KIM&ABIGAIL@REALINDARIEN.COM                            REAL ESTATE IN DARIEN & ROWAYTON

Posts Tagged ‘Antique & Artisan Center’

It’s time to shop – The Antique & Artisan way!

Thursday, December 12, 2013

The real estate inventory is presenting with “slim picking” so we really can’t do our “12 Picks for Christmas”!  We would never have guessed that we couldn’t find 12 houses we love to blog about, but it has happened.  So, off we went to our favorite place to fill “the houses we love” with a few of our “favorite things”!  The Stamford Antique & Artisan Center is overflowing with gems and jewels to fill your gorgeous house, and your friend’s gorgeous house.

A room that will bedazzle and bejewel you with fantastic pieces for home and hostess

A room that will bedazzle and bejewel you with fantastic pieces for home and hostess

The “back room” has been set up for the Holiday Sale, going on now, and for a few more days.  Carefully are artfully chosen by the venerable Mari Anne Maher, it is like walking through a wonderland for the home.  Take some time and go down there to browse, buy and actually enjoy holiday shopping.

I was drawn to these like a moth to the flame.  Absolutely stunning set for any Christmas holiday table.

I was drawn to these like a moth to the flame. An absolutely stunning set for any Christmas holiday table. Light and easy to hold.  We love a good bar cart but these glasses will get your table going with enormous style.

Not for the faint at heart... admittedly, however sometimes you just need to take the plunge!

Not for the faint at heart… admittedly, however sometimes you just need to take the plunge!

If we are just sticking to the bar cart, these will be fabulous.

If we are sticking to the bar cart, these will be fabulous.

And, a price point easier to swallow...

And, a price point easier to swallow…

Gorgeous fiance that will make the summer al fresco dinner very special.  A set of 10 which is a good size for a dinner party too.

Gorgeous –  will make the summer al fresco dinner very special. A set of 10 which is a good number for a dinner party too.

Who can't use another set of dinner chargers!

Who can’t use another set of dinner chargers!

In the plate world... not so bad!

In the plate world… not so bad!

One can never have enough throw's or quilts.  On a guest bed, the sofa for a cozy sit by the fire. The colors are gorgeous on this quilt.  Very neutral and will stand out as stunning on your living room sofa.

One can never have enough throw’s or quilts. On a guest bed, or the sofa for a cozy sit by the fire. The colors are gorgeous on this quilt. Very neutral and will stand out as stunning any where in your home.

For someone special and deserving.

For someone special and deserving.

For the music lover in your household.  Or your high school roommate!  I am sure one of you was listening to this classic.

For the music lover in your household. Or your high school roommate! I am sure someone was listening to this classic back in the day, and still… Yes, you are reading the price tag correctly.  It is signed!!!!

You mean you don't still have a turntable?  It will look awesome by the latest, state of the art system in anyone's house.

You mean you don’t still have a turntable? It will look fabulous by the latest, state of the art system in anyone’s house.

Love this fireplace fender.  Note the pineapples!

Love this fireplace fender. Note the pineapples!

It is a good size, fitting a standard fireplace in any house.  What a great piece to have.

It is a good size, fitting a standard fireplace in any house. What a great piece to have.

 A good investment for your house!

AND FOR THE HOSTESS WITH THE MOSTESS

You must have something special when you answer the door.  This is it!  A classic piece from Roberta Freyman.  She still makes these, but with the influx of Roller Rabbit, a vintage piece makes it all that more special.

You must have something special when you answer the door. This is it! A classic piece from Roberta Freeman. She still makes these, but with the influx of Roller Rabbit, a vintage piece makes it all that more special.

Great price point for this.  Think the new ones are A LOT more.

Great price point for this. Think the new ones are A LOT more.

I made a beeline for the unmistakeable orange box only to find a true classic.

I made a beeline for the unmistakeable orange box only to find a true classic.

The box alone would make the experience of owning this worth it!

The box alone would make the experience of owning this worth it!

The vitrine is filled with fabulous vintage and not so vintage stuff.  You will find something you love, for certain.

The vitrine is filled with fabulous vintage jewelry and watches. You will find something you love, for certain.

Share any treats you find at info@realindarien.com.

Pick of the week-Kitchen and Family Room

Saturday, December 7, 2013

Here is the continuation of our thoughts on decorating 207 Middlesex Road. Now that we have sold it we thought it would be fun to give the new owners some ideas from the Antique & Artisan Center.

THE KITCHEN at 207 Middlesex is light and clean.  There is a lot you can do with this space.

DSC_0121

WOW-love this table!

DSC_0120

DSC_0122

The color on these chairs is delicious.

DSC_0124

DSC_0062

I am not sure I would pair these with the table but if I found something else, these would be my pick for a chair.

DSC_0063

DSC_0156

You always need extra chairs and these beat the ones at Costco!

DSC_0157

DSC_0131

How fab is this.

DSC_0132

DSC_0101

These are more of an industrial look.

DSC_0102

DSC_0176

or have a bit of old world.

DSC_0110

Your kids will never be late for school (ok-I know it doesn’t work but how fabulous would this be int he kitchen).

DSC_0163

It is all in the details!

THE FAMILY ROOM is right off the kitchen and is a cozy spot. Here are some pieces that would be perfect.

DSC_0094

This may not be for everyone but I love it!

DSC_0095

DSC_0067

DSC_0065

A MUST HAVE!

DSC_0067

DSC_0067DSC_0067DSC_0067DSC_0068

DSC_0067 DSC_0067

DSC_0067DSC_0067 DSC_0068

DSC_0161

DSC_0168

A little retro goes a long way.

DSC_0128

You always need a bamboo mirror.

DSC_0129

DSC_0130

DSC_0149

DSC_0150

DSC_0174

And again, the details.

DSC_0175

 

Have a great weekend!  DSC_0067DSC_0067

What would we do to 207 Middlesex?

Monday, December 2, 2013

DSC_0038DSC_0038DSC_0038After only a few short days on the market, we have contracts signed at 207 Middlesex Road. We thought it would be fun to pull together some ideas on what we would do with this home so took a trip to  the Antique Center and this is what we found.

8204283

ENTRY HALL

207 Middlesex has a wonderful entry hall. The staircase wraps up to the second floor and is open all the way up.  It is flooded with light.  Here are a few thoughts on what would be a great fit.

DSC_0140

This would make the entry hall sparkle.

DSC_0105

This would be a touch of traditional in a more modern space.

DSC_0106

DSC_0087

I love this in the front hall.

DSC_0089

LOVE LOVE LOVE this pop of color.

LIVING ROOM

The living room is a cozy spot with french doors and a fireplace.   It would love some color.

DSC_0038

Put this on the long wall.

DSC_0038

DSC_0039

These mirror are fantastic.

DSC_0038

DSC_0044

DSC_0118

This sofa is so luscious your guest will stay all night.

DSC_0114

DSC_0034

Pink is always an unexpected winner.

DSC_0136

You can never go wrong with some skin.

DSC_0037

DSC_0141

This is not your run of the mill buddha.

DSC_0144

DSC_0082

Never give up an opportunity for some Draper.

DSC_0072

Not sure what I love more, the base or the shade.

DSC_0107

Here is another great light option.

DSC_0085

You cannot pass this up. Abigail has a set and they are unforgettable.

DSC_0099

A nice touch to round out the room.

DSC_0074

One last vignette….and a new twist on the starburst mirror.

DINING ROOM

The dining room at 207 Middlesex is large and elegant.  It has a large bay flooded with windows and light, tray ceiling and paneled walls.

DSC_0165

These chairs are perfect for the dining room.

DSC_0151

This piece lends itself so well in the wide open space.

DSC_0152

DSC_0154

DSC_0155

DSC_0079

and yes, a starburst is always a winner.

DSC_0081

DSC_0045

This is a showstopper and would be perfect in the spot.

DSC_0047

DSC_0159

and last but certainly not least, how is this for a twist.

DSC_0160

 

So what are your thoughts on how these pieces would work in this space? Let us know and come back tomorrow when we take a look at the kitchen and family room.


When a home is done, done, done!

Tuesday, November 26, 2013

DSC_0135Here at Real in Darien we tend to say “just bring your toothbrush” when talking about a home that is done,done,done.  Well I saw these yesterday at the Antique & Artisan Center and realized we should step it up and say “just bring your hangers”.

 

Pick of the Week – A stunning makeover

Monday, November 11, 2013
IMG_0836

These could not be more stunning.

I think we have mentioned the fabric room at the Antique & Artisan Center, but if  you haven’t seen it, you must go down there. It’s located in the back of the antique center and is set up for anyone to come and enjoy the experience of making your home beautiful. It’s a little like a child being introduced to Dylan’s.  Once you have gone there, why go anywhere else.   There is not a fabric room like this around here.  I even heard someone say at a recent event that “Mari Ann has stuff no one has”!  These chairs are a good example.  You know the fabric is fabulous, but you can’t think where you have seen it.  The good news is you haven’t.  It is a line of fabric that the Antique Center does.  The selections you will find is at the crossroads of stunning and perfection.

They will help you with everything, from picking out the fabric and trim  (going to Samuel & Sons is like visiting a candy store for us but save yourself the trip….its all here!) to refinishing or repairing a piece.  So whether you buy a piece from the Antique Center, or bring in something you already own, come on over and take a look.

Mari Ann Maher, of John Rosselli fame, offers interior design services as well.  You are certain to leave with a masterpiece!

DSC_0004DSC_0004

DSC_0013

Remember these? We sat on these for a long time. Very comfortable.

DSC_0014

We liked these chairs with this muslim fabric but look at the difference a new fabric can make….

DSC_0004 DSC_0013

DSC_0072

Beautiful trims and pipings, borders and fringe.

DSC_0061

Large swatches to completely understand the pattern and its scale.

DSC_0004

Color, texture and variety!

DSC_0076

Bold prints and patterns, yet subtle and entirely neutral in any room.

DSC_0004

IMG_0835

Enough said. I can’t imagine anywhere else that would be more fun to take on a project.

IMG_0836

IMG_0837DSC_0014 DSC_0013

PICK OF THE WEEK-Greek Key, Pineapples and handsome seating

Monday, September 30, 2013
DSC_0034

Looking for a little “chic” to add to your living room? Here is it. You can’t loose
with the Greek Key!

DSC_0036

A classic piece is worth it!

DSC_0012

Actually, these should be on my bar cart!

DSC_0013

A traditional pair of chairs, certain to find use in any room in the house. Give them some pizazz by choosing some fabulous fabric from the Antique Center’s unparalleled selection.

DSC_0016

We sat in these chairs.  They are extremely comfortable!

DSC_0014

Nice and deep!

DSC_0015

Think long term. Buying pieces to last, one at a time.

Photos courtesy of Real in Darien.

Next time you visit the Stamford Antiques & Artisan Center, tell them we sent you!

Bringing to you our “Pick of the Week”

Thursday, September 5, 2013

AAC-logo[1]Real in Darien has many exciting things happening including a new venture with the Antique & Artisan Center in Stamford, Connecticut.  Even before we started, The Antique Center was a favorite destination. That whole area is a pocket  full of unique and fabulous antique stores of all shapes and sizes, cafe’s and a few hip shops.  You wouldn’t recognize the area now, with a Fairway Market, Design Within Reach, Le Pain Quotidien and Juliska leading the way.

DSC_0004

The Antique Center is a blend of sophistication, whimsy and happily ever after.  We are going to start a “Pick of the Week” where we will highlight an item we both love.  We will also give you some ideas as to how they can work in your home.

DSC_0071

 The Antique Center has created a Fabric Room, where anyone can come and meet, and work on design . It is the most GORGEOUS room created by Mari Ann Maher. The fabrics are not something you are going to find in your neighborhood shop or big box design store.

DSC_0060 DSC_0076

DSC_0008

Abigail has seen the light!

DSC_0039

DSC_0074

DSC_0061

DSC_0062

DSC_0073

DSC_0075

DSC_0096

From John Rosselli Antiques.

This would have been our “first pick of the week” but it has sold already.  We couldn’t pass it by without acknowledging its beauty. Bunny Williams snatched it up; great minds think a like!  Lucky client.

DSC_0098

DSC_0080

Betsey Ruprecht’s Decorative Antiques.

So that brings us to our first “find”!  Look at this gorgoues grey amoire with chicken wire.  The orange just makes it that much more fabulous!  This item is a “no brainer” for your kitchen, family room, or even your master bath!  It was hard to leave without it.

DSC_0082

DSC_0097

A chair from John Roselli’s booth.

DSC_0085

Love the pineapple!

DSC_0445

Love these. But they SOLD!

DSC_0459

DSC_0077

DSC_0078

DSC_0441

DSC_0468

DSC_0437

DSC_0063

DSC_0461

DSC_0087

DSC_0105

The Greek Key table!

DSC_0443

A piece of Rose Cummings velvet would make this stool stand out

The showroom is full of vignettes and one of a kind finds.  It can be daunting, but if you look at individual pieces you are certain to find a piece that stands out for you.

DSC_0101

The Lamps!

DSC_0099

The Mirror!

DSC_0114

Never overlook a good Rudolf!

DSC_0109

Of course we would always be happy to help you pick out a piece. (To go in the fabulous house we will help you find!)

 

 

 

 

 

 

PREVIEW THE 1ST ANNUAL GARDEN SHOW IN STAMFORD, CT. THIS WEEKEND

Thursday, May 9, 2013
Get there early!

Get there early!

I went down to the Antique & Artisan Center today and what a transformation that is underway.  It has been filled with garden objects of every shape, size, color and material. Just about everything needs to be in my house but how will it all fit!  Everyone was hard at work in the pouring rain getting ready for tomorrow. This is NOT TO BE MISSED.  Whether you need something or not, need a gift for mom or yourself, take some time and go down there this weekend.  I bet you will leave with  something you will cherish forever.

DSC_0431

DSC_0432

 

DSC_0433

DSC_0434

DSC_0435

DSC_0436

Not for the garden but who cares. (it’s huge)

DSC_0438

DSC_0439

DSC_0441

LOVED THESE!

DSC_0442

Gorg for the summer porch.

 

DSC_0444

DSC_0445

These are sensational…..the red just makes them even more fabulous.

DSC_0446

DSC_0447

These are really cool in person.

DSC_0448

DSC_0449

DSC_0450

The energy was electric. Everyone was excited in anticipation for the weekend.

DSC_0451

DSC_0452

DSC_0453

DSC_0454

DSC_0455

DSC_0457

DSC_0458

DSC_0459

DSC_0460

DSC_0461

A must buy!

DSC_0462

Any piece you buy here can be upholstered in their fabric room. The problem is going to be which one to pick.

DSC_0463

Trims like I have never seen.

DSC_0464

DSC_0465

If you are renovating a bathroom, everything you need is here.

DSC_0466

Loving the pineapple.

DSC_0467

DSC_0468

Is this just amazing….was hard to leave it I just do not have a room that is big enough.

DSC_0469

Of course I love this.

DSC_0470

Our friends at the AAC.

DSC_0473

It was pouring but I was able to grab this shot. It is just a feast for the eyes.

DSC_0472

DSC_0471

We look forward to seeing you there.

Antique and Artisan Center Garden Show

Tuesday, May 7, 2013
Get there early!

Get there early!

 

Urn

This is just the “tip of the ice berg”

We had a great time browsing today at the Antique and Artisan Center in anticipation of this fabulous event.  Turns out there is SO MUCH MORE coming!

IMG_1523

Vignettes inside and out.. All over the Center you will find wonderful inspiration and beautiful pieces for your garden.

IMG_1524

Sculpture adds unusual flare. Apparently there is some fantastic stuff coming in!

IMG_1525

Don’t miss what is certain to be a treasure hunt for your garden.

Have fun, and if you find something for your garden, send us a picture! We would love to see your treasure.

Miles Redd event at the Antique and Artisan Center

Monday, October 15, 2012

We are getting sooooo excited for the Miles Redd book signing at the Antique and Artisan Center on October 17 from 6:00 -9:00 p.m. You can pre-order your book at www.assouline.com for $75.00. It is going to be loaded with wonderful pictures full of his distinctive work.  We hear there may be a surprise guest or two!

 

 

 

The de Gournay paper, the velvet chair, the chevron floor.  ooooh, this entry! So chic and sophisticated

Love the red….wish we saw more of this in town.

His townhouse in NYC. Both shutters and awnings!

The most amazing valances I have ever seen.

This is may favorite butlers pantry. I beg someone to PLEASE consider this in their home.

This Scalamadre wallpaper never fails

One of my favorite wall colors – black (or almost).

Note the floors off the blue. The light is perfect in here.

I have no words.

Such a happy room 🙂 The chairs (think they are from Todd Romano)

I do not like pink but I love it here.

GORGEOUS!!!!

Between the peacock lacquered walls, chinoiserie foyer and punch of orange….speaks volumes.

Please look up!

Love his jacket….how cute is he!!!

Can’t wait to meet him and hope to see you all there. XO-Abigail & Kim