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Imagine: Dorothy Draper Style
October 6, 2013How fabulous would this look in your living room? Not into neutrals, then go for a bold and bright geometric. This Dorothy Draper inspired X bench stool is not for sale, but the two pictured below are. The pair was purchased from Hiden Galleries with the intent to re-upholster; however, the project never came to fruition, but it could be your latest gig. Imagine the possibilities! Price: $800 for the pair.
E-mail mymfaulkner@optonline.net for assistance.
Global Style in Tokeneke
October 1, 201312 Runkenhage Road. What a beauty! We love this house and it’s new to the market! The property sits beautifully on the Cove down at the bottom of Tokeneke, nestled among some of the Association’s most beautiful houses. And the dock? Well, you can have your motor boat waiting for you when ever you feel the need to buz through Scott’s Cove and out on to Long Island Sound. Asking $3,250,000 through Kelly Associates.
Its not Lake Como, but you can bring your own “global style” to the table here. Couldn’t help but “borrow” the current edition of House Beautiful‘s fine choice of words for this one.
Imagine the court yard you could develop here with beautiful planters and creeping vines! Note the copper gutters, and consider what you could have made at Urban Electric. Devine!
The courtyard. Private and perfect for entertaining on summer nights.
A view from the second bedroom. The house is in great shape. The exterior shows really well. A garden down below and along the water would be fabulous.
The views! They are like this from every room!
First floor. Windows on all sides looking out. The courtyard is perfect for dining al fresco.
Each bedroom has en suite baths and exceptional views.
If you would like to see this house, we would love to show it to you. It’s a fabulous opportunity.
If you are currently working with an agent, this is not a solicitation.
Looking for a Swanky Bar? It’s Here!
October 1, 2013Yesterday’s headboards were sweet and whimsical whereas today, we skip to gorgeous and chic! What’s not to adore about this stunner. The uses of this beauty are infinite, and a treasure and enhancement to any space. What a swanky bar this would make – wow. Great pop factor here. CHEERS! The dimensions are 27.5 x 21.5 x 22 with the glass top. The price is also something to toast: $875.
E-mail mymfaulkner@optonline.net for assistance.
LOVE!
September 30, 2013I could go on and on about the latest selection, but truly, a picture is worth a thousand words. These twin headboards are terrific looking and in fantastic shape. The refinishing was completed by Mark Machette and the stunning fabric is Brunschwig and Fils, raspberry check. Dimensions are 42.5″ wide and 44″ high. $1,400 for the pair: LOVE!
E-mail mymfaulkner@optonline.net for assistance.
PICK OF THE WEEK-Greek Key, Pineapples and handsome seating
September 30, 2013
Looking for a little “chic” to add to your living room? Here is it. You can’t loose
with the Greek Key!
A classic piece is worth it!
Actually, these should be on my bar cart!
A traditional pair of chairs, certain to find use in any room in the house. Give them some pizazz by choosing some fabulous fabric from the Antique Center’s unparalleled selection.
We sat in these chairs. They are extremely comfortable!
Nice and deep!
Think long term. Buying pieces to last, one at a time.
Photos courtesy of Real in Darien.
Next time you visit the Stamford Antiques & Artisan Center, tell them we sent you!
PICK OF THE WEEK-Foo Dogs, Gucci and Candlesticks
September 23, 2013Abigail’s Pick: A great addition to anyone’s collection of curio. Love these we saw at the Antique Center.
Great on a bookshelf. Great colors on this pair!
I would use them as bookends.
You can always find something at the Antique Center to jazz up a room for a good price.
A pop of turquoise is always interesting in a room. These are a nice size as well.
Go check these out!
Kim’s Pick: I just love these candlesticks! They really stand out and will make an impact anywhere. Put on a dining room table or a front hall console . 
To give you an idea of how great they would look on a table….what a pop of bling.
The richness of this room would be a great addition.
Who doesn’t love vintage Gucci! The handle is my favorite part.
Pictures courtesy of Real in Darien and Lonny Magazine.
PICK OF THE WEEK-a pair of lamps, a marble, garden table, and a chic dress.
September 16, 2013Abigail’s pick: We start with these gorgeous tole lamps. Simple yet high impact, and would look gorgeous against any lacquered wall. We are thinking a white lacquered front hall, or against one of de Gournay’s marvelous wallpapers. Great “bang for the buck” at $225 for the pair.
Perfect anchors to any front hall table or console.
Not a bad price.
KIM”S PICK: A little off topic but The Antique and Artisan Center is full of fantastic vintage clothing, bags and jewelry.
So much to choose from. This dress caught my eye.
A pop of color. You might also find a fabulous David Webb necklace to go with it!
Loved this coffee table. Its larger than you think and would add so much style to any sunroom or terrace.
A very solid piece.
A fabulous way to dress up any room for a very reasonable price.
For more information on any of these pieces, email us at info@realindarien.com.
If you are out and about…
September 15, 2013
Check out the Open House
1-3pm today
at
5 Seagate
Its a beautiful day in the neighborhood.
Still warm enough to enjoy dinner on the terrace.
A perfect spot to relax and read the Sunday Times.
Tell them we sent you!
16 Nathan Hale Drive in Wilson Point -PRICE REDUCED
September 12, 2013
249′ of waterfront…..all yours!
If you need only one good reason why you would move to a waterfront property on Wilson Point, we’ve got it.
16 Nathan Hale Drive!!!
Totally done (House of Turquoise would be proud), remote and private, with views of Long Island Sound, nearby islands and New York City. This house is not only a summer pleasure palace, it will keep you happy all year long. If you are looking for a very special waterfront property, you need to see this. It is a spectacular setting. Asking $5,050,000 through Houlihan Lawrence.
Forget about your “own private Idaho”. Think about your own private Long Island Sound!
This spot is so divine.
Out for the evening on your boat. Shoot up to Stonington for dinner.
Yet another outdoor oasis. This one off the master bedroom.
A working kitchen that opens up to fabulous terraces. It’s time to host the best parties in the neighborhood!
Yes, another outdoor spot…tired of us saying that yet!
There is no escaping the stunning views from every room.
Like no other great room…and did we mention the views?
Love the balcony, wood beams and book cases.
The balcony to the great room.
The butler’s pantry is so fab!
Martini or dark and stormy? The bar off the study.
What a gorgeous master bedroom. It beats any spa!
A family bedroom. The Zhush would love this for their POP (pop of purple-check out their great blog).
Another family bedroom….all 5 of them are wonderful.
The bathrooms are all first rate yet a bit unique.
This home has it all and is waterfront living at its best! It is absolutely fantastic and perfect in our book. The minute we walked in we looked at each other and said “A HOUSE WE LOVE” and then went out to buy a lottery ticket. And their decor and details is something we will be thinking about for a long time. Contact us if you would like a showing at info@realindarien.com.
If you are working with an agent, this is not a solicitation.
Out on the trail…..for $900,000
September 6, 2013The summer is a distant memory now, and it was back to a busy week of open houses. There was an influx of homes in the $900,000 price range so we thought we would high light a few.
15 Gardiner Street is an impeccably maintained home. 4 bedrooms (2 up and 2 down) and 2 baths in this little jewel. Priced at $899,000 through Kelly Associates, this will go quickly.
Wonderful curb appeal.
The living room.
One of the bedrooms used as a family room.
Very sunny kitchen.
Love the rope railing on the deck.
Could this nursery be sweeter?
Another look.
Master bedroom upstairs.
288 Noroton Avenue has three bedrooms and two full baths, a two car garage, and is centrally located. Priced at $959,000, offered through Kelly Associates.
Built in 1939, this cape has good bones, good space and great potential.
The den is off the kitchen and can easily be opened up to create the open kitchen/ living space so many buyers are looking for.
A very “workable” space.
The master bedroom is really large and light.
21 Lake Drive is a 4 bedroom ranch with lots of space. Listed for $984,000 through Kelly Associates.
The living room.
The kitchen which is open to a family room.
A great spot to read the paper.
The kitchen opens to a family room. Love all the windows.
There is also 123 Middlesex on the higher end of this range. Take a look at our blog on it here.
If you are working with an agent, this is not a solicitation.
Bringing to you our “Pick of the Week”
September 5, 2013![AAC-logo[1]](http://www.realindarien.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/AAC-logo1-400x398.jpg){kind=logo}
Real in Darien has many exciting things happening including a new venture with the Antique & Artisan Center in Stamford, Connecticut. Even before we started, The Antique Center was a favorite destination. That whole area is a pocket full of unique and fabulous antique stores of all shapes and sizes, cafe’s and a few hip shops. You wouldn’t recognize the area now, with a Fairway Market, Design Within Reach, Le Pain Quotidien and Juliska leading the way.
The Antique Center is a blend of sophistication, whimsy and happily ever after. We are going to start a “Pick of the Week” where we will highlight an item we both love. We will also give you some ideas as to how they can work in your home.
The Antique Center has created a Fabric Room, where anyone can come and meet, and work on design . It is the most GORGEOUS room created by Mari Ann Maher. The fabrics are not something you are going to find in your neighborhood shop or big box design store.
Abigail has seen the light!
From John Rosselli Antiques.
This would have been our “first pick of the week” but it has sold already. We couldn’t pass it by without acknowledging its beauty. Bunny Williams snatched it up; great minds think a like! Lucky client.
Betsey Ruprecht’s Decorative Antiques.
So that brings us to our first “find”! Look at this gorgoues grey amoire with chicken wire. The orange just makes it that much more fabulous! This item is a “no brainer” for your kitchen, family room, or even your master bath! It was hard to leave without it.
A chair from John Roselli’s booth.
Love the pineapple!
Love these. But they SOLD!
The Greek Key table!
A piece of Rose Cummings velvet would make this stool stand out
The showroom is full of vignettes and one of a kind finds. It can be daunting, but if you look at individual pieces you are certain to find a piece that stands out for you.
The Lamps!
The Mirror!
Never overlook a good Rudolf!
Of course we would always be happy to help you pick out a piece. (To go in the fabulous house we will help you find!)
Tom Scheerer. His new book is not to be missed.
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!
OUR SPRING & SUMMER DEALS
August 26, 2013We had a busy spring and are back after a little summer vacation. Here is an update on our recent deals.
OUR LISTINGS:
13 Oak Park Avenue listed for $1,100,000
3 bedroom 2 1/2 bath sold and closed in July 2013 with multiple offers.
Remember “Fab Master Bath”?
One of our favorites!
60 Gardiner Street listed for $1,099,000
4 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath sold and closed in June 2013.
First time on the market in 18 years. We sold it in 24 hours.
207 Middlesex Road – List Price $1,725,000 by Kelly Associates. This 4 bedroom, 3 1/2 bathroom was bought while under construction and finished by our customer. Sold and closed in May 2013.
Fabulous new construction walking distance to trains and Equinox!
327 Middlesex Road – List Price $849,000 through Kelly Associates. 4 Bedroom cottage sold and closed in July 2013.
Charming Cottage now. Wait until you see the transformation!
We anticipate a busy fall and year so now may be a good time to jump into the market. If you are interested in looking for a home or listing your house, give us a call.
If you are working with an agent, this is not a solicitation.
Gardens and Pools to Love!
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.
A little imagination and a lot of inspiration
August 12, 2013
Ooozing with charm and loaded with potential.
123 Middlesex is a sleepy charmer tucked privately off of the road. It’s a fabulous central location close to the Woodland Park and Middlesex Middle School. With 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, 1 half bath on 1.2 acres, this stone and stucco cape has arched doorways, fieldstone fireplaces and interesting space to create a special 1920’s cottage filled with all your favorite details. I was pleasantly surprised at the potential this home has. Be sure to take a look if you are in the market. Offered by Laura Kolderup at Kelly Associates, asking $1,049,000.
Love that fireplace. Would love to see this all white or an edgy color. Possibly Farrow & Balls Blue Black.
This staircase has great lines.
The kitchen is in good shape. You could even take down the wall and make it open to the family/dining room.
Here are some ideas that would be fabulous at
123 Middlesex:
Simple transition between outdoors and indoors. I Always love brick terracing and walkways. It is also great indoors.
This white room works so well!
Or go the opposite and use contrast.
Don’t be afraid of a wallpaper or color in a small space. It actually works to it’s advantage.
Or cozy it up. The walls really work here.
Let the simplicity of the space do the work.
It can be simple AND hip. (actually I think smaller is always hipper).
Don’t be afraid to throw a pop of color in there.
The ideas are endless. Go for it! This house is a blank canvas waiting for your touch!
If you are an agent, this is not a solicitation.
Images by Caitlin Morgan Interiors, Matthew Craig Interiors and Bungalow Blue Interiors.