“CON NECTICUT WILL ALWAYS FEEL LIKE HOME”
PLUS: DECOR + DESIGN TRENDS IN OUR ANNUAL HOME ISSUE AND: LOCAL LEADERS WE'RE PROUD TO CALL OUR OWN
our uniquely developed stretch mechanism offers effortless wearability, making it incredibly easy to slip on and off while ensuring a perfect fit and exceptional comfort.
March has a way of making us pause.
The days begin to stretch, the light changes, and we start to think about home in a different way. Not just the spaces we live in, but the places that shape us, ground us, and grow with us. That feeling is what inspired our March Home Issue.
Our cover story captures that sense of coming full circle. This month’s cover star, Cirie Fields, is preparing for a historic appearance on Survivor 50, and she credits the early years of her career here in Fairfield County, a place she once proudly called home. It is a reminder that no matter how far life takes us, the communities that shape us stay with us.
The idea of home continues in our travel feature, where we explore a true home away from home at The Roundtree in the Hamptons. Thoughtfully designed and warmly welcoming, it is the kind of place that feels familiar the moment you arrive.
Here in our own community, we celebrate the people who help turn houses into homes. Titus Built, a home-building extraordinaire, marks 30 years of helping families create dream homes that are deeply personal and built to last.
We also look ahead with our 2026 Home Trends feature, where we speak with local realtors throughout the community about what is in, what is out, and how the market continues to evolve. That forward-thinking conversation continues with an interview with Peter Cadoux, who shares his approach to building luxurious, high-quality homes that challenge convention while staying rooted in craftsmanship.
Caring for a home does not end once it is built. We catch up with Maxx Crowley, Vice President of SCA Crowley, to discuss his company’s unique home management services and how they help homeowners protect and maintain their spaces year-round. And finally, our Editor's Pick highlights unique vases The Post, an inspiring home store right here in Westport that continues to elevate everyday living through thoughtful design.
At its heart, this issue is about the places we love most. The homes we build, the communities we belong to, and the spaces where life unfolds. Thank you for welcoming Westport Lifestyle into your homes and for allowing us to continue sharing the stories that make this community so special.
Warmly,
March 2026
PUBLISHER
Marisa MacLean | marisa.maclean@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Sara Gaynes Levy | sara.gayneslevy@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Sophia Andersen, Angela Broockerd, Heather Spinks
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Bevy Rutledge
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas
MARISA MACLEAN, PUBLISHER @WESTPORTLIFESTYLE
The bond between a Farmington eighth grader and the UConn men’s basketball team, thanks to one amazing nonprofit.
Cirie Fields is making a historic appearance on 'Survivor
she credits her career in Norwalk.
Sunayana (Sue) Georgiades Becomes a Partner at Broder Orland Murray & DeMattie
Sue, a Connecticut Super Lawyers ® Rising Star in Family Law since 2021, was announced as a partner at family law firm Broder Orland Murray & DeMattie in January. To learn more about Sue and her work, visit ctfamilylaw.com
Rachel
Westport turns to Michelle & Team. Since 1984.
‘Hole
Hole in the Wall, a new comedy for the stage directed by Christopher Denham, whose credits include Op penheimer, Argo, Billions, and the Broadway production of Good Night, and Good Luck , and written by Rogers Award–winning playwright Jeff Hughes, will have its world premiere at Lachat Town Farm in Weston. The play runs from March 6 through 22. For more information and tickets, visit lachattownfarm.org
CONTINUED >
“Michelle & Team guided us with confidence, clarity, and exceptional service - from buying our first home to selling years later. We always felt heard and supported. ~A.C., Westport “
This year, VersoFest, The Westport Library's celebration of music, media, and creativity, will feature Grammy-winning singer/songwriter Ani DiFranco in conversation with author Lauren Coyle Rosen, as their Visionary of 2026, local journalist Alisyn Camerota interviewing actress Gina Gershon, and a headlining concert from Grammy-winning artist Wyclef Jean. Don't miss it! Tickets and info at westportlibrary.org
by The Westport Library
After a successful show last year at the Westport Country Playhouse, the “Project Runway: All Stars” judge and Broadway performer is back, offering comedy, commentary, and an array of songs in his show. For tickets and more information, visit westportplayhouse.org
Photography Courtesy Westport Country Playhouse
'Bridgerton' Gets a Signature Fragrance
Westporter Shonda Rhimes' hit series Bridgerton is back for season 4 on Netflix, along with its very own fragrance! Floral Street Enchanted Masquerade Eau de Parfum is a hotand-heavy, English countryside-inspired mix of pear, hazelnut, gardenia, Centifolia rose, skin musks, and cedarwood. $35 for 10ml or $99 for 50ml on floralstreet.com or at Bloomingdale’s.
The 7th Annual Rach’s Hope PJ Gala, will be on Saturday, March 28, 2026, from 7 to 11 PM at Fairfield Theater Company - The Warehouse in Fairfield. This pajama-chic evening blends cocktails, music, and meaning to raise critical funds for families with children facing extended ICU stays. The PJ Gala honors the late Rachel Doran’s spirit while supporting families in crisis when they need it most. For tickets and more, visit rachshope.org
THE NONPROFIT THAT BRINGS KIDS AND COLLEGE ATHLETES TOGETHER AND CHANGES LIVES.
ARTICLE BY SARA GAYNES LEVY
As March Madness kicks into high gear, fans in Connecticut (and around the country) will be cheering on the University of Connecticut Huskies. But there’s one fan who has a special relationship to this elite basketball team. For the last few years, Elijah Randolph, an eighth grader in Farmington, has been, essentially, a member of the UConn men’s Huskies team thanks to Team IMPACT, a nonprofit organization that matches children facing serious illness and disability with college sports teams.
Elijah was diagnosed with Blastic Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cell Neoplasm (BPDCN), an aggressive and rare form of blood cancer, in 2023. His mom, Aurora, began connecting with as many organizations as she could to help lift Elijah’s spirits in the face of his diagnosis. It was while at a family weekend at Hole in the Wall Gang Camp, the camp founded by Westporter Paul Newman for children with serious illnesses and their families, that she met a representative from Team IMPACT. She applied for it, and they waited.
In the meantime, Elijah, who tells Westport Lifestyle he had “no interest whatsoever” in basketball at the time, ended up meeting Andrea Hurley, UConn head coach Dan Hurley’s wife, while in the hospital. The UConn team had gone to visit the unit where Elijah was. “At the time, Elijah was known as the mayor of the eighth floor,” Elijah’s dad, Carl, says. He had a particular reputation as the unit’s Uno champion. Andrea challenged Elijah to a game. “I
don't really think that she knew how to play Uno,” says Carl with a laugh. “I think that that was her way of breaking the ice with him.”
After Elijah beat her in that first game, they kept playing. Slowly, Andrea started raising the stakes, offering to play for sneakers, a jersey, and eventually, tickets to a game. (Elijah, of course, won quite a lot.) “Before we knew it, we were going to the games on a regular basis,” says Carl. The Randolphs were at the 2024 National Championship game, where Elijah even had the opportunity to cut down the net after the Huskies’ win. “We thought that was the end of it,” says Carl. “But then my wife got a reply from Team IMPACT saying we were chosen as a match for UConn. Needless to say we think there may have been a little pulling of the string somewhere!”
When Elijah’s Team IMPACT match began, it only strengthened his bond with Coach Hurley and the team. “Every time I go and see them, it's like my second family,” says Elijah. “The campus is like my second home. The experience has been amazing.” Aurora agrees. “He has unique relationships with each one of the players. It’s wonderful to see how he’s able to express himself with them,” she says. Adds Carl: “And we really like that they check on his grades and ask how he’s doing in school. Coach Hurley's a big stickler on grades!” (Carl also says there’s been a big improvement in Elijah’s grades since Coach Hurley started asking about them, which is especially impressive given Elijah’s recent return to full-time school.)
It might seem like an unlikely thought to pair college athletes and coaches with kids facing disability and illness, but it’s turned out to be an absolutely brilliant one. “The idea was bringing two populations of people who would never otherwise intersect, but also have so much to learn from one another,” explains Lynn LaRocca, LCSW-C, the High Profile Program Manager for Team IMPACT. “The power of a team, really, is not about wins and losses on the court, but what it is like to be part of an entity that is supporting you, guiding you, keeping you in place, encouraging you, picking you up, cheering you on, and setting limits when you need to. For kids and families who face chronic illness or disability, there's a lot of similar challenges.” Things like feeling isolated, or missing out on opportunities other kids have— these are relatable feelings for elite athletes. By building emotional bonds that allow both sides of the match to really get to know one another, it becomes a safe space. “This isn’t a meet-and-greet,” says Lynn. “It’s deeper and bigger than that.”
The players and staff members have been changed by getting to know Elijah, too. “He's been with us through thick and thin, ever since my freshman year. He motivates us every day,” says Solo Ball, a junior guard. “When you see a guy that you know may be going through some things and he never shows it one bit, you get motivated even more. Having him in our corner has been everything for us.”
Elijah and his family are paying the goodwill they’ve received forward, too: Carl founded Elijah’s Entourage, Inc., a 501(c)(3)
nonprofit organization helping children and families rebuild emotionally, mentally, and spiritually during and after cancer treatment through hugs, care packages, healing journals, and family connection programs designed to nurture the heart after the hospital.
Facing childhood illness or disability is never easy. But organizations like Team IMPACT are crucial in lessening that burden on the children who have to fight. “I know what Team IMPACT has done for my son, and I know that it can help other kids as well,” says Carl. “I believe in their mission one hundred percent.”
To learn more about Team IMPACT, visit teamimpact.org To learn more about Elijah’s Entourage, Inc., visit elijahsentourageinc.org
Titus Built celebrates 30 years of helping people create their dream homes.
When Jeff Titus launched his remodeling firm Titus Built three decades ago, it was a logical step for the New Canaan native. “My family was always hands-on,” Jeff tells Westport Lifestyle. “I was a tinkerer: building things, taking things apart, putting them back together.” In college, he majored in construction engineering, a “hybrid degree,” as he describes it. “During each break from school, I would work for an architect or an engineer,” he says. “I ended up getting a well-rounded view of the industry.” After stints at a large-scale energy service company in New York City and the Coopers & Lybrand accounting firm, “I realized I wanted to do my own thing,” he says. “I hit the ground running. I’m not sure ‘design-build’ was a term back then, but I was always interested in being one: either providing designs and building them, or working hand-in-hand with designers or architects.”
And that’s what Titus Built became: since 1995, they’ve been helping their clients craft homes that are functional and beautifully designed. Their craftsmanship is unmatched— their woodworkers create custom cabinetry, islands, and other millwork right in their on-site woodworking shop—and their office in Redding is filled with examples of their expertly-executed work. They’ve won dozens of awards, including
six HOBI (Home Builders & Remodelers Association of Connecticut) Awards in 2025 and recognition as #276 on Qualified Remodeler’s Top 500 list, Houzz Best of Design & Service, and more. “One of the best compliments is when we get repeat business or referrals to friends or family,” says Jeff. “To develop a project for someone, get it done, and then for them to give us more? It’s the ultimate reward.”
That approach to the client-builder relationship is one of the elements that’s helped Jeff’s business endure for 30 years. “Our slogan is ‘building clients for life...one home at a time,’” he says. “That means we stand by our work, and we make things as simple as possible in a complicated industry by providing everything and anything a client could want.” And they mean it, down to the smallest details, like keeping a bathroom renovation as dust-free as possible or protecting a project from pets.
Their detail-oriented approach all goes back to values. “These are the values that we live by,” Jeff says. “You can’t stay around if you don’t deliver a good product and you don’t have good values.” This ethos may be why Krystal Stone, Titus Built’s creative director, says her favorite part of her job is her colleagues. “I just love working with the team,” she says. “I love being creative, and I love that Jeff lets me do that.” Hiring team members who share this vision is not accidental. “We have a method of trying to find like-minded people that are values-based,” says Jeff. “It’s not just the team, it’s our subcontractors, and anybody that interacts with our clients.” (This includes Jeff’s beloved pup Winston, Titus Built’s unofficial mascot.)
Thirty years is a milestone, and Jeff sees a bright future for his company in the decades to come. “I think we do a lot of things really well, but I think we want to keep refining, keep making things better, and keep adding more services for our clients,” he says. “Our goal is to be comprehensive, from design to construction to interior design to property management. We’ll go back and change a lightbulb if our clients want us to! Whatever it takes to maintain their home, we’re here for that.”
To learn more about Titus Built, visit titusbuilt.com
With more than 20 years of full-time real estate experience in Westport and surrounding towns, Veronica brings a calm, strategic and highly personalized approach to every home sale and purchase.
As a luxury property specialist with Compass, she is recognized for her real-time market insight, analytical precision, exceptional communication skills, and strategic targeted marketing campaigns. Consistently ranked among the Top 100 real estate agents in CT by sales volume, Veronica specializes in luxury properties, waterfront homes, new construction, historic homes, first-time buyers and downsizers.
Exceptional service and proven results. $50 million pending and sold in 2025.
Our highly regarded breast imagers, all trained at prestigious academic medical centers, are dedicated to providing you with outstanding care.
We are excited to offer concierge breast imaging services and quick turnaround time for results at our state-of-the-art facility in New Canaan. Most insurances are accepted because everyone should have access to quality breast healthcare.
To schedule an appointment or learn more about the team at Connecticut Breast Imaging, please call 203.791.9011, or visit our website at ctbreastimaging.org.
The Roundtree redefines hospitality with their new personal chef experience.
ARTICLE BY SOPHIA ANDERSEN
Nestled among the windswept dunes and tranquil streets of Amagansett, N.Y., The Roundtree boutique hotel is a destination known for its understated elegance and impeccable service. To make The Roundtree experience even more personal and luxe, they have added a new and exciting offering: a personal chef experience, curated by Chef Dewa Wijaya.
With a resume boasting international acclaim, Chef Dewa Wijaya is a true culinary visionary. Hailing from Indonesia and rigorously trained in the traditions of French cuisine, he brings a globally inspired palette to the Hamptons. His approach fuses the refinement of French technique with the bold, vibrant flavors of Southeast Asia. This isn’t just fusion cooking; it’s a celebration of cultures woven together on a plate.
Local, farm-to-table vegetables, freerange eggs, and aromatic spices danced together in each spoonful, setting a restorative, cozy tone for the evening. Next, we were treated to melt-in-your-mouth chicken skewers in a fragrant and rich peanut sauce. Each subsequent course built upon the last, showcasing Chef Dewa’s deft hand with flavor and texture. But the true showstopper—the dish I’ll be dreaming about for the foreseeable future—was the Be Sampi Menuatnyat. This Balinesestyle beef was slow-braised for 6 hours until impossibly tender. It was a symphony of spices and technique that showcased the true range of Chef Dewa’s skill.
CONTINUED >
This past October, I had the pleasure of sitting down for an intimate dinner experience in the hotel’s elegant main house. Here, Chef Dewa welcomed us for a curated 10-course Indonesian tasting menu, a feast inspired by his home country. While a menu of this magnitude might overwhelm most diners, every course was crafted with a focus on freshness, balance, and nourishment, leaving us energized rather than overfilled. The meal began with a delicate chicken soup, brimming with complexity and comfort.
The Roundtree’s personal chef experience is not your typical “room service.” It’s a bespoke adventure. Upon booking, guests are invited to collaborate directly with Chef Dewa to craft a custom menu, ensuring dietary preferences and favorite cuisines are honored. The process feels intimate and intentional, Chef Dewa listens and interprets your culinary dreams into reality. The Roundtree offers dining in their main house or in the comfort of your cottage, if you prefer a private night in. The entire experience had us feeling less like hotel guests and more like private clients. Perhaps the most remarkable aspect of Chef Dewa’s residency is its reach beyond The Roundtree’s serene grounds. Guests and non-guests can invite Chef Dewa into their own homes, whether in The Hamptons, New York City, or surrounding areas (like, say, here in Connecticut). Imagine hosting a dinner party in your home with a menu designed and executed by an internationally celebrated chef. This unique extension of the personal chef experience brings the same level of care, creativity, and expertise to private kitchens across the region.
Whether you’re a local craving inspiration or a visitor seeking unforgettable hospitality, The Roundtree’s partnership with Chef Dewa Wijaya sets a new standard for luxury and personalization. In an area known for its world-class beaches and vibrant arts scene, The Roundtree stands out by redefining what boutique hospitality can be. The personal chef experience is a testament to the hotel’s dedication to exceeding expectations and creating moments that linger long after the last bite. For those seeking a stay that nourishes both body and soul, Chef Dewa’s residency is not to be missed.
To learn more, visit theroundtreehotels.com
CIRIE FIELDS IS MAKING A HISTORIC APPEARANCE ON 'SURVIVOR 50.' AND SHE CREDITS HER CAREER IN NORWALK.
ARTICLE BY SARA GAYNES LEVY
In 2000, a new series debuted on CBS: Survivor. It was a genre-defining program that heralded a new era of television; more than 50 million people watched Survivor’s first-season finale. On February 26th, 2026, the historic 50th season of the show, Survivor: In The Hands of Fans, begins, featuring a roster of returning cast members who represent the show’s storied 25-year run. Among those cast members is Cirie Fields.
Cirie holds the record for most international Survivor appearances: this is her sixth time competing, and she has also appeared on Big Brother (alongside her son) and won the first season of Peacock’s The Traitors. Offscreen, Cirie is a nurse, and for fifteen years she lived here in Norwalk while serving as flow coordinator and then as assistant manager at Norwalk Hospital. “I came to Norwalk by way of a travel nurse job,” she tells Westport Lifestyle. She was only four years into her nursing career, and shortly after she arrived, the hospital began the process of phasing out their travel nurses. Cirie’s boss at the time asked her to stay on as flow coordinator, a role that is essentially charge nurse of the operating room. “I said, ‘I’m adventurous—sure, I’ll give it a try,’” she recalls with a laugh. “It was a daunting job. I dealt with all the surgeons, the staff, the administration, the patients. It was an amazing learning opportunity for me, and my boss became my chosen family. Norwalk became home.”
When Cirie joined Norwalk Hospital full time, she had already appeared on her first season of Survivor, 2006’s Survivor: Panama. “Panama was one of the rougher islands, because it rained so much and there were so many bugs,” she says. “But the longer I stayed, the more it felt doable.” At the time, returning players were rare, but Cirie heard rumblings that they might ask her back. “I let [the hospital] know I did the show, and I won the fan favorite vote my first season, and there was a potential they might ask me to come back again,” she says. Sure enough, she got the call to appear on 2008’s Survivor: Micronesia. Her colleagues were fully supportive. “It was a once in a lifetime opportunity to go back— I couldn’t say no!— and we worked around it.”
Cirie then came back for season 20, Survivor: Heroes vs. Villains, in 2010, and Survivor: Game Changers in 2017. She also appeared on Survivor: Australia V The World last year, bringing her up to her record-breaking sixth appearance on Survivor 50. She was inducted into the Xfinity “Survivor Hall of Fame” in 2011 and has been called “the greatest player to never win.” “I didn’t start out planning to leave a legacy,” Cirie says. “But sometimes I say to my husband: do you know our grandchildren’s children will be able to look back and see their great-grandmother, and know she was loved by people and did all of these great things? It moves me, honestly. I just wanted to play a show I loved. I had no expectations. And for it to have flourished like this? I still can’t believe it.”
But despite her six appearances, a Big Brother stint, and winning The Traitors, nothing has changed the Cirie fans know and love. “Initially, I’m quiet and trying to figure out who’s looking at me. And that works for me,” she says. “Of course, the more times you play, the more your M.O. is out there (or what people perceive your M.O. to be). But if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it!”
One thing Cirie says she took from her time at Norwalk Hospital into her gameplay is “not to ever overestimate or underestimate anyone.” “One of my best friends there was the chief of anesthesia at the time. He was super smart, and at first I was intimidated by him,” she says. “But he was so down to earth, and he became a lifelong friend. That opened my eyes to be open to people from everywhere, because you don’t know who you are going to click with. Do not limit yourself or think you’re not good enough to be friends with someone.”
Thanks to her Survivor career, Cirie has traveled the world, but she always looks back on her time in Norwalk fondly. “I have nothing but great things to say about Norwalk,” she says. “[When we were living there], I was busy. I was busy with Survivor, I was busy working and trying to build my career and become a system director, which I accomplished. The community in Norwalk helped me raise my children.” She cites an example from when two of her three sons, Jamil and Jared, were being baptized at the Mormon church here. On the day of Jared’s ceremony, Cirie had to work, and her boys promised to save her and her husband a seat. “I’m thinking: save me a seat ?” she says with a laugh. “This is gonna be like three or four people, right?” But when she walked in, the only seats left were the two her boys had reserved. “It was standing room only. That was how many people showed up to support Jared and Jamil. I had never experienced anything like it.” It was a perfect encapsulation of why her time in Connecticut left such a mark on her: the people. “I just felt so loved and reassured that yes, I’m working these long hours, but there’s a community of people who love and care for my children the way I do. That’s my experience of Fairfield County.”
Survivor: In the Hands of Fans premieres on February 26 at 8 p.m. on CBS.
“OF COURSE, THE MORE TIMES YOU PLAY, THE MORE YOUR M.O. IS OUT THERE (OR WHAT PEOPLE PERCEIVE YOUR M.O. TO BE). BUT IF IT AIN’T BROKE, DON’T FIX IT!”
ARCHITECT PETER CADOUX PROVES THAT BUILDING LUXURIOUS, QUALITY HOMES KNOWS NO STYLISTIC BOUNDARIES.
“I don’t see my work as belonging to one style, and I never have,” says Peter Cadoux, the founder of Westport-based Peter Cadoux Architects. One look at his award-winning portfolio and you can see why he feels that way: Peter’s homes span classic, modern, coastal, and transitional styles, and range from single rooms to cottages to 10,000-square-foot estates. What ties his projects together, Peter explains, is the level of experience his firm brings to every home they touch. “I bring knowledge of each style to whatever project I’m working on,” he says, and he combines that deep bench of expertise with a client’s vision and taste to create something unique, yet distinctly Cadoux. “One of the best compliments we get is ‘you do all these different styles, and they look so cohesive,’” he
“THERE IS ABSOLUTELY A COMMON DENOMINATOR, AND IT’S THE LOVE OF DESIGN, AND THE EXPERIENCE THAT GOES WITH THAT.”
says. “There is absolutely a common denominator, and it’s the love of design, and the experience that goes with that. Scale doesn’t change the fundamentals—how light moves through a space, how rooms flow into one another, how materials meet, and how a home supports daily life. That thoughtfulness, and that fit and finish, is what we’re known for.” (That, and a distinctly New-England-ified charm: “I’m inspired by the natural luxuries of where we are,” Peter says of his native New England, though he’s worked in states as far-flung as California. “I’ve had the grateful luxury of working in an area with incredibly brilliant people, where people want to be creative. They value how they live in a home, and what they’re investing in a home.”)
Here, Peter shares with Westport Lifestyle some of his homes that showcase the versatility of his work. In these photos, you can see
both individualized style and Peter’s signature attention to detail shine through. The final product is a home that is timeless within its category, whether it’s ultra-modern or a restored Colonial. “My goal is to bring something to the table based on what we discuss that you never imagined,” he says. “I look at each project I’m working on and see how it’s living and breathing, and I mesh all these different factors together. That’s what gets me to the finish line. It sounds cliché, but every project I work on fires me up.”
"What ultimately ties all of my work together isn’t a particular aesthetic,” Peter says, “It’s a commitment to creating homes that live beautifully, feel effortless, and quietly elevate the way people experience their everyday lives.”
For more about Peter Cadoux Architects, visit cadouxaia.com
We are lucky: the homes here in Westport are at the cutting edge of gorgeous design and creative construction. Which is why Westport Lifestyle asked top realtors in the area—the people who see dozens of Westport’s finest houses, day in and day out—for the most-sought-after trends from home buyers, as well as some features and design elements that are on their way out. You may find some inspiration for your next home renovation project—or your next house!
“In my own home and with many of my clients, the goal now is supporting real life by allowing space for working, entertaining, and relaxing without everything happening in one shared area. Details such as millwork, layered lighting, and natural materials help spaces feel functional, comfortable, and thoughtfully finished rather than overly designed. As more of us spend time at home throughout the day, defined areas reduce visual and mental clutter and create an environment that feels calmer and more manageable.”
-Erin Melson, Vice President, Luxury Division
“Either in the primary, basement, or outside, many people are jumping on this. They come in a huge range, from $2,000-$100,000. Both infrared and dry seem to be the trending varieties: both offering health benefits and complementing a healthy lifestyle.” -Meredith Cohen, Realtor, Founding Member, SERHANT. Westport
“Ultra-luxury buyers love the thrill of a secret door — whether it’s behind a bookcase, a wine wall, or a pivoting panel. A speakeasy creates a sense of discovery and gives the home a signature moment that feels both intimate and indulgent.”
- Barbara Bross, Alexander Chingas and Doug Bross, The Bross Chingas Bross Team at Coldwell Banker Realty
“Families are intentionally moving back to sitting down together for meals, whether that’s at a kitchen table or using the dining room nightly. I’m seeing a real desire to slow things down and create space for connection. Time feels fleeting, and parents are more aware than ever that these ordinary moments, sitting together, talking about the day, and being present, are the ones that become core memories. There’s a renewed appreciation for gathering intentionally, even on a Tuesday night.” -Cindy Raney, Founder and Global Luxury Property Specialist, Cindy Raney & Team
“The heart of our house is all about connection. Our kitchen opens into the dining and family room. Even if you’re not a great cook, like me, it’s where we spend most of our time. There is [always] someone in the kitchen, barstools filled, fireplace going, and a game on TV. And we love that the whole space opens seamlessly to the outdoors. In a world that can feel disconnected, buyers want homes that bring family and friends together. I’ve always said ‘people don’t buy a house, they buy a feeling,’ and connected spaces feel especially good right now.” -Michelle Genovesi, Principal, Luxury Properties, Michelle&Team at Willian Raveis RE
“Earthy palettes, including terracotta and warm neutrals, bring warmth, comfort and a connection to nature, countering the sterile feel of cool grays and stark white interiors. The spaces feel inviting and balanced.” -Jillian Klaff, Luxury Property Specialist, International President’s Premier, Coldwell Banker Realty
“Buyers are increasingly prioritizing calm, intentional areas within the home dedicated to mental well-being, such as meditation rooms, yoga nooks, or quiet retreats designed for rest and restoration. These spaces do not need to be large or elaborate to be impactful; privacy, quiet, and thoughtful design matter far more than square footage. In fact, one client wanted a wellness retreat so badly but didn’t have an ideal dark, quiet room, so she cleared out a large walk-in closet and transformed it into her own personal sanctuary, proving that intention and creativity can elevate any home!” -Erica Acheychek, Licensed Real Estate Salesperson, EA Homes
“Homes now include wellness zones (spa-like bathrooms, home gyms), cold plunges and saunas, yoga rooms, reading nooks, climate-resilience features, and outdoor living areas.” -Jen Kass, Licensed Realtor, Danna Rogers and Jen Kass Team, Higgins Group Bedford Square
COMPLETELY OPEN FLOOR PLANS
“I’m seeing a shift away from completely open layouts and toward more intentional separation through features like pocket doors, glass partitions, and subtle architectural breaks.” -Erin Melson, Vice President, Luxury Division
“Fully open floor plans that ignore real living needs are being rethought in favor of defined, multifunctional spaces (such as wellness areas).” -Jen Kass, Realtor, Danna Rogers and Jen Kass Team at the Higgins Group ALL-GRAY EVERYTHING
“After years of gray floors and white kitchens, buyers are clearly ready for a shift. As a realtor, I’m seeing more couples gravitate toward homes with warmth, character, and a sense of personality. Everyone loves that ‘new car smell’ of a new house—but that doesn’t mean it has to be boring. The cold, overly neutral look is starting to fall flat. Buyers want charm, comfort, and spaces that feel inviting and interesting. And honestly? Nothing makes me happier. Homes with personality are more fun to show!” -Danna Rogers, Realtor, Danna Rogers and Jen Kass Team at the Higgins Group
“Because, seriously, who has the time or energy to soak in a bathtub anymore!? However, they are still important for resale in luxury homes for ‘aspirational bathers.’” -Veronica Monahan, Global Luxury Real Estate Specialist and Advisor, Compass CT
“Spaces modeled after casinos, sports bars, or arcades feel more gimmicky than glamorous. Today’s luxury buyers want environments that feel curated, not cartoonish.” -Barbara Bross, Alexander Chingas, and Doug Bross, The Bross Chingas Bross Team at Coldwell Banker Realty
“White oak everywhere (floors, cabinets and furniture) is no longer a high-end signature. It feels dated and repetitive. Mixed wood tones are now used by designers and interior decorators.” -Jillian Klaff, Luxury Property Specialist, International President’s Premier, Coldwell Banker Realty
Buyers want authentic-looking rooms: no one has that many vases.
OVERLY STAGED SHOW HOMES
“Buyers are drawn to homes that feel real and lived-in, not spaces designed just for photos. Personal touches, meaningful art, and a sense of warmth resonate far more than perfectly styled rooms that feel impersonal. Staging still matters, but in 2026 it’s about authenticity and livability, not showroom perfection.” -Erica Acheychek, Licensed Real Estate Salesperson, EA Homes
“For years, the kitchen island functioned almost like a diner counter, quick meals, multitasking, and everyone coming and going. While islands are still incredibly useful, I’m noticing families moving away from using them as the primary place to eat. Many want meals to feel less rushed and less transactional, and more like a moment to pause and reconnect. The shift isn’t about the furniture, it’s about how people want to feel in their homes.” -Cindy Raney, Founder and Global Luxury Property Specialist, Cindy Raney & Team
EXTENSIVE BARS/WINE CELLARS
“In the last decade, many luxury homes included tasting areas and refrigerated rooms that hold thousands of bottles. With alcohol consumption on the decline, these are featured less.” -Meredith Cohen, Realtor, Founding Member, SERHANT. Westport
“Formal spaces that rarely get used are fading. Buyers want flexible, inviting rooms that serve everyday life. Those traditional dining and living rooms are being reimagined into cozy lounges, reading nooks, or expanded kitchen areas…. creating spaces that feel warm, lived in and welcoming.” -Michelle Genovesi, Principal, Luxury Properties, Michelle&Team at Willian Raveis RE
Near the train or no? The eternal question.
YOUR MILEAGE MAY VARY
The oldest realtor phrase in the book is “location, location, location!” But a dream location for some may be a poor location for others, and vice versa. As Richard Higgins, the CEO of Higgins Group Private Brokerage, explains it: “There is something that I find both an ‘in’ and an ‘out’ with a real division between the two among home buyers. It is either living close to the town, train, and highway, or living ‘back country,’” he says. “When we moved to Fairfield 30 years ago, Greenfield Hill and its rural, spread-out, estate feeling was very popular. I noticed a change about 15 or so years ago. It gradually regained popularity with COVID, when the trend was to be as spread out as possible. This was coupled with working remotely. Things have balanced out, but most people have strong feelings about living in town or on two-plus acres. These two camps have opposite positions on what is in and what is out!”
The vice president of SCA Crowley has become an integral figure in Westport.
ARTICLE BY SARA GAYNES LEVY
Maxx Crowley jokes that, like most kids who grow up in Westport, he thought he would move to New York City and never come back. But the pull of this community—the one where his father, Steve Crowley, built his real estate services business SCA Crowley—was too strong to deny. Maxx did
move to New York to work in advertising, then pivoted to residential real estate and ended up at Compass in Manhattan. “That’s where I sort of got my MBA in real estate,” Maxx says. But when COVID hit and the real estate sector started to change, “I saw that there was a lot I could do to help the family business grow, and take some of the knowledge I got from my career in the city to put momentum into our business,” Maxx says. He came back to Westport in 2020. “I’ve loved it ever since.”
Maxx now works with not just his father, but also his sister, Judy, and brother, Bob. He has been an integral part of SCA Crowley since he came on board, helping build out a relatively new arm of the business: residential management. “We work with everyone from the folks that are going to Florida for six months and one day to managing private estates here in Westport,” he says. “From overseeing renovations to new construction to making sure the pool gets opened on time, we’re handling everything soup-to-nuts for the owners.” These residential management offerings are in addition to SCA Crowley’s expertise in the sale and
leasing of commercial real estate, commercial property management, and property maintenance. (Once you start noticing the SCA Crowley logo on businesses around town, you’ll never stop.) “Our team has been lucky to manage most of the commercial properties in Westport," says Maxx. "We help landlords with everything from financial management to property oversight. Joining the family business has been amazing.”
But his work at SCA Crowley isn’t his only contribution to the fabric of Westport. Maxx is also the president of the Westport Downtown Association, the nonprofit that promotes the economic interests of the downtown Westport business community, a role he rose to quickly upon returning to his hometown. “I have a great board and staff around me, and I will forever be indebted to our previous first selectwoman Jennifer Tooker and second selectwoman Andrea Moore, because I was getting started as they were getting started,” he says. “They were huge partners for me, helping pull off a lot of our events and activations and helping me get the lay of the land.”
One of Maxx’s proudest accomplishments at the WDA was the installation of Westport’s new clock at the corner of Main and Elm Streets. He saw a similar clock while visiting a friend in Spring Lake, N.J., and thought: “We’ve gotta get one of those for Westport.” With the support of Tooker’s administration, Maxx made the clock a reality just before 2025’s annual Downtown Holiday Stroll. “I’m really thrilled with how it came to life,” he says. “It goes with the elegance of Westport, and our beautiful, historic charm.”
There is one thing that ties all of Maxx’s work together: a love of Westport and a connection to the people here. “I've always loved the town,” he says. “Whether we're managing a property for someone that has been here for 20 years or for two weeks, it gives them confidence knowing that we know the town very well and have such a great relationship with so many folks, from the best electricians to knowing the fire marshals on a first-name basis.” Bringing that sense of community forward is what drives him. “The idea that I can work hard to carry on the next generation of our business and continue to make the Crowley name a staple in town is worth, to me, more than anything.”
“Our team has been lucky to manage most of the commercial properties in Westport,” says Maxx.
Dr. Amit Sood
Take the fear out of oral surgery—schedule a consultation to learn about IV sedation today.
Dental anxiety should never prevent you from receiving the care you need. IV sedation allows patients to remain deeply relaxed and comfortable throughout oral surgery, with little to no memory of the procedure. It is a safe and effective option for those who feel anxious, ensuring a calm, stress-free experience from start to finish.
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD
There’s a certain moment when a house stops feeling new and starts feeling like home. It isn’t marked by square footage or finishes alone. It is something quieter, more emotional. In this home, designer Kate Manz set out to do exactly that: give a newly built home a heartbeat and a soul.
Rather than treating the house as one sweeping statement, she approached each room as its own story, layered with meaning, memory, and texture. The result is a home that feels collected, personal, and deeply lived-in.
“Tackling each space and room as its own story and concept is how to make a new space feel personal,” Manz explains. “But bringing it all together cohesively is always the challenge.”
Her solution? Warmth, intention, and a strong belief in the power of people. In new builds it can take years for a home to shed its newness. For this project, the goal was to fast-track that sense of belonging by layering in pieces with history and heart. Vintage market finds, local artists, and meaningful objects play a starring role throughout the home.
“My love for design goes hand in hand with the people and stories that bring it to life,” she says. “I absolutely love seeing the evolution from concept to completion and all the elements and people that help bring those ideas to reality.”
That philosophy becomes especially important in the home’s expansive open-concept living area, where scale could easily overpower intimacy.
The entryway sets the tone with a simple but powerful goal: Welcome to my home.
Natural stone underfoot grounds the space, while a soft vintage rug and living greenery immediately soften the experience. Art with personal meaning invites guests to linger rather than rush through.
The main living space is defined by bringing the outside in with sweeping outdoor views and generous proportions. Rather than fighting that openness, embrace it.
“The big open concept room really highlights the expansive outdoor views,” she says, “but making intimate spaces within that open room was really important.”
A layered niche wall, created in collaboration with the interior architect Nick Flower, brings both structure and softness to the room. It introduces texture, depth, and a place for unique objects and family heirlooms to live, turning negative space into a personal gallery.
If there’s one place Manz encourages clients to take risks, it’s the powder room. Here, she leaned into terracotta earth tones, layering textures and tile sizes for visual interest and warmth. Patterned and solid tiles work together, while textured wall coverings and a sculptural stone sink elevate the space from functional to delightful.
Designed as a counterpoint to the openness of the main living area, the lounge is a cocoon, both peaceful, layered, and deeply versatile. It’s a place for reading, movie nights and slow mornings.
Rich tones and varied textures do the heavy lifting here, creating depth without heaviness. Soft lighting and custom upholstery make the room feel both intentional and effortless.
At its core, this home is a reminder that design isn’t about perfection, but rather it’s about feeling. By treating each room as its own narrative while weaving in warmth, history, and human connection, a space was created that already feels loved.
“My love for design goes hand in hand with the people and stories that bring it to life.”
PROJECT CREDITS
Builder - Buildwell
There’s something about this fresh, ethereal feeling that not only melts away the last traces of winter but also sparks a quiet urge to refresh our surroundings. The cupboards that need decluttering, the baseboards that have gone untouched for months, the unworn clothes that no longer serve us—it all calls for renewal. This is the essence of spring cleaning: clearing out the old to make space for the new, both in our homes and in our minds.
For some, the idea of cleaning feels anything but peaceful. The thought of tackling clutter and dust can be overwhelming, turning what should be a refreshing transition into a dreaded chore. That’s why we’ve created a simple, practical guide to help you navigate spring cleaning with ease, turning it into a rhythmic, intentional process that mirrors the calm of the season itself.
Week 1: Refresh and Declutter
• Open windows for fresh air and let the natural light in.
• Declutter surfaces—countertops, coffee tables and shelves—removing anything unnecessary.
• Go through kitchen cabinets and toss expired pantry items and mismatched containers.
• Sort through closets, donating or repurposing clothes you haven’t worn in the past year.
• Wipe down baseboards and dust ceiling fans, light fixtures and vents.
Week 2: Deep Clean and Rejuvenate
• Wash windows and mirrors to welcome in the sunlight.
• Deep clean the fridge and pantry, wiping down shelves and organizing items
• Launder curtains, cushion covers and throw blankets.
• Vacuum and shampoo rugs and carpets for a fresh start.
• Rotate and flip mattresses; wash all bedding, including pillows.
Week 3: Outdoor and Seasonal Transitions
• Sweep porches, patios and outdoor furniture, preparing for warm-weather gatherings.
• Check gutters and downspouts to ensure proper drainage.
• Tidy up gardens and potted plants, removing dead leaves and refreshing the soil.
• Store winter coats and boots, making space for lighter spring essentials.
• Replace seasonal decor—bring in fresh flowers, soft pastels and airy textures.
4:
• Touch-up scuff marks on walls and doors.
• Stock up on cleaning supplies to maintain a fresh environment.
• Set a simple weekly cleaning routine to keep your home feeling refreshed.
• Light a scented candle or diffuse essential oils to celebrate your clean, peaceful space.
Our award-winning team specializes in serving high- income and high-net-worth clients in Fairfield County and beyond.
Our comprehensive approach coordinates world-class wealth management with sophisticated tax-strategies and long-term financia l planning solutions.
And, by learning what matters most to you before we advise, we can t ailor a personalized plan that creates the financial peace- of-mind you deserve.
MARCH 2ND
Eclipse Night Hike
Earthplace, 10 Woodside Ln. | 6:30 PM
Join an Earthplace naturalist for a guided hike along the trails as they welcome the Worm Moon and the imminent lunar eclipse, listen for owl calls, and pick out constellations in the winter sky. $15 for members; $20 for non-members. Register at earthplace.org
MARCH 2ND
Westport Country Playhouse, 25 Powers Ct. | 7:00 PM
At a Script in Hand playreading, actors come together for one day to rehearse and perform a play on a bare stage, with simple lighting for a one-night only experience. March's Script in Hand play is TBA as of press time. Tickets, $35, at westportplayhouse.org
MARCH 6TH
Hole in the Wall
Lachat Town Farm, 106 Godfrey Road West, Weston | 7:00 PM
Hole in the Wall, a new comedy for the stage directed by Christopher Denham, whose credits include Oppenheimer, Argo, Billions, and the Broadway production of Good Night, and Good Luck, and written by Rogers Award–winning playwright Jeff Hughes, will have its world premiere at Lachat Town Farm in Weston. Through March 22. For more information and tickets, visit lachattownfarm.org
MARCH 6TH
Music Theater Of Connecticut, 509 Westport Ave, Norwalk | 8:00 PM
The Irish…and How They Got That Way is an irreverent history of the Irish through the tumultuous 20th and 21st centuries, through the eyes of Pulitzer Prize-winning author, Frank McCourt (Angela’s Ashes, ‘Tis, Teacher Man). Performances continue through March 22. Tickets, from $50, at musictheaterofct.com
MARCH 7TH
Isaac Mizrahi in Concert
Westport Country Playhouse, 25 Powers Ct. | 8:00 PM
The “Project Runway: All Stars” judge and Broadway performer offers comedy, commentary, and an array of songs. For tickets and more information, visit westportplayhouse.org
MARCH 10TH
Westport Country Playhouse, 25 Powers Ct. | 7:00 PM
Through comedy and song, the duo spotlights the joys and hilarity of parenting and the friendships that help get moms and dads through it.
MARCH 26TH
VersoFest 2026 Visionary: Ani DiFranco
Westport Library, 20 Jesup Rd. | 7:00 PM
Grammy Award-winning musician, folkrock legend, author, and cultural icon
Ani DiFranco is the 2026 VersoFest Visionary. She will appear in conversation with Lauren Coyle Rosen, co-author of their new book, The Spirit of Ani: Reflections on Spirituality, Feminism, Music, and Freedom, at the Trefz Forum. Tickets, $35, at westportlibrary.org
MARCH 27TH
VersoFest in Concert: Wyclef Jean
Westport Library, 20 Jesup Rd. | 8:00 PM
The headlining concert of VersoFest, the library's annual celebration of music, media, and creativity, features headliner Wyclef Jean, a Grammy-winning recording artist known for hits like "Gone til November" and his role in co-founding The Fugees. Tickets, $125, at westportlibrary.org
MARCH 28TH
VersoFest 2026: Gina
Gershon: In Conversation
The Westport Library, 20 Jesup Rd. 5:00 PM
Iconic actress Gina Gershon joins local journalist Alisyn Camerota to discuss her new memoir as part of The Westport Library's annual VersoFest. Tickets are $35 and include Gina's book. To register and for more information, visit westportlibrary.org
Here at Bloom we specialize in making ever yone look and feel their best while providing exceptional service and serving incredible vibes Located in the heart of downtown Westport, you have to experience Bloom for yourself
IF YOU ARE READING THIS... SO IS YOUR BEST CLIENT.
2 OUT OF 3 of our readers regularly purchase from our ads.
ARTICLE BY SARA GAYNES LEVY
ne of my favorite places to shop for decor and gifts locally is The Post; there’s always something new to discover among owner Deb Placey’s curated selection of merchandise. The last time I stopped in, I fell in love with these oceanic vases from Art Floral Trading. Their organic shapes and marine-like color palette evoke seashells and undersea landscapes, but in a way that still feels befitting of chic, coastal Connecticut. Each porcelain vase is handmade using environmentally-friendly methods, and they come in tons of unique shapes and sizes. “From anemones to luffas—in blues neutrals, greens, and browns—these vases work on their own, as a pair, or in a well-curated grouping,” says Deb. “They’re the perfect ‘shelfies’ to add texture and interest to your home.” Or for that matter, any home that wants to nod to the natural seaside landscape of Westport.
Art Floral Trading vases, $27-188, The Post, 1799 Post Road E., and 8 Sconset Square, thepost.myshoplocal.com
Since 1898, we have been helping customers celebrate life’s moments with natural diamonds, stunning jewelry, fine Swiss watches, and unique gifts for the home, all wrapped in our signature gold box. Whether you’re looking for something extraordinary for yourself or the perfect gift to give. Let our professionally trained diamond experts show you the difference. Visit us in-store or online at LBGreen.com.
