M A R C H 2 02 1
The Home Issue
WHEN LOCAL KNOWLEDGE MEETS BUSINESS EXPERIENCE, YOU WIN.
Visit us today for all of your banking and lending needs.
Bank smart. Bank local. Bank well. 100 Post Road East, Westport CT (203) 652-2710
mybankwell.com Member FDIC | Equal Housing Lender
KITCHEN AND BATH DESIGN 175 Post Road W, Westport, CT 06880 | 203-454-0032 | karenberkemeyerhome.com
Make your happy place your home.
w o wh a u s . c o m ADVERTISEMENT west port
Thoughts on design:
HOW TO TURN A HOUSE INTO A HOME
OR DARE TO TAKE AN ANTIQUE FAMILY HEIRLOOM FRAME and use it as a backdrop for a piece of art you love. But don’t frame it,,, just set the art in it,,, even let the hanging wire show! Do go bold in your powder room,,, yes, it’s small and fun so take a risk! Turn those carpets backside up,,, their texture is subtle and heavenly, and lived in. Out with the new in with your loves and treasures. Remember when DK first came out? Well, anyone with style would never wear all Donna Karan! Why live in an RH house?
ADVERTISEMENT
Do a mod kitchen with a flying saucer cooktop in platinum with great Renzo Piano bones! And pair it with those wonderful vintage rinds you always loved and could never throw out even though everyone always asked you why on earth are you keeping those? The next tablescape you have to do,,, use your fabulous remnant guest bath wallpaper, lay it over a white cloth and with orange and magenta dayglo masking tape you’ve a one-of-a-kind tableau that would make Letitia Baldridge proud. If you happen to have a set of original Wyeth lithographs grab your pair of black French Aigle riding boots and delight in the dialogue between
them.
Enfin,
if
you’ve
a bench, a cement floor and a specimen
rock,
show it off.
by Holly Jaffe of the design atelier WOWHAUS Stylemaker, designer, actor
by
all
means,
T H E EYES HAVE IT Our goal is to make you look refreshed — not different. Eyelid rejuvenation can be safely performed in our private office facility without need for general anesthesia or sedation.
B E F O R E E Y E L I D R E J U V E N AT I O N
A F T E R U P P E R E Y E L I D R E J U V E N AT I O N Actual Patient
VACCINATED STAFF
Your safety is optimized during this difficult time because we are a low volume, concierge practice. All patients are screened and visits are by appointment only. Unlike some facilities, we do not accept walk-ins and our staff does not work at other health care facilities.
208 Post Road West Westport, CT | (203) 454-0044 | PlasticSurgeryCT.com
Luxury Flooring for a Perfect Room Apadana Fine Rugs believes that our homes should reflect who we are and the journeys that we have taken. That is why your space deserves a rug that is a work of art, with a story and soul. Discover our extensive collection of rugs, which are pleasing to the eye, exquisite to touch and curated exclusively for the interior design community and discerning individuals. Call us at 203-698-5667, visit our website, ApadanaFineRugs.com, or email us at Help@ApadanaFineRugs.com.
LIFESTYLE LETTER
MARCH 2021 PUBLISHER
Marisa MacLean | marisa.maclean@lifestylepubs.com EDITOR
Home Sweet Home/Classroom/ Office/Gym/Restaurant THIS PAST YEAR THE WORD “HOME” HAS TAKEN ON MANY OTHER MEANINGS IN OUR LIVES. Our homes have become our offices, our kids’ classrooms, our gyms, our restaurants, our haven and sanctuary.
Robin Moyer Chung | robin.chung@lifestylepubs.com AD DESIGNER
Miranda Read L AYO UT DESIGNER
Emily Lisenbee CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Jen Berniker, Robin Moyer Chung, Michelle Glicksman CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Mindy Briar, John Videler, Jen Goldberg, Tracy Ann Battaglia, Fully Alive Photography
They’ve also become walls that we stare at endlessly, in which we’ve spotted every flaw and need for an upgrade. Almost all of our friends and neighbors have fallen victim to the Covid-19 remodel trend. Over the past year, they’ve resurfaced fireplaces, switched out lighting fixtures, changed their home's exterior color, hung up new artwork, repainted rooms and much, much more. It was a lot of fun but also created anxiety. Home projects can feel overwhelming. It’s important to take it one step at a time. Think simple: small steps, little bits of advice, maybe even down-sizing your home. Find happiness in repurposing old furniture or inventing new ways to use a family
CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry
heirloom. Get rid of what you don’t need and surround yourself with things you love.
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore
Keep us in the loop by tagging us on your social media posts @westportlifestyle.
OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson
ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor
We’d love to see what you’re working on. You never know, your home could end up
AD MANAGER Chad Jensen
in our next issue!
REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell
Marisa MacLean, Publisher 514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO
ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MASSACHUSETTS | MICHIGAN MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA | NEW JERSEY | NORTH CAROLINA OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON | PENNSYLVANIA | SOUTH CAROLINA TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON
ON THE COVER Peter Cadoux, Architect PHOTOGRAPHY BY MINDY BRIAR PHOTOGRAPHY 12
Westport Lifestyle | March 2021
CityLifestyle.com/Westport
Proverbs 3:5-6 Westport Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Westport areas’ most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Westport Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.
WE
Grow Hair!
NO DRUGS | NO PAIN NO SIDE EFFECTS NO SURGERY
Sunetics Laser helps prevent hair loss, improve hair quality and regrows hair in men and women! We also offer PRP to the scalp and a full line of supportive hair care supplements and products. Before
After
CELEBRATING OUR 7TH YEAR OF HELPING PATIENTS LOOK AND FEEL THEIR BEST!
Giving you the choices you deserve.
79 South Benson Road Fairfield, CT 06824
203.292.5559 DrChristineGould.com
INSIDE THE ISSUE MARCH 2021
FEATURES 22 Design by Committee How Social Media is Helping Homeowners Problem Solve
32 The Skinny House Cadoux Ca'Did It Again
44 Home Court Advantages The Newest in Custom Courts
32 22
50 The Best Little Bagel in Westport The Pop Up Bagel Story
50
DEPARTMENTS
44
12
Lifestyle Letter
16
Good Times
18
Around Town
28 Renovate & Refine 32 Open House 38 Artist’s Palette 44 Trend Setter 50 Food & Wine 56 DIY 62 Inspired By 66 Parting Thoughts
CLOSETS • GARAGE • HOME OFFICE • ENTERTAINMENT • WALL UNITS • WALL BEDS • PANTRY • CRAFT • LAUNDRY • MUD ROOM • WINE ROOM
Simply Solutions For Every Room In Your Home
REACH-IN CLOSET
OFFICE
LAUNDRY
WALL BEDS
Call (203) 616-5847 for a free design consultation and estimate or visit us online at closetfactory.com Showroom: 100 Wooster Street, Bethel, CT 06801 ©2021 Closet Factory. All right reserved.
the art of organization
GOOD TIMES 1.
2.
3.
Siriano Makes Westport the Runway On September 17, Christian Siriano held a fashion show at his Westport home to showcase his Spring/Summer ’21 collection. The Covid-friendly event included masks for the models which coordinated with his ‘80s and ‘90s inspired styles and signature voluminous skirts. Of his whimsical collection, the New York Times agreed, “Fashion should make you smile.”
5.
4.
6.
7.
8.
10.
11.
9.
12.
1. Preparing a pregnant Coca Rochas for the runway (Photo: Sara Kerens) | 2. Voluminous tulle. (Photo: Sara Kerens) | 3. Backstage in Christian's kitchen. (Photo: Sara Kerens) | 4. (Photo: Mike Coppola, Getty Images) | 5. Gorgeous color. (Photo: Mike Coppola, Getty Images) | 6. Signature Siriano skirts. (Photo: Mike Coppola, Getty Images) | 7. Stunning detail. (Photo: Sara Kerens) | 8. (Photo: Sara Kerens) | 9. Run-over-the-water way. (Photo: Mike Coppola, Getty Images) | 10. (Photo: Sara Kerens) | 11. A final walk featuring a Vote gown. (Photo: Mike Coppola, Getty Images) | 12. Christian Siriano waving at the crowd. (Photo: Mike Coppola, Getty Images) 16
Westport Lifestyle | March 2021
D R . M A S H A KO G A N & D R . V I R G I N I A R O M A N O
203.227.8700 • DENTALCENTERWESTPORT.COM • CARE@DENTALCENTERWESTPORT.COM • 175 POST RD W, WESTPORT
in v isalign® | B OTOX ® | i Tero ® | ZO O M Whi t e n i n g® | KöR Whi t e n i n g® | P i c a s s o La s er ®
AROUND TOWN Trebors further to life as it continues to tell the story of family, love, and the ties that bring them together. Available February 1.
A KIDNEY FOR WESTPORT RESIDENT CATHY TALMADGE A longtime Westport resident, Cathy was put on kidney donation lists but was told it could take years before a kidney would become available. There are
SUGAR & OLIVES BADA@@ BAGELS
currently more than 100,000 Americans waiting for
These bagels are made with Sugar & Olives own
a kidney transplant and the list is about seven years
sourdough starter. The starter was created last
long at last count. Dialysis could wreak havoc on her
spring during the many weeks of being home and
body, and she could become incapable of having
baking and cooking anything and everything. It’s a
a future transplant. Tested family members were
rye flour-based starter that has become very happy
not cleared due to various medical issues, so her
and active – so active that it often bubbles, expands
friends are getting the word out for an angel donor.
and takes over the counter it's resting on.
Please spread the word! (Photo: Jerri Graham) AKidneyForCathy.com
To order, go to SugarandOlives.com
MAPLE SUGAR AND TAPPING TREES AT WAKEMAN TOWN FARM There are few things sweeter than homemade maple syrup from your own backyard! Join us on the farm with local tree-tapping experts Carl McNair and Julie Beitman to learn how to tap your own trees for maple sap, as well as how to prepare the sap into delicious maple syrup. This workshop includes information on tree identification, learning when to tap, and what equipment to use, plus tips on evaporation and bottling. All participants can go home with their own maple-tapping kit ($10.00) and be on their way to mouth-watering homemade syrup. This is an outdoor class; please wear boots or shoes that can get dirty.
WESTPORT WRITER CAROLINE BARNEY PUBLISHES THE TREBOR TALES, BOOK 2 With action-packed adventure and whimsical magic, Book 2 of The Trebor Tales, Return of the Malpeds, brings the enchanted world of the
18
Westport Lifestyle | March 2021
WakemanTownFarm.com
CONTINUED >
FIRST IN FAIRFIELD COUNTY NEW SKIN TIGHTENING TECHNOLOGY
Smart Science. Simple Solutions. The FDA-cleared Sofwave technology — a groundbreaking skin tightening treatment that is noninvasive with no downtime. See visible results after only one treatment! Sofwave uses Proprietary Intense Ultrasound Beam Technology™ (IUB), where sound wave energy passes through the epidermis (the skin’s surface). This procedure tightens lax skin and improves the appearance of wrinkles, as well as increases and generates collagen.
O U R E X P E R T P H Y S I C I A N S W I L L A D D R E S S YO U R N E E D S
D R . TA N YA F U TO RYA N
D R . M A LC O L M C R E I G H TO N - S M I T H
CONDITIONS
PROCEDURES
ACNE
SEBACIA LASER TREATMENT
BODY CONTOURING / FAT REDUCTION
COOLSCULPTING
FACIAL AGING
REVERSAL WITH INJECTABLES FOR MUSCLE BALANCE: BOTOX, JEAVEAU, DYSPORT ANTI-AGING FILLERS: SCULPTRA, RESTYLNE, JUVEDERM, VOLUMA & MORE
SKIN CANCER
BODY CHECKS & SKIN CANCER SCREENINGS
SKIN LAXITY
LASER RESURFACING & RADIOFREQUENCY TREATMENTS
SKIN TONE PIGMENT DISCOLORATION
IPL, CLEAR & BRILLIANT
SWEAT REDUCTION
MIRADRY
UNDEREYE DARK CIRCLES
LASERS & FILLERS
UNWANTED HAIR
LASER HAIR REMOVAL
VAGINAL REJUVENATION
THERMIVA
WRINKLE REDUCTION
MULTIPLE LASER & FILLER OPTIONS
WESTPORTDERM.COM | DIRECT: 203-226-3600 | TEXT: 203.666.6604 I N F O @ W E S T P O R T D E R M .C O M | 3 2 5 R I V E R S I D E AV E W E S T P O R T, C O N N E C T I C U T 0 6 8 8 0
AROUND TOWN
CHESS CLUB OF FAIRFIELD COUNTY You watched Queen's Gambit. You're trying, desperately, to conquer the game. Look no further than CCFC. The Chess Club of Fairfield County is the leading resource for educational and recreational chess services in the
Barbara Bross Alexander Chingas & Doug Bross
Now more than ever, a house becomes a home. Mike Gefen
Featured Home: 178 Hillspoint Road, Westport, $4,195,000
region, serving all of Fairfield County and
beyond!
include
Educational
private
services
instruction,
group
instruction, school classes and chess camps. Recreational services include casual play, USCF rated tournaments and team matches. We offer services for all players from beginners to grandmasters. The common element of all of our services is an uncompromising dedication to elevating chess.
WESTPORT DOWNTOWN EGIFT CARD The Westport Downtown Merchants Association is excited to present a unique gift card program to support the Downtown business community! The Westport Downtown Dollars eGift Card is the first digital gift card redeemable exclusively in Downtown Westport.
All
of
your
favorite
Downtown restaurants, retailers and service providers in one place. Use at any of the participating locations in Downtown Westport— there is truly
TO OUR COMMUNITY, CLIENTS, FRIENDS AND COLLEAGUES: We wish you good health during these unprecedented times. The Bross Chingas Bross team remains available to help our clients achieve their goals. Our unmatched experience and #1 leadership position in Westport, Weston & Fairfield Sales and Listings is the key to your success. We are skillfully leveraging technology and global marketing to facilitate the sale and purchase of properties for our clientele. Contact us for a confidential consultation to hear how we can meet your needs virtually, with well-being as the first priority.
something for everyone! Additional businesses are being added every day! Buy a Westport Downtown Dollars eGift Card for yourself, or your friends, family,
teachers
and
colleagues.
Perfect for a holiday, birthday, anniversary, graduation, baby shower, wedding, house warming, teacher’s gift … or just because.
-Barbara Bross, Alexander Chingas, Doug Bross, Jenny Walsh, Tom Kelley, Mike Gefen, Devin Weintraub
(203) 454-8000 | www.BrossChingas.com 355 Riverside Avenue, Westport, CT 06880
B BrossChingas V BrossChingasBross
Would you like to get in touch with us? We would love to hear from you! Contact us
at
CityLifestyle.com/Westport
using the Get In Touch link and let us know what you think.
20
Westport Lifestyle | March 2021
As the trusted energy partner for many of your neighbors, we’re eager to have you join our family too! gaultenergy.com
BIOHEAT HEATING OIL
PROPANE
NATURAL GAS
MAINTENANCE & REPAIR
HEATING & COOLING
GENERATORS
HOME AIR QUALITY
SMART HOME TECHNOLOGY
Create an outdoor space you love living in.
MAIN: 203.227.5181 | GREENWICH: 203.629.3835 GAULTENERGY.COM/BECOME-A-CUSTOMER
gaultstone.com
STONE & LANDSCAPE SUPPLIES
"Does anyone have a farmhouse sink that they love? We put in concrete and it hasn't held up." Photo: Natalie Gagnon, Kitchen Design: Jill Kalman
22
Westport Lifestyle | March 2021
B Y
C O M M I T T E E
ODDS ARE EVERY HOMEOWNER HAS SOME SORT OF “DESIGN DILEMMA” RIGHT NOW: “SHADES OR DRAPES?” “What size rug?” And the impossible: “Which shade of white?” So where do you go for design advice when you are not working with a decorator? Enter DesignPort, a new Facebook group for crowd-
IS DESIGNPORT TRYING TO TAKE THE PLACE OF A PROFESSIONAL DESIGNER?
sourced design and renovation advice. Created in October
JB: DesignPort doesn’t take the place of a designer; it
of 2020 by Westport mom, design obsessive, and one of
gives you inspiration and useful tips for smaller projects. If
our writers, Jen Berniker, DesignPort is populated and cul-
you need a suggestion for a light fixture, a funky wallpa-
tivated by local homeowners. Already it has 1,500 highly
per, a sofa that will save your back (and maybe even your
engaged followers (some posts receive close to 100 com-
marriage), these are all things that have been asked and
ments in a day!)
answered in this community.
We cornered Jen to get more information on her design idea.
We also have some professional designers in the group, who are an amazing resource for members to get high-level
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO CREATE DESIGNPORT? Jen Berniker: Not everyone can hire a professional designer. If it’s a small project, like picking new doorknobs,
advice. It’s a great way for designers to get their names out there. Although the moderators and I try to keep the page free of unsolicited advice and advertising.
you probably don’t need a designer anyway. The problem is there are about 900 doorknobs on Build.com. Fortunately,
WHAT’S ARE SOME OF THE MOST POPULAR POSTS?
there are people who already researched this topic and can
Bathrooms and powder rooms, and we’ve seen great
tell you the difference between polished nickel and brushed
ideas. Bold paint, statement wallpaper, and a stylish mir-
chrome and what’s the most budget-friendly round flat
ror can make a major difference for a relatively minimal
knob you can buy and where. I wanted to create an orga-
cost. Kitchen posts are often about small upgrades, like
nized way for people to tap into that knowledge base.
backsplashes. Others ask if they should renovate the kitchen or just paint the island a new color and change the knobs. Some posts have included kitchen floor CONTINUED >
HOW SOCIAL MEDIA IS HELPING HOMEOWNERS PROBLEM SOLVE ARTICLE INTERVIEW WITH JEN BERNIKER: CREATOR OF DESIGNPORT CityLifestyle.com/Westport
23
DESIGN BY COMMITTEE (CONTINUED) “Does anyone know the source for this splatter paint wallpaper?”
"Please help me pick a shade of white!"
Simple Style: Round Mirror (rejuvenation.com) over miminal console (bludot.com). Vase from McGee & Co. Photo: Jen Berniker
24
Westport Lifestyle | March 2021
"Help! Need kitchen stools should I do A or B?" Photo: Sarah Manning
plans and members respond back with marked-up versions. People also love “before and after shots” and time-lapse videos of DIY projects. Recently someone asked for “three things you can’t live without in your home.” The top answers were: a big pantry, a mudroom, and two dishwashers. Honorable mention went to a central vacuum system and heated floors in the bathrooms. WHAT KIND OF PHOTOS SHOULD WE POST? The key to success is taking a well-lit wide shot of your unfinished space, then posting a few options you like. Votes and other ideas will pour in from the hive mind. ANY QUICK DESIGN TIPS? + Do buy planters and pillows at Home Goods, not art. Support a young artist and buy a print or photo. + Don’t be afraid to put holes in your walls. Hang that photo! + Do try a minimal round mirror over a long console table. + If your sofa sits on the ground, do a coffee table on legs, and vice versa. + Do make a Pinterest page. Don’t look at prices, just style. Seeing all of the things you like in one place will help you narrow down options. + Do play with paint to make a traditional house feel modern: Paint your walls and trim the same color. Paint your trim dark and your walls light. Paint your interior doors a neutral color that complements your floors. + Do think about proportion before you purchase a rug, light, sofa, etc. As with clothes, the fit is as important as the style, and chances are, you can go bigger. + If you aren’t sure, ask DesignPort! HOW DO I JOIN? You need to be approved by a moderator but anyone can join and invite friends. Go to www.facebook.com/groups/DesignPort and follow on Instagram @designportCT CityLifestyle.com/Westport
25
SAVING SKIN SINCE 1964 THERE IS NO SUBSTITUE FOR EXPERIENCE.
CONNECTICUT DERMATOLOGY GROUP (CDG) IS THE LARGEST SKINCARE TREATMENT CENTER BETWEEN NEW YORK AND NEW HAVEN, OFFERING A FULL SPECTRUM OF MEDICAL AND SURGICAL CARE AS WELL AS AESTHETIC ENHANCEMENT. Our offices are located in Norwalk, Stamford, Greenwich and Milford. We serve Westchester, New Haven and Fairfield Counties, including the towns of Darien, Wilton, Fairfield, Shelton, and many more. Our on premise Mohs Surgery Skin Cancer Treatment Center allows us to perform more than 1500 Mohs micrographic surgeries every year, delivering a 98% cure rate on the day of treatment. From simple warts to complex skin disorders, we take the health of your skin very seriously. Our view is that your skin is not only your body’s largest organ, but a critical immunological barrier that keeps you safe and healthy in your environment. Whether your visit is to seek specialized medical attention or surgical procedures for an acute skin problem; undergo an in-depth preventive screening or consultation; or enjoy a rejuvenating, complexion-enhancing treatment, our primary objective is always to optimize and promote the immediate and long-term health of your skin.
+ Insurance Accepted for All of Your Medical Needs CDG accepts all major insurances including Medicare. We are open and offer Telemedicine appointments and Saturday appointments in Milford and Norwalk as well.
600 W. Putnam Avenue & 50 Holly Hill Lane
203-810-4151
ctdermgroup.com
bv
RENOVATE & REFINE
B at h i n g B e au t i e s
Karen Berkemeyer
(Photograph: Tim Lenz)
TRENDS IN BATHROOMS Navy feature wall. (Photograph: Tim Lenz)
28
Westport Lifestyle | March 2021
ARTICLE ROBIN MOYER CHUNG
Simple hardware, peaceful colors. (Photograph: Jane Beiles)
I’M NO EXPERT, BUT IT SEEMS THE NATURAL
SPECIFICALLY, HERE’S HOW TO BEST
PROGRESSION OF RENOVATION IS STAINING THE
BUBBLE YOUR BATHWATER:
FLOORS, RIPPING OUT THE BATHROOMS, THEN
+ Porcelain walls from large format tiles, up to 48”x96”.
RE-DOING THE ENTIRE HOUSE BECAUSE THE
The look is cleaner and you don’t have to worry
RENOVATED BATHROOMS LOOK TOO GOOD FOR
about scrubbing so much grout.
EVERYTHING ELSE.
+ Tone down flooring then punch it up in the shower
Commode abodes happen to be the bailiwick of Karen
with a mosaic. You can even pull the mosaic into
Berkemeyer Home (KBH), where they source everything
the niche where you store shampoos and soap.
from plumbing to porcelain. Conveniently, they’re also
+ Make waves with a feature wall of colored tile
kitchen renovators which you’ll want after you unwit-
or glass, either the entire wall or just behind the vanity.
tingly begin your home-improvement journey.
+ Use neutrals and tranquil colors: white, taupe,
According to KBH, trends are shifting away from
navy, grey, soft blue.
splashy water closets to those with a simpler, modern
+ Soak in streamlined tubs and select
transitional vibe. Clients want an uncomplicated look
unfussy hardware.
CONTINUED >
with a pop of interest to kick it up and keep it interesting.
CityLifestyle.com/Westport
29
RENOVATE & REFINE (CONTINUED)
Mosaic in the shower and shower floor. (Photograph: Tim Lenz)
Shower mosaic. (Photograph: Jaime Martorano)
(Photograph: Tim Lenz)
Streamlined tub. (Photograph: Joe Buzzeo)
30
Westport Lifestyle | March 2021
saugatuck-financial.com 203.221.5275 | 274 Riverside Avenue, Westport, CT
Justin Charise, CFP® Comprehensive Financial Planning Wealth Management | Estate Planning Insurance, Retirement and Tax Strategies
All investments carry some level of risk, including the potential loss of principal invested. No investment strategy can guarantee a profit or protect against loss. Saugatuck Financial is a marketing name for Justin Charise and is not a broker-dealer, registered investment advisor, federal savings bank, subsidiary or other corporate affiliate of The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company including its subsidiaries, nor is it a legal partnership or entity. Northwestern Mutual is the marketing name for The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company, Milwaukee, WI (NM), and its subsidiaries. Charise is a representative of Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Company®, NMWMC Milwaukee, WI, a subsidiary of NM and limited purpose federal savings bank, and registered representatives of Northwestern Mutual Investment Services, LLC (securities), a subsidiary of NM, registered investment adviser, broker-dealer and member FINRA and SIPC. All NMWMC products and services are offered only by properly credentialed representatives who operate from agency offices of NMWMC.
CityLifestyle.com/Westport
31
OPEN HOUSE Photo by: Mindy Briar
ARTICLE ROBIN MOYER CHUNG PHOTOGRAPHY MINDY BRIAR AND BARRY A. HYMAN
CADOUX CA'DID IT AGAIN
32
Westport Lifestyle | March 2021
The Skinny House
Main house living room and stairs. Photo by: Barry A. Hyman Photography
“A sma l l house,” Peter sm i les, “ is a n a ma zi ng ly compl icated pu zzle.”
WE SPEND THE FIRST HALF OF OUR LIVES ACQUIRING
completed a sliver of a home - all of 20 feet wide - and guest
THINGS, THE SECOND HALF TRYING TO GIVE THEM AWAY.
cottage on a coveted lot between Sherwood Millpond and
At first it’s fun: we buy adult stuff like power tools and porcelain
Compo Cove.
collectibles. Then one day we’re staring at four rechargeable drills and a collection of tacky knick-knacks.
According to Peter, the biggest secret to a small home is a thoughtful floor plan. “We start with the land. Where are the sun
As we log years and gain wisdom, our affinity for material goods
angles? How is the property situated? Then we consider the peo-
ebbs as our longing for a new beginning flows. Our yearning for
ple. How will they entertain? How will they get downstairs? Are
simplicity increases in proportion to our disinterest in housework
they public or private people?”
and yard care. And once we rid ourselves of these earthly posses-
Now, the best part of this particular lot is the two views (ocean
sions we no longer need, or want, the square footage that housed
and pond), not the simple thrill of a skinny home. For Peter,
them. Suddenly smaller is superior.
however, the size was a dream challenge. “A small house,” Peter
WLM caught up with Peter Cadoux, one of our favorite archi-
smiles, “is an amazingly complicated puzzle.” They wanted to
tects and expert in designing small(er) homes. He recently
emphasize the waterscapes while making the “small spaces seem CONTINUED >
CityLifestyle.com/Westport
33
OPEN HOUSE (CONTINUED)
“ T he big gest a rgu ment i n th is house is wh ich v iew do we l i ke bet ter? ” Guest cottage living room and view. Photo by: Barry A. Hyman Photography
Gorgeous Compo view from the master bedroom.
big.” To do this, no inch could be wasted and no fussy bits
biggest argument in this house is which view do we like
could interrupt the lines. Plus, it had to survive the salt,
better?” admits Peter.
sun, hurricanes, and floods while looking like a beach house, not a bunker.
34
The owner, Mary Morant, is a local artist who grew up on the Southeast coastline. Her goals for her new home
In the main house, he installed floor-to-ceiling glass
were “simplicity and authenticity.” Peter used materials
doors in the living room overlooking Compo Cove. These
indigenous to the East Coast, or manmade materials that
can be easily opened should one wish to inhale the
look indigenous but can withstand New England’s tem-
rarefied air of this locale. He did the same in the guest
perature tantrums. For instance, in a nod to Mary’s south-
cottage, to gaze at the happy ducks in Millpond. “The
ern heritage, he coated the outside first floor and pillars
Westport Lifestyle | March 2021
Pop-out bunk beds in the office. Photo by: Barry A. Hyman Photography
with tabby, a mixture of oyster (an homage to Hummock
According to Peter, smaller homes like this are increas-
Island) and mussel shells mixed with a lime slurry from
ingly popular. Perhaps it’s a response to the noise in our
North Carolina, where the stucco originated.
lives and our interest in doing something other than home
Most everything is built-in, such as the outside shower
repair on weekends. Perhaps our parents unloaded their
whose base stone doubles as a drain and the kitchen
life of detritus upon us so we’re trying to limit the hoard
island into which everything from trash bin to dishwasher
we’ll try to pawn off on our own kids. Most likely, we sim-
is tucked. In the office, two perfectly appointed bunk beds
ply want a fabulous home with enviable views and the
pop out of the wall to create a guest room, then are easily
coolest bunk beds in town.
pushed up and secured into the wall.
CityLifestyle.com/Westport
35
WOOD BIN Solid Wood Furniture
Celebrating 40 Years Founded in 1980
305 Federal Road Brookfield, CT (203) 775-1770 | woodbinfurniture.com Hours Sat. 10-5 Sun. 12-4 mon-fri. 10-6
Waiting for Spring Sale, Now in Progress
Celebrating our 25th Anniversary on April 1, 2021
SGCBBW Attorneys from left to Right: Jake Del Greco, Natassia M. Fodor, Aidan R. Welsh, Jill H. Blomberg, Cynthia C. George, Thomas D. Colin, Peter M. Bryniczka, and Molly C. Sanford
(203) 862-5000 | sgbfamilylaw.com 1700 East Putnam Ave Suite 206 Old Greenwich, CT 06870 | 180 Post Road E., Westport CT, 06880
Proudly introducing our new Westport office: 180 Post Rd. E., Westport, CT 06880 36
Westport Lifestyle | March 2021
ARTIST’S PALETTE ARTICLE ROBIN MOYER CHUNG
O H H H . . . WA L L PA P E R ! THE FABULOUSNESS OF PEEL & STICK PAPER
1.
2.
3.
5.
4.
7. 6.
THANKS TO FACEBOOK SWAP SITES, MODULAR FURNITURE,
We decided to jump down the rabbit hole of this peel and stick stuff
AND GENERAL RESTLESSNESS WITHIN OUR HOUSES, HOME
to see what it looks like and where it can be purchased. What we found
DECOR IS BECOMING INCREASINGLY FUNGIBLE. One of the
were designs from the delightfully whimsical to the borderline disturbing.
most popular trends is peel and stick wallpaper: it’s a cost-effective
So whether you want to beautify your home or freshen up the creepy
way to dramatically change a room with relative ease.
interior of an abandoned meat locker, there’s a wallpaper waiting for you!
38
Westport Lifestyle | March 2021
HERE ARE SOME OF OUR FAVORITE NOT-DISTURBING CHOICES: 1. ZEBRA BY SCALMANDRE (comes in 4 colors), TheInside.com, $69/roll | 2. PUCKER UP, ChasingPaper.com, $40 for 2’x4’ panel | 3. SURF GODDESS, SpoonFlower.com, $72/roll | 4. SHIFT, Black and White, TemPaper.com, $125/double roll | 5. JEWEL TONE STARS (comes in 3 colors),CarterAndMain.com, $29.99 for 26” x 52” panel | 6. BUNNY HOP, ChasingPaper. com, $40 for 2’x4’ panel | 7. JUMBO STRIP BOHO DROP, SpoonFlower.com, $72/roll
8.
9.
10.
12.
11.
14. 13.
8. FEATHER FLOCK IN STORM GREY, $125/Double Roll | 9. GARDEN AFFAIR IN CALYPSO (comes in 2 colors), TemPaper. com, $49/double roll | 10. KIWI PATTERN, TemPaper.com, $45 for 2’ x 4’ panel | 11. MAUI, Walmart.com, $28.07/roll | 12. MOIRE DOTS IN BLUE MOON (comes in 5 colors), TemPaper.com, $39.99/roll | 13. GOODBYE MOON, Metallic Gold (comes in 3 colors), TemPaper.com, $98/double roll | 14. PLUS ONE (comes in 2 colors), ChasingPaper.com, $40 for 2’x4’ panel CONTINUED >
CityLifestyle.com/Westport
39
ARTIST’S PALETTE (CONTINUED) 15.
16.
18.
19.
20.
15. LOVE LIPS,SpoonFlower.com, $72/roll | 16. CRANE FLIGHT, CarterAndMain.com, $29.99 for 26” x 52” panel | 17. WHALE, TemPaper. com, $15/roll | 18. WHITE DRY ERASE, Walmart, $29.56/roll | 19. OCEAN WAVES, SpoonFlower.com, $72/roll | 20. AUSTRALIAN EUCALYPTUS, SpoonFlower.com, $72/roll | 21. BRUSHTROKES (comes in 3 colors), CarterAndMain.com, $29.99 for 26” x 52” panel 40
Westport Lifestyle | March 2021
17.
It’s Time to Ask Yourself...
Are You Living in Your Dream Home? Thinking about Selling...or Buying? There’s no better time than now! Mortgage rates are low and inventory is flying off the shelf...the market is hot! I’d love to talk with you! Let’s make your dream home come true! 21.
mindy.wolkstein@raveis.com mindywolkstein.raveis.com 203.216.1287
47 Riverside Avenue | Westport, CT 06880
CityLifestyle.com/Westport
41
CONVENIENT, COMFORTABLE, and CUSTOMIZED IN-HOME VETERINARY CARE FOR DOGS AND CATS in Fairfield County, CT. jess@bespokevetservice.com
Ph: (203) 360-2371, Fax: (203) 643-2022 www.bespokevetservice.com
WEDDINGS AND LIFESTYLE PHOTOGRAPHY FOR FAMILIES, NEWBORNS, INTERIORS, AND BRANDING. WESTPORT, CONNECTICUT • 203-701-6233 MINDYBRIAR.COM • MINDYBRIARPHOTOGRAPHY
42
Westport Lifestyle | March 2021
BRODER ORL AND MURR AY & DEMATTIE
LLC
MATRIMONIAL AND FAMILY L AW
Distinguished • Experienced • Attentive
ERIC J. BRODER
CAROLE TOPOL ORLAND
SARAH E. MURRAY
CHRISTOPHER J. DEMATTIE
Divorce Litigation, Mediation, and Arbitration Alimony and Spousal Support Custody, Parenting Plans, Child Support, and Relocation Property Division including Complex and Alternative Assets Valuation Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements Preserving Generational Wealth Post-Judgment Modification and Enforcement Appeals
JAIME S. DURSHT
NICOLE M. DIGIOSE
ROBERT D. VOSSLER
55 GREENS FARMS ROAD, WESTPORT, CT 06880 | 115 EAST PUTNAM AVENUE, GREENWICH, CT 06830
203-222-4949 www.ctfamilylaw.com CityLifestyle.com/Westport
43
ARTICLE ROBIN MOYER CHUNG
TREND SETTER
HOME COURT ADVANTAGES 44
Westport Lifestyle | March 2021
THE NEWEST IN CUSTOM COURTS
THERE ARE, ESSENTIALLY, THREE TYPES OF TENNIS COURTS AROUND WESTPORT. Public courts, in which derelict weeds add an interesting and dangerous element to one’s game. Country clubs, which come with a dining minimum and pesky expectations of propriety. And personal courts, which allow limitless playing time along with sartorial and behavioral liberties. With such options, and mandatory mask rules, the increasing demand for home courts is as surprising as a seagull stealing french fries. Today’s courts are different than the bituminous concrete slabs of the ‘80s and ‘90s. So, too, are their functionality. Tom Hinding of Hinding Tennis (HT), who has been creating courts since 1994, filled us in on what to consider in a home courtship.
CONTINUED >
Tom Hinding, owner. (Photo: John Videler)
CityLifestyle.com/Westport
45
TREND SETTER (CONTINUED)
Custom pickleball court..
First, not everyone in the family wants to play tennis. One can either ignore that individual or create a multi-purpose “sports court” to accommodate him/her. Says Tom, “People want courts they can also use for basketball, skating and pickleball. Pickleball is growing faster than any other sport I’ve seen in the past 25 years.” HT courts have even included shuffleboard courts and painted games such as Four Square, hopscotch, and kickball. It’s much easier to push a pack of screaming children outside when there are a number of options to occupy them. Second, most public and club courts are hard. Of these courts, Medium.com writes, “It is one of the toughest surfaces that affects the body and many elderly people are not able to play on this surface anymore due to the strain it can cause on their body.” In response, HT specializes in “all-weather cushioned courts” to help prevent joint pain. The HT courts, “have not only improved the quality of the game but… our players feel less fatigue, have less injuries and can play longer when they play on one of our cushioned systems.” Lastly, owning a tennis court should be a diversion from one’s busy life, not a labor-intensive, deteriorating plot of time consumption. Tom explains, “Because of the freeze and climate change we experience, ‘All-Weather Courts’ are the easiest to maintain and can be played on year round.” Unfortunately, tennis court cracks are
inevitable.
Routine
maintenance
and crack repair will always be a part of court ownership. In 2007, Tom invented “Riteway Crack Repair (RCR)” which is,
46
Westport Lifestyle | March 2021
Multi-purpose court.
arguably, one of the best in the country. “We’re
Fixing court cracks is actually how Tom got into
known globally for curing the cracking of asphalt
the tennis racket. Truthfully, he’s never been much
courts,” Tom grins. He sells RCR to over 175 con-
of a player. “Actually,” he shrugs, “I don’t even know
tractors and has installed it in six countries.
how to keep score.” CityLifestyle.com/Westport
47
Custom Tailor and Shirtmaker #WESTPORTSTRONG WE ARE OPEN AND LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING NEW AND FAMILIAR FACES. 5 Post Road West, Westport CT | 203.557.6644 | stephenkempson.com
Our Family Law Team Provides Depth of Trial, Settlement and Mediation Experience
Livia DeFilippis Barndollar
Jon T. Kukucka
Campbell D. Barrett
Jill D. Bicks
Judge Lynda B. Munro (Ret.)
Judge Anne C. Dranginis (Ret.)
Kelly A. Scott
Sophisticated representation, including: • High profile/High net worth divorce and custody • Collaborative divorce and Alternative Dispute Resolution • Asset division – commercial, tax and trusts & estates • Appeals to all courts
Listed a s Tier 1 in Family L a w by U.S . New s – Be st Law yers® Be st Law Firm s
253 Post Road West • Westport, CT 06880-8180 • 203.254.5000
pullcom.com 48
Westport Lifestyle | March 2021
@pullmancomley
25
S U R F R OA D WESTPORT | $6,750,000
A rare find in Saugatuck Shores. A direct waterfront home with unobstructed views of Long Island Sound. This home with the potential to be 8,000 sq. ft. plus its existing 3-car garage, pool and deep water dock cannot be replicated due to current zoning. Enjoy the beach lifestyle!
203.984.1068 Luxury Properties Specialist
marilyn.heffers@raveis.com | marilynheffers.raveis.com 47 Riverside Avenue | Westport, CT 06880
We all know family caregivers who are burned out. Caregiving is hard work! In fact, 84% of caregivers describe it as difficult. The average caregiver provides 20 hours of care each week to their loved one. It’s no wonder, they can find themselves neglecting their own needs.
Family Caregivers Need a Break!
Signs of Caregiver Burnout: → Stress → Poor Health → Sleep Problems → Weight Change → Emotional Outbursts → Social Isolation
Therapeutic non-medical home care www.sheraton.care | 203-221-0221
ACCREDITED BUSINESS ®
CityLifestyle.com/Westport
49
FOOD & WINE
the best little bagel in w w ee ss tt pp oo rr tt POP UP BAGEL STORY ARTICLE ROBIN MOYER CHUNG
IT’S THE TYPICAL SUCCESS STORY: THE MANAGING DIRECTOR
Adam Goldberg spent his days directing and dazzling
OF A DEPLOYABLE FLOOD BARRIER COMPANY IS FORCED TO
global clientele with a flood mitigation company, AquaFence.
QUARANTINE DURING A PANDEMIC AND THEN CREATES A
In his off-time he enjoyed cooking and entertaining family and
BAGEL THAT TAKES THE WORLD BY STORM. The end.
friends. Then quarantine slammed down in Westport, leaving
“But wait,” you ask. “How does a flood barrier company prepare an executive for success in the boiled bread goods industry?” The answer is: it doesn’t. Let’s start from the beginning.
him high and dry save for management of his offspring and nights of Catan with his wife, photographer Jen Goldberg. One day shortly thereafter, Boredom knocked on Adam’s door, tendering its request for a long, uninvited residence.
Pile o' Pop Ups (Photo: Jen Goldberg)
50
Westport Lifestyle | March 2021
Now the next part is pure conjecture, but I imagine Adam looked Boredom square in the eye and huskily swore, “Nice try, Boredom. Take a hike and - hey - leave that bag of high quality flour on the door step when you leave.”
In November, Adam celebrated his birthday with a bagel fund-
Which is exactly what Boredom did.
raiser for Filling In the Blanks. The event raised a lot of dough -
Adam took that bag of high quality flour and mixed it with other
around $1,000.
excellent ingredients until he had perfected the recipe for a pudgy
Which made Adam wonder something to the effect of, “Have I…
little bagel of such texture and deliciousness that all around were
(pause full of wonderment and awe) Have I created the rock star of
eager to partake. He opened a “Bagel Window” in his home from
all breadstuffs?”
which friends could gather at certain times and collect bagels, offer-
Jen brought his bagels to Bill Taibe and his wife, Rachel, of Don
ing Adam a modicum of socialization in his otherwise long days of
Memo. “Yes!” Husband and wife declared. Adam moved his bur-
self-isolation, save for his beloved wife and family.
geoning bagel empire and Bagel Window from his home to Bill’s
Word of his bagels spread throughout the County. First friends. Then friends of friends. Soon his iPhone was blowing up at all hours with requests for his carb creations.
venerated kitchen. After all, dear reader, if a flood expert should make bagels then why shouldn’t a Mexican cantina produce them? CONTINUED >
Adam Goldberg (Photo: Jen Goldberg) CityLifestyle.com/Westport
51
FOOD & WINE (CONTINUED)
Making bagels at Don Memo. (Photo: Tony Greenberg)
“I use high quality flour and a great mix of spices. My bagels are cooked to order but at a bagel shop they may have been sitting there for hours.” 52
Westport Lifestyle | March 2021
As logic would dictate, another Bagel Buying Day ensued, this time from Don Memo. They flew from the window with such celerity, Adam decided to design a website, PopUpBagels.com, in which bagel buffs could pre-purchase their beloved carbs. He opened said site to sell 50 dozen bagels at 1:00 on a Thursday afternoon. By 1:02 they had sold out. People drive for miles to claim this remarkable starch. One family requested he ship them to the site in which they were vacationing for five weeks. His iPhone bleats night and day from eager eaters. He now has 600 names on his waitlist. “I’m honored,” he says of the madness. It can’t be ignored that precious few, if any, in his Pop Up Bagel purview are limited in their procurement of whatever make, type, and quantity bagel they desire. So why Pop Ups? “I use high quality flour and a great mix of spices. My bagels are cooked to order but at a bagel shop they may have been sitting there for hours.” Indeed, he wakes around 3:30 AM to begin.
Several
benevolent
bleary-eyed
friends arrive at 6:00 AM to knead, boil, and bake 144 on weekdays, 500+ on weekends - however many roundabout rolls the populace requires. And what of the future? There’s no slowing down for Adam “Best Bagel” Goldberg. He’ll expand locally at first, find commercial kitchens, hire talented and responsible high school kids to help. “There aren’t many high school jobs available,” he explains, knowingly. But I imagine you’ve one last, lingering query: what flavors are available? Well, at differing times: Maldon salt bagel, salt and poppy, sesame, cinnamon raisin, everything, honey whole wheat. Adam’s favorite? The salt and poppy. And a 2020 bonus: “You don’t have to worry about seeds in your teeth because of Covid masks.” Well, not every story has a fairy tale ending.
It’s not a salon.....it’s a movement. (203) 557-9100 | 833 POST ROAD EAST WESTPORT, CONNECTICUT 06880
PopUpBagels.com CityLifestyle.com/Westport
53
New French Art by Pascal Dabere
Westport River Gallery One Riverside Ave, Westport 203.226.6934 • WestportRiverGallery.com 54
Westport Lifestyle | March 2021
Can’t find your dream?
BUILD
your dream.
117 MORNINGSIDE DRIVE SOUTH, WESTPORT
Ginny Gould Kelly gkelly@williampitt.com 203.246.8760
(Photo by Heidi Curran)
spring renewal for your mind/body G I V E YO U R S E L F T H E G I F T O F HEALING FOR THE NEW SEASON Discover how Sugi Acupressure can help the whole family with natural pain relief, gut-balanced health, emotional release and total well-being.
I NJAE CHOE PHD, LMT 20+ Years Experience | ONLINE BOOKING: sugiacupressure.com Serving Westport, Weston and surrounding towns. House calls available.
Text 646.823.5386 | injae.choe@gmail.com |
@sugiacupressure
CityLifestyle.com/Westport
55
k i t c h e n
DIY
Appreciation For What It Is Original Art by Catie Radney @catieradneyart
get the look WITH HGTV + DIY NETWORK’S ‘BARGAIN MANSIONS’ DESIGNER TAMARA DAY
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
56
Westport Lifestyle | March 2021
DESIGNER TAMARA DAY IS A PUR-
skill set comes from growing up on a
VEYOR OF THE GLAM AND COZY.
farm. Growing up, she learned all of
This busy wife and mother of four styles
her hands-on skills from her dad, Ward
for the spirited home, mixing glam, com-
Schraeder. After getting married, Tamara
fort, and family. Tamara’s sense of style
and her husband took on old, dilapidated
and eye for what works has created an
homes that no one wanted and turned
insatiable demand for her interior design
them into beautiful spaces.
expertise, furniture and décor .Tamara
One home in particular made Tamara
grew up on the Midwestern plains in
the sought after designer she is today.
Salina,
While rescuing a home from foreclosure
Kansas.
Her
“do-it-yourself”
01
Season 3 | Episode 10 View the full project and shop for products at TamaraDay.com.
Banquette Tile: Daltile® Marble 3/8 x Random Mosaic in Venetian Calacatta
Island Chandeliers: Kichler Brisbane Cabinet Knob: Nostalgic Warehouse Deco Cabinet Knob
Cabinet Pull: Nostalgic Warehouse Farmhouse Cup Pull
Countertop + Backsplash: Daltile® Natural Stone Slab – Natural Quartzite in Crystalize (Polished) Cabinet Color: Dried Thyme – 75% (Sherwin Williams)
and neglect, the economy tanked, forcing Tamara to do a lot of the work herself. To stay on budget, she went to estate sales and redesigned furniture to fit her vision for the house. Out of this experience, a new brand was born— Growing Days, Tamara’s interior design, furniture, décor and lifestyle business. On HGTV & DIY Network’s Bargain Mansions, Tamara and her crew transform big, old houses that she finds at bargain prices. While respecting the integrity and history of the homes, she integrates modern design, function and style to the space – perfect
CONTINUED >
for today’s families. CityLifestyle.com/Westport
57
l i v i n g r o o m
DIY (CONTINUED)
Rain Cloud Original Art by Karen Dreyer @karendreyerart
Boulder Original Art by Rachel Harris @studiorhad
02
Fireplace Stone: Daltile® Ambassador™ Random Linear Mosaic in Voyager Black
Chandelier: Kichler
Rug: Heartland Beige
Fireplace Hearth: Daltile® Natural Stone Slab – Black Soapstone (Honed)
58
Westport Lifestyle | March 2021
View the full project and shop for products at TamaraDay.com.
Season 3 | Episode 11
OF W E S T P OR T, C T Registrations are open for all our dance programs. dance in a safe environment with The Best Dance teachers.
Open to Adults, Kids and Tots in Group Classes, Private Lessons, Livestream Classes Available. Director Enrique Alarcon | (203) 341-8900 | 222 Post Rd. West TheDanceCollective | thedancecollectivect.com
LANDSCAPE DESIGN MASONRY FEBRUARY 13–28, 2021
A BRAND NEW ACT OF CT STREAMING PRODUCTION
PROPERTY MAINTENANCE
Music Supervision by Bryan Perri | Choreography by Sara Brians Cinematography by Barton Cortright | Directed by Daniel C. Levine
actofct.org
3369 Fairfield Ave, Bridgeport, Connecticut (203)923-2648
jpphilbinlandscapes@gmail.com
CityLifestyle.com/Westport
59
The things you love, LOCAL. Shop SAVVYANDGRACEWESTPORT.COM SAVVY+GRACE your “LOCAL DEPARTMENT STORE”. GIFT BASKETS: Corporate ∙ Birthday ∙ Baby ∙ Hers & His. Savvyandgracewestport.com «
B@savvyandgrace V @savvyandgracewestport
architectural design custom homes . remodeling www.westportbuilder.com
60
Westport Lifestyle | March 2021
203.227.1055
Darien, Fairfield & Westport
Introducing Pure Barre
AT HOME! CALL US T O D AY (2 0 3 ) 5 5 7 -8 6 6 3
The teachers you know, on the go! WWW.PUREBARRELIVEFAIRFIELDCOUNTY.COM
Studios are following all COVID19 safety regulations. Masks are required to be worn for all classes. At home and private group sessions are available.
CityLifestyle.com/Westport
61
INSPIRED BY
Spreading Kindness with Kindli The Kindli bus
CURE FOR THE SOCIAL DILEMMA Developer/Founder: Martin Diamond and Chief Kindness Officer: Darlene Santori
IT WAS 2017 AND MARTIN DIAMOND, FOUNDER AND CEO OF DIGITAL MEDIA FIRM VURIA, LLC, WAS BRAINSTORMING. The father of three saw something he realized he wanted to change - the negativity of social media. So he created Kindli, a platform that focuses on the good and eliminates the negative. There’s no bullying or hateful language and there are no depressing conversations about news or politics. Instead, the narrative is on kindness and positivity. “I was trying to fix what I saw as major flaws in those platforms, allowing abuse and hate; creating a toxic environment.” Martin explains. During development, Kindli attracted a number of outstanding personalities; football star Tim Tebow, threetime Olympic gold medalist Kerri Walsh Jennings, and WWE star Thaddeus Ballard (also known as Titus O’Neil). Darleen Santore, also known as Coach Dar and for her work with professional athletes, also signed on as the CKO—Chief Kindness Officer. So, what exactly is Kindli? It looks and acts similarly to social media apps with which most of us are familiar, but everything on the site is positive and kind acts are celebrated. It’s a safe space for people to connect and where they can be inspired or inspire others. ARTICLE MICHELLE GLICKSMAN PHOTOGRAPHY TRACY ANN BATTAGLIA/FULLY ALIVE PHOTOGRAPHY 62
Westport Lifestyle | March 2021
“I hope th is platform helps the wel l-bei ng of people and l i fts up thei r spi rits to i nspi re them to serve. Th is is goi ng to change the word for better.”
Kindli cards
CONTINUED >
CityLifestyle.com/Westport
63
INSPIRED BY (CONTINUED) The Kindli app
KINDLI CARDS In addition to the platform, Kindli provides a home for the “Pay It Forward” movement with real-world Kindli Cards™, a method of tracking kind acts worldwide. Diamond describes them in a Starbucks drive-thru “pay it forward” experience. A Kindli user would leave a Kindli Card with the barista and ask them to give it to the car behind them when they tell them their order was paid for. The card has no details on it that would personally identify the card’s giver, just a QR code. If the person who was on the receiving end wanted to say thank you, they could scan the card with their phone and send an anonymous thank you message, photo, or video to the Kindli member. That member could then share that message to their Kindli profile to inspire others to perform their own acts of kindness. They may reveal their identity and connect on the platform if they choose. The cards are intended to inspire kindness and to track the number of acts they inspired. Kindli’s goal is to inspire one billion acts of kindness around the world. MAKING IT A POSITIVE PLACE Creating an account on Kindle is free. The first time a member comments or posts content, they are must make a one-time $1 payment which Kindli donates in full to a charity, including United Way Worldwide, Boys & Girls Clubs of America, ASPCA, GLAAD, Special Olympics, Disabled Veterans, Susan G. Komen, Tim Tebow Foundation, and Bullard Family Foundation. The proceeds help with another of Kindli’s goals—to donate one billion dollars to nonprofit organizations. Diamond agrees that inspiring one billion acts of kindness across the globe and donating one billion dollars to charity are big goals, but says confidently, “Yes, they are lofty goals, but I think with this platform we can reach them.
64
Westport Lifestyle | March 2021
Tim Tebow gives out shoes to those in need.
REDEFINING THE INFLUENCER Kindli also aims to change the current perception of what it means to be an influencer on social media. Martin says, “On Kindli, rather than putting the focus on just likes and popularity, our emphasis is more on what have you done to make a difference, and how much of an impact are you making?” Everyone from companies to celebrities to individuals can show the world how much they are an influencer by the number of Kindli cards they’ve given out, based on the number that will be linked to their profile. SPOT THE BUS Kindli has a dedicated bus with their “Street Team,” making stops to do random acts of kindness. Tebow and the Street Team took the bus to a gas station and surprised customers by paying for their gas. Tebow actually pumped their gas and cleaned their windshields! They also stopped by a teen football practice, where Tebow gave the team an inspiring speech, and one more stop at a grocery store to pay for customers’ groceries. “I hope this platform helps the well-being of people and lifts up their spirits to inspire them to serve. This is going to change the word for better,” says CKO Darleen.
Find Kindli at Kindli.org, or download the mobile app in the App Store or Google Play.
blowouts look good on you
book online
blowdrysouthport.com westport
southport
203.557.4789 203.292.8543 @blowdry_sw CityLifestyle.com/Westport
65
PARTING THOUGHTS
Maximalist Bungalow Color, Pattern, Texture.
SOMETIMES YOU SIMPLY MUST GO BOLD. Kirsten Woods
MY HOME, “BUNGALOW 62,” IS AN ENVIRONMENT OF LOVE AND FAMILY FOR MYSELF AND MY TWO CHILDREN AND AN EVER-CHANGING PALETTE TO FLEX MY CREATIVE MUSCLE. I’ve filled it with family heirlooms, repurposed items, treasured finds, and many photographs. The space reflects my personality through
Beautiful details.
furniture, art and color. My mum calls my aesthetic “interesting and different.” I call it “BoHo Preppy.” Color has always figured heavily into my interiors; I believe in its power to change the mood of a space. A friend once told me she’d love to live in my closet because of the bright cheerful colors I wear. In the days of greige, I’m a stand out. Stylist: Sarah Shaw NancyElizabethHill.com
ARTICLE KIRSTEN WOODS PHOTOGRAPHY NANCY ELIZABETH HILL
66
Westport Lifestyle | March 2021
Anything but basic.
INTRODUCING THE NEW LAND ROVER DEFENDER
MSRP FROM $49,900* The Land Rover Defender story began with the simple thought of creating an exceptionally capable off-road vehicle. Today, the story continues with the New Land Rover Defender. While it builds on the legacy of previous versions, it’s a completely new vehicle. As the toughest and most advanced Land Rover vehicle ever produced, it can confidently take you to some of the most remote places on earth—and back again. Put the New Land Rover Defender to the test at your Land Rover Retailer. Land Rover Fairfield One Commerce Drive, Fairfield, CT 06825 203.874.8500 Landroverfairfield.com
Vehicle shown: 2020 Land Rover Defender 110 with optional equipment. *Price shown is Base Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price for 2020, Land Rover, Defender 110 Standard. Excludes $1,025 destination/ handling, tax, title, license, retailer fees, all due at signing, and optional equipment. Retailer price, terms and vehicle availability may vary. See your participating Land Rover Retailer for complete details, visit LANDROVERUSA.COM or call 1-800-FIND-4WD / 1-800-346-3493. © 2020 Jaguar Land Rover North America, LLC