New Hampshire Home March-April 2018

An Energy-Efficient Home • Great Chocolate Recipes • Design Award Winners

NEW HAMPSHIRE HOME

11 th Anniversary Issue

march/apri l 2018

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1 1 th a n n i v e r s a r y i s s u e

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contents

48 features

36

48 The Winners’ Circle

New H ampshire Home celebrated outstanding residential projects from across the state at its fifth annual awards gala in January.

26

By Andi Axman

56 Passionate About History and Energy Efficiency

One Bow couple were determined to make sustainability key in the preservation efforts of their early nineteenthcentury house.

By Debbie Kane | Photography by John W. Hession

64 Two Barns Become One Home

A Franconia family finds joy in preserving and transforming the building traditions of early New England.

By Carrie Sherman | Photography by John W. Hession and Crown Point Cabinetry | Styling by Phyllis Higgerson of Henhurst Interiors

92

30

departments 18 From the Editor 20 Letters From

73 Special advertising Section

22 On the Town 26 Favorite Finds

84 TRANSFORMATION

30 HOME COOKING

92 BY DESIGN

our Readers

For Sustainability In Love with Chocolate

By Mary Ann Esposito

36 MASTER OF HER CRAFT Art Rooted in History

By Barbara Coles

64

42 Garden r x

Priceless Plants

By Robin Sweetser

New H ampshire Home Design Awards Hall of Fame New Dividends for an Old Bank

By Jenny Donelan

Star Struck

By Barbara Coles

98 Home Resources 100 Mark Your Calendar!

103 Index of Advertisers 104 At Home in New Hampshire Line Storm

By Rebecca Rule Illustration by Carolyn Vibbert

On the cover and page 64: Thad and Joelle Presby’s kitchen—designed by Crown Point Cabinetry in Claremont—has old-fashioned functionality.

The décor takes its cue from the barns that became their home in Franconia—rustic and industrial, yet modern.

Photography courtesy of Crown Point Cabinetry | Styling by Phyllis Higgerson of Henhurst Interiors

Visit us online at nhhomeMagazine.com to read our digital edition, learn about events and use our resource guide.

As part of our ongoing effort to support sound environmental practices and preserve our forests for future generations, New Hampshire Home is printed locally by Cummings Printing, a Forest Stewardship Council printer.

USPS permit number 008-980. New Hampshire Home is published bimonthly by McLean Communications, Inc.; 150 Dow Street; Manchester, NH 03101; (603) 624-1442. © Copyright 2018 by McLean Communications, Inc. Periodical postage paid at Manchester 03103-9651. Postmaster, send address changes to: McLean Communications; PO Box 433273; Palm Coast, FL 32143

10 | New Hampshire Home

march/april 2018

Rob Karosis Photography

r es ident ia l co mmer cia l int er io r des ign

contributors

Barbara Coles has long reported on life in New Hampshire, first at Nashua radio station WOTW, then at New Hampshire Public Television and most recently at New Hampshire Magazine. She’s now a contributing editor for the magazine and editor of its Bride issues as well as a freelance writer for other publications. She can be reached at barbaracoles@comcast.net.

Jenny Donelan is an editor and writer with a wide variety of interests, and has covered areas that include computer technology, best business practices, pets, skiing and home design. Her articles have appeared in the New York Times, the Boston Globe and numerous other publications.

Mary Ann Esposito is the host of the public television series Ciao Italia, now in its twenty-eighth season, and the author of twelve cookbooks, including her most recent, Ciao Italia Family Classics. She lives in New Hampshire. Visit her website at ciaoitalia.com.

Phyllis Higgerson is a photography stylist and interior designer based in Hanover. Her commercial portfolio includes styling for Simon Pierce and Crown Point Cabinetry, and her interior design work has taken her from Texas to London.

Her Instagram account, @henhurst, was featured as a top pick in the Washington Post; find her online at henhurst.com.

Debbie Kane is a writer and editor based on the New Hampshire Seacoast. She writes about home, design, food, spirits and a variety of other subjects for regional publications and clients across New England. She may be reached at debbiekanewriter.com.

Morgan Karanasios took photographs throughout Europe while she was a student in Dijon, France, and continues to develop her passion for photography.

Rose Z. King received her master’s degree in history of art from the University of Glasgow and is now pursuing a PhD there specializing in Venetian Renaissance art.

Rebecca Rule is a writer, humorist and storyteller who lives in Northwood; host for ten years of the NH Authors Series on NHPBS; and currently host of Our Hometown also on NHPBS. She’s the author of a dozen books for children and adults. Her latest is Sixty Years of Cuttin’ the Cheese: Joel Sherburne and Calef’s Famous Country Store. Other titles include N is for NH, Moved and Seconded: NH Town Meeting, and Headin’ for the Rhubarb, A NH Dictionary (well, kinda).

For fun, she covers select board and school board meetings for the online newspaper The Pawtuckaway Forum.

Carrie Sherman works as a freelance writer/editor. She also writes fiction, and her short stories have been published in the Saint Katherine Review and Yankee magazine.

She lives in Kittery Point, Maine, with her husband, Terry, and their dog. She can be reached at carrie.sherman7@gmail.com.

Robin Sweetser writes a gardening column for the Sunday Concord Monitor and is a contributor to the Old Farmer’s Almanac, among other publications. A former Seacoast resident, she now lives and gardens in Hillsborough.

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Carolyn Vibbert is a Portsmouth illustrator whose work also appears on packaging for food and wine brands such as Barbara’s, Stone Cellars and Williams Sonoma.

She is represented by Freda Scott, and you can see more of her work at fredascottcreative.com.

12 | New Hampshire Home WINCH_NHhome_THIRD_2_18.indd 1

march/april 2018 2/2/18 5:43 PM

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Spring is the ideal time to freshen up your home. Our stores will inspire you to get your creative juices going! Learn what goes into real quality furniture and enjoy design expertise from a staff whose only goal is to make you love your home. Whether you are looking for one perfect piece or furnishing an entire house, start your spring decorating with a trip to Winchendon Furniture.

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New Hampshire Home | 13

ma rc h/a pr i l 2018 | Vol . 12, No. 2

nhhomemagazine.com

Sharron R. McCarthy Andi Axman Art D irector John R. Goodwin Photo E ditor John W. Hession Asso c iate E ditor Kara Steere editorial Assistant Rose Z. King photo g rapher Morgan Karanasios

PR ESI DENT/PU B LISH ER EDITOR

senior desi g ners

Jodie Hall, Wendy Wood contributors

Barbara Coles, Jenny Donelan, Mary Ann Esposito, Phyllis Higgerson, Debbie Kane, Rebecca Rule, Carrie Sherman, Robin Sweetser, Carolyn Vibbert

BEFORE regional sales m anager

Jessica Schooley: (603) 413-5143 jschooley@mcleancommunications.com seacoast sales m anager

Tal Hauch: (617) 921-7033; (603) 413-5145 thauch@mcleancommunications.com Brook Holmberg Sherin Pierce BUSI N ESS M ANAGER Mista McDonnell Event & Mar keting m anager Erica Baglieri Business & Sales Coordinator Heather Rood D i gital Media S pe c ialist Morgen Connor VP/consumer m ar keting VP/retail SALES

e d i to r i a l Co r r e s p o n d e n c e

Andi Axman, editor

New Hampshire Home 150 Dow Street; Manchester, NH 03101 (603) 736-8056; editor@nhhomemagazine.com

AFTER, WITH ADDITION

Residential Design Construction Consultation Custom Building & Remodeling

Subscriptions

Subscriptions, New Hampshire Home PO Box 433273; Palm Coast, FL 32143 or call (877) 494-2036 or subscribe online at nhhomemagazine.com or email NHHome@emailcustomerservice.com

© 2018 M c L ean C ommunications , I nc .

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14 | New Hampshire Home

New Hampshire Home is published bimonthly by McLean Communications, Inc.; 150 Dow Street; Manchester, NH 03101; (603) 624-1442. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without the publisher’s written permission is prohibited. The publisher assumes no responsibility for any mistakes in advertisements or editorial. Statements and opinions expressed in this magazine do not necessarily reflect or represent those of this publication or its officers.

While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication, McLean Communications, Inc.: New Hampshire Home disclaims all responsibility for omissions and errors. march/april 2018

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from the editor

What’s Old Is New Again

W

hen I’m in high gear mode of spring cleaning and ready to say goodbye to things I no longer use or wear, I sometimes find myself thinking twice. Do I really want to part with this item and never see it again? I remember on more

than one occasion, I’ve regretted my haste and happily retrieved something from a packed box. Sometimes it pays to hold on to classic pieces, as they can come back in style. In time, patience and good taste are often rewarded.

Sometimes older is better, as we found with several projects featured in this issue.

Finding a new use for an older building or renovating an antique home often pays bigger dividends than we might have imagined.

When Thad and Joselle Presby began to imagine the perfect home for their property in Franconia, they were inspired by their wonderful memories of Thad’s great-grandparents’ farm. Thad, who is a builder, looked at more than two hundred barns before he found two he purchased, disassembled, cleaned and eventually joined to make one home (page 64).

Built in 1826, the home at Cyrus Colby Farm in Bow had been in the Colby family for

Finding a new use for an older building or renovating an

generations. That was until Mike and Nancy Sampo came along, and the property couldn’t have found better stewards (page 56). “We didn’t want to build a new house,” Mike says.

“We wanted to make this farmhouse as energy efficient as possible while preserving its historic structure.”

Five years ago, when glass artist Shandra McLane realized she’d outgrown her studio

antique home often

at home in Bridgewater, she quickly found the perfect space. It was a handsome brick

pays dividends bigger

the building now has chic gallery space—with the original tin ceiling—on the main level

than we might have

ing revitalization and given a Preservation Achievement Award from the New Hampshire

imagined.

bank in nearby Ashland that was built around 1910. Thanks to lots of hard work and TLC, and state-of-the-art studio space below. In 2014, this project was cited for its outstandPreservation Alliance (page 84).

Speaking of the alliance, if you own an older home or barn, make sure to mark your calendar for the Old House and Barn Expo on March 24 and 25 (the event happens every other year)—see pages 61 and 100 for more information.

On another traditional note, Lisa Curry Mair paints murals in the nineteenth-century folk-art style of Rufus Porter but with a more realistic touch (page 36). Her studio in Perkinsville, Vermont, is in a carriage house next to her 1790 Cape that was remodeled into a three-story farmhouse in 1830.

Some things never get old, like my love of chocolate. Fortunately Mary Ann Esposito indulges us with great recipes (page 30) to celebrate Easter on April 1 and a flourless, unleavened chocolate cake perfect for Passover on March 30–April 7.

Other things—such as the stars—are unimaginably old, and watching them is always a treat. One homeowner we met indulged his passion for stargazing by building an extraordinary observatory (page 92), perfect for viewing the upcoming full blue moon on March 31 and the peak Lyrid meteor shower on April 22–23.

May all your stars align this spring!

Editor

18 | New Hampshire Home

march/april 2018

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letters from our readers

—Sheldon Pennoyer of Sheldon Pennoyer Architects in Concord

Editor’s note: Sheldon Pennoyer Architects in Concord took home three awards from the fifth annual New Hampshire Home Design Awards, held January 24 in Bedford—see page 48 for information about other winners. His project Clothespin Farm won for both Excellence in Architectural Design and 2018 Home of the Year. The firm’s Tree House project won for Excellence in Green Design.

New Hampshire Home was a sponsor of the AIANH Award Celebration and Annual Meeting on January 5.

What a nice event you hosted for the design awards; it takes a lot of work and coordination to make all the components come together. It was great to meet new people—many of whom, by the way, love the (magazine’s Home Cooking) recipes.

So that was a bonus. I also loved [master of ceremonies and garden designer] Gordon Hayward’s talk about his garden and would love to visit!

—Mary Ann Esposito in Durham

Just a quick note to say what a great job you and your staff did putting together the design awards this year! I’m aware of all the detailed work and planning that go into making an event like that happen.

You all did a superb job, and we had a great time!

—Joseph Valentine of Francestown

Clothespin Farm in Dublin by Sheldon Pennoyer Architects in Concord won two awards for excellence at New Hampshire Home Design Awards in January—one for Architectural Design and the other for 2018 Home of the Year. For more information on this project, see page 49.

Janice Page and I really enjoyed your design awards. You really know how to throw a party! Gorden Hayward was very interesting and inspirational. It was an especially lovely evening since we won two awards! We would like to thank the judges for that honor.

—Deborah Karpiak of PKsurroundings in Exeter

Editor’s note: PKsurroundings in Exeter won an Excellence in Kitchen Design award for its project Elegance for Entertaining and an Honorable Mention award for its project Modern Living in Portsmouth.

You have done an amazing job creating a great night for the New Hampshire design community with the Design Awards. The vibe was so positive and exciting—fantastic!!

I loved hearing Gordon Hayward speak and seeing pictures of his home gardens; that was inspirational and lovely. I particularly loved the reaction when he starting showing his garden slides— you could tell people were holding their breath for a second or two.

—Sue Booth of Vintage Kitchens in Concord

Connected to the family farmstead

In your story Deep Roots in the Granite State (January/February 2018), Barbara Cole’s writing and John W. Hession’s photos were beyond beautiful, and really captured the mood and feeling of our home. It was a thrill to see the cover—that is a view I will never tire of!

Thank you again, for a wonderful experience and a beautiful article.

—Gloria Morison in Peterborough

20 | New Hampshire Home

photography by david smith

I am so honored to have received three awards from such a great publication, which does so much for the state of New Hampshire and the design profession.

And thanks so much for all you did for the AIANH Award Celebration and Annual Meeting at the Currier Museum of Art. It was a wonderful occasion.

Finally, I wanted to let you know how thrilled we are with the story on the Morison home (Deep Roots in the Granite State, January/February 2018). Our clients Mike and Gloria Morison also loved it so much.

I have had so much positive response to the story—many thanks for featuring our work. The best part is how the landscape design [by Shepard Butler Landscape Architecture in Thetford Center, Vermont] was equally featured with the architecture.

photography by john w. hession

Award-winning designs

Colette Joyce designed an Asian-themed master bath in Bedford.

A better bath

Thank you for featuring the Boucher master bath (A Serene Retreat, November/ December 2017). Jenny Donelan’s story is a highlight for me as a designer, so I appreciate your acknowledgement and recognition in such a special way.

Second, we were all so stunned by the news of Cynthia Shreve’s passing, and I am so moved by your mention of her in your November/December 2017 editor’s note.

Cynthia was a special lady I was fortunate to work with. In her last phone message, she congratulated me on the Boucher project story and said she hoped we would get together soon. I miss her deeply, and I know your friendship with her is missed as well.

I told Cynthia’s husband Theron I would remember her by all the laughs we shared.

—Colette Joyce of Goedecke Flooring and Design Center in Bedford

We love hearing your thoughts about the stories we’ve published, and we’re always on the lookout for homes and gardens that might interest our readers. Write to us at Editor; New Hampshire Home; 150 Dow Street; Manchester, NH 03101; or e-mail editor@nhhomemagazine.com. We look forward to hearing from you! march/april 2018

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on the town 2018

DESIGN magazine

AWARDS

Celebrating excellence in residential design

Awards were given in eleven categories at the 2018 New Hampshire Home Design Awards. The fifth annual awards gala took place January 24 at the Manchester Country Club in Bedford. See page 48 for information on all the winners and the honorable mentions.

Among the winners at the event were, front row, from left, Jeremy Bonin of Bonin Architects & Associates, PLLC in New London; Melissa Bean accepting for Tedd LeBlanc of Crown Point Cabinetry in Claremont; Janice Page and Deborah Karpiak of PKsurroundings in Exeter; and Carla Goodknight CJ Architects in Portsmouth. In the back row, from left, are Sheldon Pennoyer of Sheldon Pennoyer Architects in Concord; Craig Wentworth, Stephanie Sanford and Hayden McLaughlin of Belknap Landscape Company Inc. in Gilford; Rob Carty of TMS Architects in Portsmouth; Ward D’Elia of Samyn D’Elia Architects, P.A. in Ashland; and Kevin Beland of Wood & Clay, Inc. in Gilford.

Boston Interiors, which recently opened a store in Bedford, was the presenting sponsor of the event. Representing the company were, from left, Stacey Sullivan; CEO Stefanie Lucas; Amanda Etchells; Laura Monaghan; and Sara Thompson. Fourth from left is Talman Hauch, Seacoast sales manager for New Hampshire Home.

Photography by Wendy Wood

Sheldon Pennoyer of Sheldon Pennoyer Architects in Concord took home three awards. His project Clothespin Farm won for both Excellence in Architectural Design and 2018 Home of the Year. The firm’s Tree House project won for Excellence in Green Design.

Garden designer and author Gordon Hayward (center) was the master of ceremonies and presented a slide show about the garden he and his wife, Mary (left), designed at their home in Vermont. They were greeted by Jamie Trowbridge, CEO and president of Yankee Publishing in Dublin, the parent company of McLean Communications, which publishes New Hampshire Home.

Mary Ann Esposito (left)—­­who writes New Hampshire Home’s Home Cooking column, and is also the host and creator of Ciao Italia— chats with Andi Axman, the magazine’s editor.

22 | New Hampshire Home

In the raffle at the end of the evening, Jennifer LaTouche of Expert Design Solutions in Nashua won the handmade rocking chair donated by Tappan Chair in Center Sandwich.

march/april 2018

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on the town Floral artists

As a special show within the run of their Black and White exhibition, the League of New Hampshire Craftsmen hosted the Concord Garden Club’s 2018 Art and Bloom event in January. One of the extraordinary arrangements paired with works in the show was Concord Garden Club members Kim Arndt (left) and Melissa Smart’s floral interpretation of Andrew Thompson’s photograph Barred Owl. Photography courtesy of Sullivan Creative

Award-winning architecture

Among those attending the thirty-fourth annual AIANH Award Celebration and Annual Meeting at the Currier Museum of Art in Manchester were (left photo), from left, architect Richard Cornell of S/L/A/M Collaborative in Glastonbury, Connecticut, which won an honor award for designing the Center for Art and Design at Colby Sawyer College in New London; Carolyn Isaak, former executive director of AIANH; and Andi Axman, editor of New Hampshire Home, which was one of the event’s sponsors.

Lakeside Cabin in Center Harbor also won an honor award, which was accepted by (right photo), from left, Ben Tulman, Jenny Tjia, Robert Potish and Tom Murdough of Murdough Design in Boston. Photography by John W. Hession

Gardening for good

The Front Door Agency in Nashua was one of the community organizations to receive holiday gifts from the Nashua Garden Club.

Representing the garden club are Terry Robinson (left) and June Chilsom (right), shown with Maryse Wirbal (center), CEO of The Front Door Agency, at the agency’s main office.

Photography courtesy of the Nashua Garden Club

Spotlighting 3D artists

Among those at the opening of the December show Small Kingdoms at Kelley Stelling Contemporary gallery in Manchester were gallery owners Karina Kelley (top photo, left) and Bill Stelling (third from left), along with artists Jamie Johnston (second from left) and Don Williams (right).

New Hampshire Home Editor Andi Axman (left photo, left) and arts advocate Pauline Ikawa of Manchester attended the gallery’s January opening of Things We Have No Words For. Photography by John W. Hession

24 | New Hampshire Home

march/april 2018

favorite finds

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Snuggle with handwoven pillows in weather-friendly fabrics made from recycled plastic bottles.

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Use one side of Ian Johnson’s hardwood cutting board for prep, the other to serve foods. League of Store your clothing or linens in a Catlin Tall Bureau. Each piece is made by hand from quartersawn oak; available in custom sizes.

New Hampshire Craftsmen (multiple locations statewide) • nhcrafts.org

Keep your favorite memories in frames made by fair-trade Global Goods Partners artisans.

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Cold River Furniture in South Acworth • (603) 835-2969 coldriverfurniture.com Make your home healthier for your family and the environment with the tips in Marla Esser Cloos’s Living Green Effortlessly.

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Add sparkle with Tommy Bahama by Lunada Bay Tile, made from recycled glass.

Artistic Tile in Nashua • (603) 886-1920 • theperfecttile.com

26 | New Hampshire Home

march/april 2018

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New Hampshire Home | 27

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Grow your healthiest seedlings, orchids and other indoor houseplants year-round with a full-spectrum LED Sunlite Tabletop Garden. Gardener’s Supply Co. • gardeners.com Create a DIY home with more than one hundred recipes, tips and inspirational ideas from blogger Erica Strauss’s book The Hands-On Home.

Serve in style with glass tumblers made by Canaan-based artists Michael Kraatz and Susan Russell.

League of New Hampshire Craftsmen (multiple locations statewide) • nhcrafts.org

Gibson’s Bookstore in Concord (603) 224-0562 gibsonsbookstore.com

Be kind to your budget with Andersen 100 Series windows, framed with Fibrex composite material for durability, sustainability and energy efficiency.

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28 | New Hampshire Home

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Home cooking with

mary ann esposito

In Love with Chocolate Who doesn’t love chocolate—especially this time of year?

O

ne of my fondest memories of

peppers added as well as annatto seeds

Easters gone by is the image of

that gave it a reddish color. That was a

cooking and baking can be confusing.

my father taking a meat mallet

far cry from the sugar-, cinnamon-

When purchasing chocolate, look for

at the end of Easter dinner and smash-

and vanilla-added treatment that the

the cacao percentage that is listed on

ing a solid, chocolate, two-foot-tall

Spaniards used to modify the drink

the package—that will tell you the

darling Kewpie doll into edible chunks.

Buying the right chocolate for eating,

into what would become more like the

actual amount of the cacao bean

I have always loved chocolate in

hot cocoa we know today. That drink,

components in the chocolate. Those

any form—from cakes to cookies, to

with continued modifications, became

components are:

puddings and candy. So when Easter

fashionable in the courts of Europe by

• Chocolate liquor (cocoa paste);

rolls around, I make no excuses for the

the sixteenth century.

• Cocoa butter, natural fat in the cacao

parade of chocolate desserts and my indulgences, if only for a day (or two).

What is chocolate anyway? It is made from the seeds of the cocoa tree

bean; and • Cacao solids, bits of the cacao bean that are ground to a powder.

With the addition of sugar, lecithin (an emulsifier) and vanilla, we have chocolate. There are many kinds of chocolate, from unsweetened baking chocolate to sweet milk chocolate.

• Bitter chocolate has about 58 percent cocoa butter and no added sugar.

• Semi-sweet chocolate has about 55 percent cocoa butter with added sugar.

• Bittersweet chocolate must have at

photography courtesy of Paul Lally

least 35 percent cocoa butter but can contain more. It has added sugar.

• Milk chocolate must have at least 10 percent cocoa butter, and contains sugar, vanilla, lecithin and at least 12 percent milk solids.

Buying chocolate, like wine or olive oil, is a personal preference in taste, so that only grows in the tropics where

buy the best you can afford. Look for

the “food of the gods,” and it has an

humidity is a big factor for its survival.

chocolate that is smooth and shiny

ancient history. On his fourth trip to

The pods are harvested by hand and

without a grainy-looking texture. Keep

the Americas, Columbus was the first

opened; the seeds removed and dried.

the chocolate in a dark place, not too

European to taste an Aztec native drink

The seeds are then roasted to develop

hot or cold. Never freeze chocolate, as

made from cocoa beans and to learn

their flavor and ground into a liquid

this causes a gray cast, which means that

that cocoa was also used as a type of

called “cocoa liquor.” “Cocoa” is the

the cocoa butter has come to the surface.

currency.

term used to refer to the heated form of

Chocolate has been referred to as

The drink was bitter tasting with chili

cacao in powder form.

Chocolate needs to be treated with respect and enjoyed with abandon.

NHH

Text and food styling by Mary Ann Esposito | Photography by John W. Hession 30 | New Hampshire Home

march/april 2018

Flourless Chocolate Cake

Ser v es 8

This flourless chocolate cake is dense and fudgy, and begs to be topped with a whiff of sweetened whipped cream or ice cream.

6 tablespoons unsalted butter 7 ounces unsweetened chocolate chopped into fine pieces 1 cup sugar 4 eggs, separated Sweetened whipped cream, ice cream or powdered sugar for topping Raspberries, for garnish

1. Grease a 9-inch square baking pan and line it with parchment paper. Grease the parchment paper. Set the pan aside.

2. Melt the butter in a medium-sized saucepan over low heat. Add the chocolate and stir until well blended. Set aside.

3. With a hand mixer or in a stand mixer, beat the sugar and egg yolks until light and fluffy; beat in the chocolate. Set aside.

4. Separately, beat the egg whites in a clean bowl with clean beaters until soft peaks form;

nhhomemagazine.com

fold them into the chocolate and egg mixture.

5. P our the batter into the prepared pan and place in a cold oven. Turn the temperature to 350°F. Bake for about 20 minutes. The cake should rise and then fall, resembling a flat brownie. ool well, then refrigerate. When ready to 6. C serve, cut the cake into wedges, top with sweetened whipped cream or ice cream, or dust with powdered sugar. Top with raspberries.

Recipe from Ciao Italia Family Classics New Hampshire Home | 31

Home cooking

with mary ann esposito

Cherry Chocolate Tiramisu

Ser v es 4

Here is a twist on the classic tiramisu; ladyfingers dipped in cherry liqueur, then layered with cooked cherries, mascarpone cheese and cream.

Make these in individual goblets or wine glasses for a lovely presentation.

1 pound Bing cherries, cut in half and pitted, plus 8 whole cherries for garnish 3/4 cup sugar, divided 1/2 teaspoon salt 4 ounces mascarpone cheese at room temperature 1½ cups heavy cream 2 tablespoons cherry liqueur 24 ladyfingers 1/4 pound good-quality bittersweet chocolate, shaved 32 | New Hampshire Home

1. Place the cherry halves in a medium saucepan, and add ½ cup of the sugar and the salt. Cook over medium-high heat until the mixture begins to thicken; lower the heat and cook uncovered for 5–8 minutes. Transfer the cherry sauce to a bowl and refrigerate.

2. Beat the mascarpone with the remaining sugar until smooth.

3. In a separate bowl, beat the heavy cream until stiff. Fold the cream into the mascarpone and refrigerate for up to 4 hours.

4. Pour the cherry liqueur into a shallow bowl and dip each ladyfinger quickly into the

liqueur; do not let the ladyfingers get mushy by over-dipping them. Scoop some of the mascarpone mixture into each goblet, layer a ladyfinger or two in the goblet, then spoon on some of the cherry sauce. Continue making layers of mascarpone, ladyfingers and cherry sauce. End with mascarpone.

5. Place two cherries in the center of each goblet and sprinkle some shaved chocolate over each goblet. Refrigerate at least several hours or overnight before serving.

Recipe from Ciao Italia Family Classics march/april 2018

Chocolate Spumone Ser v es 12

Chocolate spumoni is a refreshing, semi-frozen dessert that is the perfect sweet ending to a dinner party. Team it with fresh raspberries or strawberries, or make a coulis, a fruit sauce to drizzle on the plate for an artistic presentation.

7 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, coarsely chopped 3 tablespoons water 2 cups whipping cream 6 tablespoons sugar, divided 3 egg yolks 2 ounces good-quality white chocolate, coarsely chopped 1. Line a 10-inch-by-4-inch-by-2½-inch loaf pan with plastic wrap, leaving a 1-inch overhang. Set aside.

2. Place the semi-sweet chocolate in a saucepan. Add the water and melt the chocolate over very low heat, stirring frequently until smooth. Set aside.

3. In a large bowl, whip the cream with 2 tablespoons of sugar with an electric mixer until stiff. Set aside.

4. In another bowl, whip the egg yolks with the remaining sugar until the mixture is thick and lemon colored.

5. Fold the egg mixture into the melted chocolate. Then fold the chocolate mixture into the whipped cream, along with the chopped white chocolate.

6. Spread the mixture evenly into the loaf pan and bring the overhanging plastic wrap over the top to cover the pan. Cover the top tightly with a sheet of aluminum foil, and freeze for at least 2 hours or up to a month. About 30 minutes before serving, remove the foil, unwrap the plastic wrap from the top, and unmold the spumone onto a decorative dish, gently pulling away the plastic wrap.

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7. Use a knife dipped in ice water to make clean slices. For an elegant presentation, cut the slices on the diagonal and stand the spumone on edge to create a vertical look.

Serve as is, or with chocolate sauce or a raspberry coulis.

Recipe courtesy of ciaoitalia.com

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New Hampshire Home | 33

Home cooking

with mary ann esposito

Peppina’s Cake

Ser v es 8

Bits of bittersweet chocolate and crushed amaretti cookies add a wonderful taste and texture as well as a touch of glamour to this simple cake. The recipe comes from my friend Raffaella Neviani, a wonderful baker who lives in Reggio Emilia in Italy.

1 cup all-purpose flour ½ teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon baking powder 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened ½ cup sugar 4 large eggs, separated, at room temperature 2 ounces bittersweet chocolate, coarsely chopped 3/4 cup crushed amaretti cookies Pinch of salt Confectioners’ sugar for dusting 1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Butter a 9-inch cake pan. Line it with parchment paper and butter the paper. Set aside.

2. Sift the flour, salt and baking powder together onto wax paper.

3. In a large bowl, with an electric mixer, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg yolks one at a time. With a rubber spatula, fold in the flour mixture.

Stir in the chocolate and crushed cookies.

4. In another bowl, with clean beaters, beat the egg whites with the salt until soft peaks form. With a rubber spatula, fold the egg whites into the chocolate mixture.

Pour the batter into the prepared pan.

5. Bake for 30 minutes or until a cake tester inserted in the middle comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 2–3 minutes, then invert it onto a cooling rack. Carefully remove the parchment paper; set another rack on top of the cake and turn right side up. Cool the cake completely.

6. Dust the cake with confectioners’ sugar and cut into wedges to serve.

Recipe courtesy of ciaoiltalia.com

A Passion for Chocolate Thankfully for us chocophiles, there are many places to buy delicious and unique chocolates right here in the Granite State: Ava Marie Handmade Chocolates in Peterborough (603) 924-5993 • avamariechocolates.com

L.A. Burdick Handmade Chocolates in Walpole (603) 756-2882 • burdickchocolate.com

Byrne & Carlson in Portsmouth (888) 559-9778 • byrneandcarlson.com

Van Otis Chocolates in Manchester (603) 627-1611 • vanotischocolates.com

Dancing Lion Chocolate in Manchester (603) 625-4043 • dancinglion.us

Vicuña Chocolate in Peterborough (603) 924-2040 • vicunachocolate.com

Enna Chocolate in Epping (207) 358-9681 • ennachocolate.com

Winnipesaukee Chocolates in Wolfeboro winnipesaukeechocolates.com

Granite State Candy Shoppe in Concord (603) 225-2591 • granitestatecandyshoppe.com

— Andi Axman

Richard Tango-Lowy, of Dancing Lion Chocolate in Manchester, handcrafts one-of-a-kind chocolate eggs that are finished in brilliant colors; studded with cacao nibs, candied fruit or gold; and often filled with marshmallow or chocolates. In 2016, Tango-Lowy was recognized

by Dessert Professional Magazine as one of the top-ten chocolatiers in North America.

34 | New Hampshire Home

march/april 2018

Mini Chocolate Coconut Cupcakes M a k es a b o u t 4 0

These mini sampler cupcakes are super-moist and perfect for a crowd.

3 cups unbleached all-purpose flour 2 cups sugar 6 tablespoons baking cocoa 2 teaspoons baking soda 1/2 teaspoon salt 3/4 cup light olive oil 2 tablespoons white vinegar 1 tablespoon vanilla extract 2 cups cold water 2 8-ounce packages cream cheese, at room temperature 3½ cups confectioners’ sugar 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon oil* 1–1½ cups shredded coconut 1. Line several mini-muffin pans with paper liners and set aside. Preheat the oven to 350°F. 2. Mix the flour, sugar, cocoa, baking soda and salt in a large bowl. With a hand mixer on low speed, beat in the olive oil, vinegar, vanilla, and water until smooth. Fill the prepared muffin cups about 2/3 full.

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3. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until a cake skewer inserted in the center of the cupcakes comes out clean. Do not over bake. The cupcakes should be firm to the touch.

4. Place the muffin pans on cooling racks, and cool for 15–20 minutes before removing the cupcakes from the pans to cool completely.

5. To make the frosting, beat the cream cheese in a bowl until smooth. Gradually add enough of the confectioners’ sugar to make a smooth frosting that is not runny. Stir in the cinnamon oil.

6. Frost the cupcakes when cool and sprinkle the coconut over the tops.

Variations: For an artistic effect, use a pastry bag with a star tip and pipe the frosting in long curls on top of the cupcakes. *Available where cake-decorating supplies are sold, like Piece O’Cake in Somersworth [(603) 742-2815, pieceocakepartynh.com].

Recipe courtesy of Mary Ann Esposito

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New Hampshire Home | 35

Master of Her Craft

Painter Lisa Curry Mair’s two-floor studio is in a carriage house next to her remodeled 1790 farmhouse in Perkinsville, Vermont.

Art Rooted in History Lisa Curry Mair’s paintings are influenced

T

hird cousin five times removed. That’s

browns combining with warm, earthy tones.

how closely Lisa Curry Mair is re-

But there are differences, too. She departs a

lated to Rufus Porter, the renowned

bit from Porter’s folk-art style. “I definitely

nineteenth-century artist who traveled New

have a folk-art leaning, but my work tends

England painting murals in homes and

more toward realism. I strive to create mood

taverns. As someone who is deeply inclined

with shading and colors, and a sense of the

traditions, but

toward historic art, Curry Mair treasures the

moment through composition and subject

connection.

matter,” she says.

“Everything about his work speaks to me,”

Another difference: Curry Mair is not an

special touch.

she says. “I love his composition, his sense of

itinerant painter as Porter was. She is hap-

whimsy, how he throws in things you’re not

pily ensconced in her Canvasworks Designs

supposed to notice. I connect with him on a

studio in Perkinsville, Vermont. It occupies

lot of different levels.”

two floors—one for design, one for the execu-

by folk-art

have her own

Curry Mair’s mural work echoes that of

tion—in a carriage house next to her home,

Porter—the same stylized landscapes; the

a 1790 Cape remodeled into a three-story

same classical simplicity; the same grays and

farmhouse in 1830. A bank of windows in

By Barbara Coles | Photography by John W. Hession 36 | New Hampshire Home

march/april 2018

her studio looks out on Mount Ascutney, a pond and a horse pasture where her horse Kate grazes with the others.

“It’s quite lovely,” she says. “I never want to leave here.”

Good thing, because her days are filled with her own paintings as well as work for others, mostly owners of historic homes and museums. Many of her commissions have been for another of her artistic expressions: floorcloths, a decorative canvas floor covering used in many homes before the days of linoleum.

In fact, it was the linoleum in her old house that led to her now-twentyfive-year career of painting floorcloths.

When she and her husband took up the linoleum in their kitchen, it revealed a beautiful reclaimed board floor—and a stain they couldn’t get rid of. To cover the stain, Curry Mair used some canvas

A mural painted by Lisa Curry Mair depicts the village of Lyme, circa 1900 and occupies one wall of Cristin and David Roby’s south parlor (top).

Another mural (above) portrays a foxhunt on their farm. nhhomemagazine.com

New Hampshire Home | 37

Master of Her Craft

The murals of Lisa Curry Mair, shown here on the left with friend and client Evelyn Leach, are painted in her studio on textured canvas and then hung as wallpaper would be. Curry Mairs artistic approach—stylized landscapes, classical simplicity, and a mix of cool and warm tones—is reminiscent of the famous nineteenth-century itinerant

left over from building a kayak to paint a floorcloth. She called on her thenmodest art background and her college math major to create the traditional geometric patterns of long-ago floorcloths. Word got out about her kitchen floorcloth, and soon she was setting up her studio for what would be an avalanche of clients.

Happy clients Six years ago, Cristin and David Roby called. The Lyme residents shared Curry Mair’s love of historic art, old houses and horses. The couple wanted Curry Mair to use her skills to add periodcorrect artistic elements—a mural and floorcloth—to their recently completed home, a meticulous replica of a typical 1790s Connecticut River Valley design.

Before she turned her focus to murals and other paintings, most of Curry Mair’s commissions were for floorcloths, such as this one in the Robys’ formal dining room. Its geometric diamond design and red ground complement the historic Adelphi wallpaper.

The Robys had chosen that design because they felt it was important that the house look like it belonged in the landscape—they worked with Classic

38 | New Hampshire Home

march/april 2018

Colonial Homes in Leverett, Massachusetts, to draw plans for the home; Clow Construction in Etna to build it;

Imagine a kitchen...

and had Architectural Components, Inc. in Montague, Massachusetts, make the exterior doors and windows.

“The town of Lyme is a well-preserved New England village where historic memory is highly valued,” David says.

That village is depicted in the mural

Imagine a kitchen...

Curry Mair painted for three walls in the Robys’ south parlor. “The front wall has two windows,” David says, “so we kept that a simple design with just a single tree in between. The south wall is a view of the village circa 1900, and the back wall depicts a foxhunt through our farm.”

The Robys—members of the North Country Hounds, which has foxhunting territory on both sides of the Connecticut River—are portrayed in the mural astride their horses and surrounded by their hounds. “I’m depicted fancifully riding side-saddle on my Pye,” Cristin says. “David is jumping

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Rumble over the fence, bringing up the rear of the field.” The other riders pictured are foxhunting friends.

Curry Mair worked from photos provided by the Robys as well as historic photos and postcards found in her research. After a pen-and-ink

W

hether you live in an old house with original features, or plan to create something entirely new, the goal is the same: a consistent aesthetic theme and a kitchen that works — beautifully.

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sketch was approved, the mural was

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painted in studio on textured canvas

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and then hung as wallpaper would be

by Gilley Restorations of South Woodstock, Vermont.

“The trees and the natural landscape bring the outside in, which creates a wonderful calming atmosphere,” David says.

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hether you live in an old house with original features, or plan to create something entirely new, the goal is the same: a consistent aesthetic theme and a kitchen that works — beautifully.

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Other Curry Mair works For the north parlor, which the Robys use as a formal dining room, Curry Mair painted a floorcloth that complements the historic Adelphi wallpaper.

“It was important that the floorcloth’s design and colors not clash with the nhhomemagazine.com

New Hampshire Home | 39

Master of Her Craft

walls,” Cristin says. “The paper has an

marketed to a general audience and

intense red ground and is very dimen-

galleries. “Years from now, I want to be

sional, as is the marbleized diamond

like a little old lady, sitting here painting

pattern of the floorcloth.”

whatever I want,” she says.

Another Curry Mair work gracing

No doubt much of what she paints

the Roby home is a portrait of David

will be historic art, doing what she calls

done as a birthday surprise. It re-creates

her “Outlander thing,” traveling back

the scene in Thomas Spencer’s Scipio,

in time through her art. “It means a

circa 1750. “I thought it would be fun

lot to me to go back to a more peaceful

to imitate the composition with David

time,” Curry Mair says. “That’s where

in 1790s dress, suggesting the period

my paintings go. That’s what I’m trying

our house seeks to reproduce,” Cristin

to do.”

NHH

says. Also in the painting, a Rhodesian Ridgeback that was once a beloved family pet.

Future plans It is framed paintings like this that Curry Top: Lisa Curry Mair painted a portrait of David Roby astride his horse in 1790s dress as a surprise birthday gift from his wife, Cristin.

Above: What Curry Mair calls a “vertical mural” is painted continuously on canvas and then cut to fit the stairway risers.

40 | New Hampshire Home

Mair plans to focus on as she moves forward. She says she’ll still do murals (“they’re also paintings, large paintings”) and occasionally a floorcloth, but mostly it will be smaller works of her choosing,

Resources

Architectural Components, Inc. (413) 367-9441 architecturalcomponentsinc.com Canvasworks Designs (802) 263-5410 canvasworksdesigns.com

Classic Colonial Homes (413) 341-3375 cchonline.com Clow Construction (603) 643-4529 clowconstructionnh.com

Gilley Restorations (802) 457-3709

North Country Hounds (802) 765-4274 northcountryhounds.com march/april 2018

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garden rx

Carolyn Taylor of Hooksett shows her granddaughter Leanne just how easy it is to pot up cuttings from her Christmas cactus to pass along to friends.

Priceless Plants Get great

results by rooting

cuttings or divisions of your

houseplants.

T

here may still be snow in your yard, but

miraculous, but growing them from divisions

the lengthening days are a sign to your

and cuttings produces results much faster.

houseplants that it is time to get grow-

Instead of pampering seedlings for months,

ing.

If you are itching to get your fingers in the

cuttings can be rooted and growing on their own in weeks—and healthy divisions are

dirt but find it is still frozen solid, turn to your

ready almost immediately. You can be assured

indoor plants and try your hand at propa-

each plant is identical to its parent—a clone.

gating some of them. It can be as simple as

Not only are these easy ways to save a buck

separating the new babies from an overgrown

by creating your own new plants, you add

plant or sticking some fresh cuttings in a glass

more horticultural skills to your gardening

of water until they root.

expertise. Just be forewarned: once you learn

Propagating plants from seed borders on

how easy and rewarding it can be, you might

By Robin Sweetser | Photography by John W. Hession 42 | New Hampshire Home

march/april 2018

become a “serial propagator” and soon

that I am always propagating and

and then into dirt. It’s so easy, and they

you’ll start looking at every plant as

sharing. Two of my favorites are an

almost always take. These are the plants

a potential source of material to be

angel wing begonia, which is huge,

I give away,” she says.

propagated.

and an aloe vera that I have had for a

Don’t worry though, there is a support group for that—it is called a garden club.

Pass-along plants

long time.

“The begonia is super easy to propa-

Take the water route Susan Ernst, of the Peterborough Gar-

gate,” Taylor says. “I just take cuttings

den Club, learned about all methods

and put them in water until they root

of plant propagation from the Master

and then plant them in new soil. The

Gardener program in Maine (see the

Pass-along plants almost always have a

aloe has ‘babies,’ which I just separate

Resources on page 47 for coordinators

story attached. You may have received

from the mother plant.”

of the University of New Hampshire

it long ago or just yesterday, but that

In 1970, she received a Christmas

Extension Master Gardener program).

plant is usually a treasured reminder

cactus that had been propagated by a

“I have done grafting, layering, seeds,

of a kinship between gardeners.

neighbor. “Since then, I have propa-

cuttings and divisions—everything

Carolyn Taylor, a member of the

gated probably a hundred plants from

except tissue culture,” she says. “But

Hooksett Garden Club, says she has

that forty-seven-year-old mother plant,

I learned the most about propagating

been on both the receiving and the

which I still have. I take pieces from the

houseplants from watching my mother

giving ends. “I have several houseplants

ends and put them in rooting hormone

and my aunt.”

Ernst’s favorite method of propagation is from cuttings. “Coleus, impatiens and begonias all are happy to form roots in a glass of water,” she says.

Her method is to take a sharp knife; cut the stems on the diagonal; gently pinch off any side leaves that would be below the water line, leaving at least three leaves on top; and place the cuttings in an opaque container full of water. “They’ll root in no time,” she says.

Rooting in water is simple, but rotting can be an issue. Sometimes water roots fail to make the transition to growing in soil, so be sure not to let them get too long before potting— less than an inch is best.

Cutting edge Rooting cuttings in potting soil or other sterile medium is also easy, and yields better results for a wider range of plants. Stem or tip cuttings can be taken, as long as the parent plant is healthy and growing. This method works best on any plant with a soft stem, not a hard, woody stem.

Since fresh cuts are the best for rootThis extremely potbound mother-in-law’s tongue (Sansevieria) needed to be cut apart with a knife. The divisions will be potted up and given to the daughters and granddaughters of the original owner, writer Robin Sweetser’s mother-in-law. Messy but satisfying! nhhomemagazine.com

ing, assemble all your supplies before you start cutting. For a rooting medium, you can use any of the followNew Hampshire Home | 43

garden rx

All that’s needed for cuttings are household scissors or sharp garden clippers, a razor blade, a serrated knife, rubbing alcohol to clean the blades, a piece of glass for a cutting surface and a zip-top bag for a greenhouse. Rooting hormone is optional.

ing alone or combine them to make a fast-draining mix: sterile potting soil, perlite, coarse sand or vermiculite. You need clean plastic pots or boxes, a sharp knife or razor blade, and alcohol to sterilize your blade between cuts. You can use powdered rooting hormone if you want, but many organic gardeners avoid using these products because they contain chemical fungicides. It will just take a little longer for roots to form without it.

Fill your containers with rooting medium, water well and let drain.

Look for vigorous new side shoots or tip growth, and slice off a piece that is between 3 and 4 inches long. Remove the lower leaves and any flowers or buds; moisten the stem in water; and dip the cut end into a little pile of rooting hormone (not directly into the jar because you could contaminate the Experts recommend cutting leaves on a piece of glass. It won’t harbor germs and is easy to wipe clean with alcohol between plants. Begonias are very willing to root and form new plants from just a wedge-shaped piece of leaf.

44 | New Hampshire Home

whole container).

Make a hole in the soil with a pencil, march/april 2018

Happily ever after starts here.

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SAMYN•D‘ELIA

A R C H I T E C T S , P. A .

BEFORE FEATURED ON

SINCE 1980, designing award-winning custom homes like this renovated family farmhouse. Additional project photos at sdarchitects.com/homes Main Street, Ashland, NH . (603) 968-7133 . sdarchitects.com nhhomemagazine.com

New Hampshire Home | 45

garden rx

stick in your cutting, firm the soil around it, gently water it in and mist the top.

Transitional housing To maintain moisture while the cuttings are forming roots, most cuttings (with the exception of succulents and cacti) need higher humidity than what’s available in the average home.

There are several easy ways to achieve this. You can place the box or pot of cuttings in a large zip-top bag; or you can make a mini-greenhouse from a clear 2-liter bottle. Simply cut off the base and slide the top over a round pot of cut-

Use recycled plastic containers for your fledgling nursery. Blue mushroom boxes hold African violet and begonia cuttings nestled in vermiculite. A clear clamshell with snap-on lid maintains humidity; for a small pot of cuttings, use a two-liter soda bottle as a cloche. Remove the cap to vent excess moisture.

pulled out, roots have begun to form.

Soon you’ll be able to move your new

Multiply by division Many plants form rosettes, runners,

plants into their own pots filled with

offshoots and suckers that are easily

fresh potting soil. A few weeks after

separated from the mother plant and

large, plastic clamshell container that

moving these new plants to their own

potted up on their own. Multi-stemmed

salad greens come in at the grocery

pots, you can fertilize them and move

plants—such as sansevieria, ferns,

store to make a propagation box. Put

them to their new indoor locations.

clivia, peace lily, prayer plant and many

tings. Remove the cap for ventilation.

If you have a lot of cuttings, use a

your pots of cuttings inside and snap the lid on.

Slice and dice

foliage plants—are great for dividing.

Simply remove them from their pots

Some plants, such as African violets and

and pull them apart by hand. If the

a warm spot out of direct sun—a place

begonias, are so willing to reproduce

plants put up a fight, slice them into

where it is between 65 degrees and

that you can make many new ones

sections with a sharp knife. Don’t try to

75 degrees is optimum. Bottom heat

from just one leaf or a section of a leaf.

divide vines, houseplants with woody

helps cuttings root faster but is not

Streptocarpus leaves can be crosscut

stems or ones with single stems; a plant

into 2-inch sections and the stem end

needs to have multiple growing points

of each section stuck into rooting me-

to be split successfully. Make sure

check for mold or wilted cuttings, and

dium. (Take care to note the direction

each section has some roots and good

to add fresh air. This helps to prevent

they grew in—from tip to stem—be-

top growth. Pot the divisions in fresh

mildew from forming in the humid

cause cuttings will not grow upside

soil and water immediately. They will

atmosphere.

down.) Or you can cut away the midrib

hardly skip a beat and soon will be as

and place each half-leaf cut-side down

big as the original plant.

Place your homemade plant ICU in

necessary.

Open the container every few days to

After a week or two, if the plants look lively, take off the covering and move

on the medium. One leaf can produce

them into indirect light. If they wilt,

hundreds of new plants.

mist them and put the covering back on for a few more days.

Check for rooting by giving them a

Jean Greff, of the Monadnock Herbal Society, has a greenhouse full of plants,

Rex begonia leaves can be cut into

many of which she has propagated, but

wedges with each tip containing a bit

she is known for her orchid collection.

of the stem. Stick the stem end into a

“My greenhouse can get down to

gentle tug, being careful not to break

rooting medium, and in no time at all,

45 degrees at night in the winter,” she

the new roots. If they resist being

you will have baby begonias.

says, “so I need plants that like it on

Don’t Be a Plant Pirate One word of caution, just make sure that the plants you are propagating from are not patent protected. Many plants are, so check their tags first. They will plainly state that propagation is prohibited.

Even if you don’t plan to sell the new plants, it is still illegal to propagate them without permission from the patent holder. You don’t want the “plant police” knocking on your door!

46 | New Hampshire Home

the cool side.”

Greff has found cymbidiums and oncidiums perform the best for her, and she keeps them happy and growing by dividing them when they become potbound. They are not as easy to separate as Taylor’s baby aloe plants, so Greff uses an electric carving knife. “It has march/april 2018

Grand Traverse by Lloyd Flanders.

never seen a turkey,” she laughs.

After knocking the plants from their pots—quite a chore in itself since the cymbidiums are quite large—Greff is able to cleanly slice the groups of pseudobulbs apart into smaller sections, which she replants and shares with friends.

“The carving knife makes it so easy and it does very little damage to the plant,” she says.

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For a prettier mini-greenhouse, check out yard sales and secondhand shops for a cast-off terrarium, glass cloche or Wardian case like this one from Goodwill. It retains moisture while these Streptocarpus cuttings take root.

GIVE YOUR HOME NEW STYLE WITH BEAUTIFUL TILE Ceramic Marble Glass

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Join a garden club When it comes to propagating houseplants, you don’t need a degree in botany or a lot of fancy equipment to be successful, but membership in

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your local garden club is recommended. You can be introduced to a whole new world of like-minded people who are more than willing to trade cuttings with you and support your new adventures in horticulture.

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Our May/June issue features...

NHH

Resources

Hooksett Garden Club hooksettnhgardenclub.org Monadnock Herbal Society monadnockherbalsociety.com

New Hampshire Federation of Garden Clubs nhfgc.org Peterborough Garden Club peterboroughgardenclub.org

UNH Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Program Marcy.Stanton@unh.edu or Amanda.Gourgue@unh.edu nhhomemagazine.com

Gardens

Gorgeous

Gardens available at NewsstaNds across tHe state.

to subscribe: go to NHHomemagaziNe.com or call (877) 494-2036 New Hampshire Home | 47

The Winners’

Circle New Hampshire Home celebrated outstanding

residential projects from across the state at its fifth annual awards gala in January.

What a great group of submissions we received for the magazine’s fifth annual design competition—this event has really taken off, and it’s been such a pleasure to see what our talented design community has been doing!

The caliber of their work is top-notch, and I’m glad I don’t have to make the decisions about who wins what award. That is the job of our jury of three out-of-state professionals—this year a wonderful group from Vermont. To cover the various facets of residential design, we look for an architect, an interior designer and a landscape architect. See the sidebar to the right to learn more about this year’s judges.

To ensure that the judges’ decisions are objective, we send them “blind” submissions; that is, we remove all information regarding who had submitted the project and where it is located.

Our goal is for the judges’ decisions to be as unbiased as possible, which is why we choose jurors from out of state.

The awards were announced at the January 24 gala at the Manchester Country Club in Bedford, where garden designer and author Gordon Hayward served as master of ceremonies. For those of you who couldn’t make it to the event, read on to find out who won what.

—Andi Axman

Among the winners at the event were front row, from left, Jeremy Bonin of Bonin Architects & Associates, PLLC in New London; Melissa Bean accepting for Tedd LeBlanc of Crown Point Cabinetry in Claremont; Janice Page and Deborah Karpiak of PKsurroundings in Exeter; and Carla Goodknight CJ Architects in Portsmouth. In the back row, from left, are Sheldon Pennoyer of Sheldon Pennoyer Architects in Concord; Craig Wentworth, Stephanie Sanford and Hayden McLaughlin of Belknap Landscape Company Inc. in Gilford; Rob Carty of TMS Architects in Portsmouth; Ward D’Elia of Samyn D’Elia Architects, P.A. in Ashland; and Kevin Beland of Wood & Clay, Inc. in Gilford.

Architect John McLeod of McLeod Kredell Architects in Middlebury, Vermont

John McLeod is the founding partner of McLeod Kredell Architects and an assistant professor of architecture at Middlebury College, both in Middlebury, Vermont. The firm’s private commissions and pro-bono projects have been recognized with numerous design awards, and have been featured in various online and print publications. In addition to its residential, commercial and institutional work, McLeod Kredell Architects operates a pro-bono design-build program called Island Design Assembly, working with groups of students to deliver short-term projects for island communities off the coast of Maine.

Interior Designer Kim Deetjen of TruexCullins in Burlington, Vermont

Kim Deetjen is a principal at TruexCullins and leads the awardwinning firm’s interior design studio. She has nearly thirty years of expertise in commercial and residential interior design, and has worked on projects involving workplaces and schools; her focus and passion, though, are in hospitality and residential design. Deetjen plays an integral role in the firm’s leadership, and fosters effective collaboration between the architecture and interiors studios.

Landscape Architect H. Keith Wagner of Wagner Hodgson Landscape Architecture in Burlington, Vermont

H. Keith Wagner is founding partner of Wagner Hodgson Landscape Architecture, a practice established in 1987. Since that time, the national award-winning firm has grown into a diverse office with a reputation for establishing a strong, sculptural dialogue between buildings and landscape. The firm has received numerous commendations and awards for institutional, corporate, public and residential landscape design from the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA), the Vermont Chapter of ASLA and the American Institute of Architects. In 2009, Wagner was made a fellow of the National Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects.

2018

DESIGN magazine

AWARDS

48 | New Hampshire Home

To see additional images of this year’s winning projects, visit NHHomeMagazine.com.

march/april 2018

A w a r d s p o n s o r e d b y L i b e r t y H i ll C o n s t r u c t i o n

2 018 H O M E O F T H E YEAR Winner: Clothespin Farm

Sheldon Pennoyer and Jasmine Pinto of Sheldon Pennoyer Architects in Concord (603) 856-8994 • spennoyerarchitects.com

Photography courtesy of John W. Hession

This home’s design embraces the integration of old and new. The original 1815 Cape was renovated, and now houses the master bedroom suite and the formal dining on the ground floor, as well as two bedrooms on the second floor. A second Cape was replaced with a new building and a narrow glazed connector links it to the older building.

The addition combines the simple farmhouse aesthetic and sensibility with modern interpretations, such as flush overlay cabinet faces built from the original wide-planked flooring; wood and steel stair rail; and a simply expressed brick fireplace. The one-story connector provides flow and continuity between the spaces, while shaping the outdoor living and gardening spaces. The clean modern lines of the interior spaces bring the outdoors in and focus to the distant views of Mount Monadnock.

Judges said: We like the good balance of old and new—the design is respectful of the architectural history of the original house while adapting it for current use. The interior design—which contributed to our selecting this project as 2018 Home of the Year—is clean and warm, with strategic and effective use of color.

The placement of furnishings and art is intentional and edited. We also like how color and materials were used on the exterior to articulate formal composition, along with the seamless integration of exterior and interior.

Editor’s note: The interior designer for this project was Phoebe Lovejoy of Lovejoy Interiors in Allston, Massachusetts [(617) 987-0097; lovejoyinteriors.com].

nhhomemagazine.com

New Hampshire Home | 49

excellence in Architectural Design Winner: Clothespin Farm

Sheldon Pennoyer and Jasmine Pinto of Sheldon Pennoyer Architects in Concord (603) 856-8994 • spennoyerarchitects.com

Photography courtesy of John W. Hession

See this project’s description and judges’ notes on the previous page.

honorable mention : Pinecliff

Jeremy Bonin of Bonin Architects & Associates, PLLC in New London (603) 526-6200 • boninarchitects.com

Photography courtesy of John W. Hession

The clients wanted a home that was all about the family gathering at the lake. The main floor kitchen, dining and living rooms open directly to the lake vista thanks to a folding-glass NanaWall, while the lower-level recreation room and bar allow direct access to the lake level. Balconies on the second-floor master suite and the third-floor bunkroom also provide lake views.

Judges said: This home opens up nicely to the exterior—literally with retractable glass doors, as well as spatially and visually. The interior and exterior flow together, and the entry is sweet.

honorable mention : Sunapee Views Jeremy Bonin of Bonin Architects & Associates, PLLC in New London (603) 526-6200 • boninarchitects.com

Photography courtesy of john W. Hession

With the intent of filling the home with upward of twenty family and friends during weekends and holidays, designing for comfort and functionality were critical. Five bedrooms, a bunkroom, open casual living spaces, a recreation room and a reading loft provide opportunities for gathering and quiet relaxation.

Judges said: Exterior materials and colors establish a sensitive relationship with the surrounding woods and lake, while allowing for a welcoming and surprisingly clean and bright interior. Good indoor/outdoor spaces bring together the interior and the exterior. We like the controlled palette of colors and materials, and the nice use of stone both inside and out.

50 | New Hampshire Home

march/april 2018

Awa r d s po n s o r e d by F ra n k W e b b H om e

excellence in bath Design Winner: Wells Project

Tedd LeBlanc of Crown Point Cabinetry in Claremont (603) 504-6898 • crown-point.com

Photography courtesy of Crown Point Cabinetry

This project involved two bathrooms, both designed to have an early American feel. The master bath has a floating painted maple vanity; extended stiles on the left and right; and interior custom rollouts. Details in the powder room include a floating painted maple vanity with finished ends.

Judges said: These bathrooms are tasteful without trying too hard, and incorporate a pleasing combination of materials and colors. The millwork and wall materials provide a nice pattern and texture, while clean fixtures and accessories add sparkle. This is good, timeless design.

excellence in GREEN DESIGN Winner: Tree House

Sheldon Pennoyer and Renee Fair of Sheldon Pennoyer Architects in Concord (603) 856-8994 • spennoyerarchitects.com

nhhomemagazine.com

Photography courtesy of John W. Hession

The clients had always envisioned a series of tree house– inspired living spaces to accommodate their growing family of grandchildren. The main house contains the communal living spaces and ground-level master suite, with additional bedrooms and a den at the lower level.

The garage houses a separate family pod and storage for kayaks.

Energy efficiency and building resilience were key to the design. The exterior twelve-inch double wall achieves an R-42 rating; the roof truss system achieves an R-84; lower roofs achieve an R-50 and the slabs an R-20. Tripleglazed windows and doors were designed into the envelope. A single-well, ground-source heat pump, closed-loop system heats and cools the house. The Energy Star Rating achieved is a Five Star Plus at 40.

Judges said: We like the double-wall construction and super-insulated envelope.

New Hampshire Home | 51

Awa r d s po n s o r e d by B e l l e te te s

Photography courtesy of David J. Murray

excellence in HISTORIC RENOVATION

Winner: Piscataqua Landing Apartments

Carla Goodknight of CJ Architects in Portsmouth • (603) 431-2808 • cjarchitects.net

Additions to the historic 1916 Army & Navy Building in Portsmouth were removed to create a paved plaza surrounding the building. The exterior brick was restored and keystones were fabricated from discarded granite discovered on site during excavation. Original windows were carefully restored where possible. Custom iron fencing—modeled after existing historic details—frames new sidewalk planters.

Interior space was converted to six residential apartments, served by the restored original grand staircase and railings. Modern mechanical systems were installed, and the building envelope insulated for energy efficiency. Two new buildings in a complementary style frame a common courtyard, and underground parking was built on site.

Judges said: We like the sensitive restoration of the historic fabric and architectural elements, as well as the building’s entry hall and stairs. This project shows good use of space within existing structure/form, including the loft. The interior design respects historic architectural integrity while being new.

excellence in INTERIOR DESIGN Winner: Little Green

Kurt Clason of K.A. Clason Fine Woodworking in Ossipee • (603) 630-3207 • kaclason.com

52 | New Hampshire Home

Photography courtesy of Mary Beth Clason

A 1900 fishing cabin on Lake Winnipesaukee was renovated to nearly triple its original square footage. The homeowners’ and the architect’s goal was to make the new, energy-efficient home feel as much like the original cabin as possible.

Every room features exposed studs and beams.

Cabinets were custom made; antique sinks were placed in the bedrooms, bathrooms and kitchen.

The homeowner provided the antique furnishings and fixtures.

Judges said: This is a quintessential New England camp interior. The look is warm, and the kitchen is well done. The project has a timeless quality to it— the furnishings are appropriate and create a cozy atmosphere.

Editor’s note: The architect for this project was Matthew Daughdrill of Christopher P. Williams Architects, PLLC in Meredith [(603) 279-6513 cpwarchitects.com]. march/april 2018

excellence in Kitchen Design Winner: Wells Project

Tedd LeBlanc of Crown Point Cabinetry in Claremont (603) 504-6898 • crown-point.com

Photography courtesy of crown point cabinetry

The custom kitchen was designed to have an early American feel while incorporating the needs of a functional kitchen space. The aesthetically pleasing details include open shelving, glass doors, finished ends, custom finished interiors, drop and extended stiles, flush sub-bases, and a solid wood top. The interior cabinet components include cutlery dividers, double baskets, stainless-steel double baskets, tray dividers and a file drawer. The kitchen also features an expansive island for the homeowners’ storage and entertaining needs.

Judges said: This kitchen is comfortable and cozy, with good spatial proportions. We like the logical use of materials for ceiling, floor, cabinetry and countertops. The pleasing collection of earthenware adds to the warmth of the space, and the whole design holds together.

Winner: Elegance for Entertaining Janice Page of PKsurroundings in Exeter (603) 817-6347 • pksurroundings.com

Photography courtesy of Rob Karosis

This new kitchen has become a favorite gathering place for entertaining, and opens to a dining area and sitting room. The space is flooded with natural light, and provides views of the pool and gardens from the sink. A large walk-in pantry and baking area are out-of-sight but convenient. The bar area to the left of the main kitchen has a wine refrigerator, ice maker and dishwasher drawer.

There are plenty of deep drawers for pans, plates and bowls. Cabinetry on the backside of the peninsula stores games and toys. Details—such as glass hardware, nickel light fixtures and designer bar stools—complete the glamorous feel in the kitchen.

Judges said: This kitchen has a consistent, pleasing palette. The tasteful furnishings show an elegant restraint.

honorable mention : Modern Living in Portsmouth Janice Page of PKsurroundings in Exeter (603) 817-6347 • pksurroundings.com

Photography courtesy of Mike Barron

This contemporary kitchen has lots of natural light as well as a lofty view of downtown Portsmouth. The sleek, highgloss white cabinetry was paired with white oak cabinetry stained a soft gray. The horizontal grain of the oak adds warmth as well as texture that contrast with the many smooth surfaces. There is an abundance of countertop workspace in this kitchen, and storage is also plentiful.

Judges said: This kitchen’s design shows simple, clean elegance—a good example of “less is more.”

nhhomemagazine.com

New Hampshire Home | 53

A w a r d s p o n s o r e d b y S e a s o na l S p e c i a l t y S t o r e s

excellence in OUTDOOR DESIGN Winner: Newfound Lake Retreat

Stephanie Sanford and Craig Wentworth of Belknap Landscape Company Inc. in Gilford (603) 528-2798 • belknaplandscape.com Photography courtesy of Craig Wentworth

The hillside that overlooks Newfound Lake provided the inspiration to develop multi-level seating with views of the lake for this home. Granite pieces for the patio were hand shaped, while the landscape masonry is a tasteful blend of aged fieldstone. The masonry fire pit with stone slab benches provides a destination from the large, upper deck. The completed landscaping lets the homeowners easily transition down to the lake.

Judges said: We liked seeing the plan and also liked the use of stone slabs for the terrace.

A w a r d s p o n s o r e d b y 3 w D e s i g n , In c .

excellence in REMODELING/RENOVATION Winner: Downtown Revival

The client was able to look beyond the disrepair of a 1910 Greek Revival home to appreciate the property’s well-established neighborhood and proximity to downtown Portsmouth. A new screen porch, mudroom and a half bathroom were added to the first floor; a new master bedroom suite was designed for the second floor. A large dormer was added to the third floor for a home office and den. The homeowner’s love of cooking and entertaining meant every inch of the kitchen was carefully designed to enhance the family’s culinary needs.

Judges said: We like the tasteful adaptation and enhancement of the existing house as well as the doors and windows. The house’s scale and proportion are nice, and the color and materials palettes work well. Furnishings complement the spaces, and the exterior and interior are seamless in design.

Editor’s note: The interior designer for this project was Frances Hodges of Frances G. Hodges Interiors in Dover [(603) 986-2245; francesghodgesinteriors.com]; the landscape is by Terrence Parker of Terra Firma Landscape Archietcture in Portsmouth [(603) 430-8388 terrafirmalandarch.com]. This home was featured in New Hampshire Home, Downsizing in Style (January/February 2018).

honorable mention : Squam Family Farmhouse Ward D’Elia and Amelia Martin Brock of Samyn-D’Elia Architects, P.A. in Ashland • (603) 968-7133 • sdarchitects.com

Photography courtesy of Joseph St. Pierre

A portion of a beloved family farmhouse was replaced with a new, energy-efficient addition of similar scale, with exterior details matching those of the original building. The main level features an open-concept kitchen and dining area with a wall clad in reclaimed barn board. Wide glass doors span the distance from the dining room to the enlarged screen porch. An open, U-shaped oak stair with a skylight and dormer brings light into the main level.

Shelving was built from boards salvaged during demolition.

Judges said: We like the good, restrained use of color with appropriate accents; the nice open plan; and the good visual connection with the outdoors.

54 | New Hampshire Home

march/april 2018

Photography courtesy of Rob Karosis

William Soupcoff of TMS Architects in Portsmouth (603) 436-4274 • tms-architects.com

excellence in small home design Winner: Winnipesaukee Bunk House Wood & Clay, Inc. in Gilford (603) 524-3128 • woodandclay.com

Photography courtesy of John W. Hession

To comfortably accommodate ten people, this nine-hundred-square-foot guest cottage includes a full kitchen, a great room with gas fireplace, a master bedroom, a bunkroom, a screened porch and a three-quarter bath. Highlights include reclaimed white oak for the kitchen cabinets and paneling above the fireplace; reclaimed barn board on the ceiling; and reclaimed antique heart pine for the bunkbeds. Curved fir trusses were built on site. The surround of the gas fireplace is made from aged New Hampshire granite.

Judges said: This design does a nice job of working within the constraints of the site and footprint.

We like the palette of materials and colors, and the exterior and interior hold together nicely. The exterior is simple and well done, and tasteful furnishings complete the interior.

Editor’s note: The architect for this project was Battle Associates Architects in Concord, Massachusetts [(978) 369-1805; battlearchitects.com].

excellence in SPECIALTY ROOM DESIGN

Winner: Quiet Cove Boathouse

Photography courtesy of John W. Hession

Jeremy Bonin of Bonin Architects & Associates, PLLC in New London (603) 526-6200 • boninarchitects.com

This new boathouse sits atop the cribs of the former boathouse on a small peninsula that provides 270-degree views of the lake. The new boathouse has large windows and doors on all sides, which provide natural light all day.

LED lighting was installed for evening use.

The timber frame adds visual interest to the interior while offering space to store lake and boating accessories.

Judges said: We like the clean, honest and unadorned interior. The quality of light on the inside is nice. nhhomemagazine.com

New Hampshire Home | 55

Passionate About History and 56 | New Hampshire Home

Energy Efficiency

march/april 2018

The main house on the fifty-one-acre Cyrus Colby Farm was built in 1826 and is the first home in Bow approved for historic designation by the town.

The post-and-beam dairy barn across the road was built in 1878. The solarpowered barn serves as Mike Sampo’s workshop and as an indoor gym complete with basketball hoop and climbing wall for the Sampo children.

When they bought a spectacular property in Bow that includes an early nineteenth-century house, a barn and a blacksmith shop, Mike and Nancy Sampo were determined to make sustainability key in their preservation efforts.

By Debbie Kane | Photography by John W. Hession nhhomemagazine.com

New Hampshire Home | 57

I

In the late 1980s, Mike and Nancy Sampo were interested in mov-

“We didn’t want to build a new house,” Mike says. “We

ing to Bow. They were fascinated by the expansive farm their Realtor

wanted to make the house as energy efficient as possible while

showed them: the Cyrus Colby Farm, on Great Hill.

preserving its historic structure.”

The fifty-one-acre property includes a large post-and-beam

dairy barn, built in 1878; a former blacksmith shop; and the

Utilizing solar power

main house, the first home in Bow approved for historic des-

Mike, a carpenter, restored the barn and blacksmith shop first.

ignation by the town. Built in 1826, the home had been in the

The original wood-shingled roofs of both structures had been

Colby family for generations. Even the views are compelling:

covered by the previous owner with galvanized steel plates,

on a clear day, looking north and east, Mount Washington

salvaged from old railroad refrigerator cars. “Those steel pan-

and the White Mountains are visible in the distance.

els probably saved those structures from complete destruction

The farm was being sold in increments by its owner. The

during New England’s massive 1938 hurricane,” Mike says.

Sampos purchased the barn as well as a ranch-style home ad-

The galvanized steel has since been replaced on both build-

jacent to the property in 1989. It was the beginning of a close,

ings with durable, standing seam, metal roofs. Both buildings

thirteen-year relationship between the families, culminating

are now powered by a solar array, installed on the roof of the

in the Sampos’ purchase of the main house and remaining

barn by Kim Frase, of Frase Electric, LLC in Tamworth. The

property. In the process, the Sampos became committed to

barn is perfectly located to take advantage of the sun’s power.

preserving its history while updating the main house to make

“The sun just beats on the building all day long,” Mike says.

it comfortable for themselves and their two children.

“Putting solar panels there was a no-brainer.”

58 | New Hampshire Home

march/april 2018

The Sampos’ warm, friendly kitchen (left), designed by Sue Booth of Vintage Kitchens in Concord, is the home’s activity hub, with plenty of counter space for homeowner Nancy Sampo and daughter Amanda to cook (top, right). The kitchen design was driven by the magnificent restored range (with a modern gas cooktop, insulated ovens and custombuilt hood) and beautiful soapstone sink set in a tiger maple base (bottom right).

The track lighting is from Tech Lighting.

Also a no-brainer is the benefit of using solar energy. The Sampos participate in a group net-metering program. When the barn’s solar panels generate more electricity than the family needs, the extra power is returned to the regional power grid. The Sampos receive a rebate from their utility company, Unitil, for the excess power.

Renovation challenges As Mike worked on barn renovations, he continued to research energy-efficient options for the main house. This work included speaking with the New Hampshire Preservation Alliance about taking care of a historic home (“They were extremely helpful,” he says). By 2012, the Sampos were ready to tackle renovation of the main house; their building and design team included Scott Dias, of Scott Dias Custom Building, Inc., in Henniker; retired architect Rob Reno, of Henniker; and Sue Booth, of Vintage Kitchens in Concord.

There were several renovation challenges. First, the home nhhomemagazine.com

New Hampshire Home | 59

The solution: working from the outside in.

“We removed the exterior shell of the house to access the interior walls for rewiring, updating the plumbing and adding rigid-foam insulation,” Dias says. “Then we put it back together.”

Working with Mike, who was on-site every day alongside Dias’s crew, they installed radiant heating under the first floor by accessing it from the basement, preserving the floorboards above, and eliminating the need for radiators or visible heating elements in the house.

Hot water for the heating system is provided Top: Formerly the winter kitchen, the comfortable sitting room features one of the home’s seven fireplaces.

had no running water or central heat until the

by a Central Boiler wood gasification boiler, which

early 1990s, so electrical wiring and plumbing

was installed by HR Clough of Hopkinton and is

needed to be updated. Second, the kitchen was

located several hundred feet behind the back of

Above: A brick root cellar is among the original details the Sampos retained in the home. Mike Sampo repointed some of the exposed bricks both here in the basement and above the roof line.

small and not functional for a family of four.

the house. The boiler powers the system from

Third and, most important, was incorporating

mid-November through April, backed up by a

energy-efficient conveniences—such as additional

Viessmann propane boiler in warmer months.

Facing page: The front sitting room is furnished with many pieces that belonged to the Colby family, who built the home in 1826.

60 | New Hampshire Home

insulation, radiant heating and air condition-

A heating, ventilation and air conditioning

ing—without compromising historic details, such

system by Unico System creates a comfortable

as the original plaster walls and moldings, post-

environment inside the house year-round. The

and-beam construction, and wide-plank antique

system’s small, flexible tubing slides through wall

heart pine floors.

structures and around obstructions, making it a

The Sampos also wanted a full bathroom and

good choice in a historic home with tight spaces.

laundry room on the first floor. “Putting in the

The Sampos also added eight inches of blown-

mechanical systems the Sampos wanted without

in insulation between the attic and second floor

compromising the original walls and floors was

to increase the home’s overall heating and cooling

challenging,” Dias says.

efficiency. march/april 2018

Restoring the interior Guided by their research, the Sampos restored the home’s interior. They expanded the seven-room home’s original footprint by adding a three-car garage, side entry and powder room; extending the kitchen; and building a ten-foot-by-elevenfoot addition that includes a full bath and laundry room on the first floor and two full bathrooms on the second floor.

Color choices were made based on the Historic New England color palette by California Paints.

The family also repurposed some of the home’s original furnishings, many of which had languished in the barn for years.

The large, sunny kitchen—connected to the garage and side entry—was originally the home’s summer kitchen. At the beginning of the project, Nancy and Booth stood together in the dirt, brainstorming where to place appliances. “There weren’t many places to put the refrigerator and freezer,” Booth says. They decided to place them underneath a staircase connecting the kitchen to the upstairs master bedroom. “It’s perfect.

They’re tucked away but very convenient,” Booth

All About Old Houses and Barns Have fun and learn from the experts at the New Hampshire Preservation Alliance’s Old House and Barn Expo, an every-other-year event that helps old-house and -barn owners and enthusiasts find appropriate and affordable solutions. Create your own show “itinerary” and explore preservation strategies, architecture, craft and history through hourly lectures, visits with high-quality exhibitors, demonstrations and “Old House and Barn Doctor” sessions. The event includes: • More than one hundred exhibitors and lectures by top-notch presenters on varied topics, including energy savings; window repair; historic wallpaper and paint colors; barn repair; moisture management; plaster repair; energy efficiency; and researching the history of your house.

• Demonstrations, sponsored by the New Hampshire State Council on the Arts, including timber framing and stone-wall building.

• A scavenger hunt for children (and adults) as well as opportunities to observe and try building crafts.

The New Hampshire Preservation Alliance is dedicated to the preservation of historic buildings, communities and landscapes through leadership, education and advocacy.

The event is scheduled from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on March 24–25 at the Radisson/Center of New Hampshire in Manchester. Admission is $10; $7 for seniors and students; and children age twelve and younger are admitted free of charge.

For more information, call (603) 224-2281 or visit nhpreservation.org.

—Carrie Sherman

says.

A focal point of the kitchen is the massive, refurbished antique stove, restored by Erickson’s Antique Stoves, in Littleton, Massachusetts, with nhhomemagazine.com

New Hampshire Home | 61

The home’s expansion added two, new upstairs bathrooms, including the full bathroom off Amanda’s room (top) and one in the laundry room on the first floor (above), both with radiant heating. The laundry area is designed with future first-floor living in mind; it can easily become a new master bath if the Sampos ever move their master bedroom downstairs. The laundry room also has a door to the outside.

Right: The upstairs landing, looking in to the master bedroom, showcases an antique dress form and spinning wheel.

62 | New Hampshire Home

march/april 2018

a gas cooktop and two electric ovens. Nearby is the antique soapstone sink, also from Erickson’s, set in a tiger maple cabinet that matches the island countertop. A microwave is set in to the island, and a larger oven is hidden in a hutch-style cupboard along one wall. The radiant-heated floors are covered in a porcelain tile that looks like slate.

“I like the way the kitchen blends seamlessly with the original farm house,” Booth says. “Nancy and Mike embraced everything about that house.

Nothing was a problem. There were just opportunities for creative solutions.”

Booth and the Sampos also collaborated closely on the home’s new bathrooms, adding modern conveniences that blend with the home’s older aesthetics. Nancy found antique fixtures to use in the first-floor powder room. Also on the first floor, a full bath and laundry room—adjacent to a room currently used as a sitting room—can easily become a master bath if the Sampos decide to make the first-floor their primary living space. A setback cupboard provides storage but also hides the bathroom plumbing.

Upstairs, Booth designed two full baths adjacent to the Sampo children’s bedrooms as well as a new master bathroom. The master suite was opened up by removing an old closet and providing access to the existing, upstairs hallway, master bathroom and a staircase downstairs to the kitchen.

Another area where the Sampos wouldn’t sacrifice historical accuracy: windows. All the windows in the house were replaced: twelve-over-twelve windows on the first floor, twelve-over-eight windows on the second. “To stay historically accurate, we didn’t go with high-E glass windows,” Mike says.

The original wood window sashes were reproduced, glazed with new antique glass and installed by Dave Bowers, of Olde Window Restorers in Weare. Mike installed combination storm windows and screens over the new windows for energy efficiency.

Like many owners of historic houses, the Sampos are still tweaking and updating their home. Their passion to preserve Cyrus Colby Farm is appreciated by their renovation team. “It’s really fun to be part of a project where the owners are stewards of the house,” Booth says. “It’s fabulous that Nancy and Mike have the inclination

Resources

California Paints californiapaints.com Central Boiler centralboiler.com

Erickson’s Antique Stoves (978) 857-8014 ericksonsantiquestoves.com

Frase Electric, LLC (603) 284-6618 • fraseelectric.com HR Clough (800) 730-2426 • hrclough.com

New Hampshire Preservation Alliance (603) 224-2281 nhpreservation.org Olde Window Restorers (603) 529-0261 oldewindowrestorer.com

Scott Dias Custom Building, Inc. (603) 428-7585 sdiasbuilding.com Tech Lighting techlighting.com

Unico System unicosystem.com

Top: The kitchen is easily accessed from the garage and entry hall.

Viessmann viessmann-us.com

Vintage Kitchens (603) 224-2854 vintagekitchens.com

Above: The main house was the first home in Bow approved for historic designation.

and ability to do it—and that the house cooperated as well.”

NHH

nhhomemagazine.com

New Hampshire Home | 63

One Home

Above: The Presby home comprises two barns. The smaller eighteenth-century barn from Lyman, now painted red, houses the kitchen. To its right, the tall nineteenth-century barn from New Sharon, Maine, accommodates a root cellar, guest quarters, living room, great room, schoolroom and loft bedrooms.

Left: Andre, Joselle and Dena Marie Presby with Holly, the family dog, all watch as Thad Presby’s father, David, flies in for a landing above.

64 | New Hampshire Home

march/april 2018

A Franconia family finds joy in preserving and transforming the building traditions of early New England.

By Carrie Sherman | Photography by John W. Hession and Crown Point Cabinetry Styling by Phyllis Higgerson of Henhurst Interiors

Photography, above and left, by John W. Hession

nhhomemagazine.com

New Hampshire Home | 65

Thad and Joselle Presby’s home looks out on the

pear to munch on. Joselle tracks the activity and

eastern slopes of the rugged Franconia Range. Center

says simply, “Presbys don’t stop moving. It’s just

stage, Mount Lafayette and Cannon Mountain etch

the way they are.”

the horizon, and below the Gale River sparkles down

What unfolds is a story about how, as a boy,

a narrow valley. Thad grew up skiing Cannon, and

Thad spent time with Lester on the farm, haying

he discovered the long plateau for this home site

and maple sugaring. He would even ride a gentle

while plowing driveways years ago for the family

bull named Humpty Dumpty, holding the bull’s

construction business.

big horns while his great-grandfather led it to

It’s no surprise that Thad and his brother, Trev-

pasture. When Aden (Thad and Joselle’s first

or, who lives next door, built a long, grassy airstrip

child) was born in 2003, Mary, then in her nine-

before anything else. It’s a spectacular place for an

ties, had the pleasure of holding her great-great-

airplane to take off and land, a hobby the brothers

grandson.

and their father, David Presby, enjoy.

No surprise either that for Thad and Joselle,

their dream house was a barn.

For sentimental reasons, Lester and Mary’s antique barn would have been the one for Thad and Joselle to transform into their home. But, barns are

“Thad’s great-grandparents Lester and Mary

tricky. “The frame elevations of Lester and Mary’s

Presby had a farm in Bath,” Joselle says while she

barn just weren’t right for ceiling heights and a

tends to her new baby, Nadea Rose. Thad and their

windowscape,” Thad says. “Barns were made for

four other children ramble about inside, then out-

hay and animals, not people. You can’t make a

side, come back in, fix a lunch plate from big pots

house out of every barn.”

of rice and stir fry on the stove, or snag an apple or 66 | New Hampshire Home

photography this page by John w. hession

T

Furnishings from New Hampshire schools in Monroe, Portsmouth, Manchester and Tilton were found for the schoolroom.

And so, the search began. march/april 2018

photography this page top, courtesy of Crown Point Cabinetry. Bottom photography by John w. hession

Above: The kitchen has old-fashioned functionality. The décor takes its cue from the barns—rustic and industrial, yet modern. Note the heft of those beams hewed from old-growth white pine more than two hundred years ago. The walls are plastered with American Clay; the color is Manchester.

Right: Joselle Presby and her son Dane prepare a meal. In this kitchen, everyone helps out.

Below: Joselle’s pickled vegetables from the garden.

nhhomemagazine.com

New Hampshire Home | 67

photography courtesy of Crown Point Cabinetry

Above: Crown Point Cabinetry is featured throughout the home.

Cabinets in the office (above), as in the kitchen, have wild cherry wood with Candlelight stain and Craftsman pegged doors.

photography by John w. Hession

Right: Although Joselle claims to have a “greenish yellow� thumb, the garden looks great. Dena Marie and Andre pick greens for the table.

68 | New Hampshire Home

march/april 2018

Finding the right barn By chance, Thad found a great barn in a customer’s back yard in Lyman—not far from where his greatgrandparents’ farm had been. The late eighteenthcentury barn had massive, hand-hewn, white pine timbers with uniquely angular gunstock posts. It was likely one of the first structures built in Lyman, which was established in 1761. Nails are key to dating structures, and this barn’s “rosehead” nails were hand-wrought before circa 1800. The barn’s dimensions were typical of an early English barn in New England with a footprint of thirty feet by forty feet. photography courtesy of Crown Point Cabinetry

Unfortunately, water-damaged rafters and a missing tie beam limited the use of the structure.

So, Thad continued his search. Online, he discovered a tall early nineteenth-century barn in New Sharon, Maine. He flew to New Sharon multiple times to inspect and measure the barn.

“Its rafters and primary roof purlins were connected with diagonal sawn hardwood braces, forming a diamond pattern along the roof—a nice structural and aesthetically pleasing detail,” Thad says. Given Thad and Joselle’s house site and the force of wind off the mountains, a strong structure was critical. Like the Lyman barn, the pegs for the New Sharon barn were mostly hardwood, but the nails were cut iron, circa 1790–1830.

In total, Thad looked at more than two hundred barns, both in person and online. With the Lyman and New Sharon barns as the most promising, Thad faced a decision on how to proceed. The answer? Combine the two barns.

Once purchased, Thad loaded the Lyman barn onto a trailer and drove it home to a big storage building. He then tagged all the pieces of the barn, made a map of them and disassembled the structure— a daunting task as old barns were incredibly well built. Barns took years to assemble—from felling and hewing all the timbers, to fashioning photography by John w. Hession

all the bits. In any given region, master builders and farmers built each barn in their own particular way.

Thad tagged and mapped the New Sharon barn as well. Luckily, its disassembly and delivery were included in the price.

Top: A Hubbardton Forge chandelier lights the dining table, creating an intimate setting and a dramatic statement. The great room’s walls are plastered with American Clay; the color is Palmetto.

Above: The massive chimney warmed by a masonry stove radiates steady, gentle heat throughout the barn from New Sharon, Maine. nhhomemagazine.com

Next, Thad gently washed all the beams and then treated each with a mild cleaning solution to get rid of any insects. There were adjustments.

For example, the New Sharon barn’s posts were extended 2½ feet, while the Lyman barn’s were New Hampshire Home | 69

shortened by about 4 feet, thus allowing the barns to stand gable end to gable end. There was also some rot and porcupine damage, so repairs were made incorporating beams from other old barns as well.

“We had to hope the barns would actually fit on the foundation, since exact dimensions were impossible,” Thad says. “There was a lot of averaging and guessing, because old barn parts aren’t perfectly plumb or square.”

Heating plans Meanwhile, Thad and Joselle faced the usual new homeowner questions—designing and fine-tuning the living spaces; deciding on décor and lighting; and so on. But first, the Presbys had to figure out photography courtesy Crown Point Cabinetry

how to heat the barns.

To begin, they bought and shipped ten thousand bricks reclaimed from an old factory in Lowell, Massachusetts, to Franconia. Mason Will Stone immediately got to work on the central, four-story-high, three-flue chimney. The three flues were tagged for an oil furnace/boiler, a wood stove for the first-floor basement and a masonry stove for the great room on the second floor.

“It took us ten weeks to build it,” Stone says, “with three people. We had plenty of concrete footings like you’d have for a skyscraper. It’s a serious amount of weight. But if you’ve built a hundred fireplaces, it’s pretty standard.”

As for the masonry stove, Stone says, “We built the chimney around a masonry heater core. I’m a fan of them. I always suggest them to clients.”

The builder for the masonry heater core, Erik Nilsen, lives in Dalton. He swears he’s retired, but clearly loves his craft. “I’ve built masonry stoves now for almost forty years,” he says. “The design I use originated in Finland.”

photography courtesy of Crown Point Cabinetry

The masonry heater core is a bit like a pottery kiln with conduits to distribute heat to the chimney bricks. When the masonry stove is built with a fairly small wood box and then lit, it fires right up with temperatures inside exceeding 1500ºF. The centrally located chimney—from the second floor to the third floor—becomes quite hot within hours, heating the whole New Sharon barn portion of the house. Once the chimney cools down a Top: The children’s bathroom has dramatic purple tile to complement the cabinets’ wild-cherry wood with Cinnamon stain and Barnstead doors.

Above: The master bath has wild-cherry wood cabinetry with Candlelight stain and Craftsman pegged doors.

70 | New Hampshire Home

bit, a small oven above the masonry stove’s wood box makes great bread and pizza, which Joselle bakes from scratch weekly.

The basement and bathrooms of the New Shamarch/april 2018

ron barn as well as the kitchen in the Lyman barn have radiant heat under porcelain-tile flooring.

The basement also has a small wood stove.

Strategically placed about the house are classic steam radiators, repurposed for hot water. “Each room has its own heat zone in order to cooperate with the masonry heater,” Thad says.

Additionally, solar panels on a tracker tower— designed and installed by Presby Construction Inc. in Franconia—provide electricity.

Of course, the structure is well insulated, and it has a standing seam metal roof.

Bottom line: inside the Presby home, the temperature is warm, even and delightful.

Interior design

For the walls, Joselle worked with Jessica Greenblatt of Interiors Green in Bethlehem and chose American Clay Plaster for the kitchen and the great room. “It’s a great product. It absorbs mois-

Left: Crown Point worked with Joselle Presby to create a powder-room sink countertop from her Singer sewing machine base.

Below: The guest bathroom has maple cabinetry painted in a custom color and has Barnstead doors. The sconces are from Hubbardton Forge.

ture when the air is humid,” Joselle says. “When the air is dry, it releases moisture.”

All that, and the colors are earthy and rich.

They even have a bit of sparkle due to marble aggregate in the mix. Greenblatt describes the application process as a bit like frosting a giant cake.

To fine-tune the kitchen design, Joselle worked with two designers from Crown Point Cabinetry in Claremont—Deb Foster, primarily, and then Melissa Bean. “Joselle had picked out all the specifics and knew exactly how she wanted to use everything,” Bean says. “The whole family works in the kitchen to help prepare dinner.”

Measuring for the cabinets took time since each beam has a unique size, width and depth.

“We had to measure several times, using both a laser and a regular measuring tape,” Bean says. “The counter people had their work cut out for them!” all photography on this page courtesy of Crown Point Cabinetry

The cabinetry is a combination of wild cherry finished with Candlelight stain, and the main island is finished with burnished red and black milk paint. Crown Point’s skilled workforce does the milk-paint finish by hand.

The final result is a contemporary but old-fashioned working kitchen with soapstone counters; bulk storage for grains, rice, flours and beans; two refrigerators; two ranges (one commercial) housed in a brick alcove with a custom-made copper roof; a baking station that can be fitted with a plastic board for butchering livestock; a dishwasher; and two over-sized, custom-made copper sinks. nhhomemagazine.com

New Hampshire Home | 71

photography by John w. hession

Getting together for a Presby family gathering on the patio were, from the left, Joseph and Joann Germano (Joselle’s parents), Joselle, Thad, Andre, Aden, Dena Marie and Dane.

“We don’t use the dishwasher,” Joselle says. “At the end of the day, Thad and I do the dishes together. It’s when we talk.”

Elegant chandeliers and wall sconces from Hubbardton Forge provide light that is adjustable and mellow, and also proportional to the high barn ceilings.

Turn-of-the-century stained-glass windows Joselle found in small antique shops as well as pieces her mother made decades ago are found throughout the home.

Scott Joplin’s The Entertainer on the piano. “Oh, that’s Dane,” Joselle says of her twelve-year-old son.

In the laundry room art gallery, eightyear-old daughter Dena Marie’s pumpkin patch drawing is front and center.

After hearing us talk about maple syrup, Aden comes in to show us a jar of rich, amber syrup the family made last spring.

Today, he’s helping his dad work in the new sugarhouse. “This spring we’ll have to make Great-Grandma Mary’s doughnuts,” Joselle says. “She fried the dough in lard and then dipped them in maple

72 | New Hampshire Home

Caron Building Center / Caron Kitchen and Bath (603) 752-1500 • caronbuilding.doitbest.com Crown Point Cabinetry (800) 999-4994 • crown-point.com Erik Nilsen, Thermal Mass, Inc. (603) 444-6474 houzz.com/pro/thermass/thermal-mass-inc

FW Webb Company (603) 448-9405 • fwwebb.com

Green Mountain Soapstone (802) 468-5636 • greenmountainsoapstone.com Hubbardton Forge (800) 826-4766 • hubbardtonforge.com Interiors Green (603) 616-6499 • interiorsgreen.com John Larson (603) 616-7512

Maine Kiln Works (207) 963-5819 • liz@waterstonesink.com Mann Lumber (978) 249-2206 • mannlumber.com

As we talk, downstairs someone plays

syrup. So good.”

Resources

NHH

Northeast Lantern, Ltd. (603) 778-2468 • northeastlantern.com Pella Windows pella.com

Presby Construction, Inc. (603) 823-5298 • presbyconstruction.com Presby Energy (603) 823-5298 • presbyenergy.com

Presby Environmental (800) 473-5298 • presbyeco.com

Quail’s Upholstery and Design (603) 444-6541 facebook.com/Quails-Upholstery-and-Design-171515586562743/ Rachielle Sinks (800) 881-9044 • rachiele.com

Rejuvenation (888) 401-1900 • rejuvenation.com

Sean Leahy Plaster (802) 533-2666 • seanleahyplaster@gmail.com

Soll’s Antiques (207) 474-5396 • facebook.com/Solls-Antiques-117097818371534 The Floorworks (603) 869-5880 • thefloorworks.com

The Lighting House (802) 985-2204 • vermontlightinghouse.com Henry Tupaj (201) 787-5005 • henryfxsts@yahoo.com

Varney & Smith Lumber (603) 838-6619 facebook.com/pages/Varney-Smith-Lumber-Co-Inc/163019293722630 Wills Electric (603) 616-9094 • willselectric@gmail.com Will Stone Construction (603) 616-6283

march/april 2018

2017 H

2018

Hall of Fame Meet some of this year’s and past years’ winners of the New Hampshire Home Design Awards— architects, interior designers, kitchen and bath designers, landscape architects and designers, builders and others whose projects make homes in New Hampshire both functional and beautiful.

❦

2018 Winner of Excellence in Bath Design and Excellence in Kitchen Design

Crown Point Cabinetry

Claremont, New hampshire (800) 999-4994 • crown-point.com

F

amily owned and operated, Crown Point Cabinetry handcrafts the finest quality custom cabinetry for the entire home. Because we only sell direct, every client can work firsthand with one of our in-house designers. Our unique approach enables us to sell directly to homeowners, architects, custom builders and remodelers nationwide. Specializing in period style, including Arts and Crafts, Shaker, Victorian and Early American, we also create outstanding designs in transitional, cottage and contemporary construction. Cabinetry can be crafted from choices in lumber across a large range, including cherry, sapele, red oak, maple, quarter-sawn white oak, walnut and pine. We also offer a special selection of reclaimed and old-growth lumber, including reclaimed chestnut, reclaimed hickory, old growth heart pine and reclaimed elm. Our smooth, beautiful finish completes the cabinetry in clear or a rich stain, or from a wide palette of paint colors by Sherwin-Williams or Genuine Old Fashioned Milk Paint.

2014, 2015 and 2016 Winner for Excellence in Kitchen Design

74 | New Hampshire Home

2017 Honorable Mention for Excellence in Kitchen Design

march/april 2018

hall of fame

Custom.

Handcrafted.

Direct.

special advertising section

New Hampshire Home | 75

2018 Winner of Excellence in Small Home Design

Wood & Clay, Inc.

Gilford, New hampshire (603) 524-3128 • woodandclay.com

A

t the 2018 New Hampshire Home Design Awards in January, Wood & Clay, Inc.—located in Gilford—was honored with the Excellence in Small Home Design for its project called Winnipesaukee Bunk House. The house was designed

by Battle Associates Architects in Concord, Massachusetts, landscape architecture completed by Pellettieri Associates and interior design by Beyond the Garden.

Built on the grounds of a former cottage colony on Lake Winnipesaukee, this 900-square-foot guest cottage’s size was

limited by the previous building’s footprint but was designed to maximize every square inch. The bunk house, which comfortably accommodates 10 people, includes a full kitchen, great room with gas fireplace, master bedroom, bunkroom, screened porch and ¾ bath.

Highlights include reclaimed white oak for the custom kitchen cabinets and paneling above the fireplace; reclaimed barn board on the ceiling; reclaimed teak floors and reclaimed antique heart pine for the custom bunks beds. Curved fir

trusses were built on site. The gas fireplace boasts a surround of full thickness, aged New Hampshire granite.

Wood & Clay, Inc. specializes in custom high-end home construction and renovation in the Lakes Region of New Hampshire.

With creativity and attention to detail, Kevin guides each project from concept to completion. His goal is to make the project fun for the homeowners, and he maintains relationships with clients long after the job is done.

Pellettieri Associates, Inc.

WARNER, New hampshire (603) 456-3678 • pellettieriassoc.com

P

ellettieri Associates, Inc. is a design/ build firm with over 35 years of specailized experience in the design, permitting, and implemention of work in sensitive lakefront environments, such as this unique project. Through the efforts of their widely respected staff of licensed Landscape Architects and field crews, they have successfully and consistently maintained the highest standards of achievement in landscape architecture.

Their early involvement in projects avoids the typical problems such as costly grading and drainage impacts, loss of specimen trees, poor view relations, etc.

76 | New Hampshire Home

march/april 2018

hall of fame

Beyond the Garden

concord, MASSACHUSETTS (978) 369-4996 • beyondthegarden.com

J

anice Battle works on an intimate level with each of her clients to understand their needs and passions and incorporate meaningful details in each space. A mother of three, Janice understands the demands of the modern home and makes a point to incorporate beauty and design with practicality. From a small family room update to a large scale new construction consulting contract, Janice is expert at working with contractors, tradesmen and artisans at all of levels of the project.

Battle Associates Architects

CONCORD, MASSACHUSETTS (978) 369-1805 • battlearchitects.com

B

attle Associates Architects is dedicated to client service, balancing the firm’s commitment to unique design with commitment to accommodate each client’s lifestyle and needs. Organizing each project to celebrate the strengths of its site—ranging from sun exposure, to views, to water’s edge—the architects develop designs to capitalize on these assets, while creating interior spaces that complement clients’ lifestyles.

During the last twenty-five years, Battle Associates Architects has designed more than one hundred projects throughout New England, the Adirondacks, the MidAtlantic, the Florida Keys and Canada.

special advertising section

New Hampshire Home | 77

hall of fame

2017 and 2018 Winner of Excellence in Outdoor Design

Belknap Landscape Co., Inc.

Gilford, New hampshire (603) 528-2798 • belknaplandscape.com

B

elknap Landscape Company has been building relationships and fostering the “Belknap Experience” with our clients for over 28 years. Skilled staff will guide you through the entire process, from permitting and design through installation and maintenance.

BLC will ensure that the journey to your dream landscape is as relaxing as the finished project.

They’ve gathered professionals from every aspect of the industry to meet all of your needs. Belknap Landscape, Co. has the passion, expertise and the experience to complete your outdoor kitchens, lighting projects, shoreline landscapes and tree care, with everything in between. With dedicated account managers and professional staff, you will quickly realize why we have received: 14 NH Home Builder Cornerstone Awards 2 New Hamphsire Home Excellence in Outdoor Design Awards 2 Best of Houzz Service Awards 2 Lakes Region Parade of Homes Best Landscape Awards in the last two years.

Expertise, Passion & Experience

Cornerstone award

14x winner

2017 & 2018

Thank you to our clients and employees for building lasting relationships with us for over 28 years.

BELKNAPLANDSCAPE.COM • GILFORD, NH • (603) 528-2798 78 | New Hampshire Home

march/april 2018

2018 Winner of Excellence in Specialty Room Design / Honorable Mentions for Architectural Design

hall of fame

Bonin Architects & Associates

NEW LONDON | meredith, New hampshire (603) 526-6200 • info@boninarchitects.com boninarchitects.com

P

inecliff and Sunapee Views share fantastic views for both of these active families. Planning for skiing, lake activities and family gatherings, these homes on the beautiful shores of Lake Sunapee have the good fortune to be near everything the families desired. Both of these busy families were also very active participants during the design process; their enthusiasm and energy contagious throughout!

Bonin Architects & Associates, located in New London and Meredith, New Hampshire, serves homeowners in New England with homes in the lakes, mountain and coastal regions. As a design firm, we bring architecture and landscape architecture together in a collaborative approach to every project. Our values of honesty, integrity, commitment, respect and service are reflected in all we do. Those values and hard work are the difference between building a home and building a dream.

2014 Winner for Excellence in Green Design 2014 Honorable mention for Excellence in Architectural Design 2015 Winner of Home of the Year 2016 Honorable mentions for Architectural Design and Remodeling/Renovation 2016 Winner for Outdoor Design 2017 Excellence in Architectural Design

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New Hampshire Home | 79

2016 Winner of Excellence in Historic Renovation

hall of fame

Christopher P. Williams Architects, PLLC

meredith, New hampshire (603) 279-6513 • cpwarchitects.com

O

ur award winning team of LEED certified architects has provided innovative and environmentally friendly design solutions to clients throughout New England since 1984.

No matter what your goals may be, our staff is dedicated to building homes that meet your needs, budget and lifestyle. We will make your dream home a reality.

Our firm specializes in sustainable building practices and we offer expertise in incorporating solar, geothermal and other green systems into client projects that enhance and protect ecosystems and conserve natural resources. With sensitivity to landscape and building site requirements, we strive to bring together the beauty of the exterior surroundings with the warmth and comfort of your home.

Visit us at cpwarchitects.com to view our portfolio.

Little Green—designed by Matthew Daughdrill of Christopher P. Williams Architects, PLLC—won the 2018 award for Excellence in Interior Design by K. A. Clason Fine Woodworking.

80 | New Hampshire Home

march/april 2018

hall of fame

2017 Winner of Home of the Year

Fiorentino Group Architects Portsmouth, New hampshire (603) 373-8562 • fiorentinogroup.com

W

ith over thirty years of professional experience, Principal, Scott Fiorentino, AIA, established Fiorentino Group Architects with the mission to create unique, smart and sustainably-conscious designs utilizing the most current innovative building systems and technologies. Specializing in waterfront residences and small commercial projects, our firm is dedicated to the quality of the built environment.

At Fiorentino Group Architects, we strive to create distinctive designs reflecting our clients’ programs and project visions. We pride ourselves on attention to detail, strong communication skills and establishing a solid relationship between the client and project team. Our goal is to make each project a memorable experience!

Creating Environments for Life 500 Market Street, Suite 1E, Portsmouth, NH 03801 603.373.8562 • fiorentinogroup.com special advertising section

New Hampshire Home | 81

2018 Winner of Home of the Year

hall of fame

Sheldon Pennoyer Architects

Concord, New hampshire (603) 856-8994 • spennoyerarchitects.com

S

photography by john hession

heldon Pennoyer Architects is an award-winning architectural practice located in Concord, New Hampshire. Since 1987, we have specialized in the design of regionally appropriate houses and other buildings that are well integrated with their surrounding landscapes; a core principle is our belief that a unique “sense of place” is created in lasting, well-designed architecture that seeks harmony with its surroundings.Our designs have been recognized with multiple honors for Excellence in Architecture from the American Institute of Architects New Hampshire chapter; most recently we have been awarded Home of the Year, Excellence in Green Design, and Excellence in Architectural Design from New Hampshire Home. We are committed to being directly involved with each project from start to finish, thereby creating for our clients buildings that will last for generations.

64 North Main Street, Suite One Concord, NH 03301

82 | New Hampshire Home

www.spennoyerarchitects.com 603-856-8994

march/april 2018

March 24 & 25,

2018

Whittemore Center Arena, UNH, Durham, NH

SATURDAY 10-5

SUNDAY 10-4

Adults $8 l Seniors (65+) $6 l Youths 6-16 yrs. $5 l Under 6 Free

• Over 200 Exhibitors Discover the latest products and services for your home • Seminars and Clinics Get expert advice and helpful tips on a variety of home improvement topics • TASTE Meet the Chefs Cooking Series Taste the culinary creations from the best Seacoast area chefs • Garden Marketplace Flowers, seeds, herbs and everything to make your garden flourish!

• Artisan Marketplace Shop unique products from local artisans

NewEnglandExpos.com

transformation

The open, airy gallery space at Squam River Studios in Ashland provides an ideal backdrop for glass artist Shandra McLane’s work.

New Dividends for an Old Bank Glass artist

Shandra McLane repurposed a

historic building as a studio

to create and display her artwork.

F

ive years ago, artist Shandra McLane

recently. The old bank appealed to her right

discovered that she had outgrown her

away. “As an artist, I’m interested in things

home-based glass studio in Bridgewater.

with history and character,” she says. The

For a year, she had been happily crafting her

handsome 3½-story brick structure with dis-

signature glass bowls in a studio attached to

tinctive arched windows was built between

her home. Eventually, however, safety con-

1910 and 1913, and served as the town bank

siderations—plus a need for more room and

for many years.

power to operate her two kilns—led her to seek a new creative space.

Through a friend, Shandra rather quickly

Now the bank has found new life as Squam River Studios, incorporating a gallery on the main level, and a kiln room and a fabrication

discovered an ideal space: a historic bank

studio on the lower levels. (There is a private

building next to the river on Main Street

apartment on the top floor.) It’s an ideal loca-

in Ashland. The building had been on the

tion for Shandra’s varied works, including

market for seven years but hadn’t been listed

glass prints made through a process called

By Jenny Donelan | Photography by John W. Hession 84 | New Hampshire Home

march/april 2018

vitreography, large casting relief forms (such as an Arctic char representing fish migration), and her signature bowls.

Revealing history Shandra and her husband, Ben McLane, bought the building in 2012. With help from their friend Dave Clark, Shandra and Ben renovated the structure themselves, taking about seven months to complete the job. This involved breaking down subdivisions of sheetrock and dropped ceilings that had been added through the years.

It was more a process of revealing what was already there than anything else, Shandra says. “There wasn’t much to redo. We just took everything out, while trying to preserve everything that was original.�

As Shandra and Ben peeled away the subdivision layers, the couple found some surprises: a tin ceiling and the original bank vault, complete with locked safe inside it. The ceiling needed a few repairs here and there; the brass and glass vault door was a thing of beauty.

Above: An important part of the renovation of the former bank was the lighting of the classic vault alarm on the left side of the building.

Left: Shandra McLane sits on a couch in the gallery. Above her is a rediscovered tin ceiling, now painted silver. Behind, to her left, is the open vault door.

nhhomemagazine.com

New Hampshire Home | 85

transformation

Shandra McLane creates numerous types of glass artwork, including lamps (right) and prints (above) created through a process called vitreography. Above on the left, she is using a glass powder technique; at right, sandblasting stencils.

In terms of additions, Shandra and Ben replaced the electrical wiring and installed new heating systems. The couple also put in new hardwood flooring on the main level and a poured concrete floor in the basement.

By 2013, the studio was operational.

The main level—where Shandra’s art is displayed—is an airy space with exposed brick walls; a high, tin ceiling painted silver; and plentiful natural light. Glass chandeliers reclaimed from a different old bank hang from the ceiling. The chandeliers, originally from Italy, were purchased at Just L Modern Antiques in Littleton. The main level also includes a sitting area and office space. The bank vault is used for art displays, and for housing the charming, old and empty safe.

The kiln room—which is half a level down from the main level facing the water—houses two large kilns and two smaller portable kilns. The kiln room is conveniently close to but separated from the rest of the building by a brick wall for safety’s sake. (The kilns operate at very high temperatures.)

The basement—where most of Shandra’s creation takes place—includes

86 | New Hampshire Home

march/april 2018

Fred Varney Company

Kitchen and Baths

4 Grove Street • Wolfeboro • 603-569-3565 • www.kitchensnh.com

nhhomemagazine.com

New Hampshire Home | 87

transformation

a sandblasting room, a darkroom, a

her reclaimed workplace. She began

washing station and several glass work

working in glass some years ago at

stations.

Pilchuck Glass School, which was

Another notable feature of the

founded by the world-renowned artist

building is the original vault alarm

Dale Chihuly, in Washington state.

and light, which were part of the res-

She and Ben (who grew up vacation-

toration. The words “VAULT ALARM”

ing on Newfound Lake) moved to New

in white capital letters against a black

Hampshire about eighteen years ago.

background on the outside of the

Shandra has since earned a master’s

building add a graphic, retro look. The

of education in integrated arts from

overall thoughtful repurposing of the

Plymouth State University, where she

old bank earned Shandra a 2014 Pres-

teaches as an adjunct professor.

ervation Achievement Award from the

Shandra’s career reflects her zeal for

New Hampshire Preservation Alliance

collaboration and ongoing learning.

for revitalization of the property.

She has completed several residencies,

Working toward sustainability

including a trip to Svalbard, Norway, in 2015, which sparked an interest

Shandra’s interest in sustainability is

in environmental themes, such as

expressed through her art as well as

oceans and seeds. Svalbard, which is

Shandra McLane received a 2014 Preservation Achievement Award (left) from the New Hampshire Preservation Alliance for her work in thoughtfully repurposing the old bank (seen at above from the rear, along with her addition to the building).

88 | New Hampshire Home

march/april 2018

Your Garden Oasis is Here

Annuals • Perennials • Trees • Shrubs • Outdoor Furniture • Pottery • Statuary • Garden Accents Bedford Fields | 331 Rte. 101, Bedford, NH | 472-8880 | bedfordfields.com

Furniture Masters 2018

Exhibiting regionally this summer and fall. furnituremasters.org Visit our gallery at 49 South Main Street, Concord, NH. Nox ll by John Cameron. Photo by Bill Truslow. nhhomemagazine.com

New Hampshire Home | 89

transformation

10 degrees from the North Pole, is home to the Global Seed Vault (a long-term seed storage facility built to protect crop diversity in case of natural or man-made disasters).

After that trip, Shandra began to create ocean-inspired works that reflect on climate change and the fragility of our world. Subjects include glacial retreat, coral bleaching, the migration of fishing patterns and land erosion.

Shandra is also working on a line of fabrics that incorporate digitized patterns of seeds from the seed bank. “Something that’s been crossing my mind,” she says, “is that I’m working in a bank with a vault and I’m also working with the Global Seed Vault.”

Most recently, Shandra and five other artists were awarded a John H. Hauberg Fellowship through the Pilchuk Glass

The lower level of the building is a work space where most of the art creation takes place (top). The kiln room (above) is half a level down from the main area, in the addition to the building. Prior to the renovation, the brick wall was the bank’s exterior.

now. “Would they ever have thought that it would be an artist’s studio?” she wonders.

The bank/studio may see other uses

School to write a book on vitreography.

in years to come. “This building was

Shandra is pleased with her repur-

built to withstand the test of time,”

posed space. “It has a good energy,” she

Shandra says. “I’m just borrowing it

says. She is tickled by what the original

for now, and I feel it’s my obligation to

builders of the bank might think of it

take care of it.”

90 | New Hampshire Home

NHH

Resources

Just L Modern Antiques (603) 259-3125 facebook.com/MidModLiving New Hampshire Preservation Alliance (603) 224-2281 • nhpreservation.org Pilchuck Glass School • pilchuck.com

Plymouth State University • plymouth.edu Squam River Studios (603) 968-1101 squamriverstudios.com

Svalbard Global Seed Vault • Imd.dep.no march/april 2018

Skip spring cleaning, remodel instead.

Crafting custom spaces for over 25 years 603.623.6650 nhhomemagazine.com

njk.net

Bedford, NH New Hampshire Home | 91

by design

The angular design of the Gemma Observatory echoes the central New Hampshire rocky landscape around it, as does the building’s granite-gray color.

It was designed by Anmahian Winton Architects in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

Star Struck A passion for

stargazing grew into finding the perfect

spot to build

an observatory,

powered by solar energy.

I

t all started on a sailboat.

One day, while sailing with his

father-in-law, a Massachusetts man who

He started reading about astronomy. He bought a telescope.

“Then I was packing my stuff into a car

wishes to be unnamed in this story tried

and driving to escape the city light pollu-

his hand at celestial navigation. Using

tion,” he says. After trying a few spots within

a sextant, he measured the angles from

an hour or two of his home in Boston, he

the stars, planets, moon and sun to the

settled on southern New Hampshire as the

horizon, in order to chart the sailboat’s

place to see the stars. “I liked the empty

location on the water. To do so, he needed

parking lot at Crotched Mountain in Ben-

to be able to identify the stars by name.

nington or a stalled housing development

As he studied the star names in the days that followed, a passion for stargazing was

near a golf resort there.”

Eventually, he joined the New Hampshire

ignited. As he says, “Celestial navigation

Astronomical Society and used their observ-

really lit the fire for learning about the sky.

ing field in central New Hampshire (its exact

That we can use a centuries-old method to

location is known only to members). He says

figure out our position on the Earth was

that made him feel less like a trespasser and

amazing.”

more like an astronomer. But still, each time

By Barbara Coles | Photography courtesy of Anmahian Winton Architects and the homeowner 92 | New Hampshire Home

march/april 2018

he wanted to see the stars, he would have to make the drive and then spend

An unconventional pattern for the exterior was achieved with lock-seamed zinc cladding.

as long as ninety minutes setting up his gear. And then take it all down and drive back.

After moving to the Boston suburbs, he decided to build a small astronomy shed in his back yard so he could leave his equipment set up and just roll back the roof. But still, trees blocked much of the sky and the Milky Way was barely visible because of light pollution.

He began a quest to escape the lights and have an unobstructed view of the sky. He superimposed maps of light pollution onto Google Earth, and found that, by driving two hours from his home to a part of central New Hampshire, he would find the dark sky and open spaces he wanted. Plus, there were family-friendly ski mountains nearby. It was, he says, “a sweet spot for me.”

That sweet spot would soon be the site of his Gemma Observatory. The design of the observatory—named for the brightest star, the gem, of the constellation Corona Borealis—would not only accommodate his stargazing, but also create a place where “even if you don’t care a lick about astronomy, you would want to hang out there.” Most of all, he wanted it to be a place where family and friends could “sit under a giant sky filled with thousands of stars and imagine the vast miracle of the universe

With the dome open to sky, winter viewing can be challenging due to the cold. The color of the fir-lined walls helps create a feeling of warmth. Project manager Mazen Sakr of Anmahian Winton Architects adjusts the telescope.

that surrounds us.”

Designed for stargazing To make that happen, he enlisted the services of Anmahian Winton Architects in Cambridge, Massachusetts. The project—a collaboration with the architects and Scott Estabrooks of Patriot Painters & Builders in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts—would become a big award-winner; ten awards in all, two of them for green architecture. Among them are awards for design excellence from the Boston Society of Architects nhhomemagazine.com

New Hampshire Home | 93

by design

The result is a remarkable angular structure that is designed to accommodate an astronomer’s needs as well as mimic the color, patina and striations of the surrounding gray granite landscape. This was achieved with an unconventional pattern of lock-seamed zinc cladding and a terraced concrete platform that transitions between the natural bedrock and man-made elements.

Each of the distinctive features of the observatory is there for a reason. A tall, narrow window at the top (right), for instance, frames the vertical motion of the North Star. An observation deck (below) provides additional space for stargazing.

Temperature needs Most of the structure’s distinctive features—“oddball things,” the owner calls them—have a practical basis. For example, the sharp southeast corner optimizes the location of the deck pier; the tall, skinny window frames the vertical motion of the North Star; and the giant door helps the area under the dome to cool down quickly.

Heat mitigation is a big issue for observatories. “With just a little magnification,” the owner says, “when you’re looking through warm air rising, you see a shimmer effect, kind of like the mirage you see looking down a straight highway on a summer day.”

In addition to opening the giant entry door, the temperature can also be equalized by opening the dome, which is reached by a helical stair, as well as a nearby door and window. That allows a

in 2016 and the American Institute of

and night forever.” Only in the winter,

lot of heat to escape—but, as the owner

Architects (AIA) in 2017.

when heaters are used, is the backup

says, “it also means it is freezing up

generator required.

there in winter.”

In fact, one of the first things on the site was a solar panel array. Nine panels

The stunning design of the observa-

The need for wintertime warmth is

set on the south side of the hill would

tory is one that evolved. “It started as a

accommodated by the adjacent, one-

provide most of the energy for the

very simple box,” says Mazen Sakr, one

story warming room—a place to hang

observatory (a generator helps with

of two architects (Alex Anmahian was

out, sleep or do research. Its location

heat in the winter); the array’s battery

the principal in charge) who led the

to the east ensures that heat doesn’t

bank even powered many of the tools

project.

migrate upward into the dome. In ad-

used during construction.

“But then,” Sakr says, “we got in-

dition, the room is superinsulated with

spired by the rock outcroppings, the

structural insulated panels (SIPs). Add-

system teaches the kids something

geometries of the site, and we started

ing to a feeling of warmth there, and in

about living responsibly, not wasting

pushing and pulling the form to have

all the interior, are fir-lined walls.

energy,” the owner says. “The system

it be responsive to the site’s geographic

has such capacity that we could leave

context and, at the same time, stand

room, providing another space for

the lights on and radio going all day

out as different type of observatory.”

observation in addition to the pri-

“I would like to think this off-grid

94 | New Hampshire Home

A large deck sits atop the warming

march/april 2018

Cottage furniture collection

Custom wood counter tops

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New Hampshire Home | 95

by design

CYNTHIA CLARK INTERIORS

Opening the giant entry door (inset) allows the escape of warm air that can create an unwanted shimmer effect in telescopes. The large observation deck allows family and friends to enjoy the night sky in comfort.

Your Home.

Our Expertise.

Your Style.

mary viewing area in the dome. One challenge for the architects was to eliminate vibrations that might affect the dome’s telescope. The solution: isolating the piers that hold up the telescope from the rest of the structure.

Sakr says the piers are tied directly Photo by Morgan Karanasios

2017 Award Winner for Excellence in Small Home Design

into the concrete foundation, which in places is seven feet high: “All that mass gives the piers enough stability so there’s no direct translation of vibration.”

New Hampshire Home 2017 Design Awards

Mission: Complete Now the owner, his quest satisfied, is

Specializing in Window Treatments

enjoying his “sweet spot” under the sky in comfort, marveling at meteor showers, tracing out the spiral arms on

compassionately with one another

galaxies and “seeing bright star clusters

and to preserve and cherish that pale

glitter like jewels.”

blue dot, the only home we’ve ever

Asked if he thinks astronomy could

known.”

NHH

get people to focus more on the

Photography courtesy of Lafayette Interior Fashions | Woodland Harvest Shutters

larger world around us, he invokes the

Resources

Voyager probe’s image of the Earth as

Anmahian Winton Architects (617) 577-7400 • aw-arch.com

a tiny pale blue dot and quotes Carl Sagan: “There is perhaps no better

603.929.2987

demonstration of the folly of human

cynthiaclarkinteriors.com

tiny world. To me, it underscores our

conceits than this distant image of our responsibility to deal more kindly and

96 | New Hampshire Home

Crocker Architectural Sheet Metal Co. (508) 987-9900 • crockerarchitectural.com New Hampshire Astronomical Society nhastro.com

Patriot Painters & Builders (781) 874-2828 RSE Associates Inc. (617) 926-9300 • rseassociates.com

march/april 2018

photography by the Lighting Center

(603) 279-4045 haywardandcompany.com

Your Donation Makes a Difference!

Celebrate 45 years of this legendary, community-wide fundraiser!

APRIL 25-MAY 5

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nhpbs.org/auction

nhhomemagazine.com

New Hampshire Home | 97

HOME FURNISHINGS

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Millwork Masters

At Millwork Masters, we take pride in our outstanding team of highly-skilled Marvin Window and Door professionals, who can help you select the right product for your project. Whether it’s new construction, a remodel, or replacements, our knowledgeable staff is here to help you with your construction and millwork needs. We also have two Marvin Showcases with functioning displays in home-like settings that make shopping easier than ever.

522 Amherst Street in Nashua • (603) 880-3212 362 Flat Roof Mill Road in Swanzey • (603) 358-3038 • millworkmasters.com

Bonin Architects & Associates

architects

WINDOWS & DOORS

resources

Bonin Architects, located in New London and Meredith, New Hampshire, serves New England with a focus on lake, mountain and coastal homes. Bringing architecture and landscape together in a collaborative approach to every project; our values of honesty integrity, commitment and respect are the difference between building a home and building a dream.

New London, NH and Meredith, NH • (603) 526-6200 boninarchitects.com • info@boninarchitects.com

Winchendon Furniture We are passionate about quality. Since 1939, our family owned company has helped homeowners create comfortable, memorable spaces. Visit our locations in Amherst and Keene, NH, or Winchendon, Massachusetts, to find fine handcrafted furniture from top manufacturers (most of it American made) including our own designs. Our design consultants are delighted to help you select just the right pieces for your home. winchendonfurniture.com

The Lighting Center at Rockingham Electric lighting

The Lighting Center at Rockingham Electric is LIGHTING THE WAY YOU LIVE. Visit our Newington or Claremont, New Hampshire location and choose from the largest selection of lighting products in Northern New England. Our in-showroom specialists and designers will help you create any atmosphere by bringing your personal style home.

437 Shattuck Way in Newington, NH • (603) 436-2310 221 Washington Street in Claremont, NH • (603) 542-8711 • rockinghamlightingcenter.com

kitchens & Baths

Linda Cloutier Kitchens & Baths, LLC Linda Cloutier Kitchens & Baths has been designing custom kitchens and baths for more than three decades.

We can provide you with a wide spectrum of services from the moment you are ready to engage in either a remodel or new construction project. Call for more information or visit our showroom to see a beautiful display of Wood-Mode Fine Custom Cabinetry.

611 Breakfast Hill Road in Greenland • (603) 964-2959 • www.lindacloutier.com

Runtal Radiators New Stainless Steel Neptune Towel Radiator Runtal is pleased to introduce the popular Neptune Towel Radiator in a stainless steel version in both electric and hydronic (hot water heat) models. The Neptune is available in two heights. The Neptune exhibits clean lines and may be used to complement both modern and traditional fixtures. It is also available in over 100 colors and a chrome finish.

187 Neck Road in Ward Hill, MA (Haverhill) • (800) 526-2621 • runtalnorthamerica.com 98 | New Hampshire Home

march/april 2018

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

The Carriage Shed

1195 VA Cutoff Road in White River Junction, VT 05001 • (800) 441-6057 • carriageshed.com

Soake Pools What if you could install a vacation in your backyard? Introducing Soake Pools; elegant concrete plunge pools for year-round use. Our luxury salt-water personal pools are designed to be warm in winter, cool in summer, and small enough to fit almost any backyard space.

Soake Pools are made in New Hampshire and delivered tiled, ready for your finishing touches.

Visit our website and contact us for more information.

outdoor living

Make Your Dreams a Reality with Your Own Custom-Built Amish Structure. We have barns garages, certified homes, gazebos, arenas, play structures, outdoor furniture, sheds, recreational cabins, woodsheds, chicken coops, man cave, she shed. Visit us to see the many types of Quality Amish Structures available to enhance your property. We deliver anywhere in the USA.

In Madbury NH • (603) 749-0665 • soakepools.com

mortgage specialists

Merrimack County Savings Bank

If you’re looking to build, buy or refinance your home, count on our skilled mortgage specialists to support you through the entire mortgage process.

To learn more, visit any of the local offices in Bow, Concord, Contoocook, Hooksett and Nashua.

800.541.0006 • themerrimack.com Member FDIC • Equal Housing Lender • NMLS #433938

JOIN FOOD NETWORK CELEBRITY CHEF

Alex Gaurnaschelli

AS SHE HOSTS THE ULTIMATE COOKING SHOWDOWN BETWEEN THE BEST CHEFS IN NH – ALL TO BENEFIT NH FOOD BANK!

APRIL 16 AT THE RADISSON, MANCHESTER, NH

T he New Hampshire Food Bank will transform

Reserve your tickets NOW!

the armory into a grand dining room where you will enjoy a fabulous dinner created by Chef Alex Gaurnaschelli as you watch the competition heat up before your eyes! VIP tickets include a meet-and-greet with the chefs!

Please use this one if using the logo smaller than 3 inches

For more information visit nhfoodbank.org nhhomemagazine.com

New Hampshire Home | 99

mark your calendar!

march M a rch 2– 4

M a rch 4

Nashua Garden Club: Proven Winners

Presented by Russ Knowles of Pleasant View Gardens in Loudon, this program invites attendees to start thinking spring! Knowles will preview the 2018 Proven Winner varieties and review the most popular varieties from the past. He will also share how and where to incorporate these plants into garden beds and container gardens for best success. Light refreshment will be served. 7 p.m.

Admission is $5; free for garden club members.

First Baptist Church • 121 Manchester Street in Nashua • nashuagardenclub.com M a rch 1 0

Immigration and Naturalization: Tracing Your Immigrant Ancestors

Understanding the context of your ancestors’ arrival in the United States and the possible paper trail they left on the path to citizenship can lead to important genealogical discoveries. This workshop guides attendees through three centuries (1620–1920) of immigration and naturalization in the United States, and explains how related records can be used in family history research. The presentation will be given by Rhonda McClure of the New England Historic Genealogical Society.

1–4 p.m. Admission is $50; $35 for members of either the New Hampshire Historical Society or the New England Historic Genealogical Society.

30 Park Street in Concord • (603) 856-0621 nhhistory.org M a rch 18

Social Practice and Creative Placemaking Talk

The contemporary art landscape is increasingly populated by projects that look more like community development than conventional art. This mix of social practice and civic art is becoming an increasingly attractive approach for creative practitioners. Likewise, the fields of community 100 | New Hampshire Home

Enjoy display gardens and think “spring” at the 2018 Maine Flower Show, held in Portland, March 22–25.

development and urban planning are evolving toward integrating arts and culture. Chris Archer, associate dean of Community Education at the New Hampshire Institute of Art, explores the implications of new territories and new methodologies for artists, municipalities, planners, businesses and the community at large. 3–5 p.m. Register online at labellewineryevents.com.

LaBelle Winery • 345 Route 101 in Amherst (603) 836-2143 • nhia.edu M a rch 22–25

2018 Maine Flower Show

Featuring fourteen display gardens based on the theme “Rooted in Maine,” the show includes more than one hundred booths of plants, hardscape, arbor and garden supplies, as well as speakers and seminars led by experts in growing and outdoor living. The Maine Flower Show is encouraging and facilitating participation in the Million Pollinator Garden Challenge. A portion of all profits goes to Good Shepherd Food Bank. Admission is $20; $15 for seniors; and children age twelve and younger are admitted free of charge.

8 Thompson’s Point Road in Portland, Maine maineflowershow.com

M a rch 24 –25

New Hampshire Preservation Alliance’s Old House & Barn Expo

Presented by the New Hampshire Preservation Alliance, this expo helps old house and barn owners and enthusiasts with appropriate and affordable solutions. Create your own show itinerary and explore preservation strategies, architecture, craft and history through hourly lectures, “Old House and Barn Doctor” sessions. Highlights include more than one hundred exhibitors and lectures; demonstrations, sponsored by the N.H. State Council on the Arts, on timber framing and stonewall building; a scavenger hunt; and opportunities to observe and try building crafts. Topic include energy savings; window repair; historic wallpaper and paint colors; barn repair; moisture management; plaster repair; energy efficiency; and how to research the history of your house. 9 a.m.– 5 p.m. Admission is $10 for adults; $7 for seniors and students; children age twelve and younger are admitted free of charge.

Radisson/Center of New Hampshire • 700 Elm Street in Manchester • (603) 224-2281 nhpreservation.org

M a rch 24 –25

Seacoast Home and Garden Show

The Seacoast Home and Garden Show features more than two hundred exhibitors showcasing the latest products and services in areas such as building, remodeling, kitchens, bathrooms, outdoor living, green living and decor. The Garden Marketplace has flowers, seeds and planters. The Garden Seminar Series offers a variety of gardening seminars. The Meet the Chefs Cooking Series features some of the Seacoast’s top chefs with the opportunity to learn new recipes, get great cooking tips and taste their culinary creations. Saturday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Admission is $8; $6 for seniors; $5 for children age six through sixteen; children younger than age six are admitted free of charge.

Whittemore Center Arena at the University of New Hampshire in Durham seacoast.newenglandexpos.com

Photography courtesy of steve booth

Produced by the New Hampshire Home Builders Association, this fifty-first annual show offers the opportunity to interact with builders, remodelers, decorators, landscapers and other providers of home solutions. The latest in home-related products and services are showcased—everything from mortgages to landscaping, hot tubs to custom homebuilders, and custom closets to fabulous kitchens and baths. Highlights also include the Tiny House Village and the Junior Lego Build. Friday, 1–8 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.–6 p.m.; and Sunday, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Admission is $9; $6 for seniors age sixty-two and older; and children under age twelve are admitted free of charge.

Radisson Hotel • 700 Elm Street in Manchester nhstatehomeshow.net

Photography courtesy of maineflowershow.com

New Hampshire State Home Show

Learn about window repair among many other topics relevant to old homes and barns at the New Hampshire Preservation Alliance’s Old House and Barn Expo on March 24–25.

M a rch 24 –25

2018 Maple Weekend

See website for events at local sugaring operations throughout the state. nhmapleproducers.com march/april 2018

MARCH 2-3-4, 2018

Photography courtesy of kelleystellingtoncontemporary.com

RADISSON HOTEL, MANCHESTER, NH • NHStateHomeShow.net 2018 NH HOME SHOW

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Tess Barbato’s oil on canvas A Corrosion of Democracy can be seen at Kelly Stelling Contemporary in Manchester from March 29–April 29.

M a rch 29

Minute Particulars Artists’ Reception

This exhibit explores realism and surrealism, focusing on both everyday items executed in exquisite detail by Tess Barbato and Shaina Gates, and the phantasmagoric in the works of Stacey Howe and Kathleen Volp. Artists’ reception at the gallery 5:30­–to 7 p.m. The show runs through April 29.

Kelley Stelling Contemporary • 221 Hanover Street in Manchester • (603) 254-6211 kelleystellingcontemporary.com

april A pril 5 –14

Limited booth space still available for the 2018 NH State Home Show

603-226-6538 • nhhba.com GOLD SPONSORS:

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We Make House Calls!

Restaurant Week Portsmouth and the Seacoast

This bi-annual culinary event features special three-course prix fixe menus at participating restaurants throughout Portsmouth and the Seacoast. Some of the many restaurants that have participated include the Black Trumpet, the Blue Mermaid Island Grill, Café Mediterraneo, Epoch Restaurant, Jumpin’ Jay’s, The Dolphin Striker, The Library Restaurant, Mombo, Orchard Street Chop Shop and Salt. Lunches are $16.95; dinners $29.95. goportsmouthnh.com/where-to-eat/ restaurant-week

when you bring non-perishable food, socks, or hygiene products for Harbor Homes veterans’ programs.

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Gertrude Fiske: American Master

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603•770•1630

A pril 6

Gertrude Fiske (1879–1961), a Weston, Massachusetts, native who painted in Portsmouth, is an American Master. Peers identified her genius as residing in how she “sees.” Fiske was a founding member of the Boston Guild and the Ogunquit Art Association. A companion show, Seacoast Masters Today, highlights several artists making their name today with the same drive and passion as Fiske and her peers. A lecture series and a catalogue will accompany this exhibition.

On view through September 30. Opening gala April 5.

Academy Gallery at Discover Portsmouth 10 Middle Street in Portsmouth • (603) 436-8433 portsmouthhistory.org

355 Kinsman Rd Franconia, NH

355 Kinsman Rd Franconia, NH 03580 leighbstarerllc.com 603•770•1630 starer@aol.com New Hampshire Home | 101

mark your calendar!

A pril 6

Presented by the Governor Wentworth Arts Council, the fourth annual fund-raiser presents visually stunning, creative tabletop displays by artists, business owners and the community. Proceeds help support the arts in the local schools and libraries.

10 a.m.–4 p.m. Admission is $5; children younger than age eight are admitted free of charge when accompanied by an adult.

Wolfeboro Inn Ballroom • Main Street in Wolfeboro • (603) 569-0078 • wolfeboroarts.org A pril 7

Chili Cook-Off

All professional chef chili entries are judged by members from the American Culinary Federation’s White Mountain Chapter, headed

by Bryant Alden, chef from the Wildcat Tavern in Jackson.

Awards are given for Best Chili with first, second and third places acknowledged.

Professional and non-professional chefs are also awarded People’s Choice Award for Best Chili, selected by all tasters who attend the tour. mtwashingtonvalley.org A pril 14

Earth Day Festival 2018: Bee Empowered

Celebrate with NH Audubon at its eleventh annual festival focusing on helping our native pollinators.

Watch a rehabilitated raptor be released back to the wild with Wings of the Dawn; see and touch a variety of live caterpillars; join naturalist-led nature walks; or learn how to monitor climate change by setting up a phenology plot in your own yard. There are also live animals, prize drawings, games, crafts, live music, food

by Roots Catering and marshmallow roasting. 10 a.m.–3 p.m.

Admission for families is $20; $7 for individuals.

Massabesic Audubon Center 26 Audubon Way in Auburn • (603) 668-2045 nhaudubon.org A pril 16

Steel Chef Challenge

This third annual event features a local chef competition hosted by acclaimed chef, food personality and Iron Chef Alex Guarnaschelli. The evening features food competition with New Hampshire chefs and fine dining. Proceeds benefit the New 102 | New Hampshire Home

Chef Alex Guarnaschelli hosts the Steel Chef Challenge in Manchester on April 16 to benefit the New Hampshire Food Bank.

Photography courtesy of foodnetwork.com

Tablescapes

Hampshire Food Bank. Tickets are $125; $200 for VIP tickets, which include a cocktail reception prior to the event as well as meet and greet with Chef Guarnaschelli and chef competitors.

Radisson Hotel • 700 Elm Street in Manchester (603) 669-9725, ext. 129 steelchef.nhfoodbank.org A pri l 20

Music on the Hill: Earth Day Concert for the Beauty of the Earth

The event features chamber music performed on period instruments, and benefits the Wilton Conservation Commission (which sponsors the Wilton sustainability fair). The program is expected to feature Concerto Grosso (op. no. 11) by G.F. Handel, Concerto for two violins (BWV 1043) by J.S. Bach, and Trio sonata in G (BWV 1038) by J.S. Bach. 7 p.m.

Suggested donation of $25.

Pine Hill Waldorf School • 77 Pine Hill Drive in Wilton • highmowing.org/concertseries A pri l 28 – 30

Art in Bloom

This rite of spring pairs fine art and floral design with offerings of free guided tours among MFA treasures, plus workshops, demonstrations and lectures. Garden clubs and professional designers from across New England create floral arrangements inspired by the MFA’s works of art. Guest speakers include award-winning British floral designer Joseph Massie.

Museum of Fine Arts • 465 Huntington Avenue in Boston, Massachusetts • (617) 267-9300 mfa.org

ongoing

Georgia O’Keeffe: Art, Image, Style

Georgia O’Keeffe’s understated and carefully designed garments, many never before exhibited, are presented alongside photographs and her paintings, illuminating O’Keeffe’s unified modernist aesthetic and distinctive self-styling. For more than seventy years, O’Keeffe shaped her public persona, defied labels and carved out a truly progressive,

independent life in order to create her art. Her aesthetic legacy—compact masses, organic silhouettes, minimal ornamentation and restrained color palettes—continues to capture the popular imagination and inspire leading designers and tastemakers of our day. On view through April 1.

The Peabody Essex Museum • East India Square (161 Essex Street) in Salem, Massachusetts (978) 745-9500 • pem.org

New Hampshire Maple Experience

Take a guided tour of a sugaring operation, including horse-drawn and tractor-drawn rides, tapping a maple tree with the group, tree identification, and the history of maple sugaring. Other activities include attending a chef demo about cooking with maple, touring the New Hampshire Maple Museum as well as sampling maple syrup, pickles and donuts. March 17, 24, 25, 31 and April 1 and 7.

The Rocks Estate in Bethlehem nhmapleexperience.com

Sculpture of Augustus Saint-Gaudens

Saint-Gaudens was the most important American sculptor of the late-nineteenth and early twentieth century, and his monuments have become an integral part of our country’s historic narrative.

The exhibition will present many of his large-scale masterpieces including Abraham Lincoln: The Man, the Adams Memorial and Diana. Saint-Gaudens was a New Hampshire artist for much of his life, maintaining a studio in Cornish. He was the founding artist of the Cornish Colony where he summered beginning in 1885, and lived there yearround from 1900 until his death in 1907. His home and studios are now managed by the National Park Service and this exhibition is a collaboration with the Augustus Saint-Gaudens National Historic Site.

On view through May 20.

The Currier Museum of Art • 150 Ash Street in Manchester • (603) 669-6144 • currier.org

Black and White Encore— A Fine Craft Exhibition

The League of New Hampshire Craftsmen challenged its juried members to create fine craft in black, white and shades in between, with a pop of color if desired. Visitors see a wide variety of handcrafted art, including wood folk art; fiber wall hangings; placemats; African ceremonial pieces; scenic photography; wearable art including hats, shawls, scarves, and jewelry; glass and clay vases and sculptures; mixed media art; and more. Most items are available for purchase. On view through March 28.

Exhibition Gallery • League of New Hampshire Craftsmen Headquarters • 49 South Main Street in Concord • (603) 224-3375 • nhcrafts.org

march/april 2018

Advertisers’ index 3W design, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Frank Webb Home. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Northcape Design. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Art 3 Gallery. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101

Fred E. Varney Company. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87

Not Just Kitchens. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91

Artistic Tile. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Hayward & Company. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97

Old Hampshire Designs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91

Bedford Fields. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89

Leigh B. Starer Landscape Design. . . . . . . . . 101

PRG Rugs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Belknap Landscape Co., Inc.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78

Liberty Hill Construction, LLC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Rockingham Electric. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1, 98

Linda Cloutier Kitchens & Baths. . . . . . . 41, 98

Runtal Radiators. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2, 98

Little River Oriental Rugs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Samyn-D'Elia Architects, PA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

Loewen Window Center of VT and NH. . . . . 35

Seasonal Specialty Stores. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

McGray & Nichols. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87

Sheldon Pennoyer Architects. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82

Merrimack County Savings Bank . . . . . . 45, 99

Soake Pools. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99

Millwork Masters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98

Southwick Construction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Murdough Design. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Standard of New England, LLC. . . . . . . . . . . . . 95

NanaWall Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Superior Tile. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

New England Expos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

The Carriage Shed. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6, 99

New Hampshire Home Builders Association. . .

The Music Hall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Dream Kitchens. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .101

TMS Architects. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Eport Wood Products. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95

New Hampshire Preservation Alliance. . . . 88

Triad Associates, Inc.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Ethan Allen Home Interiors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

New Hampshire Food Bank. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99

Vintage Kitchens. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Ferguson Plumbing Supplies. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

New Hampshire Furniture Masters.. . . . . . 89

Winchendon Furniture. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12,13, 98

Fiorentino Group Architects. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81

NHPBS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97

Wood & Clay, Inc.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76-77

Belletetes Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Bonin Architects & Associates. . . . . . . 9, 79, 98 Boston Interiors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Capital Well Clean Water Center. . . . . . . . . . 103 Cedar Crest Cabinetry. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Christopher P. Williams, Architects. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .80, inside back cover Crown Point Cabinetry . . . . . 74-75, back cover Cynthia Clark Interiors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96 db Landscaping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 DeStefano Architects. . . . . . inside front cover

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at home in new hampshire

Line Storm So you’ve survived February. Again. Spring waves its seduc-

carried away, though, because you remember Aunt Polly who

tive tendrils in the misty distance. Or is that a hallucination?

nearly died from pneumonia one almost-spring.

On your morning walk, you cut a twig from a sapling. You’ll

“It was my own fault,” Polly said. “I peeled down too soon.”

put it in water to see what kind of leaves sprout. Can pussy

This is what we must relearn each March or April or even, on occasion, early May. Just when spring seems so close

willows be far behind? Forsythia?

The dog sticks her nose

you can smell it, taste it,

in the air, sniffs, gets an idea

feel your blood thinning

in her pointy head and takes

and your dry winter skin

a powder to the neighbor’s.

sloughing away—just when

She does this once a year. You

spring seems so close you’re

tramp cross-country to fetch

tempted to peel down to

her back—ice, rotten snow

your skivvies and pack away

(deep in places), mud in the

the woolies—just at that

swales. Thanks, dog.

moment, Ma Nature says,

You apologize to the

“Not so fast,” and wallops

neighbor. “Spring fever,” you

you.

say. The neighbor doesn’t

Sometimes it’s two feet

mind. He may or may not be

of snow. Sometimes it’s

the same person who lived in

a wind-driven nor’easter.

that little house last year. Hard

Sometimes it’s sleet, hail

to keep track. They come, and

and lightning followed

they go. You learned, long

by a flood-making deluge.

ago, not to get attached. Also,

Sometimes—lawd help us—

getting too friendly with the

it’s ice bending trees and

neighbors is a bad idea. Next

power lines, which snap

thing you know, they’ll want

under the weight. Just when

to pop in for coffee or borrow

we thought we were home

your ladder.

free, we’re in a pickle. Pa Winter says, “Ha!”

The snow’s going. Banks shrinking. Sun shines hot for a couple of hours each after-

The line storm—most heartbreaking of all—marks the

noon. You chop ice floes into chunks and push them onto the

transition between seasons. Just when you think you can’t

warmed tar of the driveway. The ice turns to slush. You sweep

bear to shovel out the mailbox one more time, you find that

the slush away before it can freeze again at night.

you can. Just when you think one more lengthy power out-

Like the dog, you can smell the change in season.

Something fresh. Something wonderful!

You think about pulling the evergreens and insulating bags

age will break your spirit and kill your generator, it doesn’t.

The cellar floods every spring. This is normal. It’s why God invented sump pumps.

of leaves from around the foundation. You consider taking the

The line storm hits hard and when you are most vulner-

plastic off the leaky windows so you can throw those windows

able. Almost always, surprisingly, it’s a surprise. But afterward,

open and let in some new air.

you trust, spring will take hold. A line storm is bad, but it’s

You picture yourself stretched out on a lounge chair on the

also good.

hump of lawn that’s snow free and relatively dry. You imagine

Unless you miscalculated. Unless it turns out this wasn’t

the sun warming your hands and face, penetrating the winter

the line storm after all. Unless your optimism has tricked you

layers. You may even remove a layer or two. You won’t get

once again and the true storm is still to come.

NHH

By Rebecca Rule | Illustration by Carolyn Vibbert 104 | New Hampshire Home

march/april 2018

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