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Tom Scheerer. His new book is not to be missed.
Monday, September 2, 2013We are waiting with great excitement for the new Tom Scheerer book to come out. Some know him for his divine colors, wall paper choices and mix of antiques with modern living. A few have been wrapped in his vision down at Lyford Cay. And, if you are someone who is not familiar with his design and style, this book will take you away to a place even Calgon couldn’t. It’s coming September 10. Check it out. It’s stunning.
Due out on September 10. A Vendome Press publication. You can pre-order now.
Some of Tom’s rooms we love
A favorite entrance hall. Fabulous choice of wall paper. Makes me want to go back and start over. (Photo by Christopher Baker)
Perfect hide away at home. (Photo by Francesco Langnese)
We all know that gone are the days of a formal dining room for most households. What a gorgeous way to make the more casual lifestyle of today chic and cool. (Photo by Matthew Hranek)
Barrett Book Store has ordered about six copies. Call and reserve yours!
Gardens and Pools to Love!
Monday, August 19, 2013On the market right now, in all price ranges, there are houses with pools and gardens (or just gardens) that are fantastic. If a garden , and or a pool, is a priority in your house hunting, there are some fabulous options. This is the perfect time of year to see what these houses have to offer. We happen to LOVE a few in particular.
9 Appletree Lane
Bones Bones Bones! 9 Appletree is a house that you wait for to hit the market. And on such a charming street. This one is a MUST SEE!
We had heard last Spring it was coming on the market. Its the kind of house we would love to put our RID stamp on. Fabulous gardens, filled with fruit trees and spots for beautiful flower beds. I see wisteria growing somewhere here. This house calls for a “field trip” up to Marvin Gardens and Stamford Antique Center. And, I say we get go all out and call in Renny Reynolds to consult on the gardening (everyone should know about Hortulus Farm Garden & Nursery even if they don’t ask Renny for a consultation). This house is a true “diamond in the rough”; not only will you end up with a polished stone, you might even get lucky with a “minors cut” – something not everyone has! Asking $1,650,000 through William Raveis/Darien.
Blossoms and wonderful summer lunches under the trees. I am dreaming about a table and chairs from Grange. Check out the Marie Galante collection!
From Grange. Imagine this under the trees in the garden here! Fabulous! Grange is available through Grange Furniture, Inc. in New York City.
Originally Built in 1845, this gem was moved to Appletree Lane in 1922.
19 Lakeside Avenue
This is a totally “green” and custom (re)built home in the center of Darien. It is promoted as a Winner of the CT Green Council’s 2012 Residential Green Building Award, and one of the few LEED Platinum homes in the area, but what you are also getting is a charming 5 bedroom/3 bath house, fitted with fabulous Waterworks baths, a gorgeous kitchen and the best garden on the street! The borders and gardens are wonderful in the front and the back of the house. This could be the perfect in town living option for you. It’s a winner! Asking $1,869,000. Offered through Kelly Associates.
Perfect little “in town” option. It’s totally move-in ready. I am not kidding when I say “just bring your tooth brush”.
A “secret garden” right in the center of town! What a beautiful border. A ‘no fuss’ garden to enjoy in the Summer is something we are always striving for!
LOVE this border in the front of the house!! Great idea for a space you won’t be using much.
3 Nolen Lane
It continues to be a favorite, and when I showed it last week to a customer it did not dissapoint. A true candidate for fabulousness! The pool is really good. Really, really good. I would add some pool chairs from BrownJordan on the far end, but the possibilities for gorgeous garden accents are endless here. More importantly there stand amazing mature trees – some could be 75 years old, a lush green lawn spreads itself all around the house, and there are fantastic perennial shrubs everywhere! The pool and gardens are nicely seperated so you are not always “by the pool”, which makes this place perfect for all outdoor garden festivities and quiet afternoon reads. (Check out our previous blog for more thoughts on this house). Asking $2,925,000. Offered through Kelly Associates.
Just imagine yourBrownJordan pool lounge chairs lined up at the bottom of this pool. There are some fabulous lines to choose from Seasons Too, right here in Darien. They have an extensive collection of many top of the line outdoor furniture companies but they are particularly good for BrownJordan . This will be a dreamy place to spend your summer afternoons!
If you wanted to get fancy you could install a rough iron fence with custom finials to add something special, but the pool is already nicely fenced in, and seperated from a gorgeous perennial garden that will host parties and more summer luncheons. Glorious!
1 Inwood Road
Tucked up in northern Darien, this Frazier Peters house offers a private paradise with discreet and subtly landscaped gardens in front, and plenty of space in back to establish your own borders and garden beds. This is a fabulous 1933 stone house with 6 bedrooms, 4 full baths and 2 half baths. You will stay cool in the Summer and welcome lots of pool party guests! This is a rare offering, asking $3,900,000 offered by William Raveis/Darien.
Great curb appeal at 1 Inwood. It set back off the road, which by the way isn’t exactly “well traveled”. Its a great spot.
It has a wonderful Continental feeling to it back here. Its not a typical suburban “back yard”.
Pristine, blank canvas to create a sensational summer sanctuary. And, a beautiful rectangular pool. Imagine a pergola, dripping with wisteria, on one end of the pool where you will sit for lunch. Go crazy!
Love these lounge chairs for the end of the pool. Just add a little color in the cushions et voila! You will be sitting happily poolside. Lounge chairs are by Silas Marders
35 Crooked Mile Road
This is a fabulous 5 bedroom/6 1/2 bath house with all the bells and whistles demanded by a $4,300,000 price tag, including 4 fireplaces, a gym and a 4 car heated garage! But it is the gardens and pool that catches the eye this time of year. They are gorgeous! This is truly a “grown up” house that deserves the magic touch of someone like Suzanne Kasler. (Check out the September issue of Veranda for Suzanne’s latest project in Greenwich CT. The dining room is not to be missed!) Offered through Coldwell Banker/Darien CT.
Grand and sophisticated. A fabulous opportunity to use large scaled urns and garden gems from somewhere like Treillage, or Stamford Antiques!
Absolutely love this pool. This pool is crying for larger urns (obsessed with stone and iron urns). It can totally handle large scale garden treasures. Also, this is another opportunity to take advantage of the extensive collection at either Janus et Cie or
Summer may be coming to an end but it is never too late to take a look at these fantastic properties. Plan a head for next Summer’s season by the pool and in the garden.
If you are currently working with an agent, this is not a solicitation.
Out of Town
Thursday, August 8, 2013
IF there was a “heaven on earth” this would be a candidate.
It’s the middle of summer, so that means I am Down East. There is so much to do here you would think that I could lay off the real estate and enjoy what is absolutely one of the most special places on earth. (It is always a full schedule of hiking, walking, tennis and trips to Islesford, and tennis, hiking, walking…and lobster, and out to Cranberry…and much more). But, I cant resist taking a look at what’s on the market up here. Every summer I say to myself that this is the summer we will dive into the market ourselves. It has not happened yet 🙁
Who knows, maybe something will pique your interest. If so, give a call to Mia Thompson at The Knowles Company. She will give you the “grand tour”.
Here is what caught my attention
A view from a special spot over looking Greenings.
Barnacles Way. There are two cottages offered on this property. Shore Cottage, situated on the water, is truly unique. You would never be able to have a house that close to the water today. I believe it is “grandfathered in” so you would want to leave the deck and living room as it is. 155 +/- of shorefront, 3 Bedrooms, 3 baths, hanging over the Northeast Harbor Fleet and Scott’s Cove, as well as spectacular veiws out to Greenings Island and the Western mountains of Acadia National Park, is not something you will be able to duplicate. It is magical, even in the rain! Asking $3,250,000. Offered through The Knowles Company.
Shore Cottage. Looking back at the house from across Scott’s cove.
Sitting indoors or out, you feel the water and the magic of this island from inside these four walls. This summer cabin retreat can not be matched. This is the perfect house for a Remodelista project!
Coxe Cottage on Harbor Street is another property I think is the PERFECT “turn key” cottage. It is totally done ( the Maine way – with all the “mod con’s” but not like here in Fairfield County) and has SPECTACULAR views of Northeast Harbor. The new deck, wrapped in a fabulous cool nautical steel fence, is where you will plant your self when you are not off on the bike trails or out on the water. Just unpack for the Summer, or Columbus Day, or when you want to be here in this 4 bedroom, 3 1/2 baths bungalo, and look out over your 53 +/- of Harbor shorefront!
Its a fabulous in town location, which means its an easy walk to the Pine Tree Market or to the Mail Boat should you decide to take your bike out to Great Cranberry for a ride! Asking $1,400,000 offered by The Knowles Company.
Coxe Cottage tucked up on the hillside overlooking Northeast Harbor.
Looking out from the open living room. Light pours in from all sides.
The kitchen is not from 2013 but there is nothing to do here. It is a classic summer Maine kitchen. LOVE THAT!
Downstairs there is an additional space to put guests, and sliding doors to the lower lawn and path to the Harbor. Fab!
Even downstairs, the guests are one with the views and the sweet sounds of life on the Harbor.
I came across a Boston based decorator that might have some great ideas once you got in here to make it your own. Check out her site Katie Rosenfeld Design and see what you think. I imagined rooms like this:
A fresh idea for the second or third bedroom at Coxe Cottage.
I can totally see this room overlooking the Harbor! Love the French cafe chairs!
Saving the best for last. This deck is sensational! It wraps around the house and is accessible from two sides of the living room and the Master bedroom. Gorge!
Out on Great Cranberry, if you are looking for privacy AND bells and whistles, check out FISH POINT. Absolutely fabulous views of our beloved Acadia National Park as well as the sailing races going on each week. Life on Cranberry is special and unique; you will not find a better get-a-way than this. Bring your books, your music and bikes. (Leave the cocktail parties in NEH). Unplug and enjoy! 3 bedrooms, 3 1/2 baths, 325 +/- of shorefront and 3 moorings. Asking $1,590,000 offered through The Knowles Company.
Fish Point on Great Cranberry Island. It’s very special and will force you to unwind.
The house comes with a 22′ Hampton Pulsifer launch. Or, come on over on the Mail Boat. Either way, you are 20/25 minn from the Northeast Harbor or South West Harbor docks. Or, check out Hinckley Yachts. Now that would be “the BOMB”!
Your terrace. No cell phones allowed!
Stars will look even brighter looking up from this pool at night!
Pile your friends into this fabulous house for the ultimate weekend party!
I thought a quick peek of what is going on “Out of Town” might be a fun way to get through the summer since real estate can be slow this time of year. The Fall is upon us so we will be getting back out on the trail soon to show you what is fabulous and on the market here in Darien. We really look forward to it!
If you are currently working with an agent, this is not a solicitation.
THE CREAM ALWAYS RISES TO THE TOP – Fabulous price adjustment!
Friday, June 21, 2013After a while, walking into a house that has all the “bells and whistles”, and the proverbial “decorated and clean look”, makes no impression; it’s hard to distinguish one house from the other. Why is one better than the other? Not sure.
But, as we turned in to 3 Nolen Lane I started to hear Handel’s Messiah blast through my head…”Hallelujah…Hallelujah!” (If you haven’t sat to listen to that lately, now would be a good time). 5 bedrooms/ 6 full baths/ 2 1/2 baths, gorgeous pool, terraces, two fireplaces, cedar shingle roof, and a beautiful property. Depending on the tone you want to set with the decorating, I am thinking either Suzanne Kasler or Henrietta Spencer-Churchill would create a fabulous and livable space here. Asking $2,925,000 by Sheree Frank at HOULIHAN LAWRENCE. SOLD AND CLOSED.
Beautifully maintained and not over manicured.
Fabulous. Original. Love this Lamp Post. The Clematis is not bad either!
Beautiful antique outdoor lights. They are GORGE!
Always better up close and personal…
Beautiful property, and gardening opportunities abound. Might be time to pop into Marvin Gardens up in Wilton! (Route 7).
Summer garden. Thinking about urns, planters…
Peeking through to the pool.
Terraces, flower beds, pool side… I am thinking about the stunning selection at Janus et Cie one might put around the pool. (Still obsessed with Janus et Cie).
Another angle of the pool. As you can see, its private and will be a wonderful place to find you self floating in August!
Living room at 3 Nolen Lane. Note sunroom at the end.
An idea for the sun room off the living room by Henrietta Spencer-Churchill.
Sun filled and comfortable living room by Suzanne Kasler.
Another living room I love by Suzanne Kasler. Would be smashing here on Nolen Lane.
I love this room as well. By Henrietta Spencer-Churchill. Nice Bar!
Dining room at Nolen Lane.
A dining room by Suzanne Kasler. Love that grass cloth on the walls. Chic and makes the room a little less formal. Love the Ironstone. Great for all the peonies in bloom now!
Or, maybe do what Henrietta Spencer-Chruchill might do. Here is one of hers. A little more formal. Love it too!
Family Room off kitchen at Nolen Lane.
One of Henrietta Spencer-Churchill’s laundry. Could be very cool on Nolen Lane. There is plenty of space for a fab room like this!
The architect Jan Vink built three or four of the quintessential Connecticut colonials on this street. Now, all these years later, they are still oozing curb appeal. Its a fabulous street with lots of “residential eye candy”. If you are in the market for something that stands out, you need to see this. Please call us if you want to see it. We would love to show you this property. (And no, I won’t make anyone listen to Handel’s Messiah!)
If you are currently working with an agent, this is not a solicitation.
Photos curtesy of Suzanne Kasler and Spencer-Churchill Designs
California Dreamin
Thursday, May 30, 2013
I recently got a peak at the new book, CALIFORNIA HOMES, by the acclaimed architect William Hefner and wanted to catch the last plane out of town. The homes are beyond amazing and makes me wish we saw more variety here in town. The book takes you on a private tour of nine extraordinary homes by his firm, Studio William Hefner, in a range of styles, from contemporary to historic, modern to traditional. Their approach integrates architecture, interior design and landscape seamlessly. He works in collaboration with his wife, Kazuko Hoshino, who inspires and designs the interiors.
The most GORG shower ever!
Oh the windows.
Finally a kitchen that isn’t white!
This book is a real departure from the look that seems to be duplicated over and over. The work is original and organic and would be a welcome sight in town. Perhaps you could buy a tear down and fly William in! This is a MUST PURCHASE book and is so hot that Amazon only had 2 left as of Tuesday! Also make sure to check out their work on Houzz and their website, WilliamHefner.com.
Photos courtesy of Studio William Hefner.
DOWNLOAD THE KELLY ASSOCIATES APP
Tuesday, May 28, 2013
Kelly Associates now has a new app for your phone. We spend most of our time in the car so don’t wait to get home to find a listing, check it out right on your phone (not while driving but rather waiting for Johnny in the pickup line). In this busy market make sure you have as much information as possible when you are on the go. Our listings this spring had accepted offers (with multiple offers), both in just a couple short days. You need to get in as soon as possible and this app allows you to do that. Just go to the app store and search for Kelly Associates.
PREVIEW THE 1ST ANNUAL GARDEN SHOW IN STAMFORD, CT. THIS WEEKEND
Thursday, May 9, 2013
Get there early!
I went down to the Antique & Artisan Center today and what a transformation that is underway. It has been filled with garden objects of every shape, size, color and material. Just about everything needs to be in my house but how will it all fit! Everyone was hard at work in the pouring rain getting ready for tomorrow. This is NOT TO BE MISSED. Whether you need something or not, need a gift for mom or yourself, take some time and go down there this weekend. I bet you will leave with something you will cherish forever.
Not for the garden but who cares. (it’s huge)
LOVED THESE!
Gorg for the summer porch.
These are sensational…..the red just makes them even more fabulous.
These are really cool in person.
The energy was electric. Everyone was excited in anticipation for the weekend.
A must buy!
Any piece you buy here can be upholstered in their fabric room. The problem is going to be which one to pick.
Trims like I have never seen.
If you are renovating a bathroom, everything you need is here.
Loving the pineapple.
Is this just amazing….was hard to leave it I just do not have a room that is big enough.
Of course I love this.
Our friends at the AAC.
It was pouring but I was able to grab this shot. It is just a feast for the eyes.
We look forward to seeing you there.
Antique and Artisan Center Garden Show
Tuesday, May 7, 2013Get there early!
This is just the “tip of the ice berg”
We had a great time browsing today at the Antique and Artisan Center in anticipation of this fabulous event. Turns out there is SO MUCH MORE coming!
Vignettes inside and out.. All over the Center you will find wonderful inspiration and beautiful pieces for your garden.
Sculpture adds unusual flare. Apparently there is some fantastic stuff coming in!
Don’t miss what is certain to be a treasure hunt for your garden.
Have fun, and if you find something for your garden, send us a picture! We would love to see your treasure.
A NEW ADDICTION….HOUZZ
Tuesday, April 23, 2013
Our new lust here at Real In Darien is houzz. It is like Pinterest, but more design and architectural based. Whether you are renovating a kitchen or choosing shutters, they have fabulous ideas. We have even added our very own houzz button on our main page (next to Pinterest and Facebook). Check out our growing portfolio and share yours with us!!
Lynne Byrne Photography Day Time Open House
Monday, April 8, 2013An exhibit of Lynne Byrne Fine Art Photography is on display now through April 12th at SBD Kitchens, LLC and Sarah A. Blank Designs, 1472 Post Road, Darien CT. Viewing hours are 9:00 – 5:00 Monday through Friday and 10:00 – 1:00 Saturdays. A Daytime Open House is scheduled for Thursday April 11th 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., during which time 15% of sales will benefit The Darien Arts Center.*
Lynne Byrne’s unique photographic imagery celebrates the details in nature that often go unnoticed – – the intricate textures, surfaces, reflections and variations in color. The photographer uses natural light, and close up photography to share a glimpse of the everyday miracles seen in our natural environment.*
If you haven’t had a chance to run over to SBD Kitchens to see this marvelous show, now is the chance! We will be dropping by, so hope to see you there.
Our friend, Lynne Byrne. A ‘real’ talent!
*per press release
The Welcoming House
Saturday, April 6, 2013
Forward by Bunny Williams. Published by Rizzoli. This is a book to explore.
I was just sent a copy of The Welcome House , a new book published by Rizzoli. The authors, Jane Schwab and Cindy Smith are the owners of Circa Interiors & Antiques. These ladies are not “amateurs” in the land of interior design; their projects are stunning, and very sophisticated. Their shop and website will distract you for hours so give your self some time if you start to peruse! (I haven’t had that much fun since I discovered Hollyhock years ago!) In Bunny’s forward she writes that when she walked into their shop for the first time she “wanted everything in there”. So, you get it. We are so glad to add them to the list of the ones we love!
Their first book is superb. We see a lot of books and talented designers but the level of attention to detail and sensibility they bring to the table raises the bar. It certainly helps that they have the fabulous architecture of Charlotte and other special places (Jackson Hole, Palm Beach) as back drops to their work. Good architecture and good interior design… my heart goes pitter patter.
Lanterns, chandeliers, beautiful fabrics and special pieces of furniture all pull together the rooms in the houses featured in their book.
So comfortable and classically done with stunning fabrics, furniture and scale. A gorgeous room to relax in. A room I want when I have my “grown up” house.
One of my favorite rooms in the book. This is only one of the outdoor rooms featured. They are all gorgeous. Imagine this at night. Love the amethyst glass hurricanes!
Jane Schwab and Cindy Smith. The brains behind this divine new book and Circa Interiors & Antiques.
I instantly thought of the gorgeous listing 86 Delafield Island when I was looking through the book. I would love to see their magic work there. The book is available at Barrett Bookstore here in town, across from Palmers. Go take a peek. You are certain to leave with your own copy!
Architectural Digest Home Show from 2012
Thursday, March 21, 2013The Architectural Digest Home Show is upon us again. I went last year but cannot go this time so I decided to repost my blog from last year. This is an awesome event not to be missed!
Last week my friend invited me to the Architectural Digest Home Design Show at Pier 94 in New York City. I had no idea what to expect but it really exceeded anything I imagined it would be. I was in love with EVERYTHING! The only thing I needed was a house to build or renovate. Doors, lighting fixtures, windows, carpets, bath and kitchen fixtures….you name it and it was there. Another thing that was there were all the “Bloggers”! I suddenly realized that I was one of them and let it rip.
We started out by crashing a party and drinking a glass of champagne. That really got us going. It was a good thing they did not actually let us buy anything otherwise I would been heard the words “Mrs. Swift, that will be $80,000”. Had I run into Celerie Kemble they would have had to call security. We ventured upon the La Cornue exhibit. What a work of art their ranges are. It was there that I met Joanne Hudson. I have ordered all my Emma Bridgewater from her at JoanneHudson.com and she was actually hosting the La Cornue exhibit….what a small world.
Love this red phone.
Then we visited the Dining by Design exhibit (diffa.org) which featured over 40 table settings by various companies and designers. It was so fun to imagine having a dinner party on almost all of them. Here are some of my favorites.
The most stunning “real gold” fixtures from Richard Scofield Historic Lighting. I would put these in my dining room.
Audrey Sterk Design, which is based in Nantucket, makes custom wallpaper and fabric. They also cover parson tables with them. So, so fabulous!
Wild Chairy reminds me of Chairloom and takes antique pieces and reupolsters them in beautiful and modern fabrics.
Check out the Studio Bon fabric on this chair. I also love the chalkboard paint on the back.
I finished off by visiting the Farrow and Ball booth to discuss the Exterior Paint door contest and was given some suggestions for my very own exterior paint makeover. More to come on this but what do you think?
I had so much fun and cannot wait to go back next year!
Spring is almost here……
Tuesday, March 19, 2013
Really?
HEADING SOUTH
Saturday, March 16, 2013
I recently headed south and spent a week doing absolutely nothing….it was total heaven!!!! I stayed at Sunset Key, which is a tiny island off of Duval Street in Key West. The resort was wonderful and the vibe is just what a northerner needs come February. On the other side of the island (it is small…it takes about 3 minutes to walk from one end to the other) are the most GORG private homes. There are no cars, only bikes and the occasional golf cart….I could have stayed forever!
And of course the best Key Lime Pie!
86 Nearwater Lane
Tuesday, March 5, 2013If you are a customer who is looking for a truly magical experience, looking for landscaping that goes beyond the classic colonial rose garden, or peony bed, you must see 86 Nearwater Lane. Spring is almost here and gardens are on our minds. This house will get anyone with or without a “green thumb” in the mood! Listed by Megan Melhope at Kelly Associates, offered at $2,795,000.
Beautifully laid Belgian Block adds interesting architecture to the landscape in front of the house.
The design of the house takes advantage of every opportunity to bring the outdoors in.
An absolutely beautiful and special property over looking Goodwives River. Although more visible in the winter, there are glimpses of water through the trees. It’s so close!
A lower level terrace offers you the option of being down in the garden.
Another peaceful spot. Maybe this is where you sit in the heat of the summer. So cool, and shady.
The variety of plants, both shady and for full sun, really create a unique outdoor experience here in Darien.
LOVE garden sculpture, urns, and planters. This place offers a fantastic opportunity to go crazy at a place like Treillage! Or go down to the Stamford Antique and Artisian Center. You will find fabulous pieces for the garden there.
It feels so far removed from the rest of Darien down here. Its so private.
Almost as though you were in another country.
Not a bad rear view!
The house is more than 6000 square feet. It has 5 bedrooms, 5 full baths and 3 half baths, and a total of 14 rooms all within a unique floor plan that offers lots of entertaining space. The expected top of the line custom kitchen and finishes throughout the house were not half as impressive as the basement/utility room that is as clean and tidy as battle ship. Needless to say this house is meticulously maintained. What agents like to call “move in condition” . We like to say “just bring your decorator”!
If you are currently working with an agent, this is not a solicitation.