· Trusted Personalized Care: Exceptional dental care tailored to each child’s needs.
· Care for All Ages: Services for children of all ages, including infant new patient exams.
· Handpicked, Friendly Staff: A skilled and compassionate team
· Easy Scheduling: Convenient weekend hours for busy families.
· Latest Technology: Utilizes state-of-the-art technology for exceptional care.
· Preventive Focus: Emphasis on prevention to promote long-term oral health.
· Trusted by Families: A practice favored by local families and led by a local mom.
Dr. Meeta Grewal is a board-certified Pediatric Dentist and the Director of the NYU Langone Pediatric Dentistry Residency Program. Known for her compassionate and child-centered approach to dental care, she specializes in addressing the unique dental needs of children, from infancy to adolescence. She emphasizes preventive dentistry, educating both parents and children on maintaining healthy smiles. Staying up to date with the latest advancements in her field. As a local mom and leader in dental education, she is deeply committed to both her practice and the community.
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“We couldn’t have been more pleased working with Debbie and her team. Debbie has a wealth of experience (we actually worked with her 23 years ago when we bought the home she just helped us sell!) and thus knows the market dynamics, pricing strategies, timing, etc. for a successful sale.” ~ Elyse B.
JUST MINUTES FROM THE SHORT HILLS TRAIN STATION
Three
Interior
Interior Designer Yana Schafer (with, from left,
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Smitten With Spring
I’m excited to present our latest issue, which, as always, is filled with local stories covering the many gems that make up our amazing town and community. We are so thrilled to feature our cover story about local Short Hills interior designer Yana Schafer. In addition to sharing her honed design acumen and journey renovating her midcentury modern home, we asked her to share some inspiration to level up our outdoor spaces as we get ready for the new season. We love the local resources she spotlights—some of them new to town, like the must-visit Backyard Living showroom.
We “go to town” on favorite spots as seen through the eyes of several residents on Upper Millburn Avenue, which is fast becoming a reimagined section of downtown. Thank you to our friends included in this article for sharing their faves. And, as mentioned in this issue,
Upper Millburn Avenue is going to be presenting its first block party in July with the help of Explore Millburn-Short Hills. Can’t wait!
As we get ready to enjoy the outdoors with the warmer weather upon us, we had a lot of fun featuring the Millburn and Short Hills natives behind the brand Playhrd. Their new athletic line is designed with the perfect pairing of functionality and style ideal for the sporty season ahead. It was also heartwarming to learn that playing sports at Millburn High School planted seeds for this exciting venture. We wish them a ton of success.
I’d like to share a shout-out to Julia Maloof Verderosa working out of the Lisa Rayman Goldfarb photo studio for helping me with a new Publisher’s Note photo. The studio now boasts four talented photographers in the most convenient, well-appointed studio right here in town.
We hope you enjoy this issue, which aspires to make us feel a little more connected. We could not do it without your outreach and input. Thank you again to our new editor, Eve Golden, whose gifts keep this little publication humming with local relevance.
Reach out to us at marylima@ millburnandshorthills.com or editor@millburnandshorthills.com.
Warmly,
Mary Lima Publisher
Millburn & Short Hills
MAGAZINE
Publisher
Mary Lima
Editor and Lead Writer
Eve Golden
Writers
Eve Golden
Steve Grillo
Photographers
Melissa Spector
Julia Maloof Verderosa
WAINSCOT MEDIA
Chairman Carroll V. Dowden
President and CEO
Mark Dowden
VP, Group Publisher, Regional
Thomas Flannery
VP, Content Strategy
Maria Regan
Creative Director
Kijoo Kim
Art Director
Rosemary O›Connell
Associate Editor
Sophia Carlisle
Advertising Services Director
Jacquelynn Fischer
Operations Director
Catherine Rosario
Production Designer
Chris Ferrante
Print Production Manager
Fern Meshulam
Advertising Production Associate
Griff Dowden
Millburn & Short Hills magazine is published by Wainscot Media. Serving residents of Millburn and Short Hills, the magazine is distributed monthly via U.S. mail. Articles and advertisements contained herein do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher.
Copyright 2025 by Wainscot Media LLC. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent.
PHOTOGRAPH
BY JULIA MALOOF VERDEROSA
AROUND TOWN
Spring Into April Events
BY STEVE GRILLO, Explore Millburn-Short Hills
The start of the new season brings a host of fun and exciting downtown events.
APRIL FLOWERS ARE beginning to bloom in Millburn, signaling the arrival of exciting events and the perfect time to explore the Township’s beautiful natural spaces. Looking for a refreshing afternoon walk in the spring air? Head to Downtown Millburn and enjoy the loop at historic Taylor Park or visit South Mountain Reservation to discover various trails. The Township also boasts two amazing natural hideaways: Greenwood Gardens and the Cora Hartshorn Arboretum. A savvy shopper can make a day of it by visiting these outdoor spaces then exploring our five shopping districts to grab lunch, shop and support our local business community.
EXPLORE
MILLBURN-SHORT HILLS’ GIRLS NIGHT OUT
Mark your calendars! Girls Night Out—a Millburn favorite—is back! Join over 50 businesses hosting special events, promotions, meal deals, giveaways and more. This can’t-miss spring event in Essex County is set for June 5 in Downtown Millburn. Follow Explore Millburn-Short Hills on Instagram for up-to-date information!
GREENWOOD GARDENS
Opening Day for the 2025 season is May 2, coinciding with National Public Gardens Day. The public is invited to leisurely explore this historic property—voted “Prettiest Garden in New Jersey” by New Jersey Family magazine—and marvel at the early spring blossoms. Relax on a comfortable bench by the fountains and take a stroll down the farm allée to watch the resident geese frolic on the ponds.
MILLBURN FREE PUBLIC LIBRARY
Attention history and suspense lovers! The Millburn Public Library has two intriguing discussions planned for April 24. The first, “The Lizzie Borden Case,” is a one-hour deep dive into the famous 19th-century double homicide, led by historian and author Christopher Daley, who will conclude with an audience “Whodunit?” The second discussion features New York Times bestselling author Gregg Hurwitz, who will engage in a riveting conversation about his “Orphan X” series and his experiences as a suspense writer.
DOWN THE BLOCK
Down the Block is a nonprofit organization created by concerned Millburn-Short Hills residents who aim to assist neighbors facing financial struggles. Since its inception in 2009, it has donated hundreds of thousands of dollars to cover expenses for those in need. Down the Block is the only organization that can step in to pay bills for Millburn Township residents experiencing temporary, unforeseen financial hardship. If you are interested in donating and supporting, visit them online at downtheblock.org.
PAPER MILL PLAYHOUSE
Disney’s classic “The Little Mermaid” is coming to Paper Mill! This enchanting tale, filled with love and adventure, features beloved songs like “Part of Your World,” “Kiss the Girl,” and the Academy Award–winning “Under the Sea,” along with a colorful cast of characters. The show runs from May 29 to June 29, so be sure to shop and dine in downtown Millburn before and after the performances!
ABOUT EXPLORE MILLBURNSHORT HILLS
Explore Millburn-Short Hills is the 501(c)3 nonprofit organization established to support and promote the businesses throughout the five areas of the Special Improvement District that was established in 2020. Explore organizes numerous events, musical performances, educational programs and networking events. The organization is also responsible for various public art and streetscaping projects in the town including the Millburn Art Alley and Town Hall Plaza.
WANT TO GET INVOLVED WITH EXPLORE?
Explore is a volunteer driven organization. We have a ninemember board appointed by the Township Committee, a 15-member Advisory Committee and numerous volunteer positions for events. For more information, contact Steve Grillo at steve@ exploremillburnshorthills.org.
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Q & a
Playhrd or Go Home
Short Hills’ Ryan Koplitz and Millburn’s Hudson Paris, fresh out of academia and armed with a vision, are blending style with laid-back functionality to create Playhrd.
BY EVE GOLDEN
A brand as dynamic as its generation, Playhrd is equal parts gym-ready and Instagram-worthy. Founders
Ryan Koplitz and Hudson Paris aren’t just playing the game; they’re changing it.
What inspired the creation of Playhrd?
Ryan: The idea began the summer before our junior year of college. We struggled to find the right pieces to wear for lifting, gearing up for football practice or going to the beach. After attempting to cut an old shirt into a casual tank and ripping the fabric, we recognized a market gap. We polled friends, family and peers to validate the need for a better-designed, comfortable alternative. The positive feedback confirmed the niche. Over the next year, we developed a business plan, sourced samples from international manufacturers and refined our design until we landed on the “perfect chop”—a balanced blend of comfort, fit and style.
Are you addressing a specific need in the athletic market?
Ryan: We grew up playing sports and being active, and we felt our core product, the chopped shirt, perfectly embodies these experiences. It serves the athletic market while being a beacon of comfort and versatility. We always wanted to look stylish while staying comfortable during football games. In fact, we wore these chopped shirts long before realizing the great business potential behind them. The Playhrd chopped shirt is best described as free-flowing, with perfectly chopped sides and expertly stitched to perfection. It allows for breathability while maintaining a stylish and athletic fit suitable for any activity—or just lounging comfortably. Designed to be sweat-wicking and comfortable, it avoids the irritation that traditional inexpensive cotton shirts can cause.
How do you see the business evolving in the future?
Hudson: Playhrd combines the best ideals from brands like Life is Good and Birddogs, blending style, comfort and functionality. We love the humor and content they create. Not only do we admire them, but our closets are filled with their gear. Utilizing these brands as a springboard, we’re excited to grow by introducing our cutoff shirts into athletic organizations, independent retailers and eventually national stores. We also plan to expand with more pop-up shops, brand collaborations and conversations about the technical aspects of our
INTERVIEW WITH RYAN KOPLITZ AND HUDSON PARIS
garments, focusing on both fabric and silhouette functionality. Today, our longterm vision is to reimagine the everyday tank top, replacing outdated designs with Playhrd’s modern twist. We aim to grow into a lifestyle brand rooted in effortless versatility, proving that practicality and style don’t have to be mutually exclusive.
Could you share your fitness routines and how you stay active?
Ryan: I make it a point to stretch every morning and often spend some mornings swimming laps. After work, if time allows, I try to fit in a quick lift. I focus on balancing all aspects of my health and body, much like the work-life balance that Playhrd promotes.
Hudson: I aim to walk every day and stay active. I try to lift three times a week,
and you’ll never catch me without a Playhrd piece on. Even on days when I’m not active, I keep my Playhrd gear on all day.
What unique strengths do you bring to the brand?
Ryan: Both Hudson and I enjoy playing devil’s advocate, which helps us see multiple perspectives even though we think similarly. We have a blend of creativity and a business-driven focus on the future. I graduated with a major in supply chain and logistics and have worked for Macy’s and UPS. This background allows me to integrate these disciplines into apparel design and manufacturing, fostering the growth of Playhrd.
How do you define your personal everyday style?
Ryan: I always emphasize comfort in my daily work style as well as in my leisure and going-out attire. I still aim to look presentable and put-together wherever I am, and Playhrd helps me achieve that. Whether I’m at a party, the gym, the beach or just lounging, Playhrd fits the bill. Fun fact: Ryan and I wore a chopped shirt to every football game years before we came up with the idea for Playhrd.
How do you divide time between your day jobs and your expanding brand?
Ryan: It’s definitely a grind. We work all day, then come home to jump on calls and organize events and collaborations. If it weren’t something we enjoyed and believed in, it would be much harder—but luckily, it is!
Opposite page: Ryan Koplitz (left) and Hudson Paris (right) at the Playhrd popup event at Millburn Pure Barre. This page, clockwise from top left: Koplitz and Paris at summer football practice. A photo shoot with Syracuse University students for the Playhrd chopped shirt release. A Millburn High School flag football event sponsored by Playhrd.
Tee forTwo
Jimmy Vukanovich, the visionary behind the cutting-edge Millburn Indoor Golf Club, and Ysabel Liu, Millburn High School’s rising golf prodigy, are driving the game forward one swing at a time.
BY EVE GOLDEN
Building a Golfer’s Paradise Jimmy Vukanovich always envisioned creating a haven for golfers that combined next gen technology with a welcoming atmosphere.
To get there, the road to establish the Millburn Indoor Golf Club was no small feat. “Finding the right real estate was the biggest challenge,” he explains. “Working closely with Explore Millburn and assembling a strong team was crucial to ensure we passed approvals.” Positioned perfectly,
Millburn was the ideal location for this state-of-the-art facility. “It felt like the perfect spot to serve avid golfers in the area,” Jimmy adds.
The club’s structure is unique—open to all, predominantly used by members. “From 7 to 85, our members are all here to improve,” Jimmy notes. His inspiration to create this community came during the pandemic, and he was determined to offer a space with the best mats, balls and overall experience. “I wasn’t used to shutting down my
game for months. The other indoor options were lacking, so I built what was missing.”
The facility’s clever design avoids stacking bays too closely, ensuring privacy and an enhanced experience. “Technology is everything to me,” he emphasizes. With TrackMan iO and TrackMan 4, the club provides topnotch tools for golfers to get better indoors. “I wanted to make sure we could accommodate TrackMan’s largest bays,” he says.
“My biggest inspiration is the golfer I will be in five years. Every day, I strive to become that player, and the progress I make toward my goals excites me.” -Ysabel Liu
Teeing Up a New Era
On the other side of town, New Jersey state golf champion Ysabel Liu is making waves in the competition scene. A junior at Millburn High School, Ysabel’s love for golf began during weekends with her dad at the driving range. “I showed interest, and he signed me up for summer camps,” she recalls. By 9 years old, she was competing in her first tournament. “I fell in love with the game and competition,” Ysabel says. Her family’s unwavering support has been instrumental, adapting their lives to foster her talent through the ups and downs of training and competing.
“I believe golf brings a special closeness that doesn’t quite occur
in other relationships,” Ysabel says. At school, Ysabel is part of more than just the girls’ golf team, “Both the girls and boys golf teams at Millburn High School are playful and supportive,” she continues. “We find joy in every setting together, whether it’s in school, on the course or on the bus.”
Ysabel’s aspirations are big— she dreams of leaving her mark in tournaments like the US Women’s Open. “To prepare, I study the course, practice potential shots and ensure I’m well-rested,” Ysabel shares. “On tournament day, I remind myself I’ve done everything I need. At that point, I can simply enjoy playing the sport I love.”
The Lady Liberty Cup Ysabel is the co-founder of The Lady Liberty Cup, a Ryder Cup-style golf event at Liberty National Golf Club. Twelve nationally ranked girls from New York and New Jersey compete, raising funds for Minds Matter New York City. Since 2022, the event has raised over $100,000 to support talented students from under-resourced communities.
Below: Ysabel and her dad share a special moment on the course as he caddies for her at the US Kids World Championship Van Horn Cup. Bottom: Ysabel took second place at the American Junior Golf Association K.J. Choi Foundation Junior Championship. Photographs courtesy of Ysabel Liu.
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The Indoor Edge
Recently, we caught up with Ysabel fine-tuning her technique at the Millburn Indoor Golf Club, reflecting its contribution to local talent.
Her practice sessions start with stretches, followed by pitch shots to hone distance control. She works through her entire bag, from wedges to drivers.
“Golf is about building resilience and having a positive mindset,” she reflects, echoing her coach’s advice to stay patient and trust her game plan.
“I go to a club fitter once a year,” she says, “and we use TrackMan to see which model clubhead and
shaft suit me best.” Her routine involves meticulous preparation, balancing training with academics and a thriving social life.
“ Time management is vital,” Ysabel emphasizes. “I lay everything out on a calendar and set priorities.”
Despite the challenges, she remains focused while maintaining a positive mindset.
“Golf is not a game of perfection,” she admits. “I’m still trying to overcome this challenge, reminding myself to work with what I have.”
A Perfect Match
Jimmy and Ysabel represent both the evolution of golf today and the
future of the game. Though their paths are unique, they’re linked by their ambition for excellence.
“Seeing improvement is what motivates me and drives every decision I make,” Jimmy shares.
Ysabel’s dream of playing in tournaments like the Augusta National Women’s Amateur is fueled by a deep love for the game.
“It’s important to enjoy the game and the journey,” she says, reflecting on her aspirations.
From local greens to national tournaments, the duo continues to push boundaries, shaping their own legacies and redefining what’s possible for the next generation of golfers.
Millburn Indoor Golf Club Game-Changing Features State-of-the-Art Technology: Their facility exclusively features both TrackMan iO and TrackMan 4 systems, offering an unparalleled technological edge.
golf balls.
Swinging Her Way to the Spotlight
• Low Amateur at the US Women’s Open Qualifier
• Three-time Top 3 finishes at The American Junior Golf Association events
New Jersey State Champion
• US Girls’ Championship NJ Qualifier Low Medalist
Photograph by Melissa Spector.
Photograph courtesy of Jimmy Vukanovich.
The Local Edit
Three residents highlight their go-to establishments among the treasures on Upper Millburn Avenue.
Millburn’s bustling downtown is often full of visitors, but some people don’t realize the hidden gems that line Upper Millburn Avenue. Millburn & Short Hills magazine decided to ask three locals what their favorite businesses are in this Short Hills neighborhood.
Here’s what they had to say:
ARLENE GONNELLA
Arlene Gonnella is a premier agent with Weichert Realtors in Short Hills and lives in town. Her five children attended Millburn Township schools, and her son and his family also live in town.
To help capture and display all the happy moments with her large family, she relies on Millburn Camera (506 Millburn Ave.). “I think the world of Carl [Mink] at Millburn Camera Shop,” she says. “I have trusted him forever. He is a true pro, gives the best advice and has a great selection of frames. He even makes real-estate posters for me.”
Whether for work or pleasure, Gonnella’s go-to shop for fashion on
Upper Millburn Avenue is Uffizi (529 Millburn Ave.). “Susan [Chayon] at Uffizi is an icon,” Gonnella says. “She always has the most beautiful dresses for special occasions and trips that you want to go all out for.”
To polish off her look, Gonnella regularly heads to Klee Nail (506 Millburn Ave.), where she feels pampered by the spa atmosphere. She also loves to indulge in beauty treatments at Salon Society (525 Millburn Ave.), where the staff is both talented and welcoming.
When she’s on the go, Gonnella often visits Taste Buddy (515 A Millburn Ave.) for a gluten-free and guilt-free vegan muffin. When she has more time to eat, she enjoys the seafood and laid-back vibe at Jack’s Surf & Turf (504 Millburn Ave.). “Tiger Schulmann’s is on my to-do list for 2025,” she says.
ALLISON DI STAULO
Allison Di Staulo is the co-owner of Charmed, the jewelry store located inside Footnotes. She also is a new neighborhood resident. Her go-to nail shop is Short Hills Nail Plaza (545 Millburn Ave., #1) due to its location next to The Metropolitan, where she lives. “They are all so sweet and methodical there,” she says. “The salon rivals the ones I have formerly patronized, and it could not be more convenient.”
After spending a day on her feet at her store, Di Staulo looks forward to a soothing treatment at KC Foot Spa (518 Millburn Ave., #5). “Again, convenience is paramount,” she says. “Not all towns have their very own dedicated foot spa.”
When it comes to dining out, Di Staulo is thankful for the array of tempting food options along Millburn Avenue. “You can’t go wrong with a lobster roll from Jack’s Surf & Turf,” she says. “I know I will be back when the weather gets a little warmer. I would love to see more eateries come onto the strip.” Di Staulo also enjoys the bowls at Taste Buddy, which she finds fresh and interesting. When she’s looking for something more indulgent, she has a sweet spot for the restaurant’s gluten-free brownie.
To keep herself looking sharp, Di Staulo heads to Monterey Cleaners (569 Millburn Ave.) for her drycleaning needs. “The small businesses in the neighborhood are so convenient and just make life a little easier,” she says.
CHRISTINE LASSITER
Christine Lassiter is a sales associate with the Debbie Rybka Howard Team at Coldwell Banker Realty in Short Hills. When her clients ask for home design recommendations, the Millburn resident often suggests Stone and Tile Design (519 Millburn Ave.), not just for the quality of the tile, but for the owner’s design talent and welcome customer service.
Whether to relax after a long day of showing homes or to get her energy flowing, Lassiter looks forward to treatments at KC Foot Spa, especially a rejuvenating 30-minute foot massage. The relaxing experience combined with the staff’s top customer service keeps her going back. She also looks forward to a little pampering at Klee Nail. “I frequent the friendly group at Klee Nail for a calming session that includes a manicure and pedicure,” she says. “Their chair massage is the icing on the cake.”
NEW AND NOTEWORTHY
Experience the ultimate rejuvenation and wellness with SWTHZ, a cuttingedge contrast therapy studio focused on intentional exposure to heat and cold. Clients can indulge in up to 60 minutes of relaxation in a luxurious private suite, complete with an infrared sauna, cold plunge and vitamin C shower. (92 Millburn Ave.)
Bridge Showroom brings its curated selection of European designers to Short Hills with the opening of its first retail location. The womenswear boutique features established and emerging brands like Maison Hotel (Spain) and Bruuns Bazaar (Denmark), offering a unique perspective on contemporary style. (507 Millburn Ave.)
A Home That Breathes
Interior designer Yana Schafer of Short Hills blends nostalgia, innovation and lived-in luxury to transform exteriors into stunning open-air living spaces.
BY EVE GOLDEN
Inspired Living
In contemporary design, the boundaries between curated interiors and nature’s spontaneity continue to blur, creating a harmonious living experience that transcends seasons. Yana Schafer’s work is a master class in this delicate balance, showcasing her expertise in thoughtfully customdesigned outdoor spaces that have
garnered international acclaim. With an architectural background and a keen eye for detail, Schafer merges functionality with timeless aesthetics, making her a sought-after name among clients from Miami to Manhattan and beyond.
Schafer, a Pratt Institute graduate with a bachelor’s degree in architecture, began her career in New York City, specializing in luxury retail
interiors. This experience nurtured her appreciation for custom millwork and meticulous detailing—skills that she has successfully applied in her award-winning firm, Malyev Schafer Interior Design Studio.
“Designing people’s homes allows me to get to know their quirks and nonnegotiables, as well as see them go out on a limb and surprise themselves with bold choices,” Schafer shares.
A Modern Oasis
In April 2020, Schafer, her husband, David, and their three children—Ivan, 13, Peter, 9, and Anya, 5—relocated from Jersey City to Short Hills. Their new residence, a striking midcentury home rich in character but in need of restoration, provided Schafer with an exciting canvas to reimagine the outdoor spaces.
“When we first arrived, the exterior was a dated reddish-brown,” Schafer explains. “We immediately updated it to the bolder Tricorn Black by Sherwin Williams—I love its contrast against the original oak entry door and the natural rubble stone that flanks it.”
Schafer’s renovation went far beyond superficial updates. “Both the upper dining deck, which connects to the main indoor living spaces, and the lower pool deck had to be replaced entirely,” she notes. A failing master bedroom balcony was transformed into an elegant, extended walkout terrace, serving as both a stylish feature and protection for the chic poolside lounge below.
Schafer prioritized preserving iconic midcentury elements, such as the home’s original spiral staircase, which she redesigned to honor the architect’s original vision. “It was important to us to maintain the midcentury spirit of the home and its landscaping, so
we were careful to source the same stone in replacing paving,” she says. “We also intended to preserve the original Lightolier glass globe wall lights at the main entry.”
Seamless Sanctuary
A cornerstone of Schafer’s philosophy is the seamless integration of indoor and outdoor spaces. Inspired by the home’s striking central glass atrium—featuring an enveloped live growing tree at the heart of the floorplan— Schafer reimagined this indoor-outdoor connection by designing exterior areas as distinct rooms.
This architectural choice enhances the sense of bringing the outside in. “To reinforce this blurring between interior and exterior, I visualized the outdoor spaces as rooms with distinctive functions: living, lounging and dining,” Schafer says. The outcome is a cohesive, inviting layout that encourages effortless movement between environments.
Schafer’s enthusiasm for outdoor design shines through in her observations about evolving trends. “Life during the pandemic sparked an uptick in outdoor entertainment, and we continue to see elaborate exterior chef’s kitchens and layered outdoor living rooms,” she shares. “Accent tables, bar carts and consoles are adorned with decorative lighting, akin to indoor setups. I advise
against purchasing fully matching sets, encouraging a more collected aesthetic. Occasional tables provide a great opportunity to mix styles and finishes.”
Within the modern aesthetic of her family’s backyard design, Schafer skillfully balances beauty with functionality, selecting elements that endure through the changing seasons.
“I’ve enjoyed watching recent trends for sculptural furnishings of the ’70s and ’80s translate into outdoor spaces,” she notes. “Soft, curved upholstery in warmer cream, brown, sand and amber tones pairs beautifully with monolithic accent tables featuring midcentury finishes like travertine and ceramic. This approach preserves authenticity in furnishing a midcentury home while infusing warmth and eclectic charm into new architecture.”
To maintain visual cohesion in the dining, seating and poolside lounge areas, Schafer chooses outdoor dining chairs with the same care as she would for interiors, focusing on comfort and style. The ideal chair serves as additional seating in the outdoor living room, complementing the outdoor sofas and armchairs without being overly matched. “I seek timeless aesthetics and easy-to-maintain materials, such as all-weather wicker chairs paired with a warm oiled teak dining table,” Schafer says.
REFRESH AND RETREAT
The pool is concealed by a cloak of trees and wrapped in Crab Orchard stone paving, evoking a serene midcentury lagoon and inspiring the clean lines and rich colors of the pool bathroom. The custom oak vanity features a retractable step stool base, with Rocky Mountain Hardware Brut pulls in a bronze rust finish and ribbed texture, complementing the handmade indigo ceramic wall tile. The bathroom is fitted with Lilac marble floors and countertop, unlacquered fixtures by Newport Brass and blue ceramic towel hooks by Virginia Sin.
OPEN-AIR OASIS: SCHAFER’S FIVE PICKS FOR A CHIC OUTDOOR RETREAT
1. Sofa to sunset: I love the Cape Town Modular Sectional Collection from RH for its floating plinth base design and amazing functional details. Sectionals lend flexibility to space planning, leaving room to expand and reconfigure seating arrangements in the future. The extra deep arm rest doubles as a drinks table, and the individual cushion sections allow for easier cover maintenance—my personal favorite is the bronze finish. Arguably, its best feature is the extra roomy L-daybed configuration, which reminds me of decadent and slouchy sun beds in Mediterranean beach clubs; www.rh.com.
2. Modern lightscaping: The Heatsail Outdoor Freestanding Dome Lamp is Arhaus’ clever alternative to the basic industrial heat lamp. Its streamlined design and substantial scale make a dramatic statement, alongside the added functionality of remotecontrolled lighting and infrared heat technology; www.arhaus.com.
3. Walls optional: The Arhaus cream-colored marble Cruz Outdoor Coffee Table is a shapely ’80s-inspired conversation piece, which can be used both inside and out; www.arhaus.com.
4. Floor to sky: The generous and inviting design of the all-weather wicker Amelia Hanging Daybed by Kingsley Bate, represented at the new Backyard Living Short Hills showroom location, offers ample space to seat multiple family members. This solution is more practical than the popular eggshaped hanging chair, which I find doesn’t always make for a very comfortable seat; www.bylnj.com.
5. Verdant vibes: Anthropologie carries a good selection of outdoor decor and accessories. The Mountain Stone Urn and Handkerchief Iron Bowl Planter are examples of centerpieces I would incorporate in styling accent tables, which could easily move indoors for the winter; www.anthropologie.com.
Alfresco Luxe
One of the notable advancements in outdoor design is the evolution of fabric technology. Brands like Perennials, InsideOut and Sunbrella have transformed the industry with solution-dyed acrylic fabrics, allowing for upholstered pieces that withstand the elements while maintaining style and comfort. “For summer 2025, we will see continued appreciation for vintage textures such as roping and rattan,” Schafer adds.
Additionally, she highlights the shift from rigid patio frames to fully upholstered pieces, elevating outdoor spaces into luxurious retreats. Whenever feasible, she advocates for covered seating to enhance comfort and convenience. “In our backyard, this feature alleviates the need for cushion covers and allows me to incorporate indoor pieces into the layout,” Schafer explains. “For instance, I repurposed an antique Indonesian bench as a low serving table for the sofa and armchairs.”
Schafer’s design philosophy emphasizes the selection of captivating focal points. In autumn, she reconfigures furniture around a Solo Stove fire pit, transforming the area into a cozy gathering spot perfect for roasting marshmallows and enjoying crisp evenings.
“I love oversized sculptural pieces with intricate textures, like arabescatto marbles or terrazzo, which create ample opportunities for functional entertainment and decorative tablescapes,” Schafer says. “These elements become natural gathering points, beautifully marrying form and function.”
The most successful outdoor design achieves aesthetic continuity between indoor and outdoor spaces, where every detail is intentional and versatile. Schafer’s architectural and design expertise elevates outdoor living, seamlessly extending the home, reflecting personal style and enriching everyday living, inviting you to linger outside just a little longer.
Oui Paris
At Café Monet, every dish is a masterpiece waiting to be savored. In the heart of Millburn, they blend artistry and authentic French flavor, creating a palette of culinary delights served with joie de vivre in every indulgent bite.
BY EVE GOLDEN
Haute Cuisine
For two decades, Wes Sawi has established Café Monet as a quintessential French bistro, bringing a taste of France to downtown Millburn. When he opened its doors, he aimed to create a space for globetrotting locals—where they could enjoy hearty, authentic bistro fare. “I believed the people in Millburn and Short Hills had sophisticated palates and were open to diverse flavors,” he shares. He envisioned a haven for those craving the honest, rich, yet refined tastes of classic French cuisine. Today, Café Monet reflects
that vision, standing as a cherished locale where time slows down. The cozy, casual ambiance transports guests to a Parisian bistro, complete with the sounds of French radio amidst the friendly buzz.
Bon Appetit
Café Monet’s menu is a tribute to French comfort, thoughtfully blending tradition with care. Signature dishes like Coq au Vin and Boeuf Bourguignon, made with freerange poultry and grass-fed beef, remain enduring favorites. “The staff truly enjoys our customers and takes pride in presenting
quality food,” Sawi says. The atmosphere is so vibrant that you might feel as if you’ve stepped into a French café, sipping a café au lait and savoring an apple tart Tatin.
Creativity shines with offerings like escargot topped with flaky puff pastry—a dish so loved by regulars that it’s often requested off-menu. Each August, the menu transforms into a celebration of Provencal flavors, highlighting sun-ripened produce. Pastries are a standout feature at Café Monet, crafted in-house to guarantee top-notch quality. “It’s important to understand every aspect of your
ingredients and their production,” Sawi explains.
Adaptation at Café Monet has been subtle but essential. While Sawi remains committed to bistro traditions—choosing “flavorful, thoughtfully plated” dishes— he also embraces modern preferences and regional inspirations. The Alsatian paté shares the menu with Marseille’s bouillabaisse, reflecting Sawi’s culinary journeys. “The menu is shaped by my travels and the foods I’ve experienced,” he says. This diverse influence guarantees a rich and varied dining experience for guests.
French Connection
The café is celebrated for its special events, attracting diners eager to embrace French culture. Bastille Day on July 14th features a special menu that embodies the spirit of France’s national holiday. In November, the arrival of Beaujolais Nouveau brings excitement, complemented by a carefully curated menu that honors the new wine. “It’s about celebrating the lazy days of summer in Provence,” Sawi explains, during the August transformation that showcases seasonal fruits and vegetables.
The greatest reward isn’t accolades but
the hum of satisfied guest chatter. When French patrons say it feels like home, or tables trade travel stories over crème brulée—that’s everything. Sawi’s favorite dessert, featuring the choux pastry used in chocolate profiteroles and Croquembouche, epitomizes his philosophy: subtle, elegant and full of surprise. As Café Monet enters its third decade, Sawi’s mission endures: to be a bridge between Millburn and Marseille, one buttery pastry, one shared story at a time. After all, life happens—with good wine, better company and fries that taste like Paris.
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From Farm to Fetch
BY EVE GOLDEN
The art of baking, it turns out, is universal—even our furry friends deserve a Michelin-star moment. This ethos drives Nastassja Ocasio, founder of Betty Cakes Barkery Bites, who began her culinary career at the Institute of Culinary Education in New York City before refining her craft at renowned institutions like Carlo’s Bakery
and Magnolia Bakery. Trading skyscrapers for the quieter charm of Millburn, she carved out a space where pastry meets purpose. A decade spent mastering macarons and sculpting cakes led her to launch her own in-house venture, but it was her love for four-legged companions that sparked a pivot in 2021: small-batch,
all-natural dog treats crafted with the same rigor as her human desserts. Betty Cakes bridges the gap between gourmet and tailwagging joy—think banana bread that pups will devour and “woofles” that blur the line between pet and pastry chef. Since we are intentional about what we eat, shouldn’t our pawesome sous chefs enjoy the same?
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