technology. When they were about to become parents, they embarked on a truly visionary expansion, which would seamlessly blend the old with the new. Entering the house through the main side entrance, there is a covered porch, for year-round outdoor relaxation. Once you are inside, the entry hall delivers an instant feeling of warm nostalgia, though there is nothing old-fashioned about the height of the ceilings or the brightness of the interior. Strolling through the parlor, living room and dining room, a visitor is aware of how subtle and tasteful is the blending of the old and the new, of history and contemporary details, right down to the floorboards, crown and baseboard moldings, and a stunning Federal-period mantel, which was positioned to form the centerpiece of the new wing. There are country views everywhere, and it’s apparent why the house is included in the New Canaan Garden Tour. Flowering trees are planted throughout the property, and new gardens designed by Lucia herself blend into the natural landscape. Everything reflects the essence of good taste, nothing overdone or out of keeping with an aura of splendid, state-of-the-art quality. And then, the kitchen! Compared to the splashy, flashy, trendy kitchens that go in and out of fashion, this is an instantly welcoming haven that is nourishment for the senses. With cream-colored walls and cabinetry, and a generous hardwood-topped dining island, it is both a carefully calibrated workplace and a sunny, windowed expression of hospitality. The carpentry, hardware and overall design create the atmosphere of a traditional family kitchen, while the Aga range, Sub-Zero appliances and generous dimensions fulfill the most demanding culinary requirements. One can readily imagine friendly conversations, enticing tastings and the well-planned pleasures of food preparation. The idea was to create a “period” feel, combined with all the conveniences anyone could need. Right off the kitchen, arched casement windows fill one wall of the breakfast room, a place destined to be a family favorite for lunch and supper. It overlooks the beautifully landscaped, ozone-filtered Gunite heated pool and pool house. Protected
Authentic architectural details, such as the elegant molding and paneling, blend well with the updated amenities.
by a canopy of woods on three sides, it is a seductive private setting for peaceful relaxation. Continuing the plan to accommodate future needs, below the breakfast room is a media room, office and bathroom, which could almost be a separate apartment with its separate entrance. It is certainly a wonderful play space. Upstairs, by way of a graceful, spindle staircase, are the spacious master bedroom and bath and three additional bedrooms, two with their own bathrooms. See Award-winning page 54
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October 2008
The HOME Monthly, a Hersam Acorn special section, Ridgefield, Conn.
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