape from the hand cut stone walls, to the magical garden pathway to the ocean frontage as well as layers of thoughtfully planned mature landscaping, are magnificent. From the outside and inside, this home is meticulously maintained, ideal for any buyer seeking the highest level of quiet luxury while positioned on pedigreed land in Quogue and all that implies. Close proximity to Quogue Village and to Westhampton Beach shops and fashionable boutiques. 15 Minutes to Gabreski Airport and Discovery Land’s ultra-exclusive “The Hills” golf community. This truly is an extraordinary and once-in-a-lifetime opportunity rarely found in this prime location on the ocean. By Appointment Only. $30,500,000 WEB# 926118

TIM DAVIS

THE HAMPTONS LUXURY MARKET LEADER 2025 Corcoran’s President Council | 2024 Top Deal Hamptons #1 INDIVIDUAL BY VOLUME ON THE EAST END – 2025 RealTrends Verified Consistently Ranked Top Broker Nationwide

by WSJ Real Trends Ranking by Individual Sales Volume $5.5 BILLION+ TOTAL CAREER VOLUME

Lic. A s soc. RE Broker | Regional Brokerage Advisor Eas t End t g d a v i s @ c o r c o r a n .c o m

THOMAS DAVIS

Licensed Real Es tate Salesperson t h o m a s .d a v i s @ c o r c o r a n .c o m

516 . 3 5 6 . 573 6 | @HamptonsLuxuryMarketLeader

Real estate agents affiliated with The Corcoran Group are independent contractors and are not employees of The Corcoran Group. Equal Housing Opportunity. The Corcoran Group is a licensed real estate broker located at 590 Madison Avenue, NY, NY 10022. All listing phone numbers Real estate agents affiliated with The Corcoran Group are independent contractorsfurnished and are not employees of The for Corcoran Housing Opportunity.

Corcoran Groupreliable, is a licensed real estatemakes brokerno located at 590 Avenue,as NY, All listing phone numbers indicate listing indicate listing agent mobile number unless otherwise noted. All information regarding property sale orGroup. rent orEqual regarding financing is fromThe sources deemed but Corcoran warranty or Madison representation toNY the10022. accuracy thereof.

All property information is agent mobile number unless otherwise information furnished regarding property sale or rent regarding from sources deemed but Corcoran makes noapproximate. warranty or representation as to the accuracy thereof.advises All property information is presented subject to errors,* presented subject to errors, omissions,noted. price All changes, changed property conditions, andfor withdrawal ofor the propertyfinancing from theismarket, without notice.reliable, All dimensions provided are To obtain exact dimensions, Corcoran you to hire a qualifi ed architect or engineer. omissions, price changes, changed property conditions, and withdrawal of the property from the market, without notice.

All dimensions provided are approximate.

To obtain exact dimensions, Corcoran advises you to hire a qualifi ed architect or engineer. * Licensed as Timothy G. Davis Licensed as Timothy G. Davis

CONTRIBUTORS

IDA Winners

C T C & G I S P R O U D T O P R E S E N T T H E W I N N E R S O F O U R 1 8 T H I N N O V AT I O N I N D E S I G N A W A R D S .

THESE INDIVIDUALS EMBODY THE FUTURE OF DESIGN IN EACH OF THEIR FIELDS.

MARY BURR, RYAN SALVATORE

DOUGLAS HORN, MICHAEL SCIARRETTA

DIANE DEVORE

ANDREW BARTOLOTTA STUDIO BARTOLOTTA KITCHEN DESIGN

THE RATH PROJECT BATH DESIGN

SARAH THURSTON

TRACEY COOK

MARCO BARALLON

DEVORE ASSOCIATES GARDEN DESIGN

TUSK HOME + DESIGN SMALL SPACE DESIGN

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CTC&G | COTTAGESGARDENS.COM | DECEMBER 2025

HEMINGWAY FINE HOMES BUILDER RECOGNITION

TUUCI PRODUCT DESIGN

J.D. MESSICK

MARMOL RADZINER INTERIOR DESIGN

DIANE RATH

CLARKE READERS' CHOICE PRODUCT DESIGN

TBM PHOTOGRAPHY

BURR SALVATORE ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTURE

Exceptional Products, Personal Service.

WESTPORT SHOWROOM 203.227.5181 gaultstone.com

BETHEL SHOWROOM 203.790.9023 STONE & LANDSCAPE SUPPLIES

C A L E N DA R

December 2025

NURSERY & GREENHOUSES, LLC

FROM GREENWICH TO NEW CANAAN

EST. 1930

NURSERY & GREENHOUSES, LLC Full Service Center EST.Garden 1930

Full Service Garden Center

NURSERY & GREENHOUSES, LLC

Local Delivery & Christmas Tree Installation

EST. 1930

Full Service Garden Center Landscape Design & Installation Container Gardens & Full Service Garden Center Seasonal Décor Installation Seasonal Decor Installation FullElectric Service Garden Center Mowing & Property Local Delivery & Premier Garden Care Care DeliveryDesign Services Christmas Tree & Landscape & Available Installation Local Delivery Container Gardens Installation

FESTIVAL OF 3-6 TABLETOP TREES Place a bid in at the 7th Annual Festival of Tabletop Trees at the Greenwich Historical Society.

Local retailers, organizations and designers will handcraft and decorate stunning tabletop trees, available for viewing and bidding via an on-site silent auction. Celebrate the creativity of those who help make our homes festive sanctuaries during the holiday season. Don’t miss your chance to take home a beautifully decorated tree! Greenwich Historical Society, Cos Cob. December 3–6, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.

For more information, visit greenwichhistory.org.

Christmas Tree Installation ,2

02

5

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

,2

02

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Local Delivery & Christmas Installation CT 06830 437 North St. •Tree Greenwich, 24

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• Landscape Design & (203) 869-3418 Installation 437 North St. • Greenwich, CT 06830 www.sambridge.com (203) 869-3418 • Premier Garden Care www.sambridge.com • On-Site Container Design 28

NEW CANAAN HOLIDAY

5-6

HOUSE TOUR

CTC&G is the proud sponsor of the Newcomers Club of New Canaan’s Holiday House Tour. Guests will explore six exciting homes, each with their own distinct style and charm, that will showcase holiday themes tailored to each home’s unique character. The tour is 8 celebrating its 30th anniversary with new experiences including: a guided tour with a local designer, a pop-up shop featuring one-of-a-kind holiday treasures, and a post-tour panel and party featuring Ariel Okin, Christopher Spitzmiller and Ann Yancy. Kick off your holiday season in style by touring these stunning homes with friends, all while supporting local charities. Tour: December 5–6 from 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Holiday Pop-Up Shop: December 5, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

Post Tour Panel/Party: December 6, 5–7 p.m. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit newcanaanholidayhousetour.org.

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BOTTOM: COURTESY OF NEWCOMERS CLUB OF NEW CANAAN

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203-922-0051 I ADVANCEDHOMEAUDIO.COM

Experience the Award-Winning Wolf Pro Induction Range at Clarke

Designing your dream kitchen? Learn everything you need to know about the new Wolf Pro Induction Range at the Clarke Showroom in South Norwalk.

Find out how this Innovation in Design award-winner and so many other unique high-performance appliances will transform your kitchen and your life. Corporate Showroom Director Marco Barallon and his experienced team will answer all your questions and connect you with a trusted Wolf retail dealer in your area.

New England’s Official Showroom and Test Kitchen South Norwalk, CT Boston & Milford, MA 800-842-5275 clarkeliving.com

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W H AT ’ S N E W

Innovative Products

CTC&G editors selected their top 10 picks from a list of finalists in the IDAs category of product design. In addition, CTC&G readers voted on their favorite product on cottagesgardens.com.

BY MARY FITZGERALD

winner

BLOOMING SHADE

Hand-tufted blossoms cascade down the canopy of Tuuci’s Ocean Master MAX Bolero: Ombré Blossom parasol. Fashioned with performance, outdoor-rated fabrics and Tuuci’s engineering integrity, the parasol is as pretty as it is durable. Starting price, $16,200, tuuci.com.

DECEMBER 2025 | COTTAGESGARDENS.COM | CTC&G

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OUT OF THE BOX

SET SAIL

The Jeffrey Alan Marks collection for Accurate Lock & Hardware was inspired by the coastal beauty of the interior designer’s hometown of Montecito, California. The functional hardware is aesthetically pleasing with nautical notes of blue, etched stainless steel and boat rope illusions. Price upon request, accuratelockandhardware.com.

TIMELESS DESIGN

The Charpentier coffee table was introduced by Liaigre in 1990 and quickly became an icon. Now re-issued in wire-brushed oak Charbon, the timeless silhouette is enhanced with tactile dimension. Its clean lines and enduring form integrate effortlessly into contemporary or classic interiors. Price upon request, studioliaigre.com.

UP YOUR GAME

Let the games begin—enjoy some friendly competition with the Collins Table.

Locally made in Bridgeport, the Center & Spring game table is offered in a choice of eight signature base and accent colors with slide-out drawers and interchangeable accessories. Available through The Post, Westport, thepostct.com, $3,800–$4,600, centerandspring.com.

WINNING THE DRAFT

Say goodbye to bulky hoods. The JennAir downdraft cooktop eliminates the need for overhead draft hoods. The slim-profile cooktop, with optional recirculation installation, can be installed on an island and is offered in 30- and 36-inch models. Starting price, $4,600, jennair.com.

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CTC&G | COTTAGESGARDENS.COM | DECEMBER 2025

OUT OF THE BOX

HOT STUFF

Induction is all the rage these days and Wolf has changed the game with its new 48-inch Professional Induction Range boasting two spacious ovens. Go from simmer to sear in seconds with seven induction heat zones, each with a power boost function. The range is also offered in 30- and 36-inch models with a choice of 10 color combinations of knobs and bezels, plus three door color choices. $17,305, through Clarke, clarkeliving.com.

READERS’ CHOICE

NATURALLY GROUNDED

Designer-quality, custom-sized rugs from Ernesta are woven in 100-percent natural fibers of jute, sisal or seagrass. The results are strong, durable and won’t hold onto allergens. Made to order and delivered in as little as two weeks, the rugs are finished in the USA. Starting price, $250, ernestarugs.com.

DINNER RESERVATIONS

The Quentin dining table by Carrier and Company for Century Furniture balances sculptural elegance with timeless craftsmanship, fashioned from walnut solids and veneers. Tapered legs with wishbone-inspired supports create a graceful, architectural base. $9,563, centuryfurniture.com.

WORKSHOP APD: MATT KISIDAY; DOUGLAS GRANETO: JANE BEILES; CENTER & SPRING: GRACE WILCOX PHOTOGRAPHY

HONEY BEE

Douglas Graneto Design dreamed up this customcast Bee Door Knocker for a client who maintains a pollinator garden and bee hives. When Graneto was unable to find just what he wanted on the market, he had Greenwichbased artist Agnieszka Cichy create a detailed drawing of his vision, which was then executed in bronze by Rocky Mountain Hardware.

Original, $5,100, new orders, $2,100, douglasgraneto.com, rockymountainhardware.com.

CURVES AHEAD

Made in Italy, the curvilinear shape of Workshop APD’s Hiro chair offers comfort in a compact form. Attractive from every angle, the molded back and layered upholstery is accented with wood apron detailing in Workshop Collections fine wood finishes.

Offered in COM and COL. Price upon request, workshop-collection.com.

DECEMBER 2025 | COTTAGESGARDENS.COM | CTC&G

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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

September was a big month for interior designer Michelle Gerson—her work was featured in CTC&G, and she unveiled her latest collaboration with Jennifer Fisher at the jewelry designer’s flagship NYC store opening. It’s no surprise that Fisher called on Gerson to design the Madison Avenue space.

“We speak the same language, both stylistically and professionally, and that connection has been the foundation of a 30-year friendship,” says Gerson. “Over the years, we’ve collaborated on every one of Jen’s apartments, showrooms, and stores, so working together feels natural and seamless.” The showroom’s aesthetic is luxurious and moody, displaying warm woods, expressive marble and dramatic lighting, designed to highlight Fisher’s edgy, cool jewelry. Bringing a little bit of SoHo chic uptown, Gerson added a small coffee bar, banquette seating and intimate tables to invite people to sit, relax and linger. 1157 Madison Ave., NYC, jenniferfisher.com, michellegerson.com.

A New Canvas

Translating a painting into a rug design has been an idea in the works for almost a decade, according to Westport abstract painter David Stephen Johnson and his wife, Holly Jaffe of design atelier Wowhaus. When they met rug specialist Daniel Sanchez of DS Rugs Studio, that dream became a reality. “They envisioned a custom rug that would bring David’s artwork to life in textile form—a piece that would merge visual art with traditional craftsmanship,” says Sanchez. The collaboration involved many steps, from photographing the original artwork to creating a digital rendering and a strike-off sample to the creation of the actual hand-knotted Himalayan rug in Nepal. “Red Over Black III” is “a piece created with intention, respect and a deep love for the weaving arts,” notes Sanchez. Johnson agrees, “It’s exhilarating to see one of my canvases transformed into a handwoven textile work of art.” dsrugstudio.com, davidstephenjohnson.com.

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CTC&G | COTTAGESGARDENS.COM | DECEMBER 2025

ART + DESIGN

Suzanne Bellehumeur, a celebrated muralist and decorative painter whose work has been featured in CTC&G, has opened an art space in the heart of the Greenwich design district.

Greenwich Art + Design, located on Putnam Avenue, is a gallery and boutique showcasing items selected or created by Bellehumeur, including fine art and murals, home décor, luxury textiles, fashion, accessories and lifestyle and furniture pieces.

“Greenwich Art + Design is a living canvas where fine art, distinctive home décor, fashion and design come together,” says Bellehumeur. Featured artists will be exhibited in the gallery on the lower level, which she describes as “an intimate space of discovery and delight,” She adds, “Here, exhibitions will feature both local and global artists, offering ever-changing dialogues in art and design. 7 East Putnam Ave, Greenwich, 203-6149431, greenwichartanddesign.com.

SILVER POLISH

Architect Steven W. Spandle recently completed a project at the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum in Hartford, converting a dormant 1910 vault—located in the museum’s Morgan Memorial Building—into a permanent gallery for the museum’s collection of American and English silver. Drawing inspiration from the Wadsworth’s Beaux-Arts architecture for his design, he notes, “The physical space allotted for the new silver gallery was a small footprint, but with a very high ceiling.

Adding a plaster cross vault to the space was a perfect way to take advantage of the ceiling height, while also allowing for appropriately scaled display cabinets.” A practitioner of classical design, Spandle’s notable commissions include the Tennis Pavillion on the White House grounds, as well as restoration projects at the White House and the Presidential Retreat at Camp David. Regarding this assignment, he says, “I love collecting, so helping to create a fantastic display for beautiful objects is always a welcome opportunity.” swspandle.com, thewadsworth.org.

JEWEL BOX: JOE GRAMM, DESIGN: MICHELLE GERSON; ART + DESIGN: COURTESY OF GREENWICH ART + DESIGN; A NEW CANVAS: JOHN VIDELER; SILVER POLISH: PIETER ESTERSOHN

JEWEL BOX

#CGInsiderKBIS

CALLING ALL DESIGNERS! Join CTC&G’ s Editorial Director DJ Carey in Orlando, FL for the annual C&G Insider Tour at The 2026 Kitchen and Bath Show February 17 and 18

INTERIOR DESIGN BY KRISTIN FINE, PHOTO BY NICOLE FRANZEN

KBIS HIGHLIGHTS AND PROGRAMMING 2/17: 1pm-4pm, Part I of Tour (6-7 booth visits) 2/17: Private Dinner / Welcome Event TBD 2/18: 8:30am-12:30pm, Part II of Tour (6-7 booth visits)

REGISTER NOW! SPACE IS LIMITED. DESIGNERS ONLY.

C&G Insiders will receive FREE Exhibit Admission ROOMS AVAILABLE upon request FREE NKBA Bash Tickets For more info and to register, visit cottagesgardens.com/KBIS2026

A Cut Above J E W E L RY

The elegant and feminine marquise cut is back in fashion, with its distinctive elongated shape and pointed ends. Its striking silhouette covers more of your finger, giving the appearance of a larger stone. The shape was created in the 18th century at the request of Louis XV and has been used in jewelry ever since.

B Y H A R R I E T M AYS POWELL

Taffin’s marquise diamond pendant earrings with multicolor ceramic, nitinol and 18k rose gold. taffin.com.

Sylva & Cie’s marquise and mixed oval-shaped diamond caviar bracelet. By special order. sylvacie.com.

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Marei New York’s Ayla arabesque engagement ring with marquise-cut and pavé white diamonds in 18k blackened gold. mareinewyork.com.

J E W E L RY

Taffin’s marquise diamond necklace with zircon, red ceramic, steel and platinum on a leather cord. taffin.com.

Adam Neeley’s Diago ring with a marquise rubellite tourmaline and pavé diamonds set in Neeley’s signature alloy, AlbaGold™. adamneeley.com.

Nikos Koulis’ blackened-gold bracelet with moval and pear-shaped diamonds. Bergdorf Goodman, NYC, bergdorfgoodman.com, nikoskoulis.com.

Grown Brilliance’s Timbre marquise lab-grown diamond ring set in 14k yellow gold. grownbrilliance.com.

DECEMBER 2025 | COTTAGESGARDENS.COM | CTC&G

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T R AV E L B Y D E S I G N

EXPLORING THE GREEK ISLANDS OF MYKONOS AND FOLEGANDROS | BY DJ CAREY

his past spring, I visited two Greek islands, Mykonos and Folegandros, and it all came rushing back to me!

I had some preconceived notions about Mykonos but knew very little about Folegandros. I planned my stay at Kalesma, a luxury resort (kalesmamykonos.com) that was a treat for my design senses. The lobby was exquisite: Think Rick Owens-designed furniture juxtaposed against a traditional weaver’s loom with beautiful pieces that were woven on it. The heady scent of flowers guided me through the resort that resembled a tiny Greek village. My suite resembled a cottage and included a walled courtyard, a large bedroom with views of the bay, a luxurious bathroom, an outdoor dining area and my own pool. I was totally relaxed as I sipped an aperitivo at Aloni Lounge, watching the sun slip below the horizon. I dined at Pere Ubu, the resort’s restaurant known for its relaxed elegance. The food is based on the concept of kuveda, a belief that around food, connection takes place. It invites you to slow down and savor the surrounding beauty. Our repast: grilled octopus, Mykonian sausage, branzino—all delicious.

The next day, I explored the property including Agios Dimitrios—a beautiful, modern interpretation of a traditional Byzantine chapel featuring Orthodox paintings in black ink and gold. I attended a hands-on class with famed textile weaver Faye Chatzi and created my own keepsake. Her partnership with Kalesma helps promote Greek culture with guests. My growling stomach was curbed with a cooking class with the property’s chef. I learned how to balance seasoning and mix different vegetables and fruits grown on the property to create a delicious salad. Immersing yourself in the traditions of the culture engages all your senses. On my last night, I was given a tour of the town by Kalesma co-owner Aby Saltiel, who guided me through the winding streets alive with people and shops that celebrated the history of the island through design. There is a spirit on this island that is hard to deny. Beyond chic shops and galleries, I was heartened to still get a taste of the island’s history and culture. Kalesma is where chic design meets hospitality and the spirit of the island.

With limited time, I opted to take a Hoper helicopter (flyhoper.com) from Mykonos to

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Folegandros (a 30-minute flight versus a fourhour ferry ride). Hoper offers regularly scheduled flights from Athens to some of the islands. I arrived on Folegandros and was instantly struck by the rugged terrain, stone walls and the wild donkeys that roam freely. I arrived at Gundari (gundari.com), a luxury resort set on 80 acres on a protected wildlife preserve. The entrance of the resort had a breathtaking view of the sea beyond.

The property and the buildings were designed to let nature come into view. Athens-based design studio Block722 created an earthy palette in the rooms with unpolished marble floors, clean lines and ample indoor-outdoor spaces. Sitting in my pool immediately grounded me. The resort’s villas are bio-climatically designed and solar harnessed to heat the resort. There is something so peaceful about waking to the sound of birds. And I couldn’t resist the stunning spa that hugs the cliffs.

I enjoyed an hour of regenerative treatment using ancient Greek rituals with native herbs and tonics.

The surrounding beauty beckons you to explore ancient paths, discover wildlife or simply

enjoy the unlimited vistas. A boat ride to see the reddish-hued cliffs and numerous caves gave me a better appreciation of the island’s allure. As we motored around, the captain talked about the cliffs that are home to the Eleonora falcon.

Gundari owner Ricardo Larriera has taken a personal stake in conserving the bird, which stops on the island on its annual migration.

Later, dinner at Orizon restaurant meant tasting the new menu by Chef Lefteris Lazarou, Greece’s very first Michelin-starred chef, who has a contemporary take on Greek cuisine using fresh and seasonal ingredients sourced from the resort’s organic gardens and local fishermen.

Cuttlefish risotto, lamb picanha with smoked eggplant, lemon tarta with ginger mousseline?

Yes, please!

As a special treat we headed into Chora, a beautiful and untouched village. Wandering a bit further, we came to Kastro, which dates to medieval times, defined by its fortress-like structure and houses that form a defensive wall.

Gundari celebrates raw beauty and serenity.

ALL TOP PHOTOS: COURTESY OF KALESMA MYKONOS; ALL BOTTOM PHOTOS: ANA SANTL

T

Island Hopping

Serene Scenes (clockwise across spread from far left) The main pool at Kalesma offers beautiful views of Ornos Bay. Meals on the property are shared under the island skies at Pere Ubu. Agios Dimitrios chapel at Kalesma fuses Greek heritage with modern design. At Gundari, rooms built into the hillside also offer the luxury of a plunge pool. Nature is in focus with the guest room palette and uninterrupted views of the sea.

DECEMBER 2025 | COTTAGESGARDENS.COM | CTC&G

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I N N O VA T O R

Moods, Thoughts & Feelings M E E T T H I S Y E A R ’ S C T C & G I N N O V AT O R A W A R D R E C I P I E N T, Y O U N G H U H

What type of home did you live in growing up? I grew up in a classic Colonial style, new construction with columns. My mother had everything decorated with Baker furniture.

Were you always changing your room around? Yes! And I always wanted to change the paint color.

I hated the yellow paint my parents chose, but they never let me. I joke that this is why I became a designer.

Who inspired your love of design?

I think attending Cranbrook Kingswood [Bloomfield Hills, Michigan] for middle school and high school really inspired me and created a love of design. Every single moment of school was designed to perfection.

Although you studied law, you changed your career path and became an interior designer.

How did that happen? Was there a real “aha” moment? As the daughter of Korean American immigrants, my parents said I had two choices of career: doctor or lawyer. Since I wasn’t very good at math, I went to law school. The first week of school I knew I didn’t fit in at all. My husband, who went to school with me, was driving me to take the bar exam and said: “You know you don’t need to do this. This isn’t for you, and you’ll probably never practice law.” He was right! I couldn’t figure out what I wanted to do, and then I met an interior designer at a cocktail party, and a lightbulb went off. This was what I wanted to do.

Does your background in law help you run a better business? I think the law does help me in the sense that I am not afraid of contracts, contract negotiations and just generally always having a sense of liabilities and responsibilities.

It also helps me think in a way that is not really natural to me, which helps me understand clients better too.

What enticed you to enter the IDAs back in 2011 as a young designer? DJ Carey!! She really encouraged me. I was so, so scared.

I had never won anything in my life. I am so glad that I listened to her.

Why is giving back to the industry so important? What is a better feeling than giving back to the community that helped you? Also, it’s a chance for me to help young people and encourage them the way DJ encouraged me.

What’s your best advice for anyone interested in entering interior design? Interior design is a trade that can take a lifetime to perfect, so start learning from someone who has been in the industry.

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Where do you find design inspiration?

Sometimes it’s from reading books and seeing pictures in my head from the words. Sometimes it’s travel, art. I get a lot of inspiration from my team. Their creative energy keeps me inspired every day.

What’s your personal credo? Integrity is so important to me. Do what you say and say what you do.

Your debut book—A Mood, A Thought, A Feeling: Interiors—is due out early 2026, published by Rizzoli. Tell me about that experience. I am so excited to share my debut book. It has been four years in the making.

Kathleen Jayes—my editor—reached out to me in the middle of Covid. I thought about my process, and I wanted to illustrate how I use moods, thoughts and feelings to create spaces. It took me a long to time to organize it, but Kathleen and Doug Turshen were amazing to collaborate with.

I see forewords by Zooey Deschanel and Jonathan Scott? How did you end up working on their home? An editor at Hearst recommended me, and they called me sort of out of the blue. But it was truly a match made in heaven. They are so wonderfully creative and open. Funny and warm. The best human beings.

KIPS BAY ROOM: BRITTANY AMBRIDGE; DINING ROOM: JOHN M. HALL; BEDROOM: JOHN BESSLER; LIVING ROOM: THE POINT BY GRACE BAY RESORTS, TURKS AND CAICOS

What’s next for you? Our book tour! We can’t wait to share the book with the world! We are working on a new hotel in Turks and Caicos called The Point that we are really excited about that has just broken ground. We also have so many wonderful residential projects to share!

Innovative Spaces (clockwise

across spread from left)

Young Huh’s colorful top-floor artist’s loft was a highlight of the 2019 Kip’s Bay Decorator Showhouse in New York City. Huh’s own dining room was part of her IDA-winning project in 2011. A rendering of a living-room space coming soon at The Point by Grace Bay Resorts in Turks and Caicos. This bedroom is featured in her upcoming book, A Mood, A Thought, A Feeling. younghuh.com.

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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

COUNTRYSIDE COMPOUND

High style is on offer at a 25-plus-acre compound in New Milford, listed for $3.5 million. Featured in the September 2025 issue of CTC&G, the home was a collaboration between its owner, interior designer Michael Halpern, and the architect he hired, Nate Dalesio. Sited in an open field with stunning views over the Litchfield Hills, the 4,420-square-foot

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Clearly Cool This glass-walled contemporary, featuring expansive views over the Litchfield Hills, sits on 25.39 acres in New Milford. It lists for $3.5 million with Pels Matthews of William Raveis Lifestyles Realty in Washington Depot. 203-671-5432.

home is a sophisticated reimagining of the American barn. Its chic entryway serves as a glass-fronted link between two masses, set perpendicular to each other. The overlapping, open-plan space houses the cool kitchen and lofty dining and living areas, paneled in blond oak. To enjoy the views, there’s an expansive balcony along a wall lined with glass doors, as well as a screened-in porch. The huge primary suite boasts another balcony, a dressing-room-style closet, a spa-like bath and an office, with access to a gym. On the lower level, there’s a second ensuite bedroom that flows to another office and a walk-out recreation room with access to a 60-foot-long pool. The newly listed property is offered by Pels Matthews of William Raveis Lifestyles Realty.

JOHN GRUEN

A

nd so ends another year in real estate—with some promising signs that 2026 will bring more favorable market conditions to our state. With lower interest rates and an increase in housing inventory, brokers are looking forward to better days to come. So to celebrate, here’s a virtual tour of five design-forward homes, from a modern barn in New Milford to an historic riverfront estate in East Haddam.

Farewell 2025

DEEDS & DON’ TS

A very different kind of compound has popped onto the East Haddam market—a home with exterior styling that pays homage to the famed Goodspeed Opera House right down the road. The circa-1850, mansardroofed estate was built for a local school’s headmaster and was then used as a boarding house for the singers, actors, composers and seamstresses visiting this tiny, but extremely cultural, town. It was entirely reinvented for its current starring role as a 4,000-square-foot home offering four bedrooms, including a primary suite with a fireplace.

It is sited directly on the Connecticut River with unobstructed views of the water— perhaps best enjoyed from the great room, with its wall of windows, fireplace, and cherry and marble flooring. The .87-acre-property lists for $1.6 million with Sacha Armstrong-Crockett of William Pitt Sotheby’s International Realty.

STATELY ESTATES

In Greenwich, a classic Colonial on almost five acres is newly listed for $7,395,000. The mid-country compound is practically a resort unto itself: Its nearly 11,000-square-foot main house offers five ensuite bedrooms, including a primary suite with a private terrace and sitting room, along with double walk-in closets. For overnight guests, there’s a charming two-bedroom cottage with its own kitchen and living room.

Additional party-ready features start in the grand, back-to-front entry hall and adjoining dining space with a fireplace. The living room has another fireplace and access to a lovely, wood-paneled library. There are amenities on the lower level, which houses a wine cellar and recreation space. And on the expansive lawns, there’s a pool and terrace, plus a spa and a fire pit. The property is offered by Ellen Mosher of Houlihan Lawrence.

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House-Party Ready This Greenwich Colonial, packed with all the amenities needed to throw a party, is listed for $7,395,000 with Ellen Mosher of Houlihan Lawrence in Greenwich.

203-705-9680.

OPERA HOUSE: JOHN MCDONALD; EAST HADDAM: MARK KLECHA; GREENWICH: REALTY PLANS

Haddam High Note This circa-1850 East Haddam home (above) with views of the Connecticut River is styled to resemble the Goodspeed Opera House ( left), just down the street. It lists for $1.6 million with Sacha Armstrong-Crockett of William Pitt Sotheby’s International Realty in Avon. 860-538-7778.

DEEDS & DON’ TS

A Connecticut Classic In the Greenfield Hills neighborhood in Fairfield, this grand Colonial is offered for $4,250,000 by Andrew Whitely of Brown Harris Stevens CT in Southport. 203-258-1595.

NEW CANAAN NEWS

Called The Quartier, New Canaan’s newest in-town development will offer 21 residences, ranging from one-bedroom apartments to spacious townhouses. The Quartier’s shared amenities include two chic, resort-like lobbies, a lounge with a catering kitchen, a fitness center, a dog-grooming station and gardens and a terrace, along with a fulltime concierge. Individual units are just coming online with a twobedroom, two-and-a-half-bathroom home now offered for $2,395,000.

The development lists with Jaime Sneddon and Kendall Sneddon of the Sneddon Team with William Pitt Sotheby’s International Realty in New Canaan. 203-219-3769 and 203-561-5658.

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

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FAIRFIELD: BORGATTA PHOTOGRAPHY; NEW CANAAN: REPLACE URBAN STUDIO

Finally, in the Greenfield Hills neighborhood in Fairfield, another whiteclapboard Colonial has hit the market, listed for $4,250,000. Relaxation is built into this 2.32-acre property, starting on the lower level, which features a six-person sauna, a steam shower, a gym and a spacious game room. On the gardened grounds, there’s a heated saltwater pool and spa, a pretty pool house, a full basketball court, an outdoor kitchen, and a fire pit by a waterfall. In all, the nearly 7,000-square-foot home offers six bedrooms and eight bathrooms, including a primary suite with a fireplace. It lists with Andrew Whitely of Brown Harris Stevens CT.— Diane di Costanzo

SPECIAL PROMOTION

Experts Talk All Things Kitchen & Bath W

hen discerning professionals or homeowners want to see the latest in kitchen and bath design or to get guidance from trusted experts, it's a no-brainer where to go. They often head to a Torrco Design Center showroom, which are located across Connecticut and brim with inspiration from elegant sinks and bathtubs to statement hardware and decorative lighting.

Torrco, a family-owned and operated company with more than 100 years of experience in the plumbing and design industry, prides itself on being part of many people's home journeys.

Working with a wide variety of clients and brands, Their women-led design team has deep knowledge of current styles, new technologies, designer preferences, and more. Here, they’re passing some of this wisdom along.

What trends were you seeing 10-20 years ago that have faded now, and what trends have defined 2025?

Dawn Corbo, Showroom Director with owners, Molly Lemle and Emily Fasano.

Home design trends are shifting from crisp whites and cool grays toward warm, earthy hues. Finishes like brass, bronze, and satin nickel are extremely popular, though not the same polished brass of years past. Today’s finishes favor brushed, matte, and unlacquered metals that naturally age and develop character over time. Lines are also softer and more organic now versus harsh, sharp edges.

Designers, architects, and builders want to deliver impactful, quality upgrades for their clients. At your showrooms, what have they been gravitating towards recently?

Showroom photos by Kirt Washington Photography

Wellness has become an essential part of everyday life, and many professionals now seek to create a personal sanctuary for their clients. Everyone defines comfort and balance differently, and we’re here to help you bring that vision to life. For instance, features like heated floors and towel warmers can add warmth and relaxation, helping reduce stress and enhance overall well-being each day.

To read the full interview and gain more insight, visit cottagesgardens.com/torrcoanswers

TO PRESERVE AND SUSTAIN THE BEST OF CHARLESTON

CHARLESTONBY DESIGN.ORG | H I STOR ICCHARLESTON.ORG

Photography by Julia Lynn, Charleston by Design 2024

March 12-15, 2026

C O N N E C T I C U T C O T TAG E S & G A R D E N S

GARDEN DESIGN

Devore Associates, Photograph by Anthony Crisafulli

KITCHEN DESIGN

Studio Bartolotta, Photograph by Neil Landino, Jr.

INTERIOR DESIGN

Marmol Radziner, Photograph by Laure Joliet

BATH DESIGN

The Rath Project, Photograph by Erin Kestenbaum

SMALL SPACE DESIGN

Tusk Home + Design, Photograph by Julie Leffell

2025 WINNERS This past October, CTC&G presented its 18th Innovation in Design Awards honoring outstanding projects in the categories of garden, kitchen, interior, bath and small space design, plus architecture and a special shout-out to builders. Our panel of judges—architect Elizabeth Dillon; interior designers Charlotte Barnes, Matthew Patrick Smyth and Bennett Leifer; landscape designer Matthew Bromley; garden writer Tovah Martin; and Lauren Luskey of ABC Stone—pored over stacks of entries to select the best of the best in Connecticut. Read on for who took the top three spots in each category.

TEXT BY DAVID MASELLO

ARCHITECTURE

Burr Salvatore Architects with Hemingway Fine Homes, Photograph by Read McKendree/JBSA

BUILDER RECOGNITION

Hemingway Fine Homes, Photograph by Read McKendree/JBSA

To see more, visit cgidas.com.

DECEMBER 2025 | COTTAGESGARDENS.COM | CTC&G

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GARDEN DESIGN winner DEVORE ASSOCIATES PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANTHONY CRISAFULLI

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For more information, see Resources.

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winner DEVORE ASSOCIATES

It’s all literally down hill from the moment you arrive at this property. But it’s that very feature, a downward progression to a series of fragrant and colorful gardens and garden rooms, manicured lawn areas and an expansive bocce court that make this garden design from Devore Associates so extraordinary and exhilarating to experience. This one-acre property has a grade that drops 55 feet from the roadway to the pond, but there is much to experience along the way down as the property continues to entice and draw visitors. Massings of white hydrangeas soon give way to a colorful cutting garden, followed by water gardens that are planted with lotus, all of which frame a swimming pool. A kitchen garden is planted on one level, fruit trees are espaliered like artworks against retaining walls, fig trees flank steps leading down the grade, and grapes grow bountifully up posts of pergolas. Vegetables, herbs and lemon trees make appearances elsewhere. At every level of this garden, built literally into a steep hill, one encounters numerous visual, audible, and scented rewards.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANTHONY CRISAFULLI

GARDEN DESIGN

For more information, see Resources.

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finalist JAMES DOYLE DESIGN ASSOCIATES

Let’s go ahead and express a geographical bias: Any view of Long Island Sound from the lower Fairfield County shoreline is among the best vistas on earth. That now stated, this new house is positioned to embrace full-on views of the water, with more than 250 feet of direct waterfront. Permitting rules proved to be one of the best design directives, for they stipulated that native plantings be incorporated at the water’s edge; maritime shrubbery and native meadows provide the perfect buffer. Tall hedges of hornbeam greet visitors at the front of the house, while oak trees and strips of meadow draw people into the central courtyard. Parterres of boxwoods, and beds of gravel interspersed with seasonal perennials, serve as borders along the rear terraces. Views of the Sound remain unimpeded when swimming in the vanishingedge pool and spa, though a bountiful herbaceous border provides privacy and color. Eventually, a lawn gives way to a stone staircase that leads to a bocce court and waterside cabana. Meanwhile, those views of the water remain inspiring at every level and place in the garden.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY NEIL LANDINO, JR.

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GARDEN DESIGN finalist RENÉE BYERS LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT

While substantial Shingle-style houses of the late 19th century can be among the greatest of residential architectural creations, they also age, sometimes to the point of decrepitude. It took the vision of landscape architect Renée Byers to see what her own Litchfield County property could become for her family once she purchased the weathered house and land. She re-created, renewed and even reinvented her 11-acre spread of land. Her design goal was to make the grounds into an inviting, low-maintenance retreat for friends and family to gather. Upon looking at old photos of the house, she reconstructed a porch and garden walls, adding steps and paving but using reclaimed fieldstone, granite and bluestone for greater effect. She reclad the pool and restored its cabana, and she remedied serious drainage issues by regrading the rear hillside. Native ferns, perennials and shrubs now “decorate” the undulating property. Outdoor rooms are as well furnished as those inside the expansive home—albeit with novel natural elements and features. New specimen trees and towering maples, pruned like topiary, have been sited to frame the bucolic views that vault into the distance.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY GEORGE BYERS

For more information, see Resources.

KITCHEN DESIGN winner STUDIO BARTOLOTTA

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANDREW BARTOLOTTA (below), NEIL LANDINO, JR. (right)

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For more information, see Resources.

KITCHEN DESIGN winner STUDIO BARTOLOTTA

Here is a kitchen that fully accommodates seemingly disparate needs balancing rugged materials with tailored detailing. At this sportsman’s country retreat, the kitchen could easily function as a space to prepare game, as well as a destination for cocktails and conversation with friends after a day outdoors. Like many kitchens of our time, this one serves as both the social and functional heart of the home, but it assumes a wholly original look. Studio Bartolotta fashioned a spacious island clad in a rhythmic fluted white oak and topped it with a vigorously veined Italian marble known as Ceppo di Gré through La Pietra Marble. Stools are upholstered in a rugged cross-ribbon pattern. Elsewhere in the room is a monolithic wall of marble, interspersed with narrow shelving, a concealed wet bar, and an expanse of cabinetry in a ribbed, dark-stained oak. White oak ceiling beams foster a strong sense of architecture; a handsome blackened steel and brass Workstead pendant echoes the forms.

This is a space designed for a modern-day outdoorsman who enjoys celebrating with friends and family.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY NEIL LANDINO, JR.

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For more information, see Resources.

KITCHEN DESIGN

finalist BOLDT STUDIO ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN Color was the main ingredient for the success of this kitchen— namely the use of a Benjamin Moore shade known as Black Knight. That dark, rich color, with its very subtle tones of greenblue, served to accomplish a design solution. The homeowners needed the designers at Boldt Studio to emphasize the kitchen as the ultimate destination in the home, while also connecting the room to the living room, from which it had been separated by a partition wall. Prior to the removal of that wall, it was a long and circuitous route through the house to the kitchen. Now, given its decidedly unconventional color and its direct link to the living room, the kitchen serves as the locus of life in this busy home.

Another challenge was to double the storage and counter space without adding to the square footage of the room. The designers met the challenge with a single, generously scaled countertop area that includes a dish station, dining table and prep counter.

Storage was increased with a variety of cabinets, shelves and compartments that work in concert to result in a truly elegant and useful kitchen.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JASON LINDBERG

finalist ELIZABETH BOLOGNINO INTERIORS

How refreshing and comforting it is to be reminded that some of the most dramatic kitchen renovations don’t require significant architectural changes. Elizabeth Bolognino Interiors was able to wholly reinvent this kitchen that had existed unchanged for some 20 years. Without having to alter the layout or make any changes to the architectural elements, the designers transformed the room with updated door faces, hinges, statement appliances, beautiful stone surfaces and a sculptural metal hood from RBL Metals. Every appliance, paint color, piece of hardware, lighting fixture and material was carefully chosen for maximum effect. An Officine Gullo range stands out in the room, along with ABC Stone’s Calacatta Turquoise Antico for the island and counters. Farrow & Ball’s Skimming Stone and Benjamin Moore’s Grey Cashmere were used in abundance to create a warm and soothing mood. What was old is new and what was traditional and elegant remain so in a now timeless and tailored space.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ADAM KANE MACCHIA

For more information, see Resources.

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INTERIOR DESIGN winner MARMOL RADZINER PHOTOGRAPHY BY LAURE JOLIET

For more information, see Resources.

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For more information, see Resources.

INTERIOR DESIGN

winner MARMOL RADZINER

Having worked with these clients for decades, the firm of Marmol Radziner knew what the homeowners wanted and what the house itself needed. What was once known in town as Wilshire Farm, this expansive, bucolic property features a main residence whose profile harkens to a French country house but imbued with American vernacular forms. In keeping with those cultural and historical references, the firm approached the design of every room in the main residence, the twostory guest cottage, and pool house, as a distinct living experience—but with all spaces ultimately feeling connected. They chose a variety of vintage 1950s French furnishings and reupholstered them in contemporary fabrics, while also adding in sculptural modern forms. Although every room is, at first glance, restrained in what it contains, upon closer look, a far more layered, nuanced design scheme emerges. Details such as custom millworks, a hidden bar lined with de Gournay wallpaper, French oak floors, lime plaster walls, and richly veined expanses of stone combine to create a cohesive and dynamic design. Classical ideas of symmetry and beauty prevail.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY LAURE JOLIET

INTERIOR DESIGN

finalist MELANIE FOSTER INTERIORS

As a personal art collection grows, there is the risk that the rooms of a home might come to feel like galleries in a museum.

Recognizing that the enlightened homeowners of this Georgianstyle home collect lots of name-brand contemporary faces and figures, as well as abstract works, one design goal of Melanie Foster Interiors was, “respect the estate’s classical proportions, while enhancing its capacity to serve as both a private gallery and a sophisticated family home.” This family now lives effortlessly—and comfortably—with their fine artworks that populate the walls of every room. Decorative wallpapers, Venetian plasterwork, and decorative paint finishes feature throughout the six-bedroom residence. But family, it seems, comes first. Ample seating areas in the living room, a tiered media room, an inviting sinuously curved sofa in the parlor, large-scale cushiony pieces in the office, a game table in the library, two tables in the dining room, and a densely configured and boldly hued seating area in the family room point to the communal, welcoming agenda for this house.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KEITH SCOTT MORTON

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For more information, see Resources.

finalist STEPHANIE RAPP INTERIORS

Where there is art in this home (and there is a lot of it), you notice it. That’s due, in large part, to Stephanie Rapp Interior’s expert and strategic placement of the pieces. So art-centric are these homeowners that the project was playfully dubbed “Gallery Chic.” The designer established sight lines and viewing angles to “generate an immersive gallery-like experience.

Employing a neutral palette—both on the walls and for the furnishings—was a way for every artwork to emerge to full effect.

Yet, this is a home for day-to-day living and not a series of sterile art galleries in the shell of a 10,000-square-foot home. Rapp has an uncanny sense of geometry in the placements of furniture: Expansive armchairs are angled in rooms to foster conversation, contemporary daybeds and curvaceous chairs invite lounging, a grid of built-in shelving functions as a hive of individual display units. Exuberantly rendered lighting fixtures do their job to illuminate, while working as sculptures in keeping with those set on pedestals and plinths.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY NEIL LANDINO, JR.

BATH DESIGN

winner THE RATH PROJECT

Let’s be frank here: When has a water closet ever been a destination to covet? For this complete down-to-the-studs re-do of a primary bath, that particular room-within-a-room is akin to entering a jewel box, with its lacquered aubergine doors, walls lined with an iridescent wallcovering, and the whole of the diminutive space ablaze with soft light from a scalloped brass fixture. As for the rest of the room, what was once an underutilized space is now a destination in the home that feels glamorous while remaining decidedly functional. One wall now features a floating white-oak vanity, while on an opposite wall an inviting makeup station, equipped with its own lighting source and fluted surfacing, beckons. The shower and wainscoting sport blush-toned porcelain slabs, while the floor reveals an engaging rhythm of narrow marble slabs in shades of green, rose, ivory and burgundy. The freestanding tub—positioned to take in views of the property—appears to occupy its own niche, defined by a crystal chandelier and an elegant sweep of draperies.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERIN KESTENBAUM

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For more information, see Resources.

BATH DESIGN

finalist DOUGLAS GRANETO DESIGN

It is possible to become obsessed about a material, and that is what happened with the client for this primary bathroom

by Douglas Graneto Design. Once the client saw a grade of vigorously veined marble from PMI International Stone Importers, she wanted as much of it used in the room as possible—17 slabs, in fact, now clad the shower, floor, vanity countertops, as wainscoting and even as a window surround. The natural design of the stone is, indeed, alluring, even haunting in its beauty.

During the gut renovation, an existing tub was removed in favor of creating a double shower that feels like a room in itself, as well as a dedicated makeup/vanity spot. To soften the effect of the hard marble, though, the designers brought warmth into the room by using a white oak for the vanity, which is accented to great effect with brass hardware from Waterworks. Where there isn’t marble, there are, instead, plaster walls, which add a further layer of texture to this striking room.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY TIM LEE

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For more information, see Resources.

finalist MIDEAST DESIGN CO.

It might be possible to claim that one could live in this primary bathroom. There are, certainly, all of the necessary bathing and grooming features of a bath, but also a spacious walk-in dressing closet that leads into the space, a built-in coffee and wine bar, and access to both the home’s main deck and a parents-only outdoor space. The design and color launching-off point for this gut renovation project began with an array of brightly hued mosaic tiles that work their way up the walls over the marble-topped walnut vanity. Those mosaic hues were sufficiently inspiring and alluring to help dictate all of the stone, wood, metal and lighting choices for the room. As a result, the wall-relief of mosaics stands out as a defining visual element. A sunken tub, clad in Fantastico Arni marble, relates directly to the marble-wrapped steam room and shower. Elsewhere, mitered marble details, a patterned limestone floor tile, walnut-framed mirrors, and brass fixtures foster a visual animation in the space. This room, while practical, works also as a daily sanctuary.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVIDSON MCCULLOH

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winner TUSK HOME + DESIGN Not even Santa could have accomplished and delivered what Tusk Home + Design was able to do. With only six weeks til Christmas, the owners of this home called on the designers who had built their residence to finally transform a bonus room into a bunk room. Years back, after the house had been finished, the designers and homeowners knew they wanted to do something with this empty space under the roof, and now they had the idea: Equip it with enough beds to sleep eight, along with a makeup vanity, storage and a hidden TV. Tusk Home admits to calling in favors from trades they had worked with to meet the fast timeline. The builders ensured that each bed had its own set up for lighting and outlets. As an extra daring element, the designers had the builders fashion a bunk that floats in the air, cantilevering over the bed below. “Just as the seasonal snowflakes started to fall,” recalls Tusk Home, “we made the last of the beds and handed the room over to the clients.”

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JULIE LEFFELL

For more information, see Resources.

SMALL SPACE DESIGN finalist STUDIO BARTOLOTTA

Some structures defy categorization—and that often makes them the most fascinating built entities. To look at this structure, referred to by its owners and by its designer, Studio Bartolotta as the “Osprey Pool Pavilion,” is to see, as its designers say, something that is “equal parts shelter, sculpture and social space.” Underneath its steel frame, topped with a corrugated galvanized roof, is an intriguing cylindrical volume clad in vertical cedar slats, that are, in turn, banded in weathered steel. Not unlike traditional silos and water towers found in the rural Northeast, the form feels agrarian, but at this home it contains, instead, a luxurious cabana and fireplace. An al fresco seating area looks to the pool and grounds, making it a hub for poolside entertaining and as a quiet respite. The timber platform on which the elements rest creates a sense of lightness, even elegance. Once dusk settles, novel lighting emerges within the pitch of the roof, on the steps that assume the presence of a plinth, and as radiating bands about the volume.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANDREW BARTOLOTTA

finalist GREENWICH PLAY

It’s playtime, certainly for the children who live in this home, but also for the adults. Situated above the home’s three-car garage, this playroom manages to function as a place for the family of six to hang out and gather, to retreat, and, simply, to have fun with games. Hidden nooks nestled beneath the dormers feature four bunks, which beckon as places to nap or read. A multipurpose game table positioned at the center of the room cleverly doubles as a Ping Pong table or pool table. The drawers of a wall of built-ins, topped with a long and inviting window bench, hold everything from art supplies to board games. Walls throughout are covered with Schumacher and Chasing Paper patterns in a soothing palette of blues and grays—hues that take on a special softness when the ceiling spotlights are on. A spacious seating area centers on a large TV. As the kids grow up, the space will grow with them, since the room is so flexible and varied in what can take place within.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JULIA D’AGOSTINO

For more information, see Resources.

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ARCHITECTURE

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winner BURR SALVATORE ARCHITECTS WITH HEMINGWAY FINE HOMES

PHOTOGRAPHY BY READ MCKENDREE/JBSA

For more information, see Resources.

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ARCHITECTURE

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winner BURR SALVATORE ARCHITECTS WITH HEMINGWAY FINE HOMES

Among the appeals of many Connecticut small towns are the streetscapes of unique houses that date back several decades.

The empty-nester couple who commissioned this new house from Burr Salvatore Architects wanted their residence to seem as if it had been part of the town for a long time. They envisioned both the outside and the inside appearing to have evolved naturally. The architects responded to their directives by designing a Regency-style residence more typical of the 1920s.

Indeed, from the street, the handsome structure reflects the best tenets of the style, with its repeating rhythm of dormered multipaned windows, white-painted brick façade, perfect symmetry, and center-placed entry door surrounded by glass sidelights (though here, the door appears to float since the windows form an archway). The design team even managed to site the house so that a venerable oak tree remained at the center of the front yard. To adhere to a period feel, while establishing fresh, timeless interiors, all casings and baseboards, even the architectural hardware were custom designed.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY READ MCKENDREE/JBSA STYLING BY KATJA GREEFF

For more information, see Resources.

ARCHITECTURE

finalist ROLFS ELERT OFFICE

The name alone, Four Winds, sums up the strength and power of this house, as it sits perched atop a secluded hilltop within a breeze’s reach of Long Island Sound. The main house, designed by the famous architect Calvin Kiesling, dates to 1931, when it was built by architect and stone mason Frazier Foreman Peters. The home featured a building method called “Flagg Masonry Construction” in which exterior stones are laid vertically against formwork, held in place with sticks, and then backfilled with concrete. During a substantial reconstruction to modernize and expand the original house—adding new steel windows, a new kitchen, conservatory dining area, family room, plus primary and guest suites—Rolfs Elert Office managed also to reveal the texture and character of the original stonework as an interior wall next to a new main stairway. That stair hall, lit with a natural glow via a skylight, culminates in a dramatic floor-to-ceiling pane of glass that captures views of the landscape. The resulting home meets the needs of a modern-day family, fusing new and old elements in elegant and innovative ways.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEFAN RADTKE

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finalist REESE OWENS ARCHITECTS

We know by now how barns can make for great homes, but it’s important to remember that they were designed first for cows and hay. When Reese Owens Architects undertook the wholesale transformation of a barn into a living space, they were well cognizant of this basic fact. For generations, this simple, but handsome structure had been a recognizable icon in this part of Litchfield County. The barn and turreted silo were visible from the roadway. The designers were commissioned to reimagine the red barn as an entertaining/recreation destination for the family, whose main residence was situated just yards away. The first task involved rebuilding the foundation and preserving as much of the original timber frame as possible. An antique barn in Canada was acquired as a source for period materials. The overall process prioritized preserving the original configuration and joinery, while exposing tie-rods as a way to create an open span without visible support posts. Where there were once barn doors are now picture windows. The original profile of the building remains, while serving as a new entertaining space.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BIONDO

For more information, see Resources.

BUILDER RECOGNITION winner HEMINGWAY FINE HOMES

Just because a particular style of a house has existed for generations doesn’t mean that every incarnation of it is simple to execute. Hemingway Fine Homes was commissioned to build this classic Regency-style home— the kind that has existed in tony Connecticut suburbs since the 1920s. As Peter Sciarretta, Hemingway’s president notes: “One of the most challenging and rewarding aspects of this project was the octagonal sunroom. The Hemingway team devoted extensive time and precision to ensure that every element of the room was perfectly symmetrical.” The goal was achieved as the decorative ceiling beams converged flawlessly at the center of the room, and the very shape of the room was perfect. Indeed, all of the home’s many symmetrical elements that characterize the Regency style were executed.

The hand-painted brick facade, slate roof, the integrated outdoor living spaces, and highly detailed interiors “reflect an unwavering commitment to precision, artistry and teamwork,” Sciarretta adds.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY READ MCKENDREE/JBSA

finalist TALLMAN BUILDING COMPANY

Stone is unforgiving. But when Tallman Building Company began its work on this century-old house known as Four Winds, the firm needed to figure out how to not only replicate expanses of the original stonework, but also dig a foundation beneath an existing stone expanse to fashion a finished basement.

“We constructed a complete new skeleton of steel, engineered timber, and concrete within the 100-plus-year-old shell of this house,” says Bill Tallman, the firm’s principal. “And let me add, there’s not a single crack in the stone.” When asked how he also managed to completely replicate the original configuration of the stone walls, along with the colors, he says: “We did many mockups. We sourced local stone from Connecticut and New York, and we had the craftsmen able to put it together.” Like many successful collaborations, Tallman readily cites the most satisfying aspect of the build. “I’m most proud of how well we all worked together—the client and the Rolfs Elert office—to help the client really realize their vision. A lot of craftsmanship was involved and that required an affair of the heart, so to speak. We put our heart and soul into this. Everyone involved did.”

PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEFAN RADTKE

finalist WASHINGTON BUILDERS

As much as everyone wanted to preserve the 18th-century barn that had stood on this site in Litchfield County, it just wasn’t possible. However, Washington Builders found the ideal solution: The firm, headed by Chris Washington, purchased a circa-1800 barn from Canada, and reassembled it on the site, making it into a recreation space for the family. “It was challenging to have to stay within the original footprint of the former barn,” says Washington, “but we did it.” While the buying of antique barns from elsewhere is common practice for Washington, he prefers hemlock barns from Canada and elsewhere in the Northeast. “We like Northern barns because those early pioneers used larger, stronger timbers because of snow loads.” He and his team were also entrusted with laying a new foundation for the main house, portions of which also date back to the 1700s. “When you’re dealing with structures that are this old and delicate, the whole process is a bit like walking on eggshells,” he emphasizes. Now that both structures are complete, Washington is proud of the fact that “it all really feels historic. It seems as if these exact buildings could have been there the whole time.”

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BIONDO

For more information, see Resources.

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WINE & SPIRITS

Passport to Premium Winemaking I N V E S T I N T H E B E S T V I T I C U LT U R E TO ACCESS THE HIGH-LEVEL N A PA W I N E W O R L D

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“We go soup to nuts with the clients, helping secure the lawyer to trademark the brand, designers to create the labels, brand ambassadors to promote the wines,” Hardin explains.

The 4 Winds Winery—a jewel box vineyard perched high above the Silverado Trail—is a property that Hardin worked on from scratch. He introduced the Chapin family “I plant vineyards with the right grape variety to winemaker Thomas Rivers Brown. “The for the soil type and let the vineyard owner choose Chapins are intent on making top wines from their between sustainable, organic or biodynamic impossibly rocky site,” he says. viticulture—the latter two cost thousands more “I’ve done the viticulture on Tom Seaver’s per acre to farm,” Hardin explains. “I’ll bring in my vineyard on Diamond Mountain in Calistoga team of field workers to do the viticulture on the and continue working with his wife, Nancy,” vineyard all year long, but especially from spring Hardin says. Hall of Famer Seaver pitched 20 until harvest.” seasons in Major League Baseball. “I also work the Hardin not only acts as the viticultural service vineyard of Carmen Policy.” Policy was GM of but also as somewhat of consultancy on the entire the San Francisco 49ers, who took five Superbowl winemaking process by introducing people to his Championships. vast Napa network. He often works with deep“I work with successful people who want pocketed career changers looking to invest in a to master another field and seek intellectual Napa Valley second act. The region’s prime parcels, involvement in developing a wine property,” he he’ll tell them, are in one of five AVAs: Oakville, explains. Surely, it’s an investment that gives entry Stags Leap District, Howell Mountain, St. Helena into a very elite club of winemakers. and Rutherford.

—Baroness Sheri de Borchgrave

TOP: JIMMY HAYES; HARDIN: ROB WATERMEYER

G

reat wine is made in the vineyard” is the often-cited phrase in wine circles. As a winery owner, if you want to make those high-scoring wines that get swoons from critics, it’s all about investing in the best viticulture.

Matt Hardin, a seventh-generation vineyard manager, might be the man to help you cultivate the best grapes. His family was among the earliest pioneers of Napa Valley, arriving during the California gold rush, owning a 3,500-acre cattle ranch that was Napa’s oldest registered cattle brand. By the 1890s, the family started farming grapes and continue to this day.

“I live in this truly utopian agricultural world,” says Hardin, who several years ago started Hardin Vineyard Management after working a dozen years under his mentor, viticulturalist Jim Barbour.

Hardin handles 40 vineyard properties, has 65 full-time employees and engages 350 people in the vineyards from the period of bud break to harvest.

He farms under the tradition of responsible agriculture as “stewards of Napa Valley’s legacy, architects of its future.” He owns two planes—a Cessna 206 and a Piper J-3 Cub—to transport him to his many wine tastings.

Steward Of Napa Valley Matt Hardin (left) of Hardin Vineyard Management mangages the vineyards at 4 Winds Winery (this photo) perched high above the Silverado Trail. hardinvm.com, 4windswinery.com.

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

2025 IDAs

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CTC&G celebrated its 18th Innovation in Design Awards presented by Design Within Reach at GREENWICH COUNTRY CLUB with the Innovator Award Recipient, Young Huh.

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1. Pure Insurance’s staff and guests 2. Innovator Award Recipient Young Huh’s trophy made by Plexi-Craft 3. West | Out East’s Noah Cousino, Albert Fierro, West Chin and Courtney Seneca with NYC&G Associate Publisher Melissa Groher 4. Shoreline Pools’ Daniel Kollar presents the Garden Design award to Diane Devore of Devore Associates 5. Torrco’s Dawn Corbo and Katie Cooper

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6. Igor Kurbatov Masonry’s Igor Kurbatov with Gault Stone & Landscape Supplies’ Bryan Williamson, Alan Currie, Geoff Spence and Jeff Palen 7. Plexi-Craft's Paulette and Hans Kretschman 8. California Closets’ Michelle Nemmers, Mary Jo Fornshell, Shelly Woods, Tanya Medvedieva and Janet Freedman enjoying the VIP cocktail hour 9. Cornerstone Contracting’s George Pusser presents the Interior Design award to Melanie Foster of M Foster Interiors. 10. Design Within Reach's Katie Bath welcomes the crowd.

TBM PHOTOGRAPHY

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11. C&G Media Group CEO/Publication Director Marianne Howatson kicking off the dinner and awards 12. Interior Design winner Marmol Radziner’s JD Messick with CTC&G Editorial Director DJ Carey 13. Advanced Home Audio’s Bill Charney presents the Innovator Award to Young Huh Interior Design’s Brett Williams 14. Ring’s End’s Erin Shairzay with Marvin’s Ashley Anderson 15. The 2025 CT IDAs Awards winners & finalists.

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16. Aitoro Appliance’s Elizabeth Bouton and Tony Aitoro 17. Tusk Home + Design’s team, winner of the Small Space Design category 18. IDA Judges Lauren Luskey of ABC Stone, Matthew Bromley of Bromley Landscape Design and Elizabeth Dillon of Historical Concepts 19. Royal House’s Rebecca McKeown announcing the Product Design winner 20. Brook Clark Landscape Architects’ Brook Clark with Kohler Stores’ Gardner Stevens and Melissa Sherwood

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

Designing Greenwich 2025 C&G Media Group relaunched Designing Greenwich, a multi-day event celebrating top design, architecture, and innovation.

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1. Ray Booth Design’s Ray Booth, Workshop/ APD’s Matt Berman, Yellow House Architects’ Elizabeth Graziolo, Sawyer | Berson’s Brian Sawyer and Douglas C. Wright Architects’ Douglas Wright 2. Greenwich Garden Tour guides British sculptor David Harber and Oehme, van Sweden’s Lili Herrera 3. NYC&G/HC&G Editor in Chief Clinton Smith in conversations with interior designer Victoria Hagan 4. Palm Beach Cottages & Gardens Editor in Chief Harriet Mays Powell, Anthony Baratta’s Erick J. Espinoza and the Sherwin-Williams Company’s Sue Wadden 5. VIP Dinner hosted by Visual Comfort & Co. at the Townhouse Restaurant & Bar. 8

6. C&G Media Group CEO/Publication Director Marianne Howatson welcomes the crowd 7. The Tailored Home hosted a Custom Furniture Demonstration. 8. Workshop/ APD’s Matt Berman signed a book for designer Cecelia Tolomei. 9. Ornare’s Dominika Janiuk, James Doyle Design Associates’ Justin Quinn, Janice Parker Landscape Architects’ Janice Parker, Ornare’s Mylene Del Nero, British sculptor David Harber and Summerhill Associates’ Declan Blackmore 10. The Hudson Company’s Michael Popowitz, I-Grace’s Kurt Schumacher and the Hudson Company’s Jamie Hammel

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11. Ornare 12. Contributing editor David Masello, Carrier & Company’s Mara Miller and Jesse Carrier, Rinfret, Ltd. Interior Design & Decoration’s Cindy Rinfret and Bennett Leifer Interior’s Bennett Leifer 13. The Sea-Dar Construction Team 14. Oomph Home Furnishings’ Whitney Childs showing the Lily Eve pop-up 15. Kohler Store by Plimpton & Hills’ Sheri Daino, Elizabeth Meier and Charles Bartlett

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16. CTC&G Editorial Director DJ Carey with 17 Williams Lawrence’s Bunny Williams and Elizabeth Lawrence 17. Backcountry Mercantile’s Amanda Gaudelet with Gingham & Gable’s Lisa Ehrlich and April Shen 18. Panelists Elizabeth Bolognino Interiors’ Elizabeth Bolognino, Brittany Bromley Interiors’ Brittany Bromley and Steven W Spandle Architect’s Steven W Spandle discussed entertaining at home. 19. Italkraft’s Diana Castillo and Fabiana Sandoval with California Closets’ Michelle Nemmers 20. Diane’s Books of Greenwich hosted book signings for our speakers.

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EVENTS

WNWN 2025 at The Bright Group CTC&G Editorial Director DJ Carey moderated “Design Above the Table” at The Bright Group’s showroom during What’s New, What’s Next.

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1. Winston Flowers’ Samantha Toft, CTC&G Editorial Director DJ Carey, designer Luis Enrique with Winston Flowers’ Emily Downing and Joseph Didonato 2. Winston Flowers’ Samantha Toft designing a floral arrangement 3. Interior designer Gigi Gozlan with realtor Narkis Izraelov 4. Designer Virginia Harper with Head & Hand PR’s Sara Di Gangi

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WNWN 2025 at Century Furniture

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1. McKinnon and Harris’ Adam Lindsey, Saroya Garcia-Ladiana, Erin Nuszer and Claire Driskill 2. Century Furniture’s John Welker, CTC&G Editorial Director DJ Carey, designers Mara Miller, Jesse Carrier, Patrick Mele and Tara Shaw with Century Furniture’s Alex Shuford and Hannah Mayeux 3. CTC&G Editorial Director DJ Carey moderated conversations between designers Patrick Mele, Tara Shaw, Jesse Carrier and Mara Miller. 4. Pierre Frey’s Kim Huebner, Catherine Davis, Cowtan & Tout’s Miry Park, designer Zac Mathias and Cowtan & Tout’s Vesna Babic 5. Interior designer Antonio DeLoatch and James Bianca

TBM PHOTOGRAPHY

CTC&G Editorial Director DJ Carey moderated “The Mix Masters of Timeless Interiors” at Century Furniture’s showroom during What’s New, What’s Next.

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

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Garden Design Finalist James Doyle Design Associates

IDA WINNERS INNOVATOR

Pages 34–35: Young Huh, Young Huh Interior Design, younghuh.com

NEIL LANDINO, JR.

Pages 44–47: Garden Design WINNER, Devore Associates Landscape Architects, devoreassoc.com.

Architect, Elizabeth Jahn Architecture, elizabethjahn.com. Landscape installation, Ceci Brothers, 203-8692583. Pool, Meehan & Ramos Pools, 203-378-8900.

Page 48: Garden Design FINALIST, James Doyle Design Associates, jdda.com. Architect, Alisberg Parker, alisbergparker.com. Builder, Significant Homes, significanthomesllc.com.

Landscape installation, Sandoval’s Landscaping & Masonry, sandoval-

landscaping.com. Pool, Shoreline Pools, shorelinepools.com. Hardscape installation, GFX Site Development, gfxsitedevelopment.com. Irrigation, Summer Rain, summerrainsprinklers. com. Fencing and gates, Euro Fence, eurofenceinc.com. Glass railings, US Glass Fence, usglassfence.com.

Page 49: Garden Design FINALIST, Renée Byers, reneebyers.com.

Consulting architect, Frank Garretson, 802-753-7194. Contractor, C. West Woodworks LLC, 860309-7361. Masonry, drainage and landscape, Land Productions, Inc., 914-666-8214. Pool and spa reconstruction, Oceanview Pool and Patio, oceanviewpoolandpatio.com.

Teak furniture, Kingsley Bate. Outdoor shower, Atelier Tradewinds. Antique and vintage planters, Michael Trapp Inc.

Porch wicker chairs, Balsamo Antiques.

Upholstery and cushions, Top of the Line Drapery and Upholstery.

Pages 50–53: Kitchen Design WINNER, Studio Bartolotta, studiobartolotta.archi.

Interior design, Kelly and Co. Design, kellyandcodesign.com. Contractor, Dannick Carpentry LLC, dannickcarpentry. com. Kitchen millwork, Parish Millwork LLC, parishmillwork.com. Kitchen counters, La Pietra. Cabinet pulls, Accurate Lock & Hardware. Island pendant, Workstead. Kitchen and wet bar faucets, California Faucets.

Refrigerator, wine refrigerator and range, Subzero-Wolf.

Page 54: Kitchen Design FINALIST, Boldt Studio, boldtstudio.com.

Engineering, CMars Engineering, 203-483-8789. Builder, VVM Builders,

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.

475-359-3360. Surfaces, RMI Surfaces, rmisurfaces.com. Hardware, Plank Hardware. Faucets, Kohler. Appliances, Albano Appliance. Paint, Benjamin Moore.

Page 55: Kitchen Design FINALIST, Elizabeth Bolognino Interiors, elizabethbolognino.com. Contractor, DLF Contractors, dlfcontractors.com. Custom hood, RBL Metals. Range, Officine Gullo.

Island stone, ABC Stone. Paint, Farrow & Ball and Benjamin Moore.

Pages 56–59: Interior Design WINNER, Marmol Radziner, marmol-radziner. com. Construction, Hine Builders, timhine.com. Landscape design, Devore Associates Landscape Architects, devoreassoc.com. Building enclosure, Steven Winter Associates, swinter.com.

Mechanical, electrical, plumbing

DECEMBER 2025 | COTTAGESGARDENS.COM | CTC&G

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RESOURCES

Pages 62–63: Bath Design WINNER, The Rath Project, therathproject. com. Contractor/builder, Dierna Construction, 203-913-5232. Millwork/ cabinetry, Sharpline Cabinetry, sharplinecabinetry.com. Stone slabs, Marble & Granite, marbleandgranite.com.

Stone fabricator/installer, Elevated Marble & Granite, 203-678-4276. Tile, Tile Bar and Tile Club. Plumbing fixtures, Kohler. Glass, Westport Glass. Drapery fabrics, Brunschwig & Fil and JAB. Drapery and window coverings, Ring’s End. Wallcoverings, York Wallcoverings.

Lighting, Chloe Winston Lighting Design.

Page 64: Bath Design FINALIST, Douglas Graneto Design, douglasgraneto.com. Architect, Shope Reno Wharton, shoperenowharton.com.

Contractor, Premier Home Builders, phbllc.com. Stone installation,

Page 60: Interior Design FINALIST, M. Foster Interiors, mfosterinteriors. com. Architect, Kahlil Hamady, Hamady Architects, hamadyarchitectsllc.com.

Contractor, Cornerstone Contracting, cornerstone-builders.com. Lighting designer, Orsman Design, orsmandesign. com. Art advisors, Stacy Gershon, Art&Design, artanddesign.info, and Ariel Mayerowitz, Ariel Meyerowitz Art Advisory, arielmeyerowitz.com. AV, SmartHomeworx, smarthomeworx.com.

Painting and finishing, Fortuna Painting, 917-847-4305. Decorative painting, Matt Austin Studio, mattaustinstudio. com. Custom finishes, Nota Design, notadesignllc.com. Millwork, CQ Design Studio Inc., cq-designstudio. com. Stone, BAS Stone, basstonenyc. com. Window treatments, Marks and Tavano Workroom, michaeltavano.com.

Living Room: Area Rug, Carini Lang.

Coffee table, Alexander Lamont. Club chairs, Roman Thomas. End tables, Cox London. Table lamps, Margit Wittig.

Office: Desk, The Invisible Collection.

Area rug, Edward Fields.

Page 61: Interior Design FINALIST, Stephanie Rapp Interiors, stephanierappinteriors.com.

General contractor, Sunny Adalja, SA Construction, 914-519-7586.

Home builder, Pieka Construction, piekaconstruction.com. Entry: Console, EJ Victor. Dining room: Table, EJ Victor. Chairs, The Bright Group.

Credenza, Century. Rug, Harcourt Collection. Ceiling wallpaper, WallQuest.

Chandelier, Hubbardton Forge. Office: Desk, Old Biscayne. Chandelier, Modern Forms through Chloe Winston Lighting Design. Window treatments, Lanera Decorating. Trim, Samuel & Sons.

Furnishings, through Schwartz Design Showroom.

86

Dushi Marble & Granite, dushimg. com. Marble, PMI International Stone Importers, pmirock.com. Plaster walls, Fabio Iuliano, 201-800-2043. Faucets, Waterworks. Towel warmer, Hastings.

Sconces, Juniper. Stool, Studio Van Den Akker. Stool fabric, Dedar.

Page 65: Bath Design FINALIST, Mideast Design Co., mideastdesign. com. Contractor, New England Artisans, newenglandartisansdesign. com. Plumbing fixtures, Waterworks.

Decorative lighting, Visual Comfort and Luminaire Authentik. Stone slab, Akdo. Stone fabrication, Genrose. Tile, Country Floors. Closet cabinetry, Cheryl Amodeo of California Closets.

Pages 66–67: Small Space WINNER, Tusk Home + Design. Electrical and painting, Jaime Herrera Construction,

203-621-8955. Carpentry, Voytek Zadzilko, VZ Carpentry, @vz_carpentry.

Wallcovering and fabric, Spoonflower.

Carpet, Redi-cut Carpet & Rugs.

Page 68: Small Space FINALIST, Studio Bartolotta LLC, studiobartolotta. archi. Interior designer, Jesse Parris-Lamb LLC, jesseparrislamb. com. Landscape architect, Janice Parker Landscape Design, janiceparker. com. Lighting design, Marras & Curtis Lighting Design, mcld.com. General contractors, Apex Projects LLC, apexpps.com, and Hobbs Inc., hobbsinc. com. A/V Consultant, Opus Audio Video Controls, opusavc.com. Coastal Engineer, RACE Coastal Engineers, racecoastal.com. Civil Engineer, Land Tech Consultants Inc., landtechconsult. com. Structural Engineer, Jacobson Structures, jacobsonstructures.com. MEP Engineers, IES Innovative Engineering Services, innovative-engineering-services. com. Ceiling fans, Big Ass Fans.

Furniture, Brown Jordan and Harbour Outdoor. Cabana bathroom: Sink and accessories, Stone Forest. Faucet, Watermark. Toilet, Kohler. Mirror, Lumifer. Sconces, Apparatus. Floor tile, Artistic Tile. Feature wall, Island Stone.

Architectural hardware, Turnstyle Designs.

Page 69: Small Space FINALIST, Greenwich Play, greenwichplay.com.

Architect, Hatley Homes Designs, hatleyhomesdesign.com. Builder, Hertz Home Construction, Inc., hertzconstructiondarien.com. Wallpaper, Schumacher and Chasing Paper.

Lighting, Visual Comfort.

Pages 70–73: Architecture WINNER, Burr Salvatore Architects, burrsalvatore.com. Interior design, Carlos Velez, Burr Salvatore Architects, burrsalvatore.com. Builder, Hemingway Fine Homes, hemingwayconstruction. com. Landscape design, Yost Design Landscape Architecture, yostdesign.com.

Custom hardware, Accurate Lock & Hardware.

Page 74: Architecture FINALIST, Rolfs Elert Office, Rudi Elert and Bryce Willis, rolfselertoffice.com.

Interior design, Savage Designs, savagedesignsinc.com. Builder, Tallman Building Company, tallmanbuilding.com.

Landscape architect, Janice Parker Landscape Architects, janiceparker.com.

Structural engineer, Edward Stanley Engineers, edwardstanleyengineers.com.

Civil engineer, S.E. Minor, seminor.com.

65

Bath Design Finalist Mideast Design Co.

CTC&G | COTTAGESGARDENS.COM | DECEMBER 2025

Page 75: Architecture FINALIST, Reese Owens Architects LLC, reeseowens.com. Interior design, Anna Beeber Design, annabeeber. com. General contractor, Washington Builders, washingtonbuildersllc.com.

Landscape architect, Christopher Throp Landscape Architecture, ctladesign. com. Architectural lighting, West Woods Design, westwoodsdesign.com.

DAVIDSON MCCULLOH

engineering, Encon Inc., goencon.com.

Structural engineering, E2 Consulting Engineers, Inc., e2.com. Living room: Floor lamp, Luigi Caccia Dominioni.

Coffee table, Axel Vervoordt. Stool, Marmol Radziner. Sofa and table lamp, Jean-Michel Frank for Comte. Pillows, Classic Design. Cabinet, Oscar Nilsson.

Area rug, Christopher Farr. Artwork, Gallery Perrotin. Stool, Maison Gerard.

Living room detail: Floors, Schotten & Hansen. Artwork, Antonia Ferrer through Atelier Vime. Wall light, Robert Mathieu.

Table, Pierre Chapo. Candlesticks, Bougeoir Ekorce Lam. Stool, CounterSpace. Area rug, Christopher Farr. Entry: Floors, Schotten & Hansen. Table, Rose Uniacke. Sconces, Galerie Carole Decombe. Area rug, Lawrence of La Brea. Vase, Freeforms. Bedroom: Area rug, Marc Phillips. Custom bed, Marmol Radziner. Bed upholstery fabric, Loro Piana. Side table, A. J. Iverson through Hostler Burrows. Teak bench, Pierre Jeanneret through Galerie Half. Chair, Thomas Lavin. Patinated bronze table, Liagre through Thomas Lavin. Floor lamp, Ponce Berga. Artwork, Kate Spencer. Sculpture, Richard Flipowski.

RESOURCES

Structural engineer, The Di Salvo Engineering Group, tdeg.com.

Page 76: Builder Recognition WINNER, Hemingway Fine Homes, hemingwayconstruction.com.

Page 77: Builder Recognition FINALIST, Tallman Building Company, tallmanbuilding.com.

Page 77: Builder Recognition FINALIST, Washington Builders, washingtonbuildersllc.com.

SOURCE LIST 1stDibs, 1stdibs.com A. J. Iverson (see Hostler Burrows) ABC Stone, abcworldwidestone.com Accurate Lock & Hardware, accuratelockandhardware.com Akdo, akdo.com Albano Appliance, albanoappliance.com Alexander Lamont, alexanderlamont.com Antonia Ferrer (see Atelier Vime) Apparatus, apparatusstudio.com Artistic Tile, artistictile.com Atelier Tradewinds, trade-winds.be Atelier Vime, ateliervime.com Axel Vervoordt, axel-vervoordt.com Balsamo Antiques, balsamoantiques.com Benjamin Moore, benjaminmoore.com

Big Ass Fans, bigassfans.com Bougeoir Ekorce Lam, carpentersworkshopgallery.com Brown Jordan, brownjordan.com Brunschwig & Fil, kravet.com California Closets, californiaclosets.com California Faucets, calfaucets.com Carini Lang, carinilang.com Century, centuryfurniture.com Chasing Paper, chasingpaper.com Chloe Winston Lighting Design, chloewinstonlighting.com Christopher Farr, christopherfarr.com Classic Design, classicdesignla.com Counter-Space, counter-space.com Country Floors, countryfloors.com Cox London, coxlondon.com Dedar, dedar.com Edward Fields, edwardfields.com EJ Victor, ejvictor.com Farrow & Ball, farrow-ball.com Freeforms, freeformsnyc.com Galerie Carole Decombe, galeriecaroledecombe.com Galerie Half, galeriehalf.com Gallery Perrotin, perrotin.com Genrose, genrose.com Harbour Outdoor, harbour.com Harcourt Collection, harcourtcollection.com Hastings, hastingsbathcollection.com Hostler Burrows, hostlerburrows.com Hubbardton Forge, hubbardtonforge.com Island Stone, islandstone.com

JAB, jab.de Jean-Micheal Frank for Comte (see 1stDibs) Juniper, juniperdesign.com Kate Spencer, katespencerart.com Kingsley Bate, kingsleybate.com Kohler, kohler.com La Pietra, lapietramarble.com Lanera Decorating, theshutterandshadesource.com Lawrence of La Brea, lawrenceoflabrea.com Liagre (see Thomas Lavin) Loro Piana, loropiana.com Luigi Caccia Dominioni (see 1stDibs) Lumifer, lumifer.us Luminaire Authentik, luminaireauthentik.com Maison Gerard, maisongerard.com Marc Phillips, marcphillipsrugs.com Margit Wittig, margitwittig.com Marmol Radziner, marmol-radziner.com Michael Trapp Inc., michaeltrapp.com Modern Forms (see Chloe Winston Lighting Design) Officine Gullo, officinegullo.com Old Biscayne, oldbiscaynedesigns.com Oscar Nilsson (see 1stDibs) Pierre Chapo, chapo-creation.com Pierre Jeanneret (see Galerie Half) Plank Hardware, plankhardware.com Ponce Berga (see 1stDibs) RBL Metals, rblmetals.com Redi-cut Carpet & Rugs, redicarpets.com

Richard Flipowski (see Hostler Burrows) Ring’s End, ringsend.com Robert Mathieu (see 1stDibs) Roman Thomas, romanthomas.com Rose Uniacke, roseuniacke.com Samuel & Sons, samuelandsons.com Schotten & Hansen, schotten-hansen.com Schumacher, schumacher.com Schwartz Design Showroom, schwartzdesignshowroom.com Spoonflower, spoonflower.com Stone Forest, stoneforest.com Studio Van Den Akker, studiovandenakker.com Subzero-Wolf, subzero-wolf.com The Bright Group, thebrightgroup.com The Invisible Collection, theinvisiblecollection.com Thomas Lavin, thomaslavin.com Tile Bar, tilebar.com Tile Club, tileclub.com Top of the Line Drapery and Upholstery, 203-348-0000 Turnstyle Designs, turnstyledesigns.com Visual Comfort, visualcomfort.com WallQuest, wallquest.com Watermark, watermark-designs.com Waterworks, waterworks.com Westport Glass, westportglassct.com Workstead, workstead.com York Wallcoverings, yorkwallcoverings.com

DESIGNSTOPS MUST-HAVES FOR THE DESIGN-OBSESSED SHOPPER

THE POST

The Post in Westport, CT now offers custom made Mahjong and game tables by Center & Spring, women-owned and built locally.

Featured is The Collins table, in white oak veneer, additional styles available for special order.

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

I N N O VA T I O N I N D E S I G N

Meet the Judges

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

“Designed by Studio Bartolotta, the ‘Sportsman’s Hearth’ kitchen [page 50] presents a very interesting mixture of textures, materials and masterful cabinetry.”

LAUREN LUSKEY ABC Stone abcworldwidestone.com

“The Rath Project Bath Design winner [page 62] is a fun mix of materials with pretty fixtures. I enjoy the use of pink stone balanced by wood tones that make the overall feel less feminine.”

BENNETT LEIFER Bennett Leifer Interiors, bennettleifer.com

“Small Space Design winner Tusk Home + Design [page 66] made great use of a difficult space—the floating bed is fantastic!”

CHARLOTTE BARNES

Charlotte Barnes Interior Design, charlottebarnes.com

“The Architecture winner by Burr Salvatore Architects [page 70] successfully harkens back to history but still feels fresh and inviting with its thoughtful composition and well-detailed exterior.”

ELIZABETH DILLON Historical Concepts Architecture & Planning historicalconcepts.com

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CTC&G | COTTAGESGARDENS.COM | DECEMBER 2025

“Defined by simple, elegant lines, the interiors of the Interior Design winner [page 56] by Marmol Radziner strike a balance between timeless comfort and European sophistication.”

MATTHEW PATRICK SMYTH Matthew Patrick Smyth Interior Design matthewsmyth.com

“The winning Garden Design by Devore Associates Landscape Architects [page 44] utilizes innovative hardscape to direct the flow. The designer was impressively creative with a diversity of plant selection to keep the experience eventful.”

TOVAH MARTIN tovahmartin.com

LEIFER: BJORN WALLANDER; BARNES: MAX KIM-BEE; DILLON: DAVID CHRISTENSEN PHOTOGRAPHY; SMYTH: ANNE DAY; MARTIN: KINDRA CLINEFF

“Implementing both formal garden elements and looser native meadows and maritime plantings, the landscape design by finalist James Doyle Design Associates [page 48] is impressive, harmonizing with the architecture and the unique waterfront site and steep rock outcroppings.”

MATTHEW BROMLEY Bromley Landscape Design bromleylandscapedesign.com

STEPHANIERAPPINTERIORS.COM

LET TIME LINGER

CANYON CRUE DINING CHAIR MERITAGE DINING TABLE

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