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Sheryl Epstein-Romano
Sheryl Epstein-Romano, Broker Associate, Realtor
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Designed for Connection
Hello, March!
There’s something about this time of year that gently nudges us back home. As winter fades and spring starts to peek through, I find myself noticing the little things—what’s working, what feels heavy and what could use a refresh. Our March Home Issue always feels especially timely, and this one is rooted in the idea that home is not just a place, but an experience shaped by intention, connection and care.
Between my daughters’ busy schedules, sports and dance competitions, I’m constantly reminded how important it is for our home to function well while still feeling calm and welcoming. I’ll be the first to admit that this doesn’t always come naturally to me, which is exactly why I love sharing stories from people who truly understand how thoughtful design—whether in a home or at an event—can change how we feel and connect.
On the cover, turn to page 12 for Designing Connection. This feature introduces Events by LN and founder Lori Nittoli, whose experience-driven approach brings intention, creativity and precision to every event she designs. From corporate gatherings to private celebrations, her work proves that meaningful connection is never accidental—it’s designed.
You’ll also find Almost Home, Right on Time on page 18, a story that captures why Westwood’s newest café already feels like a neighborhood favorite. It’s a reminder that sometimes the spaces that resonate most are the ones that feel familiar from the very first visit.
For those looking to refresh their own spaces this season, turn to page 24 for Refreshing Your Home, Sustainably. This feature explores spring design trends that bring balance, warmth and new energy indoors, with a thoughtful focus on sustainability, natural materials and intentional living.
I hope this issue inspires you to think about home as more than a destination— whether it’s where you gather, create or simply slow down.
Convention & Visitors Corp, Chef David Burke, Shelley Clark, Allison K. Lim
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad
LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Maeve Dorfler won first place in VFW Post 6192’s Voice of Democracy audio-essay contest. 2: NHRHS Dance Team earned second place in Varsity Jazz at the Pascack Valley Regional Competition. 3: Caryn Schanstine honored with induction into New Jersey Scholastic Association Hall of Fame. 4: Publishers Jake and Tiffany Slowinski pictured with Tim Tebow during this year’s City Lifestyle conference. 5: Some of our Garden State City Lifestyle team connected, learned and represented New Jersey in Kansas City. 7: Events by LN hosted a Gratitude Gathering for clients and vendors at Sunroom Plants, Ridgewood.
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@NHRHS1
@NHRHS1
GARDEN STATE CITY LIFESTYLE
GARDEN STATE CITY LIFESTYLE
LORI NITTOLI
Gia Giudice to Open Italian Restaurant Il Vero in Westwood
Gia Giudice, daughter of Teresa Giudice of The Real Housewives of New Jersey, will open Il Vero, an ItalianAmerican restaurant, in Spring 2026 at 170 Center Ave. in Westwood, NJ. Partnering with restaurateur Maria Sousa, the concept honors family, legacy and gathering through elevated, welcoming dining.
Immaculate Heart Academy Earns AP® School Honor Roll Distinction
Immaculate Heart Academy has been named to the prestigious 2025 Advanced Placement® Program School Honor Roll by the College Board, recognizing schools that expand access to AP coursework while delivering strong student outcomes. This honor reflects IHA’s commitment to a college-going culture, academic rigor, and preparing students to succeed beyond the classroom—earning college credit and confidence along the way.
The Reset Room to Open Women’s Wellness Studio in Ramsey
The Reset Room is opening a new wellness studio at 100 East Main Street in Ramsey, specializing in manual lymphatic drainage and complementary therapies focused on women’s health. The studio is scheduled to open Jan. 26, offering personalized treatments designed to support recovery, balance and overall well-being for clients throughout Bergen County.
Photography by The Reset Room
Photography by Immaculate Heart Academy
Photography by Gia Giudice
ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS PHOTOGRAPHY BY KARTHEEK HEDGE
Designing CONNECTION
How Events by LN creates intentional, experience-driven events.
The room was alive with movement and the timeline was tight when a single question cut through the noise: “How can I promote you right now?”
For Lori Nittoli, managing a SERHANT. production at American Dream Mall—hosted by the modern real estate brokerage founded by Ryan Serhant—marked the formal launch of Events by LN, giving a name and identity to the work she was already doing. By nightfall, the brand had a logo, a website and a clear point of view.
FROM CLASSROOM TO CREATIVE CONTROL
Before becoming a full-time event planner, Nittoli spent 30 years as a teacher—a background that continues to inform her leadership style, adaptability, and real-time decision-making.
"Teaching trained me to manage complexity, anticipate challenges, and make decisions in real time,” she says. “Those skills are essential in live event production, where timing and adaptability matter.” she shares.
That mindset now shapes every experience she designs. “I can read the energy in a room and pivot without ever losing sight of the bigger picture,” she notes.
DESIGNING WITH INTENTION
Nittoli describes her events as mental mood boards that come to life. Her creative process begins the moment she meets a client. She starts by defining the purpose of the event—what it needs to accomplish and how guests should feel—and designs every element around that goal.
“As soon as I meet someone, my mind starts mapping out the event,” she explains. “I can see the whole picture—colors, textures, the flow of the room, even how guests will experience each space. I start with intention, then build the style around it.”
Every detail has meaning, from the floor plan to the signage. “It’s part design, part strategy, and part instinct,” she says. “That’s the part I love most—bringing clarity, creativity, and precision together until the entire vision clicks into place.”
ELEVATED EXPERIENCES WITH PURPOSE
Events by LN has become known for polished execution and thoughtful design, with clients that include Rolls-Royce, Bentley, and American Dream Mall. But for Nittoli, aesthetics are only part of the equation.
“My real estate collaborations with SERHANT. are always special because they push me creatively,” she shares. “When the same circle of agents and clients attends multiple events, I take it as a challenge to make every experience feel entirely new.”
Her nonprofit work carries even deeper meaning. “The Rare Is Beautiful Casino Night at Bentley/Rolls-Royce will always stand out,” she explains. “It raised awareness for families affected by Peutz-Jeghers syndrome. Events like that prove you can create something beautiful and meaningful at the same time.”
PERSONAL TOUCH, PROFESSIONAL PRECISION
What sets Events by LN apart is Nittoli’s direct involvement and creative leadership from concept through execution.
“Teaching gave me my calm-under-pressure superpower and taught me how to think three steps ahead.”
- Lori Nittoli
“My clients work directly with me—always,” she says. “They’re never passed off to a team. I’m involved in every decision, from the first creative conversation to the final guest departure.”
That same intentional approach carries into private home celebrations, where Nittoli helps clients transform their own spaces into thoughtfully designed environments that feel elevated, personal and effortless.
She’s also known for asking the questions that shape stronger outcomes. “Why this space? What should guests walk away feeling?” she shares. “Those answers are what separate an event that looks good from one that truly resonates.”
THE ART OF CONNECTION
Her tagline, Your Social Event Specialist, reflects her philosophy. “Connection is always the goal, but it has to feel natural,” Nittoli notes. “Sometimes it’s the way a room is laid out, the pacing of the evening, or the interaction that happens over a thoughtfully designed moment.”
She also plans with longevity in mind. “A great event should continue working after it ends—through imagery, conversation, and the relationships it creates,” she explains. “Whether it’s a branded detail or a curated takeaway, my goal is to design experiences people want to talk about long after they leave.”
TRENDS AND TIMELESS TOUCHES
“If I ever feel like I’ve seen it before, I know it’s time to push further,” Nittoli emphasizes.
Today’s clients are seeking depth and engagement. “Layered design, tactile materials, and intentional lighting are no longer extras—they’re expected.”
Spring and summer events are leaning into chrome accents, bold yet refined color palettes, and soft, draped elements balanced by layered lighting. Rich neutrals help
“It raised awareness for families affected by Peutz-Jeghers syndrome. Events like that prove you can create something beautiful and meaningful at the same time.”
- Lori Nittoli
ground the look, creating spaces that feel modern, elevated, and designed for connection. Daytime events are getting a major glow-up, and outdoor-adjacent celebrations continue to resonate.
But the most notable shift is toward interaction. Mixology moments, scent bars, live art, and curated culinary pairings are in high demand. “People want to participate, not just attend,” she says.
PLANNING WITH HEART
Her advice for anyone planning a milestone event is simple: design it with intention.
“Forget chasing trends,” she shares. “The best events reflect the host—their personality, their story, their taste. Guests remember how they felt more than anything else.”
Looking ahead, Nittoli’s vision for Events by LN centers on evolution, not scale. “I want to keep choosing projects that feel fresh and purposeful,” she notes. “People are craving experiences that feel considered and meaningful—and that’s where the magic really lives.”
For more information visit eventsbyln.com .
Lori Nittoli
Home Is Where You Are
Why caring for your body matters just as much as caring for your space
When asked where we live, most of us respond with a city or state. Some get more specific, naming a neighborhood or even a street. That makes sense. Our homes are our safety nets. We tend gardens, refresh living spaces and address issues quickly—because we know how a small leak can become a major problem. We respect and care for our homes because they often reflect who we are.
Yet, despite the time and energy we pour into our physical spaces, we often neglect the most important home of all—our bodies.
We may live in a house in Bergen County, but those details can change at any time. A physical home is not permanent unless we choose it to be. Our bodies, however, move with us through every chapter of life. If we can devote so much care to maintaining what surrounds us, why don’t we offer that same attention to ourselves? You are worth it. This is the one life you have—right here, right now. Taking time to rest, reset and rejuvenate is not indulgent; it is essential. When we intentionally nurture our bodies, minds and spirits, we create a foundation for greater health, balance and joy.
DAILY REMINDERS
Listen to and appreciate your body. Your body communicates through signals such as fatigue, stress or discomfort. It also supports you in countless ways—your heart pumps blood, your lungs breathe, your legs carry you and your hands navigate the world. Pay attention to what your body is telling you. Awareness is a skill that strengthens with practice.
Be kind to yourself.
Notice the words you use when speaking to or about yourself. Would you say them to someone you love? Replace criticism with compassion whenever possible.
Find pockets of quiet.
Life often moves at full speed. Slow down when you can. Step outside, breathe in the spring air, feel the breeze on your skin and
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY
BY ALLISON K. LIM
let your shoulders soften. Even a few quiet moments can serve as a reset for the body and mind.
Set boundaries and learn to let go. Rest is not a luxury, and stress is not a requirement. Release habits, worries and expectations that drain your energy. Give yourself permission to say no when necessary so you can say yes to what truly matters.
Nourish yourself. Choose foods that support your body. Visit a local farmers’ market this spring to enjoy what is fresh and in season while reconnecting with your community.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Allison K. Lim is a Bergen County–based writer and editor and founder of Hungry Harvest Garden, a custom edible garden design and installation business. She also serves as chairman of the Ho-Ho-Kus Community Garden, a townwide initiative dedicated to reducing hunger through shared, organic produce.
WHY WESTWOOD’S NEWEST CAFÉ ALREADY FEELS LIKE A NEIGHBORHOOD FAVORITE
ALMOST HOME, RIGHT ON TIME
ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL LAGO
CREATIVE COMPANY
“PEOPLE DON’T JUST WANT GOOD FOOD AND COFFEE— THEY WANT TO FEEL SEEN.” - JUSTINE
On a quiet morning in downtown Westwood, the smell of fresh coffee drifts along Westwood Avenue, blending with the hum of a town easing into the day. Inside Almost Home General’s newest storefront, sunlight settles across warm textures and thoughtfully layered details, while tables fill with neighbors who planned to stay for a quick coffee and ended up lingering longer.
That sense of ease is intentional. With its Bergen County debut at 31 Westwood Ave., Almost Home General brings its signature blend of comfort, quality and community to Westwood—creating a café that feels less like a new arrival and more like it has always belonged.
Almost Home General has cultivated a devoted following across New Jersey and Pennsylvania by creating spaces that feel familiar the moment guests walk in. Each café is welcoming and design-forward, yet grounded in approachability. The Westwood location marks the brand’s first café in Bergen County and continues its philosophy of tailoring each space to the neighborhood it serves.
Justine Santaniello
Designed with a cozy, coastal sensibility, the Westwood café offers a warm retreat in the heart of the town’s walkable downtown. Light woods, soft neutrals and subtle coastal touches give the space an effortless feel, striking a balance between elevated design and everyday comfort. It’s equally suited for a weekday coffee run, a casual breakfast meeting or a slow weekend lunch with family.
“Each location has its own personality inspired by the building and the community around it,” the team says. “What never changes is the quality, creativity and care behind everything we do.”
That consistency has guided the brand’s steady expansion since opening its first location in Lincroft in 2021. What began as a neighborhood café has grown into a collection of thoughtfully curated spaces, with locations now spanning Navesink, Oceanport, Westfield and Jersey City, as well as Pennsylvania neighborhoods including Old City and Fishtown. While each café has its own look and rhythm, all share a common focus on quality ingredients, inviting design and genuine connection.
“THIS ISN’T ABOUT BEING EVERYWHERE— IT’S ABOUT BEING MEANINGFUL WHEREVER WE ARE.” - JUSTINE SANTANIELLO
The push into North Jersey began with the opening of the Westfield location, which quickly resonated with the community. The success there helped pave the way for Westwood, where anticipation had been building long before the doors officially opened.
“We opened in December and technically haven’t even had a grand opening yet,” shares Justine Santaniello, who, along with her husband, Dan, is part of the investment group behind the Westwood location. “We wanted to open, get our feet wet and really understand the flow of the space. Since day one, it’s been busy—almost overwhelmingly so in the best way.”
CEREAL LATTE
Santaniello notes the response has been twofold: longtime Almost Home General fans eager to experience the newest café, and Westwood residents who felt the town was ready for a place like this. Once considered a quieter downtown, Westwood has seen a surge of new restaurants and small businesses in recent years, driven by young families and longtime locals alike.
“People were waiting for us,” she shares. “The concept of Almost Home was always about creating a space where people feel like they belong, and the Westwood community has given us that feeling right back.”
At its core, Almost Home General is a coffee shop—one where specialty coffee is treated with intention. Founder Robbie Duran, who has spent years in the food and beverage industry, takes coffee seriously, from sourcing to preparation. The menu features carefully crafted coffee and espresso drinks alongside chefdriven breakfast and lunch offerings, house-made pastries and seasonal specials that rotate throughout the year.
The Westwood menu strikes a balance between comforting and fresh, offering made-to-order dishes that work just as well for busy mornings as they do for leisurely afternoons. Seasonal drink menus and rotating features give regulars something new to discover while preserving the flavors guests return for time and again.
While the menu draws people in, the experience keeps them coming back. Each Almost Home General café is designed as a gathering place—somewhere to meet friends, work remotely or simply pause. In Westwood, that philosophy is reflected in intimate seating areas, a cozy book nook and design details that feel personal rather than precious.
Santaniello played a hands-on role in shaping the Westwood space, designing it from the ground up. Though not formally trained as an interior designer, she leaned into her instincts and personal history to create a space that feels layered and lived-in.
“One of the partners said the area reminded him of the Hamptons,” she explains. “That clicked for me. I grew up spending a lot of time there, and I thought, why not bring a bit of that coastal feeling here—light, bright, effortless.”
The result is a café that feels calm and welcoming, with subtle nods to that inspiration throughout. From the choice of materials to the smallest design decisions, every detail was considered— including spaces others might have overlooked.
“There’s a little book room that could have been boarded up,” Santaniello emphasizes. “Instead, we made it a cozy nook. Seeing
kids pull books off the shelf or people sit there quietly with their coffee—it validates every decision.”
Even the restroom received careful attention, designed to feel like an extension of the overall experience rather than an afterthought. “I wanted every part of the café to feel intentional,” she says. “That’s part of feeling at home.”
Community remains central to the brand’s identity. Ownership and management are regularly present in the café, engaging with guests and staff alike. From greeting regulars to holding babies while parents order coffee, the atmosphere feels familial.
“That’s what sets places like this apart,” Santaniello shares. “People don’t just want good food and coffee—they want to feel seen.”
That philosophy extends beyond the walls of the café. Almost Home General’s mobile coffee cart has become a familiar sight at private events and gatherings along the East Coast, further reinforcing the brand’s focus on connection. Seasonal menus, limited-time offerings and thoughtful promotions—like surprise breakfast specials—keep the experience dynamic without losing its sense of warmth.
As the brand continues to grow, maintaining that balance is a priority. Expansion plans are already in motion, with additional North Jersey locations under consideration. Still, Santaniello says growth will never come at the expense of what makes the concept special.
“It’s important that every location feels rooted,” she notes. “This isn’t about being everywhere—it’s about being meaningful wherever we are.”
For Santaniello, the Westwood café represents more than a business venture. It marks a creative chapter, one that blends entrepreneurship, design and community in a way that feels deeply personal. Working alongside her husband and a close-knit group of partners has strengthened those ties even further.
“This feels like home,” she says. “Not just the café, but the life we’re building here.”
For Bergen County residents, Almost Home General’s arrival offers more than just another coffee option. It introduces a space designed for everyday moments—where good coffee, thoughtful food and a sense of belonging come together naturally in the center of town.
As the morning rush gives way to the rhythm of the day, one thing is clear: Almost Home General hasn’t just opened a café in Westwood—it’s become part of the neighborhood.
Rethinking chowder—and turning chili into a creamy crowd-pleaser
Most people think of chowder in terms of clam, fish or corn. That gives short shrift to a broader category of soup defined by its hearty, chunky character—often thick and creamy, though not always.
Consider tomato-based Manhattan clam chowder, which is relatively light compared with the robust creaminess of the New England version. What truly defines chowder is not the presence of cream, but its substantial texture.
Nearly any ingredient can be “chowdered,” from chicken and shrimp to pork, oysters, beef and vegetables. Even chili can be adapted to the form.
Chowder traces its roots to the 1700s, when English and French sailors prepared stews of fish, pork, onions, herbs and soaked biscuits for thickening. The word is believed to derive from the French chaudron, meaning cauldron, and the Old English term jowter, meaning fish peddler. These early stews were adopted by fishermen along the Atlantic coast of Canada and what would become the United States. Over time, chowder evolved into a cornerstone of American comfort food, often incorporating cream and potatoes, though neither is required. Regional variations followed local ingredients, from corn chowders in the Midwest to conch chowder in the Florida Keys.
The following recipe reimagines chili as a chowder, softening its traditional flavors while lending warmth and richness to the creamy base. The result is a cold-weather crowd-pleaser that bridges two classic comfort dishes.
Ingredients:
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• 3/4 pound ground beef
• 3/4 pound chuck beef, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 jalapeño, minced (or 1 teaspoon adobo)
• 2 tablespoons barbecue sauce
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 1/2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon flour
• 1 can beef consommé
• 1 can cheddar cheese soup
• 2 cans water (use soup can to measure)
• 1 can pinto beans, drained
• 1 can whole-kernel corn, drained
• 1 cup roasted corn
• 1/2 pound Yukon gold potatoes, diced
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Splash of lime juice
Directions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion and sauté until translucent and lightly golden. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
2. Add ground beef, chuck beef, bell pepper and jalapeño. Cook, stirring, until beef is browned. Remove mixture from pot and set aside.
3. Drain excess fat, leaving about 2 tablespoons in the pot. Add tomato paste and cook until darkened. Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika and oregano and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
4. Add butter and flour, stirring to form a roux. Gradually whisk in consommé, water and cheddar cheese soup. Add potatoes, beans and corn.
5. Stir barbecue sauce into reserved beef mixture, then return beef to pot. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook until potatoes are tender and broth has thickened, 45 to 60 minutes.
6. Stir in cream and season with salt and pepper. Finish with a splash of lime juice. Garnish with scallions, if desired, and serve with tortilla chips or oyster crackers.
ARTICLE BY CHEF DAVID BURKE
PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHEF DAVID BURKE, SHELLEY CLARK
REFRESHING Your Home, SUSTAINABLY
Spring design trends that bring balance, warmth and new energy indoors
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY CAMRYN
FONTANA
If you are constantly looking for ways to upgrade and improve your living space, small, intentional changes can often deliver the most meaningful results. As New Jersey homeowners balance busy schedules, changing seasons and a wide range of housing styles—from historic colonials to modern new builds—design trends for 2026 emphasize thoughtful living over excess. With a growing focus on sustainability and feng shui principles, today’s approach to home design centers on creating spaces that support daily well-being while promoting balance, clarity and comfort.
Rather than chasing bold overhauls, many homeowners are gravitating toward biophilic design elements that bring the outdoors in. Living walls, natural wood finishes and organic textures add warmth and visual interest while fostering a sense of calm. These elements are especially effective in the Northeast, where long winters and shorter daylight hours make interior environments a key contributor to overall comfort. Layering materials such as wood, stone and natural textiles helps create spaces that feel grounded and inviting year-round.
Color and light continue to play a central role in shaping a home’s energy and atmosphere. Designers encourage homeowners to pay attention to how natural light moves through a space during different seasons and to adjust furnishings and layouts accordingly. Lighter finishes and reflective surfaces can help maximize daylight during darker months, while warmer tones add balance and depth. Thoughtful color selection supports a sense of flow and continuity throughout the home, reinforcing a calm and cohesive environment.
Sustainability remains a defining priority in home decor, with both designers and consumers placing greater emphasis on responsible sourcing and long-lasting materials. Industry leaders are increasingly working with suppliers that prioritize environmentally conscious practices, reducing their carbon footprint while offering products that are durable, functional and visually appealing. As a result, there has been a notable rise in the use of recycled and natural materials, including acacia, burl, oak and mango wood. These materials not only age well but also offer versatility across traditional and contemporary interiors.
Custom and made-to-order pieces are also gaining popularity as homeowners look to personalize their spaces. Independent artists and craftspeople— often discovered through social media or design collaborations—are creating oneof-a-kind furniture and artwork that bring individuality to a home. These bespoke pieces allow homeowners to move away from uniform, mass-produced designs in favor of items that reflect personal style and tell a story, an approach that resonates strongly in communities that value character and craftsmanship.
Another significant shift is the move away from neutral, monochromatic interiors toward botanical influences and nature-inspired color palettes. Green has emerged as a versatile neutral, offering a sense of renewal and balance. Indoor plants and thoughtfully arranged greenery not only enhance visual appeal but also contribute to improved indoor air quality. Lowmaintenance options such as pothos, spider plants and monsteras can help reduce common indoor irritants like dust and mold spores, an important consideration during colder months when homes are sealed more tightly. Groupings of succulents, ivy and moss provide a modern alternative while delivering similar benefits.
Gold accents are often paired with green tones to introduce warmth and refinement. When layered thoughtfully through hardware, lighting or decorative details, these hues can be balanced with darker wood finishes or deep red accents for a rich, timeless look that suits both suburban and coastal homes throughout New Jersey.
Ultimately, sustainable design is about creating a home that feels as good as it looks. By making mindful choices—selecting quality materials, incorporating natural elements and prioritizing functionality— homeowners can create spaces that support long-term well-being while honoring the environment. With intention and balance, every room becomes an opportunity to foster harmony, comfort and lasting appeal.
About Camryn Fontana
New Jersey–based writer Camryn Fontana brings a background in fashion design, production management and marketing to her work, blending creative intuition with a strong understanding of craftsmanship and process. Her experience spans the full product lifecycle—from concept to execution—allowing her to approach storytelling with both strategic insight and creative intention. Known for her collaborative spirit and intuitive eye for detail, Fontana is passionate about working with brands and creatives to bring ideas to life through thoughtful, well-crafted narratives.
art that lives with you
For nearly three decades, Chelsea Art Group has helped redefine how art lives within the home. Founded in 1996 by Donald Christiansen, alongside partners Hendra Josiah and Sylvia Roth, the New York–based art consultancy has built its reputation on one guiding principle: great art should not only be collected, but lived with.
INSIDE CHELSEA ART GROUP AND THE VISION OF DONALD CHRISTIANSEN
Operating by appointment in New York City, Chelsea Art Group advises homeowners, collectors and designers on building thoughtful, personalized collections that reflect both aesthetic ambition and emotional connection. From emerging voices to museum-caliber works, the firm approaches art not as decoration, but as an essential architectural and narrative element of a space.
That philosophy was brought vividly to life during The Art of the Home, a recent immersive showhouse experience that transformed a private Bergen County residence in Upper Saddle River into a living gallery. Designed to demonstrate the power of art integrated thoughtfully into residential environments, the showcase paired blue-chip and contemporary works with leading interior designers, allowing visitors to experience how scale, materiality and emotional resonance shift when art is placed in context.
“The goal was to show what happens when art isn’t isolated on a white wall,” Christiansen shares. “When it’s part of the architecture of daily life, it becomes something you understand differently.”
The showhouse reflected Chelsea Art Group’s core belief that meaningful collecting begins with exposure—seeing exceptional work in real spaces, guided by expertise. Rather than presenting art as untouchable or intimidating, the installation invited visitors to imagine how museum-level pieces could exist naturally within their own homes.
ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DONALD CHRISTIANSEN, CHELSEA ART GROUP
Vik Muniz
Throughout the residence, designers collaborated closely with Chelsea Art Group to curate installations that felt intentional and lived-in. In the lawn and exterior spaces, Vik Muniz’s Mnemonic Vehicle series anchored the experience with sculptural reflections on memory and desire. The enlarged recreations of childhood toy cars—fabricated in industrial materials—explored nostalgia, aspiration and the objects we carry with us through time.
Inside, the lower stairwell and gallery featured commanding works by Didier William, whose layered surfaces and repeated eye motifs reimagine the Black figure with spiritual symbolism and contemporary urgency. The wine lounge and cellar paired Emil Lukas’ luminous string and bubble-wrap compositions with Tom Baril’s refined photographic studies, creating a space defined by quiet rhythm and restraint.
In the grand stairwell and foyer, works by Artur Lescher, Robert Beauchamp, Richard Dupont and Philip Taaffe demonstrated how abstraction, form and material can guide movement through a home. Nearby, the dining room presented contemplative pieces by Ching Ho Cheng and Naama Tsabar, where fragility, tension and silence created a meditative atmosphere for gathering.
Other rooms highlighted the emotional range of art in domestic settings. Willie Cole’s sculptural iron works transformed a transitional hallway into a space charged with cultural memory. Vik Muniz’s Postcards from Nowhere appeared in the kitchen and breakfast nook, reconstructing familiar travel imagery into layered meditations on distance and perception. Powder rooms featured Peter Fisher’s New York City photography, proving that even intimate spaces can carry artistic weight.
One of the showhouse’s most striking moments came through the inclusion of historical works by artists such as Larry Rivers, Sam Gilliam, Lee Krasner and Antonio Saura, positioned alongside contemporary voices. A rare public presentation of Gilliam’s Upside Down Man , on view for the first time after more than 40 years in a private Washington, D.C., collection, underscored the exhibition’s depth and curatorial ambition.
Throughout the home, the art did more than fill walls. It shaped mood, movement and conversation. Visitors lingered. They asked questions. They imagined.
That response, Christiansen says, is the point.
“Our role is to help people identify work of lasting significance and place it where it can be enjoyed every day,” he notes. “Art shouldn’t feel distant. It should feel personal.”
Chelsea Art Group’s approach emphasizes discretion, education and long-term relationships. Rather than focusing on transactions, the firm works closely with clients to develop collections over time—whether acquiring a signature statement piece, expanding an existing collection or curating an environment with a distinct point of view.
The showhouse also carried a philanthropic mission, with proceeds benefiting the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, further reinforcing the idea that art and design can serve a broader purpose beyond aesthetics.
As interest grows in integrating fine art into residential design, Chelsea Art Group continues to lead the conversation—showing that when art is placed thoughtfully, it doesn’t just elevate a home. It transforms how that home is experienced.
For Christiansen and his partners, the message is clear: art belongs where life happens.
To learn more or begin a private consultation, reach Chelsea Art Group at info@chelseaartgroup.com or 908-656-4804. More information is available at chelseaartgroup.com
Entang Wiharso, Sam Gilliam
Jack Pierson, Emil Lukas, Leonardo Drew, Emil Lukas
ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS PHOTOGRAPHY BY NASHVILLE CONVENTION & VISITORS CORP
The Ultimate Home Away From Home for Country Lovers
Feels Like Nashville.
For travelers who love a little twang, a lot of heart and the feeling of stepping into a place that knows how to have a good time, Nashville delivers in every key. Equal parts music hub, cultural capital and welcoming Southern city, Nashville has a way of making visitors feel less like tourists and more like temporary locals—boots optional, but encouraged.
Music City’s reputation is well earned. Country music runs through the city’s veins, from legendary venues to songwriter showcases where tomorrow’s hits are born. A visit to the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum offers a deep dive into the genre’s history, with exhibits that trace its roots and celebrate its icons. Nearby, Ryman Auditorium, often called the “Mother Church of Country Music,” remains a must-see for its acoustics, architecture and storied past.
But Nashville is far more than a greatest-hits playlist. The city’s neighborhoods give it texture and personality, each offering a different way to experience Music City. The Gulch blends sleek hotels, public art and buzzy restaurants, while 12South offers walkable streets lined with boutiques, coffee shops and local favorites. East Nashville leans creative and eclectic, with historic homes, vintage shops and a dining scene that rivals cities twice its size.
Food plays a starring role in the Nashville experience. From hot chicken institutions to refined farm-to-table restaurants, the city balances comfort and creativity. Dining here feels social by nature—meals stretch longer, conversations run deeper and live music often finds its way into the room. It is not uncommon to stumble upon a songwriter performing a stripped-down set while guests lean in, listening closely.
Live music, of course, is everywhere. Lower Broadway’s neon-lit honky-tonks offer a high-energy introduction to the city, with bands playing from morning to late night. For a more intimate experience, venues like The Listening Room spotlight the songwriters behind the hits, pairing storytelling with acoustic performances that feel personal and unscripted.
Country star Lainey Wilson performs live in Nashville.
“IT IS THE KIND OF CITY THAT SENDS TRAVELERS HOME ALREADY PLANNING WHEN THEY WILL BE BACK.” - CARLY MAC MANUS
If time allows, a short drive south offers another quintessential Tennessee experience. The Jack Daniel’s Distillery, located in the small town of Lynchburg, provides a behind-the-scenes look at one of the world’s most iconic American whiskey brands. Guided tours walk visitors through the limestone spring water source, charcoal mellowing process and historic barrelhouses, offering insight into the craftsmanship behind every bottle. Even for non-whiskey drinkers, the visit delivers a strong sense of place and tradition that complements a Nashville stay.
Back in the city, accommodations reflect Nashville’s blend of tradition and modern flair. Boutique hotels honor the city’s history through thoughtful design, while newer properties offer rooftop pools, skyline views and easy access to nightlife. Wherever visitors choose to stay, hospitality remains a defining feature—warm, welcoming and refreshingly unpretentious.
Art and culture also play an important role. The Frist Art Museum, housed in a historic former post office, showcases rotating exhibitions that range from contemporary to classic. Museums such as the National Museum of African American Music expand the city’s narrative, highlighting the genres and voices that shaped American music as a whole.
What makes Nashville feel like a true home away from home is its balance. The city knows how to celebrate without taking itself too seriously. Days are full but never rushed. There is room to explore, linger and discover something unexpected, whether it is a hidden cocktail bar, a neighborhood café or a new favorite artist playing a midday set.
For country lovers—and anyone drawn to places with soul—Nashville offers more than a getaway. It offers a feeling. One visit is often enough to spark return trips, inside jokes and playlists labeled “Nashville memories.” It is the kind of city that sends travelers home already planning when they will be back. And in Nashville, that is the highest compliment of all.
Carly Mac Manus
WEEKENDS IN MARCH
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
Saddle River County Park Group Ride & Nature Walk
Saddle River County Park
Explore scenic trails and enjoy community group rides and hikes at Saddle River County Park, spanning several Bergen County access points including Rochelle Park and Ridgewood (check local meet-up schedules).
MARCH 4TH
Dirty Dancing in Concert — bergenPAC
30 North Van Brunt St., Englewood | 7:00 PM
Relive an iconic film with its score performed live by a band in this concert-film experience at Bergen Performing Arts Center. Tickets and details are available through Ticketmaster at ticketmaster.com.
MARCH 13TH
Air Supply — 50th Anniversary Celebration
30 North Van Brunt St., Englewood | 8:00 PM
Legendary rock duo Air Supply celebrate five decades of music with a live performance at Bergen Performing Arts Center. Tickets and additional details are available at bergenpac.org.
MARCH 14TH
Ringwood St. Patrick’s Day Parade
parade route | 10:30 AM
Join the Ringwood St. Patrick’s Day Parade. The parade will feature bagpipes, floats and Irish dancers on Main Street in Ringwood, with a route to St. Catherine of Bologna Church.
MARCH 21ST
Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra Concert
Syriac Community Hall, 55 W. Midland Avenue Paramus | 7:30 PM
Enjoy a live symphonic performance by the Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra this March. For more information, visit bergenphilharmonic.org/march-21-2026
LATE MARCH
Upper Saddle River Township Easter Egg Hunt
Upper Saddle River
Families can look forward to seasonal egg hunts and spring festivities at local parks and recreation spaces across Upper Saddle River and neighboring towns. For more information, visit the official township calendars: usrtoday.org/calendar.
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