A modern Lake Winnipesaukee retreat nestled in the trees has a bird’s-eye view of the lake.
By Janice Randall Rohlf / Photography
by
James Reed
64 Peak Condition
Clean, simple and sustainable: This efficient house reflects its owners’ love of the outdoors.
By Jennifer Sperry /
Photography by Dan Cutrona
72 A Classic Cottage With Contemporary Style
Set in a historic district and on the water, this renovated home offers the best of both worlds.
Crystal Ward Kent / Photography by Rob Karosis ON
COVER AND PAGE 56: This Lake Winnipesaukee house, designed and built by Beckwith Builders, delights on every level.
Photo by James Reed
By
Crafting Dreams into Reality
FABULOUS FINDS
24 Livin’ in the Sun
Compiled by Amanda Andrews TASTE
30 The Scoop on Gelato
A cool idea to make gelato brings a bit of la dolce vita to Durham.
By Mary Ann Esposito / Photography by John W. Hession
CREATE
38 The Fiber of Life
Felted and fanciful, figures from the natural world inspire an artist’s wool creations.
By Crystal Ward Kent / Photography by Rachel Montroy
SHOP TALK
44 Easy Living
It’s an endless summer at Deck Dock Home & Garden.
By Crystal Ward Kent / Photography by John W. Hession
HOME AWAY
48 A Sense of Place
The interior design of Portsmouth’s AC Hotel reflects its location near the water. By Janice Randall Rohlf / Photography Courtesy of Colwen Hotels
A couple’s vision and generosity transform an antique farm structure into a
By Lisa Cavanaugh / Photography by Chuck Choi 94 Green Space
With Mount Monadnock in the background,
By Robin Sweetser / Photography by John W. Hession
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International Builders Show Accolades SILICONE SEALANT BETWEEN TWO PANELS
VICE PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER
Ernesto Burden
EDITOR
Janice Randall Rohlf
ART DIRECTOR
John R. Goodwin
PHOTO EDITOR
John W. Hession
PROOFREADER/STAFF WRITER Amanda Andrews
CREATIVE SERVICES DIRECTOR
Jodie Hall
SENIOR GRAPHIC PRODUCTION ARTIST Nicole Huot
CONTRIBUTORS
Kendal J. Bush, Dan Cutrona, Lisa Cavanaugh, Mary Ann Esposito, Rob Karosis, Crystal Ward Kent, James Reed, Jennifer Sperry, Robin Sweetser, Elisa Gonzales Verdi
New Hampshire Home is published six times a year by Yankee Publishing, Inc.; 250 Commercial Street, Suite 4014, Manchester, NH 03101; 603-624-1442. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without the publisher’s written permission is prohibited. The publisher assumes no responsibility for any mistakes in advertisements or editorial. Statements and opinions expressed in this magazine do not necessarily reflect or represent those of this publication or its officers. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication, Yankee Publishing, Inc.: New Hampshire Home disclaims all responsibility for omissions and errors.
by Trent Bell
Photography
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A Trip to the Lake
LAST AUGUST, my friend Carole invited me and another friend to spend a few days at her house in Sunapee. She deliberately planned this visit to coincide with the League of NH Craftsmen’s Fair, an annual juried show that has been held every year since 1933. Carole has been going since 1989, and her Sunapee retreat is filled with treasures scooped up from the exceptionally gifted artists and artisans invited to exhibit — pottery from Andy Hampton, Lauren Pollaro’s earrings and terra cotta wall pieces from Susan Bliss, to name just a few. She hates to play favorites, but Carole admits to more than a passing fancy for the works of Dan Dustin, a hand spoonmaker celebrating his 49th year at the show this summer. “Dan is an incredible craftsman,” she says. “He works with a piece of wood and ‘sees’ a spoon in it, or a spatula (he calls them ‘slashies’), or a pair of salad implements and, more recently, forks. I have thrown away every plastic utensil I ever bought, in favor of Dan’s wooden ones,” says Carole, who also frequently gives Dustin’s wooden utensils as gifts.
New Hampshire Home has long been an advocate for artists and artisans in the Granite State. Recently renamed “Create,” the column dedicated to them was for a long time called “Master of His/Her Craft.” For years, in every issue we have featured one of these talented individuals and their work. You’ll definitely want to turn to page 38 to meet Rachel Montroy and see the fanciful pieces she fashions from felted wool.
It’s pure coincidence that Montroy’s fiber art pieces often resemble sea creatures, but fitting since this issue celebrates New Hampshire’s Seacoast and lakes. After spending time at the League of NH Craftsmen’s Fair last summer, we drove around Lake Sunapee, admiring the houses and trying to spot those that have been featured in this magazine over the years. To our archives filled with beautifully wrought houses on the water we can now add those that appear in “Hidden Treasure,” on page 56, and “A Classic Cottage With Contemporary Style,” on page 72.
My visit to Lake Sunapee last summer included stopping for ice cream at the Quack Shack. I love ice cream (who doesn’t?), and I’m hoping to have the chance to swing by Ceo’s Gelato and Bistro in Durham the next time I’m in the area. Until then, I’m happy to have the recipes for gelato Mary Ann Esposito shares in “Taste,” on page 30. With very little effort, you can wow your summer guests with these delicious desserts.
Carole has invited me to Lake Sunapee again this August. I can’t wait!
Janice Randall Rohlf Editor
Jennifer Sperry is both an editor and a writer whose specialty is writing about architecturally significant homes. For this issue, she wrote ab out the sustainable home of owners Gina and Tim Poole, featured on page 64.
Dan Cutrona splits his time between New England and Florida, capturing arresting and evocative images of beautiful homes and fascinating people. In this issue, his photos accompany “Peak Condition,” on page 64.
Crytal Ward Kent is a journalist who covers everything from restaurants to historical subjects. She enjoyed writing this issue’s “Shop Talk” and “Create,” as both are part of what makes New Hampshire unique.
James Reed is an architecture and design photographer living in New Hampshire, where he loves to ski and bike. His work has been featured in the Wall Street Journal, The New York Times and People magazine. In this issue, his photos accompany “Hidden Treasure” on page 56, and he also took the cover shot.
JANICE’S PHOTO BY ERIC BRUST-AKDEMIR
Compiled by Amanda Andrews
Nantucket
outdoor coffee table Sage in Portsmouth summeratsage.com
Signature Design by Ashley glider loveseat with cushion Love’s Bedding & Furniture in Claremont lovesbeddingandfurniture.com
Billiard Table Seasonal Specialty Stores in Amherst seasonalstores.com
Pierce
Björk large teak solar LED lantern The Patio Barn in Amherst patiobarn.com
Blue and white garden stool Ethan Allen in Bedford ethanallen.com
Lucas
The Scoop on Gelato
A cool idea to make gelato brings a bit of la dolce vita to Durham.
CEO’S GELATO BISTRO OWNER
Carolyn Ottney spent 28 years pursuing a career in finance and subcontract management. In 2015, her passion for gelato — the Italian version of ice cream — motivated her to go in a completely different direction and learn how to make the creamy treat.
She enrolled at Ice Cream University in West Orange, New Jersey, where she learned the basic how-to skills. Later, she spent time in Bologna, Italy, taking master classes in the science behind making gelato.
Once Ottney had confidence in her skills, she began to experiment with different flavor combinations, setting up a commercial kitchen in Dover and making gelato from scratch. Her inspiration, she says, was “fueled by the delicious gelato that I was able to produce, even in those early days.”
Two years ago, Ceo’s Gelato Bistro, formerly located in Portsmouth, moved to Madbury Road in Durham. Just reading the shop’s flavor board is a delight. Standbys like vanilla and chocolate will always be on offer, and the extensive list of other flavors includes such temptations as berry basil, cinnamon chipotle swirl, ricotta and fig, and roasted peach crisp.
Not stopping there, Ottney has been known to whip up more than 50 different kinds of sorbetto. For her, making gelato is a never-ending process of learning and churning. It keeps her going, one scoop at a time!
Mary Ann Esposito [MAE]: What inspired you to make gelato?
Carolyn Ottney [CO]: I must confess that I set my sights on opening a gelato shop long before I had any intention of making it myself! I just really loved the product
Interview and recipes by Mary Ann Esposito /
and felt that it would be the perfect business to own. When I realized that I would have to learn how to make gelato, I started experimenting at home, making it in small batches. Once I got the basics down, I experimented with different flavors, with a plan to have 50 flavors under my belt before starting my business. As I got closer to opening the shop in Portsmouth, I took a class at Ice Cream University, which helped me to make gelato on a larger scale and with the commercial equipment that I would be using once I launched the business.
MAE: Are customers aware that gelato is not ice cream?
CO: Yes! We describe the differences often, and once they try a sample, they can tell that it’s clearly different. Gelato comes from the Italian word “gelare” (to freeze). Ice cream has a minimum of 10% fat, while gelato has about 5% to 7% fat. Also, gelato is churned at a much lower speed than ice cream, so not as much air is whipped into it, which leaves it much denser and creamier. Gelato contains about 25% to 30% air while ice cream can have as much as 50%.
Unfortunately, some people won’t even try gelato because it’s not ice cream! But most are delighted with the texture, the flavor and the fact that it’s even healthier for them. They are also often surprised that they can combine flavors in any size, which they can’t always do with ice cream.
MAE: How do you come up with the flavors?
CO: The menu is continually rotating, and I want to be sure I have a good representation of categories, including
Photography by John W. Hession
Rainbow Gelato Cake
SERVES 8 TO 10
This layered gelato cake makes a statement with a rainbow of possibilities for color and flavor.
1. Line the interior wall of a 9- or 10-inch springform pan with ladyfingers, with the flat cookie side facing inward.
3 quar ts gelato, each a different flavor and color
Fresh fruit for garnish
Whipped cream (optional)
2. Spread a thick layer of gelato in the base of the pan, smoothing it out to the edges.
3. Cover and freeze until the layer of gelato is firm.
4. Spread a second flavor of gelato over the first. Cover and freeze again until firm. Repeat with the third layer.
5. Cover the pan with aluminum foil and freeze until firm.
6. To serve, remove aluminum foil and unlatch the sides of the pan. Allow cake to stand for 5 minutes, or until a knife can easily be inserted. Cut straight down into wedges and serve immediately with fruit and, if desired, whipped cream or your favorite sauce.
Italian ladyfingers (hard, not soft and cake-like)
fruits, citrus, spices and unique flavorings besides vanilla and chocolate. I now have a pretty extensive list of flavors to draw from, but I also want to continue to experiment with new combinations and ingredients. Some of the bestsellers are butter mint, dark chocolate with raspberry swirl and caramel coconut coffee.
MAE: How is gelato different from sorbetto?
CO: Gelato is dairy-based and sorbetto is dairy-free. Some places call everything they make gelato whether it has dairy
“
I want to continue to experiment with new combinations and ingredients. “
or not. In my sorbetto, I often use dairy alternatives such as coconut or almond milk to create a creamier texture or add another level of flavor. There are so many people who are either vegan or lactose intolerant who can’t enjoy gelato that I want to give them plenty of interesting options in sorbetto.
MAE: What are some clever ways you can serve gelato besides the usual cone or dish?
CO: One popular way is in an affogato. We serve it the traditional way, with a fresh shot (or two) of espresso poured over a scoop (or two) of gelato. Or if someone is looking for an iced version, we have iced affogato, which resembles a root beer float with a scoop of gelato floating on top of iced coffee. We also serve sorbetto smoothies and have started offering gelato shakes.
I have also served brioche con gelato, basically a gelato sandwich that uses fresh baked brioche. Croissant con gelato is also amazing. Additionally, I make custom gelato cakes and, occasionally, gelato pies. NHH
Engineering for the Environment
Affogato SERVES 2
Affogato, meaning “drowned” or “poached,” is a popular dessert choice on an Italian menu. You can use any flavor, but usually a generous scoop of vanilla, chocolate or hazelnut gelato is served in a cup with very strong espresso.
1. Place one or two scoops of your favorite gelato in each of two cups or glasses.
2. Pour 1/3 cup espresso over each. Enjoy right away!
Gelato, any flavor
2/3 cup strongly brewed espresso
of
“Swell,” needle felted wool and glazed stoneware, 9" x 9" x 5"
The Fiber of Life
Felted and fanciful, figures from the natural world inspire an artist’s wool creations.
THE CREATIONS of artist Rachel Montroy celebrate the ephemeral beauty of nature and offer her imaginative twist on the organisms that inhabit our world. Amazing botanicals wrought from felted wool emerge from rocks, wood and shells or stand alone. Many of the items are unsung members of the plant kingdom, such as spores, fungi, sprouts and pods. There are also creatures from under the sea,
By Crystal Ward Kent
including corals, sea urchins and anemones. Some of the art is true to life, while other pieces are more fanciful, appearing in brilliant colors and fantastic shapes. The sculptures are a striking reminder of amazing life forms rarely seen.
Montroy, who lives in Hopkinton, majored in art at the University of New Hampshire and received her master’s in fine arts in ceramics and ceramic
sculpture from the Rochester Institute of Technology. She still works and teaches in that medium, but eight years ago, tried felting. Montroy had always been intrigued by fiber art, and once she immersed herself in felting, she was hooked by the creative potential.
Montroy draws inspiration from walking in the woods and tending her garden. “I love plants and growing things," she
| Art photography by Rachel Montroy | Portrait by Kendal J. Bush
Many
Rachel Montroy’s fiber art creations are inspired by local and exotic plant life.
Artist and teacher Rachel Montroy at her Hopkinton home.
says. “I’m fascinated by all plants both local and exotic and how they adapt. Plants are resilient. Consider a tiny plant, growing in the crack of a rock, and how, ultimately, the rock will crack, soil will be built and the plant will grow, all because a seed landed in that crack. It’s an amazing cycle."
Montroy is especially interested in
those organisms whose lives are incredibly short, some only measured in days. While their existence may be transient, they fulfill an important purpose in the ecosystem. “I am drawn to the spores, the molds, the fungi that bloom after a rain and are then gone with the sun," she says. “Many of us never notice them, yet their role is vital. I feel an emotional
connection to them because they remind us how fragile life is. Their fleeting lives make me reflect on defining moments in my own life — births, deaths, changes. Nothing stays the same."
Montroy works primarily in needle felting, where a barbed needle is inserted repeatedly into dry wool. As the needle goes in and out, the barbs tangle the
“Allure,” wet felted and needle felted wool with wire armature, 14" x 12"x 14"
fibers of the wool together, locking them into place and making the wool firmer.
She also works in wet felting. With this process, she immerses the wool felt in hot, soapy water, using the pressure of her hands and the soap to manipulate the wool. She occasionally brings in wire to hold shapes if she needs to create hollow tubes or tall stems. Montroy uses natural wool dyed in the colors she wants. Sometimes she dyes the wool herself if she is looking for a special effect, such as color gradations, but it is a time-consuming process that her schedule cannot always accommodate. It takes a bag of wool to make one medium-size sculpture.
Montroy needs anywhere from 20 to 200 hours to create a sculpture, depending on how many pieces it comprises, its size and any “special effects." Recently, she has been partnering her wool creations with other natural elements like rocks and wood to enhance the overall effect.
The artist feels she has more stories to tell with her felting but is also exploring other mediums. She recently created a sculpture out of polyfill tubes; it looks like a web of intestines around a seed husk. “I’m intrigued by the relationship between the fragile and the protective, the strong and the vulnerable," she notes. “I’m also fascinated by the shapes found in the human body. When you work with natural elements, you see similar shapes; you see the underlying connections between all organisms."
Nature will continue to be a compelling muse for Montroy, and she is eager to share the mystery and magic of that world. While some of her subjects have brief lives, they live on forever in her work, celebrated for their beauty and unique purpose, and reminders of the glorious gift of life. NHH
For more information, visit rachelmontroy.com or call 603-568-6779.
“Adaption #15,” wool and found seashell, 4" x 6" x 3"
“Recessive,” needle felted and wet felted wool with wire armature, 4’ x 2’ x 18"
Easy Living
It’s an endless summer at Deck Dock Home & Garden.
CARE-FREE, SUN-FILLED DAYS — nowhere is that feeling stronger than at Deck Dock Home & Garden in Sunapee. Located in a restored barn, Deck Dock offers quality outdoor furniture and accessories guaranteed to foster easy summer living.
“We sell mostly American-made furniture from companies we have done business with for years,” says Lynne Wardlaw, owner and co-founder of Deck Dock along with her business partner and spouse Sally Bourdon. “These companies have a long history of crafting beautiful, durable pieces, and some have been around for over a hundred years.”
Visitors to Deck Dock appreciate not only the broad spectrum of offerings, but also the tasteful vignettes that Wardlaw, Bourdon and their team create. Furniture groupings show how different pieces create outdoor environments and how an accent table, firepit or throw pillows might pull things together.
The creative approach is no accident — Wardlaw trained as a graphic designer and photographer, and Bourdon is an artist specializing in archival framing. The Bourdon family has been in the furniture business, including manufacturing, since the early 20th century.
Wardlaw and Bourdon never set out
to sell furniture, but after living in California, Bourdon returned to her New Hampshire roots, and the pair wanted to be self-employed. They set up shop in Bourdon’s grandfather’s building in Sunapee Harbor, finding success selling gardening items and home goods. Then the big red barn came up for sale. Although it needed work, it seemed like the perfect location and had room to grow. In 2008, they made the move and have not looked back.
“We started selling Adirondack chairs, and couldn’t believe how well they sold,” Wardlaw says. “We were making more on a handful of furniture sales then we were on other items. We also live in an area
By Crystal Ward Kent | Photography by John W. Hession
where there are many very nice second homes. More than ever, people want to create lovely outdoor living spaces, and we help them do that.”
One of the things that sets Deck Dock apart is the experience and expertise that Wardlaw, Bourdon and their team provide.
“It can be overwhelming for a client to choose what furniture to buy,” Wardlaw says. “They need to consider the look, what types of pieces suit their lifestyle and what fits in their space. We help them answer those questions and build an outdoor space that works for them. We provide color samples of fabrics and materials so they can coordinate color schemes with what they have. It generally takes two visits for people to finalize a purchase, from the initial meeting and look-around to settling on what works.”
Deck Dock’s diversity of styles is another reason the shop is now celebrating 25 successful years. “Many clients want
“Twenty-five years ago, it was just patio furniture, but now you can create a complete outdoor environment,” says Lynne Wardlaw, owner and co-founder of Deck Dock along with her business partner and spouse, Sally Bourdon.
outdoor furnishings that complement their indoor furnishings as the indoor dining/living areas often flow out onto decks or patios,” Wardlaw says. “While they may not seek an exact match, they want something compatible and with our selection we make that possible.”
Wardlaw and Bourdon are excited for the growing options in outdoor furnishings.
“Twenty-five years ago, it was just patio furniture, but now you can create a complete outdoor environment with pizza ovens, fire pits, televisions, carpets and more,” Wardlaw says. “Today’s cushions and upholstery are durable, easy to clean and don’t fade. Outdoor living has never been so easy. People love the idea of an outdoor room, and that’s especially true up here, where summer is short.”
For more information on Deck Dock Home & Garden visit www.deckdock.com or call 603-763-3266. NHH
Above: Deck Dock’s team, left to right: Mary Bourdon, Lynne Wardlaw, Sally Bourdon, Jane Williamson, Hilda Lyon. Anne Cahill, not shown.
Top: Located in a restored barn, Deck Dock sells mostly American-made furniture.
The hotel’s restaurant, Rooftop at the Envio, has year-round water views and outdoor dining when weather permits.
A Sense of Place
The interior design of Portsmouth’s AC Hotel reflects its location near the water.
IT’S THE PERFECT STORM: Coinciding with tourism’s post-pandemic explosion, travelers’ tastes in accommodations are growing more discerning and sophisticated. In response, the hospitality industry has doubled down on the amenities and all manner of other extras. Some perks are splashy, while others contribute to guest comfort in a more subdued way. This is where hotel design comes in.
Curious to learn more about how a hotel makes design decisions, I accepted an invitation to the AC Hotel in Portsmouth, where I was struck by the ambience: a modern, urban vibe merged with the seaside heritage of the city. The hotel’s location on the Piscataqua River and views of its iconic bridges informed many of the design decisions, particularly the selection of art — much of it regional and local — that is on display in just about every nook and cranny, on every floor and in every area of the hotel, from the lobby and guest rooms to the meeting spaces and rooftop restaurant.
To further explore the thought process behind mixing local and European design (AC Hotels have Spanish roots), New Hampshire Home reached out to Brittany Morin, design manager at Colwen Design & Purchasing.
New Hampshire Home [NHH]: How does creating an interior design scheme for a hotel differ from the approach a designer takes for a private home?
Brittany Morin [BM]: In hospitality design, it is important to incorporate brand values and localization of the site. In the words of the Marriott AC Hotels branding package, the AC Hotel
By Janice Randall Rohlf
Photography Courtesy of Colwen Hotels
INFORM & INSPIRE Home Away
brand values are harmonious, discerning and modern. The brand was designed with the business traveler in mind and strives to bring personality that is intelligent, assertive and refined.
NHH: How does your design philosophy set you apart from your competitors?
BM: Our designs are set apart because they feel non-branded. We make each hotel feel unique and special with a heavy emphasis on art, creating intimate moments for a guest to pause and appreciate.
NHH: What are some specific examples of finishes and furnishings you chose?
BM: In the guest rooms we chose a woodlooking LVT because it brings a warm texture to the space, is durable and easy to clean. It is also an important part of the brand finish package. In the public space we chose tile with linen, fabric and wood textures to soften the strong lines of the architecture. We layered this with accents of bronze metal, soft rugs, leather and boucle furniture to balance the design. Many of the tables are made of lighter reclaimed wood to balance the dark wood of the architectural millwork.
PHOTOS BY DANIELLE GERBER
The vast art collection displayed throughout the hotel includes regional and local art like these two copper, bronze and brass sculptures by Danielle Greer — top, “Droplet,” and “Canyon,” above. Says Greer: “The natural patterns in these pieces are based on the movements and shapes of water and how it affects landscapes by eroding the Earth’s surface.”
AMERICAN WATERSCAPES
NHH: How do the interiors of the AC Hotel Portsmouth reflect its New Hampshire Seacoast location?
BM: The design is very much in line with other AC Hotels in its space planning, architecture and refined elements. Part of the identity of the AC Hotel brand is localization and the influence of art, which we feel is strongly represented in this hotel.
NHH: How did you go about selecting the artwork?
BM: We worked with local artists to build a collection of art for the hotel and create gallery spaces. It was very important for us and the brand to collaborate with local artisans. Each piece in the hotel has a gallery card with info about its artist so that guests can reach out or visit their showrooms while in Portsmouth and the surrounding areas. NHH
Above and below: The art featured in the hotel’s public spaces includes New Hampshire native Shaun Glasier’s “Herb,” lobster traps in a triangular repeating pattern, situated above the fireplace in the lobby.
Design by Eagle Pond Studio
Hidden Treasure
A
BY JANICE RANDALL ROHLF | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAMES REED
modern Lake Winnipesaukee retreat nestled in the trees has a bird's-eye view of the lake.
With the house's glassy facade meeting a generous wraparound deck, the synergy between indoor and outdoor living sings.
t’s a story often told: Homebuyers purchase a place and think all it really needs is a new kitchen. Then, that becomes just the starting point for a bigger renovation and before you know it, the whole house is torn down and a new one built in its place.
This is how a stunning, modern home on Lake Winnipesaukee came to be. An existing house on the Wolfeboro Neck property fell short of meeting the new owners’ needs and desires (“All the major systems were at the end of life,” says the homeowner), so they set out to build a new one based on a lake house in Banff, Canada, that they’d seen and admired. They were especially drawn to the Banff house’s distinctive wavy roof and were excited to have the shape duplicated for them. Beyond that one architectural element, their specific requests for the residence were few.
What they were sure of, however, was that they wanted to go with a combined design/build firm and they wanted the company to be local. Several such firms ended up on a list of potential partners, and in the end Beckwith Builders, in Wolfeboro, was selected to take on the project, with senior architect Andrew Moore leading the team.
Even though this was the first modern design he’d undertaken, Moore was up for the challenge. “Once we got on board with the roof idea, it all came together,” he says. “The project started off as an iteration of the three-story house that had been there — one with a more traditional gable roof, with kind of a swoop to it. We transformed that into something more modern.” The team used the walls of the existing foundation but added to them, making them a foot and a half taller to add more height to the basement, which is now used as a TV/play area and fitness room.
Unlike many Winnipesaukee dwellers who have large extended families they want to accommodate with a multitude of bedrooms and gathering spaces, these homeowners weren’t looking for a huge house (there’s an existing guest house on the property). An open-concept main living space with floor-toceiling windows suited them fine and aligned with their penchant for modern, clean-lined interiors, an aesthetic exemplified by the push-to-open, frameless cabinetry from Zarse Custom Cabinet Company combined with soapstone countertops. Besides the kitchen, the mid-century-influenced main living area has a loft space and a floating staircase. In addition, there are three bedrooms and four baths.
A notable feature, the wine room, holds bottles from Napa Valley, Tuscany and Bordeaux. “We collect wine whenever we travel,” says the homeowner. “Years later, when we go to drink it, we remember the trips we were on.” Husband and wife have collected art from their travels as well — places like New Orleans, Colorado, Canada and Croatia.
Itself a piece of art, the underside of the wavy roof takes on a sculptural quality that’s further accentuated by linear LED light strips. Lit up at night, the vaulted space — 14 feet at its highest point — is as dramatic as the lake view is during the day.
Framing the view, the wall of glass that so effectively brings the outdoors in could have been a liability from a heating and cooling standpoint had Moore been less rigorous in his approach. But he did a thorough sun study of the space using 3D modeling software on-site to assess how far the sun
From the main living area, the panoramic views of Lake Winnipesaukee are second to none.
would project into the house at any given time of the year and moment of the day. At the same time, the HVAC contractor ran his own calculations, making sure the system was able to keep up with the projected demands.
“This (study) helped confirm some of the roof overhangs,” explains Moore, adding that a lower roof projection was added below the second-floor windows on the far right-hand side of the house to provide shade in the hallway space. His due diligence paid off. “The low winter sun beams right through these windows, which is a good thing in terms of keeping
your heating bill down,” says Moore, “and in the summer the sun is so high that the roof overhangs block the rays from getting more than a few feet into the house.”
Once late spring and summer roll around, living at the lake is all about being outdoors anyway, and such opportunities abound at this house. The outdoor living space on three levels is an extension of the home, with a wraparound deck off the Bmain living space and a boathouse deck that makes you feel like you’re sitting right on top of the lake. A thoughtfully considered, multitiered landscape includes an integrated cabana
Clockwise from top: The 14-foot-high ceiling allows plenty of space for loft seating beneath LED light strips. Stylish cable railing and clever wine storage act as artistic elements as well as functional ones. Outdoor seating on the lower deck.
with a green roof — literally planted with grasses and sedum— intended to blend into the surrounding landscape.
As owners of a lake house that actually came with a boathouse (renovated by Beckwith Builders), the homeowners bought a versatile, 26-foot day cruiser, which comes in handy for spins around Winnipesaukee, especially when their nieces and nephews come to visit.
From out on the water during the day, the red cedar-sided
house blends in with the forested site almost to the point of being hidden completely. At night, if a golden glow is emanating from the wall of windows, there’s a good chance the homeowners have made the trip from Boston to enjoy their relaxing retreat. And with Beckwith Builders now retained to add an outdoor sauna, hot tub and fire pit to the property, chances are good that visits to the lake will become even more frequent. NHH
Clockwise from opposite page: Push-to-open, frameless cabinetry combined with soapstone countertops produces a clean-lined, modern kitchen. With a boathouse conveniently tucked beneath a large deck, it's easy to go for a spin on the lake. The back elevation of the house features the wave of the roofline.
KITCHEN CABINETRY: Zarse Custom Cabinet Company ¦ 603-569-0171 ¦ zarse.com/lake-winnipesaukee-kitchens
STYLING: Sage ¦ 603-294-9094 ¦ summeratsage.com
Clean, simple and sustainable, this efficient house reflects its owners’ love of the outdoors.
ina and Tim Poole weren’t expecting to build a house. “We were living in Amherst, thinking about retiring and downsizing a couple of years down the road,” recalls Gina. During their pandemic-era road trips, they stumbled upon a piece of land in Bow that caught their eye. They couldn’t help but notice its panoramic views to the north and east.
“We can see Mount Washington on a clear day and many of the lower White Mountains as well,” notes Tim. For the New Hampshire natives, it was the perfect blank slate on which to build a personalized home for their next life chapter, so they set about their downsizing a little earlier than expected.
While the subdivided neighborhood reads as suburban and conventional, the couple envisioned anything but for their home-to-be. They desired clean, simple, modern living spaces that commune with the surrounding landscape. “We are outdoor people,” adds Tim, “and we talked a lot about bringing the interior and exterior together into one unified
BY JENNIFER SPERRY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAN CUTRONA
Gina and Tim enjoy mountain views from many angles on their property in Bow. One of their favorite viewing spots is a walled-in terrace with porthole cutout, part of SP Architects' creative landscape design. The walls maintain privacy from neighbors and passing cars.
Cherry cabinets by Crown Point Cabinetry take center stage in the kitchen. Here, floating shelves, dark granite countertops and a retractable downdraft vent all contribute to the room's theme of simplicity.
experience.” They also asked for a fully accessible home to accommodate a family member — the resulting modifications offer peace of mind for the Pooles’ desire to age in place.
Also front of mind for Gina and Tim was building and living sustainably, which brought them to architect Sheldon Pennoyer, principal of SP Architects (formerly Sheldon Pennoyer Architects). “Sheldon is known for being environmentally conscious, and we knew that having a tight envelope is the driving force behind his designs,” explains Tim of their selection.
Pennoyer and project manager Bridget Bittman Brock took the Pooles’ wish list and developed an efficient layout with the main living spaces and primary bedroom suite sited on one level. Taking advantage of the land’s natural drop-off toward the east, the architects also delivered a bonus lower level with office space and guest bedrooms.
“From the beginning, we kept simplifying the plan, both to stay on budget and to stay true to our clients’ minimalistic vision,” says Pennoyer. “We reduced the number of corners by developing one volume, a move that saved on cost. Every time we made the design simpler, it got better,” adds the architect. “Simplicity in expression is difficult to achieve, but you know when you get it right.”
“I must have used the word ‘warm’ a hundred times,” says Gina of her approach to the interior. Its modern style is warmed by the predominance of fir millwork, birch flooring and an electric fireplace. Cherry has its moment as the material of choice for the custom-crafted kitchen cabinets by Crown Point Cabinetry. Floating shelves and a retractable downdraft vent (versus a traditional hood) keep the kitchen feeling simple and clean.
Gina and Tim are both active hikers and climbers. “During one of our initial meetings, we mentioned a climbing wall to Sheldon and his eyes just lit up,” recalls Tim. Expecting it to show up somewhere around the garage, somewhere less traveled, the Pooles were surprised when it ended up in their foyer’s light-filled stairwell.
“We didn’t think it was going to be so prominent; it’s like a piece of art,” notes Gina. “It immediately brings the outdoors in the moment you walk inside,” adds Tim of the functional feature with auto belay.
Now that the home is complete, one of the owners’ favorite destinations is the open-air porch off the living/dining area. “It’s by far our favorite spot,” says Tim. “We head there in nice weather, when the sun is setting, or to watch the thunderstorms approach and roll through.” Yet another outdoor destination is a walled-in terrace off the kitchen. Its
Situated off the main living area is this covered porch, a favorite gathering spot. It sits high above the sloping landscape and delivers panoramic White Mountain views.
The living room's custom cabinets by Old Hampshire Designs provides ample storage while housing a cozy electric fireplace.
Tim navigates the stairwell's climbing wall with backup from the auto belay. A mix of materials and finishes elevates this sporty feature into a piece of art.
walls provide privacy from neighbors and passing cars while a porthole cutout captures southern light and views.
As an all-electric house, the structure treads lightly on the environment, just as its owners intended. Roof-mounted solar panels provide power for both the house and an electric vehicle. Pennoyer’s energy modeling called for 12-inch, double-framed walls filled with R-42 cellulose. The trussed roof with 20 inches of R-70 cellulose insulation and air-source heat pumps completes the tight envelope.
“We lost power for 36 hours last winter, and we don’t have a generator, but the house held its temperature within two to three degrees, even with outside temps in the teens,” says Gina.
With three grown children, four grandchildren and a newly streamlined lifestyle, the couple are content with their slice of New Hampshire. “When family comes over, everyone always remarks how comfortable and calming the house feels,” notes Tim, “and that’s exactly what we wanted.” NHH
BUILDER: Old Hampshire Designs ¦ 603-526-6945 oldhampshiredesigns.com
CUSTOM CABINETRY: Crown Point Cabinetry ¦ 603-542-3399 crown-point.com
LANDSCAPE INSTALLATION: American Waterscapes ¦ 973-349-7548 americanwaterscapes.com
“ We are outdoor people, and we talked a lot about bringing the interior and exterior together into one unified experience. "
This bonus elevation contains office space and guest bedrooms.
Above: Gina and Tim's primary suite is simple yet soothing. Pocket doors and curbless showers are just a few of the home's accessibility features.
Top right: Stairs in the modest front entry lead down to the home's lower level.
Above: Exterior materials include charred cypress (this Japanese shou sugi ban method creates a natural barrier to insects) and Corten steel. Solar panels and extensive insulation ensure a light carbon footprint.
The facade of this 1950s home retains a classic cottage feel while walls of windows create an airy, sunlit interior.
New Hampshire Home
A Classic Cottage With Contemporary Style
Set in a historic district and on the water, this renovated home offers the best of both worlds.
BY CRYSTAL WARD KENT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROB KAROSIS
From the outside, the New Castle home looks like a classic New England cottage, but inside it’s another world. Walls of glass create the feeling of being on an island in the middle of the Piscataqua. Airy, open spaces and a restful palette project a carefree coastal feel. The transformation took a talented team 18 months to complete, but all involved agree the results are spectacular.
According to Bill Soupcoff of TMS Architects in Portsmouth,the 1950s-era home was originally dark with a chopped-up interior
and old-fashioned windows limiting the stunning views. Still, the couple buying the home saw potential.“The clients were wonderful to work with, and we all agreed on the changes needed, but the immediate hurdle was working with the town, as the home lies within the Historic District,”he explains.“The facade had to remain traditional, but we were allowed to alter the inside.”
Soupcoff removed the walls separating rooms downstairs and restored support by installing a structural beam. He then added a wall of windows facing the water. This open plan allowed light to flood the downstairs and brought the beauty of
The kitchen, with its gleaming porcelain countertops and bright, white woodwork, has a commanding view of the water while the view outside the front door captures stone walls and flowers.
the waterfront into the living and dining areas. Soupcoff moved the kitchen and dining areas to the front of the house, opening up spaces and capturing the light.
Upstairs, another wall of windows was added in the master bedroom. “So much glass limits storage, so we decided on builtin cabinets and drawers,” explains Soupcoff. “The top of these provides space for books, décor, seating and so on.” Beadboard was installed on the ceiling.
Builder Chris Ragusa of CM Ragusa Builders in Seabrook was excited to work on the project despite a unique set of chal-
lenges, including simply getting his vehicles in and out of the waterfront site in the small historic village with narrow streets.
“It was difficult finding room for our crew and supplies, but we made it work,” he says. In addition to implementing the design, Ragusa modernized the home and made it more durable with better insulation, roofing and siding. He also reinforced the original frame with steel, reinforced the roof supports and replaced every window.
With the structural changes in hand, the clients called upon Cristina Johnson, an interior designer with TMS Architects, and
“ We all agreed on the changes needed, but the immediate hurdle was working with the town, as the home lies within the Historic District."
— Architect Bill Soupcoff
Lisa Teague, owner and principal designer with Studio Upcoast Design in Portsmouth, to create a new look for their home. Teague advised on the paint colors, and most of the downstairs is a custom blend of soft white with gray undertones, a shade that unifies the spaces. The understated hue is also the perfect backdrop for the clients’ outstanding art collection, which is featured throughout the home.
In the living area, a sofa and chairs in shades of sand and sage support the beachy vibe, and an antique Swedish banjo clock from the couple’s previous home adds a timeless note. Teague shortened the legs on the coffee table, which also came from their former abode, and painted it a soft, glazed gray to accommodate the lighter, more casual atmosphere of the
Below left: Soft hues of sand, tan and palest gray bring a calming mood to the living area. The muted palette allows the artwork to pop. The console conceals the television.
Right: The Colonial dining set works in the modern home thanks to its simple lines.
The bold pattern of the rattan chairs adds punch to the kitchen’s soft blue-and-white scheme.
whites and grays let nothing distract from the outstanding view from
New Castle space. A white oak console hides the television and echoes the oak of the hardwood floors.
In the breakfast nook, Teague took the same approach, painting the chairs and pedestal of the tiger maple table to go with the bright, windowed space. “Much of the furniture from their previous home was heavy and dark,” she explains. “It fit an urban environment but was out of place here. By lightening the tones, they were able to have some of their favorite pieces work with the new look.”
The dining room illustrates the most significant blend of old and new. The couple kept their Early American dining set, but the simple style works and the pale walls and vibrant paintings keep the atmosphere light.
Johnson took the lead in the kitchen, where the stunning back-
splash tiles, featuring soft blue waves, set the tone. The stove, toaster and other accents pick up the blue hues while marble-like porcelain countertops provide a crisp contrast. Johnson wove in gold accents on the appliances, drawers and cabinets to add a touch of shimmer. The shape of the white pendant lights hanging above the island suggests lobster buoys. Woven rattan chairs in a dramatic brown and black pattern provide seating and a warm contrast to the kitchen’s cool tones.
Clean, cool white was also chosen for several of the bathrooms and primary bedroom. In the downstairs bathroom, Johnson chose Calacatta gold marble tile for the shower walls, floor and countertops. In the primary bathroom, Dolomite Italian marble was selected for the countertops, shower walls and floor, where it was laid in a blend of herringbone and
Soft
the primary bedroom.
A fun whale-themed wallpaper makes a dramatic and whimsical statement in the guest bathroom.
mini-block patterns. In the guest bathroom, silvery gray takes precedence both in a whale-themed wallpaper and on the painted walls and vanity; gray marble countertops, shower and floors complete the look, with white trim providing a bold accent.
The primary bedroom is a peaceful aerie that seems to float above the river. The white walls have a gray undertone while a brighter white accents the window trim. Teague repainted the antique spool bed in a soft cream, and hues of sand and cream are in the comforter and rug. Johnson
chose long pendant lights, hung from the ceiling, to place by the bed as the nightstands are small and traditional lamps would leave little room for books or other bedtime essentials. The overall effect is one of simplicity and restfulness, with the changing view of water and sky a peaceful focal point. When the house was finished, Ragusa felt the team had fulfilled the client’s wishes. “The exterior of the house is not out of character with the neighborhood, but the interior is totally modern and makes a bold statement. It’s the best of both worlds blended together.” NHH
TMS Architects saved the massive tree which is now a focal point of the yard. It shades the deck, designed by TMS, making the area comfortable on even the hottest days.
BUILDER: CM Ragusa Builders ¦ 603-814-1588 ¦ cmragusa.com
INTERIOR DESIGNER: Lisa Teague Upcoast Design ¦ 603-493-4516 ¦ upcoastdesign.com
Your Next Home
Artwork by Alisa Boyko
Barn Raising
A couple’s vision and generosity transform an antique farm structure into a remarkable community space.
“MOST PEOPLE LOVE BARNS,” says architect Tom Murdough, principal of Murdough Design. “They are bucolic structures with a sense of clarity about them, and the form of a barn is traditionally driven by its utility.”
To renovate an antique barn on the Squam Lake property of homeowners Steven Holtzman and Julia Byers, the architect dove into the couple’s intended use of the space. “This was a movement away from the agricultural to the recre-
ational,” says Murdough, whose design reflected the space’s history and future.
After retiring from the pharmaceutical industry and academia, respectively, Holtzman and Byers moved fulltime to their newly constructed lakeside home (also designed by Murdough) and then turned their sights to their charming but dilapidated barn, located close to the road.
“We saw the barn as an extension of our home,” says Holtzman, “and we
By Lisa Cavanaugh | Photography by Chuck Choi
decided to create something for the community.”
When they had first moved in, their neighbors were summer and weekend homeowners. However, once the pandemic hit, many more year-rounders were suddenly nearby. “All sorts of people with places on the lake came up here and started living full-time,” says Byers, who felt it would be terrific to get to know everyone. So, the couple installed tennis and pickleball courts for their neighbors
Above: The structured open staircase, made from blackened steel and oak, extends from the basement to the upper level of the barn.
Opposite page: Nestled in a wooded area close to the road, the barn structure has been transformed into a multi-use community space.
to enjoy. “People were very happy to come and play outside, which introduced us to even more people.”
This spirit of commonality was a guiding force in the couple’s plan for renovating the barn, and the entire project team was on board with their vision from the get-go. “Steve and Julia had a dream for this barn as something that could serve the community in various ways,” says builder Kevin Beland, who, with his wife Shannon Robinson-Beland, owns and operates Wood & Clay Fine Homes. “They are so generous, and opening up this space is a big expression of that.”
Aware that Holtzman and Byers wanted to utilize original and reclaimed wood, the team brought in Harper Elm, which
Above: The main level includes a basketball court with a retractable hoop, a mechanized large screen, and a Dolby surround sound system for movie nights or watching the Super Bowl.
Below: The kitchen with an eight-burner Wolf Range can be used for catering community events.
specializes in restoring historic homes and barns. The contractor dismantled the existing building and sourced additional materials. “They provided reclaimed beams from other New England barns to fill in for ones that were unrepairable or rotted,” says Beland. He points out that it was important to have all materials, inside and out, blend seamlessly. “When you incorporate reclaimed wood, it has to read from the same era as the original structure, and Harper Elm did that extremely well.” Beland further credits his company’s carpenters and subcontractors, who did a “phenomenal” job on every aspect of the project.
Murdough adds that one of the most appealing aspects of the finished building was the acceptance of natural imperfections. “We wanted to maintain some of the organic quality of the original barn and let the tradesman’s hand show through,” he says. “You can see this especially in the joinery within the timber structure, where the details allow the raw beauty to come out.”
This being a contemporary structure built for communal use, Murdough designed enormous windows and dedicated spaces within the interior. “All of the old and reclaimed materials are wooden, and other elements were intentionally added to heighten the distinction between the old and the new.”
Examples include a new cast iron stove that harkens back to elements of a 19th-century historic farm, and a modern staircase to the upper loft. Constructed out of steel and with a blackened finish, the stair treads are wrapped in oak, a combination that draws from the aesthetics of two centuries.
Playfully calling their new space the “BH Barn,” Byers and Holtzman have worked hard to fill it with people and activity. They have hosted weddings and birthday parties, musical performances and poetry readings, yoga and Qi Gong
The landscaping and outdoor patio work was done by Miracle Farms Landscape Contractors in Moultonborough. “They did an incredible job,” says Holtzman, explaining that the exterior living space allows event guests “to spill out onto the stunning patio.”
The modern staircase, made from industrial materials, complements the rustic wood interior.
classes, local nonprofit meetings and major fundraisers. There is no cost to anyone to use the space, and the couple keeps busy coordinating the schedule and monitoring the facility. “When we first started the barn, I had hoped that it would be something that we could give back to the community,” says Holtzman, “but we never envisioned just how big it would take off — literally!”
“Steve and Julia were great clients,“ says Beland. “They knew what they wanted and wanted it for others to enjoy. None of this would have happened without their vision.”
“Our work is focused on creating structures from an experiential standpoint,” says Murdough. “We’re always trying to imagine what it will be like to walk into a space, feel a space and use it. Steve and Julia’s barn generates a certain experience. It is essentially a very simple building, but it houses so much movement and activity.” NHH
“We want our buildings to seem very natural in their settings, like they have always belonged there,” says Murdough. “The design for this barn has a strong relationship to the environment it is situated in.”
BUILDERS: Wood & Clay Fine Homes ¦ 603-534-3128 ¦ woodandclay.com Harper Elm ¦ 978-274-1862 ¦ harperelm.com
The stately, twin-chimney colonial has had many additions over the years. The new stone patio and all the windows on this side look over the long mixed border and pasture
Garden of Delights
With Mount Monadnock in the background, this elegantly relaxed country garden blends color, composition and texture.
LITTLE BROOK FARM in Jaffrey, which dates from 1816, was once known locally for its maple syrup. When Jim and Marianne Rothnie bought the property in 2011 — only the third family to own it — they converted it to a horse farm, adding stables and extensive riding trails through the woods. “We put in the pasture fences, connected the dots and finished the puzzle,” says Marianne, who loves that their home is not hidden away on its 80-plus acres. “It is the house on the hill, open to the mountain view.”
Reclaim and Rebuild
Huge rhododendrons, original to the property, hug the side of the house. Hydrangeas and lavender edging were added for later color. “Marianne likes hydrangeas, and there weren’t many here,” says gardener Sarah Bulson, who has worked for the Rothnies since they bought the property. “Now, we have plenty!”
Across the driveway from the house, a large timber-frame barn with weathered siding provides the perfect backdrop for more hydrangeas and a large kousa dog-
By Robin Sweetser | Photography by John W. Hession
wood. “The dogwood is beautiful when it flowers against the barn,” says Bulson.
Behind the barn are more rhododendrons, peonies and island flower beds that she created using plants she discovered growing amid the tangled underbrush. She says that “it was a treasure hunt to find and reuse them.” Similarly, an area where shade-loving plants now fill a new raised bed defined by a stone wall was a struggle to reclaim from invasive plants.
A partial stone foundation built into the hill is all that’s left of another large
toward Mount Monadnock.
barn. Marianne says she “wanted an outdoor shower, and it was the perfect protected spot.” Ferns love the shady moist location, and Bulson brought in hostas, bleeding hearts and white daylilies.
The ‘Nikko Blue’ hydrangeas growing behind the house were not blooming until they were moved to the old barn foundation to take advantage of the shelter. “Now, they are thriving,” says Bulson. A hedge of peonies borders the nearby parking area and is the star of the show in June. “Peonies have been cultivated here for a long time,” she says. Even when they are not in bloom, they offer a lush background for other flowers.
The Back Border
Behind the house, looking toward Mount Monadnock, is a 100-foot-long mixed border. “Sarah expanded the original gardens that were here,” says Marianne. “We discuss changes, but I leave all the decisions up to her. She is very smart!”
Bulson has an eye for composition, color and texture and is not afraid to change things up each year. “We love to add interest and pops of surprise by using plants with various foliage colors and textures,” she says. “The foliage of soft silvery lamb’s-ear contrasts the sharp, red, serrated foliage of ‘Mystic Series’ dahlias and ‘Mahogany Splendor’ hibiscus.” Other surprises include tall, yellow Texas coneflowers (Rudbeckia texana), calla lilies, spiky artichokes and sea holly. “In general, the back border was created using plants we chose simply because we like each plant for itself, no specific color scheme or predetermined plan in mind, but somehow it all works together to create an interesting, cohesive border that evolves from year to year.”
A Cutting Garden
Marianne shares the flowers in her cutting garden with her church, her bridge club and Apple Hill Music concerts. “One great
In July, daylilies abound in this section of the long border along with pink yarrow, echinacea, phlox, alliums, daisies, Stokes’ asters and tall Texas coneflowers.
Gardener Sarah Bulson is not afraid to change things up, adding new plants and expanding the border each year. She shares extras such as calla lily bulbs and dahlia tubers with her clients. “I like to spread the joy!” she says.
GREEN SPACE
thing about having lots of flowers around and an arranger — Marianne — making beautiful displays is that it creates a ton of subjects for my painting hobby,” says Jim, an accomplished artist. Marianne is head of the floral design committee for her garden club and has hosted the in-club flower show in her husband’s studio, one of the attractive older buildings on the property. “By the end of the summer we have a lot of flowers!” she says.
A New Pond
Cody Gordon of Jaffrey, who has done all the stonework at the farm, was called in to dig a pond near the back field, but it wasn’t easy. He eventually hit ledge and had to stop. Huge granite boulders were removed and placed around the edges, including one that he stood on end that’s in the shape of New Hampshire. “The pond
Above: Island flower beds behind the barn were filled with plants including daylilies and phlox resurrected from an overgrown side lawn along with evergreen shrubs like pieris and rhododendrons.
Top: A cracked bird bath has been repurposed as an elevated planter filled with annuals including pink and white scaevola and variegated trailing vinca.
GREEN SPACE
Above: Comfy chairs invite swimmers to linger and enjoy the spring-fed pond, which was planned to be round but the ledge had other ideas. Check out the NH-shaped standing stone.
Below: The outdoor shower constructed by mason Cody Gordon makes clever use of the old barn foundation. Plants thrive in the moist, protected location.
is 10 feet deep, and we swim in it all the time,” says Marianne. The path leading to the pond goes through the woods, so they cleared the understory to encourage lady’s slippers, ferns and other woodland plants to grow. Around the pond they planted extra perennials divided from the gardens and shrubs including viburnum, mountain laurel and tri-color willow.
Changes to Come
Little Brook Farm continues to evolve. Now that the horses are gone, Jim is considering converting one of the pastures to an orchard. “Since I seem to have aged out of horseback riding, we are talking about finding a good new use for this beautiful pasture,” he says. “Our current thinking is to plant fruit trees in one area and let wildflowers grow throughout the rest. There is already a good seed bed of native plants in the soil.”
And a new chapter begins at an old New Hampshire farm. NHH
RESOURCES
Apple Hill Center for Chamber Music ¦ 603-847-3371 ¦ applehill.org Fine Gardens with Sarah ¦ 518-248-2271 ¦ bulsonsarah@gmail.com Gordon Services Property Management ¦ 603-325-8457
FINE CRAFT GALLERIES
MARK YOUR CALENDAR
Events Around the State
Compiled by Elisa Gonzales Verdi
WEEKDAYS THROUGHOUT SUMMER
Strawbery Banke Guided Garden Tours
Expert guides will take you on a journey through time in the historic gardens and landscapes and teach about the careful stewardship and maintenance that goes into preserving the living collection. Gain insights into traditional gardening techniques and how they have evolved, blending seamlessly with modern practices to ensure the gardens’ continued vitality and their ability to share the stories of the people who lived within them. $5-$10. 11 a.m., Strawbery Banke, 14 Hancock St., 603-433-1100, strawberybanke.org
JULY 13
Arts in the Harbor
The Center for the Arts will hold the 13th annual Arts in the Harbor — a one-day showcase of fine arts and crafts in Sunapee Harbor “under the tents.” Arts in the Harbor will feature a lineup of talented artists displaying and selling their works. Visitors can expect to find a diverse range of art forms, including oils, acrylics, watercolors, monotypes, pastels, drawings, photography, block prints, sculpture, pottery, fine jewelry, gold and silver work, weaving, fiber arts, wood, metal, stone and sculpture. Attendees will have the chance to engage with the artists personally and learn about the inspiration behind their creations. centerfortheartsnh.org/arts-in-the-harbor
JULY 14
Brunch and Bubbles
Bring friends and family to Flag Hill to experience Brunch by the Vineyard! Brunch and Bubbles features their delicious Sparkling Cayuga White. You will also have fun with a make-your-own Mimosa Bar! $25-$65, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Flag Hill Distillery and Winery, 297 North River Road, Lee. 603-659-2949; flaghill.com
JULY 27
New London Historical Society
Antique Show & Sale
Get ready for the 56th annual Antique Show and Sale on the New London Historical Society’s grounds. Goosefare Antiques and Promotions of Saco, Maine, is helping bring over 50 quality dealers to the show. The proceeds of the event will benefit the historical society. $8. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. New London Historical Societ y, 179 Little Sunapee Road, New London. goosefareantiques.com
JULY 27-AUGUST 4
Sunflower Festival
Coppal House Farm’s annual Sunflower Festival is a special event put on every summer to celebrate their beautiful sunflower fields. The farm harvests the sunflowers every fall to press the seeds into culinary oil, but they’re a sight to behold while blooming. Oilseed sunflowers bloom and begin to turn their heads after only 12 days, so this week-long festival is a special, ephemeral time for flower lovers. Enjoy a sunrise in the sunflowers, an artisan craft fair, live lo cal musicians, local food vendors and a series of mini-events while gazing on the sunflowers’ natural beauty. $10-$14. 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. each day. Coppal House Farm, 118 North River Road, Lee. nhsunflower.com. New Hampshire Magazine is a proud sponsor of this event.
JULY 27
25th Annual Chocolate Fest
Enjoy an evening of chocolate temptations in Town Square accompanied by a free outdoor concert as the sun sets. Pack a picnic, or just bring a bottle of your favorite red or white libation and enjoy an indulgent evening in the square, on a blanket or with your toes in the sand. 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Town Square, 33 Village Road, Waterville Valley. waterville.com
AUGUST 1
Ask a Master Gardener Days
As an ongoing partnership between New Hampshire Audubon and University of New Hampshire Extension’s Master Gardener Program, Massabesic’s Demonstration Gardens provide a place for sharing best practices in an eco-friendly home and community gardening. The luscious gardens on-site include pollinator and bird-friendly plants, a rain garden space,
To submit industry events and home-related news, send an email to the editor at janicerohlfnhh@gmail.com.
vegetable gardens, raised beds and more. Free to attend. 9 to 11 a.m. Massabesic Center, 26 Audubon Way, Auburn. 603-668-2045; nhaudubon.org
AUGUST 3-11
League of NH Craftsmen’s Fair
Artisans and crafters from around the state set up shop at this massive fest, which boasts the title of oldest continuously running craft fair in the U.S. Come ready to shop or just to learn and admire; tap in for learn-how-it’s-made workshops scattered throughout the week or to the exhibition building full of curated art shows. There’s also live music, chances to meet artisans one-on-one and other fun events held throughout the week. Mount Sunapee Resort, 1398 Rte. 103, Newbury. 603-763-3500; nhcrafts.org
AUGUST 9
Flower Arranging Demo and Workshop
Visit Bedrock Gardens and learn the art of flower arranging from Jean Calaci of Inkwell Flowers in Newmarket. Get tips and tricks on color palettes, flower selection, floral processing and arrangement structure. A great event for adults and older teens. $120-$135, 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Bedrock Gardens, 19 High Road, Lee. 603-659-2993; bedrockgardens.org
AUGUST 8-10
New Hampshire Antiques Show
Managed by a team of dedicated volunteers, the New Hampshire Antiques Show is considered “the best show of its kind in New England” (Maine Antique Digest). The 59 professional antiques dealers who exhibit at the show save merchandise throughout the year in order to ensure that the show maintains its longstanding reputation for “fresh-to-the-market” antiques. $10-$15. Times vary. DoubleTree by Hilton, 700 Elm St., Manchester. nhada.org
PHOTO COURTESY STRAWBERY BANKE LEAGUE OF NH CRAFTMEN
PARTING
“TO CELEBRATE THE PERFECT SUMMER DAY, we created this irregular Chester stone patio overlooking the water of Lake Sunapee. It’s an elevated, serene sitting area, with grasses and native perennials on the shoreline.”
—
Graham Pellettieri, president, Pellettieri Associates Inc.
