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Archive for August, 2013

OUR SPRING & SUMMER DEALS

Monday, August 26, 2013

We had a busy spring and are back after a little summer vacation.  Here is an update on our recent deals.

OUR LISTINGS:

13 Oak Park Avenue listed for $1,100,000

3 bedroom 2 1/2 bath sold and closed in July 2013 with multiple offers.

Remember "Fab Master Bath"?  We had multiple bids with in days of listing  one of our favorites!

Remember “Fab Master Bath”? 
One of our favorites!

60 Gardiner Street listed for $1,099,000

4 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath sold and closed in June 2013.

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First time on the market in 18 years. We sold it in 24 hours.

 

207 Middlesex Road – List Price $1,725,000 by Kelly Associates. This 4 bedroom, 3 1/2 bathroom was bought while under construction and finished by our customer. Sold and closed in May 2013.

Fabulous new construction walking distance to trains and Equinox!

Fabulous new construction walking distance to trains and Equinox!

327 Middlesex Road – List Price $849,000 through Kelly Associates. 4 Bedroom cottage sold and closed in July 2013.

Charming Cottage now.  Wait until you see the transformation!

Charming Cottage now. Wait until you see the transformation!

 

We anticipate a busy fall and year so now may be a good time to jump into the market.  If you are interested in looking for a home or listing your house, give us a call.

If you are working with an agent, this is not a solicitation.

Gardens and Pools to Love!

Monday, August 19, 2013

On the market right now, in all price ranges, there are houses with pools and gardens (or just gardens) that are fantastic.  If a garden , and or a pool, is a priority in your house hunting, there are some fabulous options.  This is the perfect time of year to see what these houses have to offer. We happen to LOVE a few in particular.

9 Appletree Lane

9 Appletree is a house we have been waiting for!  We had heard it was coming on the market last Spring.  Oh the fun you could have with this house.  Fabulous gardens, filled with fruit trees and spots for beautiful flower beds.  And of course, Wisteria will have to grow somewhere.

Bones Bones Bones! 9 Appletree is a house that you wait for to hit the market.  And on such a charming street. This one is a MUST SEE!

We had heard last Spring it was coming on the market. Its the kind of house we would love to put our RID stamp on. Fabulous gardens, filled with fruit trees and spots for beautiful flower beds. I see wisteria growing somewhere here. This house calls for a “field trip” up to Marvin Gardens and Stamford Antique Center. And, I say we get go all out and call in Renny Reynolds to consult on the gardening (everyone should know about Hortulus Farm Garden & Nursery even if they don’t ask Renny for a consultation). This house is a true “diamond in the rough”; not only will you end up with a polished stone, you might even get lucky with a “minors cut” – something not everyone has!  Asking $1,650,000 through William Raveis/Darien.

Imagine the set of lawn furniture that would go here.  I am thinking H

Blossoms and wonderful summer lunches under the trees. I am dreaming about a table and chairs from Grange.  Check out the Marie Galante collection!

From Grange.  Imagine this under the trees in the garden here!  Fabulous!

From Grange. Imagine this under the trees in the garden here! Fabulous!   Grange is available through Grange Furniture, Inc. in New York City.   

Originally Built in 1845, this gem was moved to Appletree Lane in 1922.

Originally Built in 1845, this gem was moved to Appletree Lane in 1922.

 

19 Lakeside Avenue

This is a totally “green” and custom (re)built home in the center of Darien.  It is promoted as a Winner of the CT Green Council’s 2012 Residential Green Building Award, and one of the few LEED Platinum homes in the area, but what you are also getting is a charming 5 bedroom/3 bath house,  fitted with fabulous Waterworks baths, a gorgeous kitchen and the best garden on the street! The borders and gardens are wonderful in the front and the back of the house. This could be the perfect in town living option for you.  It’s a winner!  Asking $1,869,000.  Offered through Kelly Associates.

Perfect little "in town" option. It's GREEN and totally ready to move into.  I am not kidding when I say "just bring your tooth brush".

Perfect little “in town” option. It’s totally move-in ready. I am not kidding when I say “just bring your tooth brush”.

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A “secret garden” right in the center of town! What a beautiful border. A ‘no fuss’ garden to enjoy in the Summer is something we are always striving for!

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LOVE this border in the front of the house!! Great idea for a space you won’t be using much.

 

3 Nolen Lane

It continues to be a favorite, and when I showed it last week to a customer it did not dissapoint. A true candidate for fabulousness!  The pool is really good.  Really, really good. I would add some pool chairs from BrownJordan on the far end, but the possibilities for gorgeous garden accents are endless here.  More importantly there stand amazing mature trees –  some could be 75 years old, a lush green lawn spreads itself all around the house, and there are fantastic perennial shrubs everywhere!  The pool and gardens are nicely seperated so you are not always “by the pool”, which makes this place perfect for all outdoor garden festivities and quiet afternoon reads. (Check out our previous blog for more thoughts on this house). Asking $2,925,000. Offered through Kelly Associates.

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Just imagine yourBrownJordan pool lounge chairs lined up at the bottom of this pool. There are some fabulous lines to choose from Seasons Too, right here in Darien. They have an extensive collection of many top of the line outdoor furniture companies but they are particularly good for BrownJordan . This will be a dreamy place to spend your summer afternoons!

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If you wanted to get fancy you could install a rough iron fence with custom finials to add something special, but the pool is already nicely fenced in, and seperated from a gorgeous perennial garden that will host parties and more summer luncheons. Glorious!

 

1 Inwood Road

Tucked up in northern Darien, this Frazier Peters house offers a private paradise with discreet and subtly landscaped gardens in front, and plenty of space in back to establish your own borders and garden beds.  This is a fabulous 1933  stone house with 6 bedrooms, 4 full baths and 2 half baths. You will stay cool in the Summer and welcome lots of pool party guests!  This is a rare offering, asking $3,900,000 offered by William Raveis/Darien.

Great curb appeal at 1 Inwood.  It set back off the road, which by the way isn't exactly "well traveled".  Its a great spot.

Great curb appeal at 1 Inwood. It set back off the road, which by the way isn’t exactly “well traveled”. Its a great spot.

 

It has a wonderful Continental feeling to it back here.  Its not a typical suburban "back yard".

It has a wonderful Continental feeling to it back here. Its not a typical suburban “back yard”.

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Pristine, blank canvas to create a sensational summer sanctuary. And, a beautiful rectangular pool. Imagine a pergola, dripping with wisteria, on one end of the pool where you will sit for lunch. Go crazy!

Not bad for the end of the pool at

Love these lounge chairs for the end of the pool.  Just add a little color in the cushions et voila! You will be sitting happily poolside. Lounge chairs are by Silas Marders

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35 Crooked Mile Road

This is a fabulous 5 bedroom/6 1/2 bath house with all the bells and whistles demanded by a $4,300,000 price tag, including 4 fireplaces, a gym and a 4 car heated garage!  But it is the gardens and pool that catches the eye this time of year.  They are gorgeous!  This is truly a “grown up” house that deserves the magic touch of someone like Suzanne Kasler.  (Check out the September issue of Veranda for Suzanne’s latest project in Greenwich CT.  The dining room is not to be missed!)  Offered through Coldwell Banker/Darien CT.

Grand and sophisticated.  A fabulous opportunity to use large scaled urns and garden gems from somewhere like Treillage.

Grand and sophisticated. A fabulous opportunity to use large scaled urns and garden gems from somewhere like Treillage, or Stamford Antiques!

Absolutely love this pool.

Absolutely love this pool.  This pool is crying for larger urns (obsessed with stone and iron urns).  It can totally handle large scale garden treasures. Also, this is another opportunity to take advantage of the extensive collection at either Janus et Cie or

 

Summer may be coming to an end but it is never too late to take a look at these fantastic properties.  Plan a head for next Summer’s season by the pool and in the garden.

 

 

 

If you are currently working with an agent, this is not a solicitation.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A little imagination and a lot of inspiration

Monday, August 12, 2013
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Ooozing with charm and loaded with potential.

123 Middlesex is a sleepy charmer tucked privately off of the road. It’s a fabulous central location close to the Woodland Park and Middlesex Middle School.  With 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, 1 half bath on 1.2 acres, this stone and stucco cape has arched doorways, fieldstone fireplaces and interesting space to create a special 1920’s cottage filled with all your favorite details.  I was pleasantly surprised at the potential this home has. Be sure to take a look if you are in the market. Offered by Laura Kolderup at Kelly Associates, asking $1,049,000.

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Love that fireplace. Would love to see this all white or an edgy color. Possibly Farrow & Balls Blue Black.

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This staircase has great lines.

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The kitchen is in good shape. You could even take down the wall and make it open to the family/dining room.

Here are some ideas that would be fabulous at

123 Middlesex:

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Simple transition between outdoors and indoors. I Always love brick terracing and walkways. It is also great indoors.

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This white room works so well!

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Or go the opposite and use contrast.

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Don’t be afraid of a wallpaper or color in a small space. It actually works to it’s advantage.

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Or cozy it up.  The walls really work here.

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Let the simplicity of the space do the work.

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It can be simple AND hip. (actually I think smaller is always hipper).

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Don’t be afraid to throw a pop of color in there.

 

The ideas are endless. Go for it!  This house is a blank canvas waiting for your touch!

 

If you are an agent, this is not a solicitation.

Images by Caitlin Morgan Interiors, Matthew Craig Interiors and Bungalow Blue Interiors.

 

Lane Venture Outdoor Living

Friday, August 9, 2013

REDUCED TO $4,000

Just in time for the beautiful weather almost here!

For those of you familiar with exquisite design and craftsmanship in premium and custom outdoor furnishings, this wicker set by Lane Venture will surely capture your attention. The Weather Master Ultimate set is Camino Real and consists of eight utilitarian and striking pieces to complement your patio, sun room or terrace. The collection includes a high back swivel rocker, two club chairs, one sofa, one love seat, one ottoman, one round end table, one rectangular cocktail table, and one dining table. The cushions are all fade, mildew resistant and rich in design with brilliant blues and crisp stripes of blue, white, black, and gray. All dimensions are by request. Enjoy outdoor entertaining in high style!

Price:  $6,000

E-mail mymfaulkner@optonline.net for assistance.

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Out of Town

Thursday, August 8, 2013
IF there was a "heaven on earth" it would certainly be here.

IF there was a “heaven on earth” this would be a candidate.

It’s the middle of summer, so that means I am Down East.  There is so much to do here you would think that I could lay off the real estate and enjoy what is absolutely one of the most special places on earth. (It is always a full schedule of  hiking, walking, tennis and trips to Islesford, and tennis, hiking, walking…and lobster, and out to Cranberry…and much more). But, I cant resist taking a look at what’s on the market up here.  Every summer I say to myself that this is the summer we will dive into the market ourselves.  It has not happened yet 🙁

Who knows, maybe something will pique your interest.  If so, give a call to Mia Thompson at The Knowles Company. She will give you the “grand tour”.

Here is what caught my attention

A view from a special spot over looking Scott's Cove.

A view from a special spot over looking Greenings.

Barnacles Way. There are two cottages offered on this property. Shore Cottage, situated on the water, is truly unique. You would never be able to have a house that close to the water today.  I believe it is “grandfathered in” so you would want to leave the deck and living room as it is.  155 +/- of shorefront, 3 Bedrooms, 3 baths, hanging over the Northeast Harbor Fleet and Scott’s Cove, as well as spectacular veiws out to Greenings Island and the Western mountains of Acadia National Park, is not something you will be able to duplicate. It is magical, even in the rain! Asking $3,250,000.  Offered through The Knowles Company.

Looking back at the house from across the cove.

Shore Cottage. Looking back at the house from across Scott’s cove.

Sitting indoors or out, you feel the water and the magic of this island from inside these four walls.

Sitting indoors or out, you feel the water and the magic of this island from inside these four walls. This summer cabin retreat can not be matched.  This is the perfect house for a Remodelista project!

Coxe Cottage on Harbor Street is another property I think is the PERFECT “turn key” cottage.  It is totally done ( the Maine way – with all the “mod con’s” but not like here in Fairfield County) and has SPECTACULAR views of Northeast Harbor.  The new deck, wrapped in a fabulous cool nautical steel fence, is where you will plant your self when you are not off on the bike trails or out on the water.  Just unpack for the Summer, or Columbus Day, or when you want to be here in this 4 bedroom, 3 1/2 baths bungalo, and look out over your 53 +/- of Harbor shorefront!

Its a fabulous in town location, which means its an easy walk to the Pine Tree Market or to the Mail Boat should you decide to take your bike out to Great Cranberry for a ride!  Asking $1,400,000 offered by The Knowles Company.

Coxe Cottage tucked up on the hillside overlooking Northeast Harbor.

Coxe Cottage tucked up on the hillside overlooking Northeast Harbor.

 Looking out from the open living room.  Tuns of light pours in - just like you are on a boat!

Looking out from the open living room. Light pours in from all sides.

The kitchen is not from 2013 but there is nothing to do here.  It is a classic summer Maine kitchen. LOVE THAT!

The kitchen is not from 2013 but there is nothing to do here. It is a classic summer Maine kitchen. LOVE THAT!

Downstairs there is an additional place to put guests, and sliding doors to the lower lawn and path to the Harbor.

Downstairs there is an additional space to put guests, and sliding doors to the lower lawn and path to the Harbor. Fab!

Even downstairs, the guests are one with the views and the sweet sounds of life on the Harbor.

Even downstairs, the guests are one with the views and the sweet sounds of life on the Harbor.

I came across a Boston based decorator that might have some great ideas once you got in here to make it your own.  Check out her site Katie Rosenfeld Design and see what you think.  I imagined rooms like this:

A fresh idea for the second or third bedroom at Coxe Cottage.

A fresh idea for the second or third bedroom at Coxe Cottage.

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I can totally see this room overlooking the Harbor! Love the French cafe chairs!

Saving the best for last, OMG!  This deck is sensational.  It wraps around the house and is accessible from two sides of the living room and the Master bedroom.

Saving the best for last. This deck is sensational! It wraps around the house and is accessible from two sides of the living room and the Master bedroom. Gorge!

Out on Great Cranberry, if you are looking for privacy AND bells and whistles, check out FISH POINT.  Absolutely fabulous views of our beloved Acadia National Park as well as the sailing races going on each week.  Life on Cranberry is special and unique; you will not find a better get-a-way than this. Bring your books, your music and bikes. (Leave the cocktail parties in NEH).  Unplug and enjoy!  3 bedrooms, 3 1/2 baths, 325 +/- of shorefront and 3 moorings.  Asking $1,590,000 offered through The Knowles Company.

Fish Point on Great Cranberry Island

Fish Point on Great Cranberry Island. It’s very special and will force you to unwind.

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The house comes with a 22′ Hampton Pulsifer launch.  Or, come on over on the Mail Boat. Either way, you are 20/25 minn from the Northeast Harbor or South West Harbor docks.  Or, check out Hinckley Yachts.  Now that would be “the BOMB”!

Your terrace.  No cell phones allowed!

Your terrace. No cell phones allowed!

Stars will look even better looking up from this pool at night!

Stars will look even brighter looking up from this pool at night!

Pile your friends into this fabulous 4 bedroom house for the ultimate weekend party!

Pile your friends into this fabulous house for the ultimate weekend party!

I thought a quick peek of what is going on “Out of Town” might be a fun way to get through the summer since real estate can be slow this time of year.  The Fall is upon us so we will be getting back out on the trail soon to show you what is fabulous and on the market here in Darien.  We really look forward to it!

 

If you are currently working with an agent, this is not a solicitation.