Summer 2013
upstate AT H O M E I N T H E H U D S O N VA L L E Y
Relocate: Beacon & Saugerties
Two great communities on the Hudson River
Modern Modular
The dream of a Dutchess County visionary architect
Pushing Green
Upstate renewable energy advocates help bring it home HUDSON VALLEY HOUSE LISTINGS INSIDE!
On the Cover: Featured Listing Loft in the Woods S TAND FORDVILLE ,
NY | Listed by Gary DiMauro, Gary DiMauro Real Estate See page 40 for details
845.876.WOOD
www.williamslumber.com
R H I N E B E C K • P L E A S A N T VA L L E Y • H U D S O N • H O P E W E L L TA N N E R S V I L L E • R E D H O O K • H I G H FA L L S • H Y D E PA R K
TRYING TO FIND THE LOWEST
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upstate House | S U M M ER 2 0 1 3 • 1
Finish your to-do list. • Choose a loan or line of credit. • Save with NO closing costs* and low rates. • Borrow up to 100% of your home’s equity. Got something to do? Get it done – and save – at Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union. Apply today. Go to hvfcu.org, call 845.463.3011 or visit any branch.
Begin your happily ever after at HVFCU.
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*Closing costs associated with this product are waived, provided loan is maintained for a minimum of three years. HVFCU will pay for property appraisal, credit report, flood certification, attorney fee, mortgage tax, recording fee and title search. Borrower is responsible for both homeowner and flood insurance. As of 5/24/13, rates are as low as 3.00% APR variable, and may vary, or 4.75% APR fixed. Rates are based on an evaluation of applicant credit, selected term for home equity loans and total amount financed for home equity loans and lines of credit. Rate is discounted by .25% and includes a requirement that the loan payments are automatically transferred from your savings or checking account for the life of the loan. Total amount financed is based on an evaluation of applicant credit and appraised value. Your rate and total amount financed may vary from the stated rate. Visit hvfcu.org for current rates and fees. Maximum APR is 18%. Total loan to value is a total of all liens, including the request amount divided by the appraised value.
HVFCU057_HELOC_8.625x5.825_4C.indd 1
6/13/13 2:07 PM
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hether you are choosing to purchase a new home or simply refinancing your existing residence, title insurance is a must. Deciding which title company to use is your choice. It is as important as choosing your Real Estate Broker and Attorney.
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upstate House | S U M M ER 2 0 1 3 • 3
upstate
20
Features
Departments
20 HOUSE FEATURE: FINDING CHAR ACTER
8
letter from the editor
Thoughts on value and resurrection.
By Susan Barnett, Photos by Deborah DeGraffenreid
Light and optimism fills Kathryn Windley and Gary Dimauro’s renovated farmhouse in Milan.
26
By Pauline Uchmanowicz, Photos by Steffen Thalemann
32 THE SUSTAINABLE HOME: PUSHING THE GREEN ENVELOPE
By Gregory Schoenfeld, Photos by David Morris Cunningham
It’s the Hudson Valley’s advocates for renewable energy that make living in a sustainable home possible.
36 HOUSE FEATURE: Rediscovering Romance
By Susan Barnett, Photos by D. B. Leonard
Two intertwined love stories, one with a house called Nehapwa, both with a theme of redemption.
38 HOUSE FEATURE: Funky Fibergl ass
By Jennifer Farley, Photos by Matt Petricone
An artist couple surprised themselves by finding home in a 1970s modular house prototype in Wappingers.
Cover PHOTO:
Photography by Deborah Degraffenreid, deborahdegraffenreid.com Flowers by Claire Beaumont, hudsonvalleyblooms.com Sculptures provided by Judy Sigunick, judysigunick.com
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in the garden: Dance of tHe Wild
Herbalist and author Dina Falconi finds meaning in a healthy relationship to nature.
4
10 ENTRYWAY
online at upstater.net
Local lighting, what to read, where to go, seed saving, and an old-time blacksmith.
14
design: FENG SHUI
Lili Schad discusses the art of a peaceful home, and gives us five useful suggestions for where to start.
16 area spotlight: Saugerties
This river town on the northern edge of the MidHudson region is a good value and charming as ever.
18 area spotlight: beacon
A small city on the Hudson, Beacon continues to attract creatives and commuters with its culture.
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Solar Hot Water Solar Thermal Foundations Solar Hot Water Installation & Design Domestic Solar Hot Water Hands-on Small Wind Energy Workshop Residential Wind Site Assessor Advanced Manufacturing Technician (PV) PV Troubleshooting and Maintenance Technician PV Manufacturing Technician and Installer BPI Building Analyst BPI Heating Professional BPI Envelope Professional BPI A/C Heat Pump BPI Field Test Prep Courses Combustion Safety Testing Building Air-Tightness and Ventilation
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upstate House | S U M M ER 2 0 1 3 • 7
upstate
EDITORIAL Editor Amara Projansky amara@upstatehouse.com Art Director Jason Cring jcring@upstatehouse.com assistant Editor Peter Aaron paaron@chronogram.com Books editor Nina Shengold books@chronogram.com proofreader Barbara Ross
On Value and Resurrection
Photo by Marc Dalio
I’m thrilled to introduce the relaunch of Upstate House.
A
year before my first son was born, when the housing market was booming, I conceived and launched Upstate House magazine (my second magazine-baby), which I thought of as a gift to the people of the Hudson Valley. A magazine devoted to design, sustainability, and to all things house-related, but most importantly, it was devoted to the sensibility of those who love living here. We who love our funky houses; and we who guard the locations our favorite hikes, foraging grounds, and swimming holes; but mostly for those of us who want to live here more than anywhere. So much has changed since 2003—I got married, I gave birth to two flesh-and-blood children, I bought my first house, my magazine was adopted by others, and I renovated my first house. (I admit I haven’t quite finished it.) My oldest son is pushing nine now, and I will forever be changed by motherhood, homeownership, and by the richness and demands of the past decade. I grew up here, and I have always loved the Hudson Valley (that’s why I chose to start a publishing company focused on sharing its charms), but I didn’t know what the last decade has shown: how much more rooted I could feel, and how much more satisfaction I could find here. Truly, this area keeps getting better— as more and more interesting and inspired people are attracted to our region and its lifestyle, bringing their creative energy and good ideas, the result surrounds us. We have more interesting schools, stores, restaurants, and farms than ever. That is the story of my life—the rest of the world has been busy changing too. Most notable is a sorry reversal of fortune: the global economic downturn and the depressed real estate market that we’re all so familiar with. Here in the Hudson Valley, realtors and buyers are getting their hopes up that this season may be the beginning of a more optimistic era. Not surprisingly, as I gathered stories for this issue, my thoughts often returned to the question of value. Like so many others, my house has lost value, even as I lovingly upgrade its many features. My enthusiasm for spending money on improvements has sometimes waned in the face of pesky economic realities like the question of return on investment. 8
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online at upstater.net
And yet, I also take solace in a more philosophical interpretation of the meaning of value. Consider the gift my father-in-law brought my son on his fourth birthday. He made a wooden swing he christened “seat of the clouds,” and he tied it to a high branch of our big, old swamp maple. This gift has added more value than can really be measured—value in the form of delightful high swinging, super-fast spinning, and the irresistible laughter of children. For most of us, our house is our largest lifetime investment, and therefore its value matters. Our plans and futures (retirement, college spending, mobility) hang in the balance, dependent upon real property values. I know the swing does not add value to my property when doing “comps.” I know that my philosophy sounds trite. And yet, just as the last 10 years went by, the next 10 will too—by then my small, swing-loving son will be entering his twenties. The value of the swing may actually be measurable in another currency—one we don’t know how to count. Because, along with our wood stove, and the bountiful stacks of wood collected and split by my husband, and the baths taken in our claw-foot tub, the swing adds so much to the quality of our life as a family that, in fact, it’s how we love our house. And further, it’s this how of loving, and living in, our house that is also the “how” of us loving each other as a family. The stories I’ve collected in this issue focus on the romance that arises between house and dweller—the unique relationship that adds meaning to a purchase. It’s the magic that makes a house more than a place to park investment money. And lastly, I open this magazine with a wish for you: May your house always be photo-shoot worthy, but more importantly, may it also be a worthy stage on which your brilliant life unfolds.
contributors Susan Barnett, David Morris Cunningham, Marc Dalio, Deborah Degraffenreid, Jennifer Farley, Roy Gumpel, Kandy Jo Harris, D. B. Leonard, Rob Penner, Matt Petricone, Lili Schad, Gregory Schoenfeld, Steffen Thalemann, Pauline Uchmanowicz PUBLISHING FOUNDERS & publisherS Jason Stern & Amara Projansky EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Brian K. Mahoney chairman David Dell Upstate House is a project of Luminary Publishing.
ADVERTISING SALES advertising director Maryellen Case mcase@chronogram.com ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Mario Torchio mtorchio@chronogram.com account executive Robert Pina rpina@chronogram.com account executive Ralph Jenkins rjenkins@chronogram.com account executive Jack Becker jbecker@chronogram.com ADMINISTRATIVE director of operations Amara Projansky business MANAGER Ruth Samuels technology director Michael LaMuniere marketing coordinator Samantha Henkin PRODUCTION Production director Jaclyn Murray ads@chronogram.com pRoduction designers Kerry Tinger, Mosa Tanksley
See you around town. Your neighbor,
pRoduction INTERN Jennifer Burgess
Amara Projansky
LUMINARY PUBLISHING 314 Wall Street, Kingston, NY 12401 (845) 334-8600 | fax (845) 334-8610 luminarypublishing.com All contents © Luminary Publishing 2013
VISIT VISIT UPSTATE UPSTATE HOUSE HOUSE ONLINE ONLINE
upstater.net
Your best friend. Your real real estate-obsessed estate-obsessed best Your real estate-obsessed best friend. friend.
Life and real estate north of newupstater.net york city. Blogging every day. upstater.net
Life Life and and real real estate estate north north of of New New York York City. City. Blogging Blogging every every day. day.
What’s happening right now on upstater:
The Relocators Kary and Mark made the move from the Big City to the little city of Beacon. Follow them as they navigate their new life.
Five Figure Fridays Teensy cabins, fixer-uppers, abandoned churches, lake-front cabins, dilapidated Victorians—all under $100,000.
DIARY OF A TRANSPLANT We share personal tales from exurbanites now living the bucolic country life.
TOWN OF THE WEEK We know you want to get to know every upstate town, village, and hamlet possible.
UPSTATER DESTINATIONS What to do? Where to go? Cicadas, flea markets, gay tourism, food fests, UFOs, historic houses, and so much more.
Houses Galore! Whether you’re seriously thinking of moving, or just a voyeur, we rifle through the listings and share our notable finds.
upstate House | S U M M ER 2 0 1 3 • 9
ENTRYWAY
Seed Capital Hudson Valley Seed Library. Some believe that, in the near future, seeds will become a valuable form of currency. Even if you’re not prone to dramatic thoughts about a changing economy, it’s a rare sense of self-sufficiency and magic that’s in store when you plant from seeds you grew and saved yourself. Still rooted in convention? You can purchase from the Hudson Valley Seed Library—they sell packets of open-pollinated, heirloom seeds, grown, saved, and packed on their farm in Accord. By developing varieties that perform well in our specific climate, they aim to make regional seed sovereignty possible again. The library is committed to combating the loss of genetic diversity; a trend consolidation in agribusiness has led to. In a further blossoming of diversity, a different Hudson Valley artist designs a packet for each variety.
July 20-21
Learn to Save Seeds
A project of the Hudson Valley Seed Library to train regional farmers to produce organic seed on their farms, it's open to the public, with limited space. Contact the Seed Library for reservations and location. AVAILABLE AT SEEDLIBRARY.ORG
Wickham Solid Wood Studio. Jessica Wickham's
Beacon furniture-design studio makes custom furniture using salvaged Hudson Valley hardwoods. Choose your slab from her 10,000-foot collection of slow-dried hardwoods, typical of the Northeastern deciduous forests: black walnut, black cherry, red elm, white oak, and white ash. She has an eye for the character of the log and likes to preserve natural edges, and the burls and knots that give each table or bench its personality. FIND OUT MORE AT JESSICA-WICKHAM.COM
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online at upstater.net
Dewdrop Glassware. So pretty,
but the distinctive 1960s glassware pattern by Finnish designer Oiva Toikka was inspired by a technical challenge—how to hide the joint marks on pressed glass. Iitalla reintroduced the pattern and you can find it in Rhinebeck. AVAILABLE AT BLUE CASHEW KITCHEN PHARMACY, RHINEBECK OR BLUECASHEWKITCHEN.COM
Rob Penner Photography
Approach the Bench
Dot Your Eyes
Wall Flowers Giselle Potter. The Rosendale artist has been known to post
prints and original paintings from her many children's books and magazine illustrations (for titles like the New Yorker) for sale online. Most are done in gouache, ink, or watercolor. You never know what you’ll find, but if your timing is right, you can make your walls happy. Available from her Etsy store, they are elusive and a steal. FIND OUT MORE AT ETSY.COM/SHOP/GISELLEPOTTER
In Bookstores MORE SCENES FROM THE RURAL LIFE
Verlyn Klinkenborg Drawings by Nigel Peake Princeton Architechtural Press, 2013 Born and raised on an Iowa farm, longtime New York Times columnist Klinkenborg celebrates the milestones and grace notes of life on his own farm in upstate New York. Attuned to details of both nature and phrase, he is excellent company. Although one of these eloquent essays describes listening to Middlemarch during a cross-country drive, his own writing suggests a humbler geography, perfectly sized to be read while enjoying a first cup of coffee in a sunlit kitchen. —Nina Shengold MERRITTBOOKS.COM or OBLONGBOOKS.COM
Chalk It Up Hudson Paint. Color consultant Arno Cornillion was inspired to start his own line of paint when he couldn't find the juicy colors he was looking for in existing chalkboard paint. Hudson Paint's Chalkboard line, manufactured in Watervliet, just over the Hudson River from Troy, comes in a palette of 30 colors with whimsical names like Mystical Wisdom, Superboy Blue, or Oil Spill. Brush on your favorite, and grab the chalk. AVAILABLE AT TIVOLI MERCANTILE IN RED HOOK OR HUDSONPAINT.COM
Iron Man Canal Forge. Blacksmith Jonathan Nedbor bangs out fine historic reproductions from
his shop on the banks of the Rondout Creek in the Ulster County hamlet of Alligerville. His passion for historic forged ironwork, specifically the kind the Dutch settlers made in the Hudson Valley during the 17th and 18th centuries, has kept him "squashing metal" for over 30 years. He's the guy who makes the hinges, door latches, and other hardware for historic houses like the stone houses on Huguenot Street in New Paltz. He also makes custom iron and steel work, and can help envision solutions for your home, like house numbers or contemporary fireplace tools. Visitors to the forge are welcome for casual yet knowledgeable conversation. Nedbor is a wonderful teacher for students at all levels. FIND OUT MORE AT HUDSONVALLEYBLACKSMITH.COM
upstate House | S U M M ER 2 0 1 3 • 1 1
LIGHT B OX
SUMMER EVENTS through September 23
Le Corbusier: An Atlas of Modern Landscapes Museum Of Modern Art, New York City Le Corbusier, surely the most influential architect of the lastcentury, is honored with a rare retrospective at MOMA. The show encompasses work during six decades as an architect, interior designer, artist, city planner, writer, and photographer.
moma.org
June 28,
Author Lecture by Robert Grumet Inquiring Minds Bookstore, New Paltz A leading ethnohistorian specializing in the region’s native peoples presents his book Manhattan to Minisink: American Indian Place Names in Greater New York and Vicinity. This book provides the histories of more than five hundred place names in the Greater New York area. 7 p.m.
inquiringbooks.com
July 13
Great Places in America: Streets!
Circular Meaning Work and Design. Rafael Avramovich, founder of Brooklyn-based Work and Design,
creates his "Living in Harmony" pendants from mixed-size strips of recycled metal; iron, steel, and brass. Their dynamic forms arise from his intention to evoke emotion beyond the visual, and their organic-industrial feel makes them welcome in the city or country. AVAILABLE AT CULTURE + COMMERCE IN HUDSON OR CULTUREANDCOMMERCEPROJECT.COM
Wall Street, Kingston AIA (American Institute of Architects) Walking Tour of historic Kingston's Stockade District. Covers Wall Street's rich political, military, and religious history dating back to the 17th century. As New York's first capital, Kingston, and specifically Wall Street, played an important role in the state's formation. Ends with a tank room tour of Keegan Ales. 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
aiawhv.com
July 21
Gothic Castles on the Hudson: The Making of Knoll/Lyndhurst Lyndhurst, Tarrytown In a slide lecture showing some of the loveliest properties designed by architect Alexander Jackson Davis in the Hudson Valley, Peter Watson, Jr. highlights the development of Davis’ castle-style for villas in the region and how these relate to English prototypes, including Highclere Castle, the filming location of the “Downton Abbey” television show. 2 p.m.
lyndhurst.org
August 10
Gallery Talks Dia:Beacon Anastasia Aukeman lectures on Bernd and Hilla Becher, the German artists best known for their series of photographic images, or typologies, of industrial buildings and structures. 2 p.m.
diaart.org/exhibitions/main/76
August 11
Gilded Age Resorts: Summering In Style The Mount, Lenox, MA Architectural historian Richard Guy Wilson will trace the origins of the American resort, following Edith Wharton's journey from the beaches of Newport to the Berkshire Hills. 4-5:30 p.m.
edithwharton.org Various dates
County Days
The Brightest Bulb Niche Lighting. Jeremy Pyles and Mary Welch have been designing funky lighting
since 2003. Headquartered in Beacon, Niche Modern makes pendants, table lamps, and chandeliers based on their distinctive blown forms. The handmade glass fixtures will soon be made in their new studio—they are just finishing a renovation of the old 1911 Tallix factory building in their Beacon back yard. They plan to move production upstate from their Brooklyn digs. The Stamen Pendant light, their first design, still shines. AVAILABLE AT NICHEMODERN.COM
Manitoga: The Russel Wright Design Center, Garrison Manitoga, designer Russel Wright’s unique home and designed landscape, is the only 20th century modern house museum open to the public in New York State. County Days offer discounted rates for residents, and tours at 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Ulster County July 6, Westchester County August 3, Orange County September 14. Dutchess County and Columbia County in October. Reservations required.
russelwrightcenter.org
Various dates
Garden Conservancy Open Days Tour the most fascinating private gardens in the Hudson Valley via the Garden Conservancy, an organization dedicated to preserving America's exceptional gardens for the education and enjoyment of the public. Dates throughout the season and region. Check the website.
gardenconservancy.org/opendays
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online at upstater.net
photo: Emily Gilbert
Interior Design • Consulting • Project Management
Glass House
2012 - Olive, NY Matthew Bialecki, AIA
BIALECKI ARCHITECTS 200 W. 20th Street, New York, NY 10 Bridgecreek Road, Gardiner, NY www.bialeckiarchitects.com 347-853-4868 • info@mercerinterior.com • www.mercerinterior.com
ALLEN ROSS ARCHITECTURE, Residential
203 528-0358 Greenwich, CT
•
AllenRossArchitecture.com
ARCHITECTURE
LLC
Institutional • Municipal
845 883-5959 Clintondale, NY
domus studios
Richard Librizzi, RA - Principal w w w. d o m u s s t u d i o s . c o m PO Box 456
N e w Pa l t z , N e w Yo r k
12561
ph:845-256-1402 upstate House | S U M M ER 2 0 1 3 • 1 3
D E SI G N
A Healthy Home Using Feng Shui to Release Domestic Stress By Lili Schad | Photo by Roy Gumpel
S
mall changes in your home can lead to dynamic results. Envision yourself sitting in a deeply comfortable chair in a room decorated with a few simple objects. The stone floor warms your feet and blue walls soothe you. A fountain splashes in the distance and your nose is tickled by the relaxing smells of lavender and ylang-ylang oil. As you take a deep breath, you feel your muscles melting, and tension dissolves. How do you feel? I bet you are a little more relaxed. Maybe even more balanced. A little happier, perhaps. You just took yourself into a state of positive chi, the life energy at the heart of feng shui. You can use the principles of feng shui in your home to dissolve stress. Chronic stress can lead to serious health problems, because it shuts down nearly every system in your body. Stress can raise blood pressure, increase the risk of heart attack and stroke, contribute to the accumulation of belly fat, and speed up the aging process. It can even rewire your brain, leaving you more prone to anxiety and depression. Using feng shui for stress alleviation works on two levels. First, the feng shui home will help you relax, the main antidote to stress. Second, and not as well known, is that when you incorporate feng shui principles into to your home it helps you feel in control of your environment, another powerful antidote to stress. I have selected what I consider the five easiest and most important feng shui changes you can incorporate into your home to help you release the stress you accumulate during your day.
Make your home a place of positive chi and watch your stress melt into joy and serenity.
CLEAR YOUR SPACE The system of feng shui is based on balancing and maximizing the flow of chi. When chi stagnates in clutter around your home, energy builds up. It doesn’t just sit there; it enforces itself, vibrating negative energy in all directions. Take control; ask yourself two questions about each object in your home: “Do I love it?” and “Have I used it in the last two years?” If you can’t answer a definite yes to both, pass it on to someone who can use it. If the idea of clearing your whole house is overwhelming, start where you spend most of your waking hours. REARRANGE YOUR BEDROOM You probably spend more time in your bedroom than in any other room. When you apply feng shui principles to this room, you get results. As hard as it may be, remove your TV, phone, and radio from the bedroom. These devices emit electromagnetic waves, which have been proven to stress the physical body. Position your bed against a solid wall with your head to the north and not in direct line with the main door. Clear out everything under your bed, as the objects’ chi will block energy and affect you all night. Also, open a window and close all the bedroom doors when you sleep, including the closet doors. Stimulate Your Senses Use your senses to establish a feeling of balance and harmony. Spritz the air with essential oils mixed with water in a spray bottle. Use lavender, peppermint, and ylang-ylang oils for a calming, relaxing energy. Then, place fresh flowers where they will stop your eye (and your thoughts) with their beauty as you move around your home. Blast the Fresh Air There is nothing that works better to clear stagnant chi out of your home than a blast of fresh air. Open the windows often, letting the air sweep through your entire home, even in the winter. Color Your Home Peaceful Use color in your home to promote relaxation. Paint your walls, or if that’s daunting, place objects that reflect colors back to you. Green heals and calms, and is ideal for your living room, as it renews and balances. Blue is mentally relaxing and will keep you and your family calm. The best colors for the bedroom are similar to the colors of human skin, which vary from off-white to chocolate brown.
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f you’re not careful, the bluestone sidewalks in Saugerties will trip you up. It’s no wonder the stones are uneven; they’ve been walked on for more than a century, and were pulled directly from the quarries located north of Saugerties’ Main Street. Since then, the roots of the stately, venerable old trees that line the village streets have pushed up the bluestone into mounds in some places, making them precarious to navigate, particularly if you’re busy gawking at the pristine period architecture that’s located around every corner in this Ulster County village. It’s hard not to look, though. The well-preserved homes and commercial buildings situated in the village hearken back to a time when streets were once muddy and rough, when horses and buggies bounced along on them instead of cars and motorcycles. Times have changed, but many of the businesses in Saugerties have stubbornly, tenaciously remained. The village has also seen an influx of new businesses and fine dining, and has plenty of great houses available on the market.
Above: A view of shops on Partition Street. Opposite: Gallery space at Saugerties Performing Arts Factory
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Photo by Natalie Keyssar
COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT
Saugerties
Where History Embraces the Future By Kandy Jo Harris
Old Mingling with New In the village, long-standing businesses provide a direct link to Saugerties’s past while co-existing peacefully with their newer neighbors. The same goes for residential properties: Grand Victorians stand next to newly constructed homes in the village, where they are interspersed with 1920s Craftsman bungalows and 1960s brick ranch-style homes. However, we offer a word of caution to buyers: One thing that the village properties have in common is high property taxes. While listing prices may seem competitive, your monthly tax bill could price you right out of the village. There is good news, though: Outside of the village in the Town of Saugerties, fixer-uppers rub elbows with stately mansions and sprawling, modern properties, while the taxes remain much lower than in the village. While you do trade the convenience of village life for a more rural setting, your bottom line may thank you in the long run. The Draw of Saugerties If there’s one person who knows Saugerties like the back of her own hand, it’s Saugerties Town Supervisor Kelly Myers. She’s intimately familiar with what makes the town and village so attractive to visitors and residents alike. “People are drawn to Saugerties by our festivals and special events,” explains Myers. “They get a little taste of what living in an authentic hometown feels like. It tugs their heartstrings and reminds them of the warmth of their favorite childhood days. That’s why they keep coming back.” Heartstring tugging aside, Myers understands that there has to be more to a town than sentimentality to keep it lively. “There’s something wonderfully familiar about Saugerties,” she says, “and yet we have enough variety to pique the interest of a trendier crowd, too.” Additionally, Saugerties is located right off of the New York State Thruway, which makes it attractive to those looking to commute or experience upstate living part time. For those with school-age kids, it’s helpful to check out websites like GreatSchools.com to get the skinny on the public school system. There, the Saugerties Central Schools rating currently sits at an iffy 5 out of 10, with Saugerties Senior High School scoring the highest marks at a very average 7 out of 10. Fret not: If you’re looking for something a little better, Woodstock Day School is not far away. Nevertheless, Saugerties is a successful blend of old and new businesses, architecture, and fun, particularly in the summertime, when things really get hopping. Just watch your step on the sidewalks. After all, the beauty of Saugerties can be quite distracting.
Photo by David Morris Cunningham
Info: Saugerties, NY Zip code: 12477 Population: 19,482 (2010 census) Nearest Hospitals:
Kingston Hospital, Kingston Northern Dutchess Hospital, Rhinebeck Schools:
Cahill Elementary School Saugerties Jr./Sr. High School Morse Elementary School Mt. Marion Elementary School Riccardi Elementary School Median income per household:
$46,966 (2009) US (2007-2011): $52,762 Proximity to major city:
102 miles to New York Transportation:
Trailways Bus Station, Woodstock, 4 Mill Hill Road Trailways Bus Station, Kingston, 400 Washington Avenue Metro-North Railroad, Poughkeepsie Points of interest:
Kiersted House / Saugerties Historical Society Saugertieshistoricalsociety.com Cantine Field Village.saugerties.ny.us Orpheum Theater (845) 246-6561 Saugerties Lighthouse Saugertieslighthouse.com Village shops Discoversaugerties.com upstate House | S U M M ER 2 0 1 3 • 17
COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT
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t’s the stuff of Hudson River lore: During the Revolutionary War, fires stood ablaze on Fishkill Mountain. Those fires warned General George Washington, stationed yonder across the river in Newburgh, that British troops were on their way. The fires eventually became Beacon’s namesake. These days, Beacon is still burning bright, in spite of the fact that, much like every river town during New York’s long history, it’s seen its portion of hardship. Now, however, you can’t crack a publication about where to go in the Hudson Valley and not see Beacon’s name splashed across the headlines. Located in Dutchess County right on Metro-North’s Hudson Line, Beacon is a commuter’s dream. It’s an easy 80-minute ride to Grand Central via the train, and it has become a retreat for those who work in the city as well as second homeowners. The small city has plenty to offer. Of course, it doesn’t hurt that the Dia:Beacon art museum and Scenic Hudson’s Long Dock Waterfront Park are but a stone’s throw from the station, making it an attraction to those coming from both the north and the south. Alexandra Medina has lived in Beacon for seven years. “Yet every day,” she explains, “I find something new and interesting to do.” There’s a lot to love about the town, but for Medina it’s all about Beacon’s warm spirit and cultural offerings. “It’s a community that embraces art, diversity, and the love of our pets,” she says. All good reasons to love a place like Beacon.
Above: Main Street, Beacon, looking east. Opposite: A 15-foot street mural by artist Rick Price. 18
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Beacon
The Blaze of Glory By Kandy Jo Harris | Photos by Rob Penner
strengths and weaknesses Beacon’s housing market still offers some decent prices. According to Trulia.com, the average listing price is situated right around a reasonable $229,000, with the median sales price slightly higher at $232,500. Like many of its Hudson Valley neighbors, Beacon offers an eclectic mix of options, and if you’re willing to shell out between $300,000 and $400,000, you’ll likely find something on the nicer side. If you’re looking for a luxury home, Beacon might not be your best bet, although you might luck out with one of the many foreclosures currently up for sale. The Beacon City School District consists of six schools that serve the area, and according to GreatSchools.com, its current rating is 5 out of 10. US News ranked Beacon City School District below the state average for the 2010-2011 school year, with 12.3 percent of tested 12th graders deemed “college ready.” There are private-school options available as well, including various Christian and Catholic schools. New York Military Academy and Storm King School, both located across the river in Cornwall-on-Hudson, are also nearby options for school-age children. A CREATIVE Culture One of Beacon’s distinct advantages is its walkability. Make no mistake: Living in upstate New York without a car isn’t for the faint of heart, but those who are considering this as a lifestyle would do better in Beacon than other places in the Hudson Valley. There are shops galore along Main Street, both cute and quirky in nature, not to mention a variety of restaurants, from coffee shops to fine dining, provide visitors and residents with just about everything they need, not only in terms of essentials (groceries, health care, a public library, and more), but also such amenities as yoga studios, eateries, computer repair shops, clothing stores, a wine shop, and plenty of gallery spaces and cultural experiences, such as what you might find at the Howland Cultural Center. Beacon is home to many arts events, including Beacon Riverfest and Beacon Jazz Fest. Parks and Recreation Nature trails crisscross the land surrounding the city. Mount Beacon Park, which you can access via the Breakneck Ridge Trail, is less than a mile from Main Street. The trail offers a glimpse of railroad life as it was in Beacon during the beginning of the 20th century, and is complete with the ruins of the old Incline Railway Powerhouse. Every year, the dog-friendly town holds a parade called Beacon Barks, in which bedecked dogs and their owners get a chance to show off their finery. With an effortless blend of nature and culture, Beacon only stands to grow in popularity, particularly as a gateway to the Hudson River Valley and the Catskill Mountains beyond.
INFO: BEACON, NY Population: 15,541 (2010 census) Nearest Hospital:
St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital, Newburgh Schools:
Sargent School Rose Hill Manor Day School Alpha and Omega School Beacon High School Median Income per Household:
$45,236 US (2007-2011): $52,762 Proximity to major city:
60.1 miles to New York Transportation:
Metro-North Railroad, Hudson Line to Grand Central Points of Interest:
Dia:Beacon Diaart.org
Howland Cultural Center Howlandculturalcenter.org Beacon Theatre Thebeacontheatre.org Bannerman Castle/Pollepel Island Bannermancastle.org Beacon Arts Community Association (BACA) BeaconArts.org
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upstate House | S U M M ER 2 0 1 3 • 19
House Feature
Above: Kathryn Windley in her studio.
2 0 •• online 20 Summer at 2013 upstater.net
FINDING CHARACTER Light fills a renovated farmhouse By Susan Barnett | Photos by Deborah Degraffenreid
“The house shelters daydreaming, the house protects the dreamer, the house allows one to dream in peace.” —Gaston Bachelard
T
he Dutchess County farmhouse that artist Kathryn Windley lives in with her husband, real estate broker Gary DiMauro, first entered her life as an opportunity to discover herself but has since evolved into a home that magically reflects both their lives. “I’d always been in a relationship,” she says. “This house was my first chance to ask myself what I like.” When Windley bought the colonial farmhouse on 20 acres in Milan, in 1998, she was working in advertising in New York and was recently divorced. What she first discovered was a place that hadn’t been a full-time home in 60 years. An older farmhouse nestled in a field outside of Red Hook had obvious charm, but much of it was hiding. As Windley puts it, “There was a lot of character to uncover.” The gleaming wide-board floors were buried under layers of paint, linoleum, and newer layers of hardwood. The low ceilings covered hand-hewn beams. The kitchen was dark and claustrophobic. Fifteen years later, not only has every ounce of character been revealed, but Windley and DiMauro have also added contemporary elements, including a twostory, barn-style addition connected to the main building by a high, glass-sided walkway. Contemporary style, carefully done, blends seamlessly with the house’s vintage charm. Windley says she’d done most of the work on the first floor when she began dating DiMauro, and had always dated with trepidation. “I loved this house so much by then that I worried I’d find someone who would want me to move,” she says. “But Gary told me he’d always loved my house. And when he finally moved in, we discovered he had a lot of the stuff I was missing. So then the next challenge was to make room for him, to make sure he felt at home in this space.” Together, they tackled the upstairs, and Windley says DiMauro “really reclaimed the grounds outside.” upstate House | S U M M ER 2 0 1 3 • 2 1
DiMauro’s aesthetic is evident in the home the couple now shares. A confessed lighting critic, he insisted that every light in the house be on a dimmer. “I used to be a musician and I love the stage,” he says. “For me, lighting is all about creating a mood.” DiMauro loves modern as well as historic architecture, and the couple has blended modern and vintage elements throughout the home. In the dining room, an antique baker’s table is surrounded by industrial-style metal chairs and illuminated by an original Poul Henningsen metal pendant light (on a dimmer, of course). Antique cabinets brought back from China by DiMauro work comfortably as a buffet and an upstairs storage chest. The now-sunny kitchen appears original, but DiMauro says the only truly original fixture is the massive porcelain farmhouse sink. The couple blew out an exterior wall to create a sunroom / dining nook that overlooks gardens bounded by the stone foundation of the farm’s original barn. On the far side of the kitchen is a small sitting area, which is the perfect place for guests to gather while a meal is being prepared. On the opposite side of that wall is the living room, which was a later addition to the original house. The floors are a dark hardwood, in contrast to the wide pine boards in the kitchen and dining rooms. The living room has a cozy colonial feel, while the rest of the house is all light walls, bright windows, and views of the lovely grounds. A step out of Windley’s downstairs office leads to a bright artist studio with large glass doors on either end, allowing her to savor her surroundings from every angle. The monochromatic paint scheme, similar to the rest of the house, includes the overhead beams. “Where the beams were old, we left them unpainted,” DiMauro explains. “But we decided the new ones would be better matching the walls. We did the same thing in the new master bedroom upstairs. It gives it a really airy feeling.”
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Above (top to bottom): The sunny kitchen was created by by removing an original wall and creating a wall of windows; Vintage dinnerware in one of the original cabinets preserved during the renovation. Opposite (clockwise from top): The dining room artfully blends vintage and modern, with metal seating and a contemporary chandelier complementing an antique baker’s table; Custom cabinetry connecting the new master bedroom with the original second floor were constructed using old world techniques; The stunning master bath continues the juxtaposition of old and new; The simple elegance of the former master bedroom is echoed in all the home’s guest rooms.
“I’m not a fan of curtains. We like to wake to the sun coming in in the morning.”
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Back inside, wooden stairs lead to a landing large enough to serve as a sitting room for guests, where DiMauro’s collection of old family photos is on display. Guest rooms, one of them the former master, all feature unadorned windows. “I’m not a fan of curtains,” DiMauro says. “We like to wake to the sun coming in in the morning.” Guests who don’t share the couple’s enthusiasm for morning light are offered sleeping masks. The upstairs bath features the original clawfoot tub and black-and-white basketweave tile floor. One of the smaller bedrooms serves as DiMauro’s home office. A tiny room that previous owners used to rent out as a bedroom in the summer now features a built-in cupboard that was custom-made by local carpenter Emily Majer. “She’s done most of the work upstairs,” DiMauro says. “And she built [cabinets] to match the kind that would have been in this house when it was built.” More of those cabinets are on the right in a second-story hall that becomes a glass bridge to the master suite. The huge plate-glass windows overlook the gardens, above which are paths leading to a pond and the gazebo where the couple was married. “Part of what’s great about this connector between the old and the new is that it allows an unobstructed view, from front to back, outside,” DiMauro says. “We didn’t want to cut off the property.”
Above (left to right): The upstairs landing is a cozy spot for guests to read, and home to DiMauro’s collection of family photos; a glass walkway connecting the second floor master to the original house was designed to preserve the open feeling from the front yard to the back. Opposite: A vegetable and cutting garden with raised beds lined by stone cobbles grace the former site of the former barn. Right: Hidden above the gardens is a pond and gazebo, where the couple was married. “It’s where I come to relax,“ says DiMauro.
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The couple’s answer to the space constraints of building an addition that wouldn’t overpower the original house was to create an open-concept bedroom and bathroom separated in the center by a closet that also serves as the bed’s headboard. The bathroom features a large clawfoot tub, two sinks, a walk-in shower, and a private toilet. The large windows have long, sheer curtains for privacy, the one instance in which DiMauro concedes privacy trumps aesthetics. The opposite side of the closet is a spare, contemporary bedroom with a barnsided gas fireplace and two floating bedside tables beside a simple queen bed. “There’s no other furniture in here by design,” DiMauro says. “It’s all about the simplicity of it and the view outside our windows.” It was during the construction of the addition containing the master bedroom and Windley’s studio that the connection between the house and its occupants became evident. “We were about six months into the construction when the contractor said he was in over his head and walked off the job,” DiMauro remembers. “And on that same day, Kathryn was diagnosed with breast cancer.” It’s a day Windley refers to as the Very Bad Day. But DiMauro took over as general contractor on the project while Windley went through surgery and chemotherapy. “Gary really stepped up, and the follow-up crew was amazing,” she says. “They made it easy and smooth after that, and it was exciting to build something I could look forward to.” Windley says her illness and recovery was a transformational event, but not the way she expected. “Some people in treatment talk about how they want to overhaul their lives, now that they realize how short time can be,” she says. “I just wanted to the do the small things I already loved, like painting and gardening. Things like that became so much more important to me.” Four years later, the addition is finished and Windley is healthy and says it all still feels new. “I’m looking forward to having more time to discover who I am in my artwork,” she says. “And I feel so fortunate that we are living the life that Gary promises his real estate clients. It sounds corny, but this house is central to who we are.”
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Garden F E AT U R E
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Dance of the Wild The meaningful life of herbalist Dina Falconi
By Pauline Uchmanowicz | Photos by Steffen Thalemann
Dina Falconi, herbalist, teacher, and author, has spent over 40 years looking for nothing less than the meaning of life. Relating the health of the land and the health of the body, her focus is on balancing the wild and the cultivated. The search has brought her to master the related fields of nutrition, herbal healing, and permaculture. Falconi’s work permeates her life, and her ideals have defined the beauty of her property. Its charm is in its character—a rustic utopia that developed over time, through engaging the natural life found there. The six-acre homestead where Falconi lives with her husband, Tim Allen, nestles into a hillside in the Stone Ridge hamlet of Lyonsville, and integrates her arts and crafts-accented farmhouse (designed by the former owner, architect Peter Reynolds) with domesticated and wild gardens, fruit orchards, and a chicken yard comingled with stacks of firewood, natural meadows, and woodlands. The complexity of the gardens is stunning: Over 200 plant species thrive there, providing the ingredients for the herbal formulations and body care products she makes in her rustic apothecary, and the delicious food that springs from her kitchen. Her barn, an airy, light-filled laboratory within rough-hewn walls, is an inviting space for working with the plants. Jars, bottles, funnels, scales, cooking utensils, and shelves of formula and recipe notebooks surround a central table. Protected from sunlight, the apothecary stores rows of bottled dried herbs and handcrafted potions. Falconi’s private herbal and nutritional consultations take place in a cozy, attached office. May through October, Falconi teaches an herbal intensive on medicinal plant identification, wild food foraging, self-treatment, and techniques for integrating the plants into homemade medicines, skin-care products, and foods. Her students get physical with the plants, on their hands and knees, all senses engaged, getting to know the plants as they crush them for tincture making, or gently pluck edible blossoms for the jewel-studded compound-butter that accompanies a lunch of field-foraged salad drizzled with herbal vinaigrette, wild greens pesto on sourdough bread, and a baked wild greens au gratin. Grown from the ideal that food production should aim for local sourcing, and food consumption for nutrient density, classes focus on self-care and self-empowerment. A food activist and author in addition to a clinician, grower, and educator, Falconi has developed integrated practices that model how we can cooperate with the food system to redistribute and regionalize wealth. The inclination to understand how to live well, and to share her knowledge has been with her since childhood. Falconi, who grew up in the East Village, discovered the culinary arts at age 11 when a family friend, who had cured himself of terminal illness through healthy eating, gave the young headache sufferer her first herb book. She eliminated processed foods from her diet, replaced them with fresh, whole foods, and started to cook for herself. Abandoning pharmaceuticals and synthetic body-care products, the budding food visionary made the connection between personal and planetary health and began to explore simpler preparations. Her headaches improved, and her overall health increased. upstate House | S U M M ER 2 0 1 3 • 2 7
“ Luring people to beautiful foods becomes a way of activism.” Later, at summer camp, she began to forage, picking mint leaves for tea, and plucking berries from brambles, and her interest blossomed. Falconi studied theater and dance at the High School of Performing Arts during its Fame years, and did a pre-med stint at Colgate University, where the then vegan trained the dining hall staff to cook unfamiliar vegetarian foods like tofu and tempeh. Next came a semester abroad steeped in yoga and Tamil philosophy. “In India, I didn’t see antimaterialism at all,” Falconi recollects. “You don’t hit nirvana by denying the body, but by celebrating the body and caring for it.” She transferred to Bard College, where she earned her degree studying choreography and fine arts. There she also met her life-partner, Tim Allen. She continues to see a relationship between her lifelong interest in art and nutrition: “I like to problem solve, to see where I can make change—to see whole pictures and then take them apart to put back together.” Falconi says, “That’s where my creative training comes in.” At the end of college and pregnant with her son Sam, Falconi started her first garden on her newly purchased property. She gave up welding and painting, wanting to avoid the toxic materials involved, and instead explored the herbs growing outside her back door. “When I could actually see the raspberry leaves for my tea growing wild, my psyche became integrated with the Earth,” she says. 28
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Above: The beauty in a salad of foraged greens and edible flowers—a stunning display of color and form. Opposite, top and far right: Students in Falconi’s classes learn through studying the plants, through observation of processes like tincture making, and detailed note-taking; Opposite right: Throughout the seasons, Falconi points out the notable changes in the plants as they progress through their phases.
After completing a two-year apprenticeship with herbalist Pam Montgomery, she was able to identify and harvest plants from their natural habitats and dispense broad-strokes herbal healing. “But I wanted to tailor-make the shirt to fit the person,” Falconi remembers. To increase her clinical knowledge, she commuted to New York for one-on-one tutorials with William LeSassier. Under LeSassier, the day’s reigning herbal clinician, she perfected diagnosis (how to “read” a client) as well as protocol (preparation of individualized formulas). After three years, he pronounced her “cooked.” By the time she finished her studies, she was a familiar presenter at international herb symposia, and Falconi saw her reputation flourish. Falconi’s next major influence came when she read Weston A. Price’s 1930s studies of the eating habits of extremely healthy indigenous populations worldwide. An abiding question arose: What makes a healthy person? “Looking for answers in ‘primitive places’ seemed unorthodox in his time, but to me it was so clear,” Falconi says. “He asked, ‘What have healthy native people been doing for thousands of years? Obeying the laws of Mother Nature.’ It’s such a simple, beautiful message I constantly refer to it in my life.” For instance, in producing her line of natural skin-care products, Falcon Formulations, she considers how the skin is “a highly complex and sensitive organ,” needing “the same basic love, care and respect” as the Earth. A related guidepost, permaculture design, in which controlled and naturally occurring environments coexist to form self-perpetuating food systems, echoes throughout the Lyonsville idyll, where Falconi and family settled in 1998. On her property she strives to work with the land. Established amid the property’s overlapping agricultural zones, garden beds have evolved via no-dig sheet mulching or by layering biodegradable material over what’s already there and mimicking the routine of nature. “You don’t disrupt the soil—it has its own ecology, which needs to be respected,” the permaculture-certified Falconi explains. Consider the chicken yard—still a work in progress, aiming to become a closed loop, sustainable system. It’s a fenced one-acre area, set on an old shale
Opposite: Description of the opposite photo goes here with descriptive text. Above (clockwise from top): Description of the top right photo with descriptive text; Description of the bottom right photo with descriptive text; Description of the bottom left photo with descriptive text.
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bank, previously unsuitable for gardens, where topsoil is being developed, along with food—fruit, eggs, meat, maple syrup—through imitated natural processes. A bed of rotting logs is layered with mulch, yard waste, and kitchen compost. The chickens pick through the material, adding their waste, and it all becomes fertilizer for berry brambles, shrubs, maples, and fruit trees—peach, apricots, American persimmon, pawpaw, apple—while the chickens themselves act as pesticide when they scratch for bugs. Unintentional companions such as meadowsweet (used in headache and sleep medicines) likewise blossom. “Wild bergamot, native of our region, just grows there. Why would we take it away?” Falconi muses. “The hillside becomes a beautiful lavender color when it peaks. You don’t just chop down a zone and put up what you want. You look at what’s there already and integrate it.” Humans, likewise, have the power to work with the wild, to recognize what grows in our ecosystem and how to use it. “Permaculture offers a wonderful approach to thinking through problems,” Falconi adds. The culmination of the herbalist’s 20-year aim to empower people by fostering a sustainable, regenerative, and ecological way of eating is her new book, Foraging and Feasting: A Basic Field Guide and Wild Food Cookbook (Botanical Arts Press, 2013). Falconi and botanical illustrator Wendy Hollender self-published and Kickstarter-funded their project, raising a record-breaking $115,000. The book aims to change consciousness. “As a forager, you’re always looking to nature to see what nourishment she provides,” Falconi describes. She also hopes to foster appreciation of the socalled “invasive species” like dandelions, plants that arrive at one’s doorstep. By encouraging people to eat what grows wild, Falconi hopes to nudge
Above: Falconi air-dries plantain leaves in the apothecary and workshop housed in her barn. Dried plants are used in making herbal infusions and other products.
readers outside to appreciate “the rhythm and step of nature, smelling, touching, and tasting the wild.” “Luring people to beautiful foods becomes a way of activism,” says Falconi. She is the Hudson Valley chapter leader of the Weston A. Price Foundation, which holds monthly potlucks at the Marbletown Community Center, and on the Steering Committee of Slow Food Hudson Valley. “To eat healthy, we have to become activists,” she explains. “As soon as food is for profit and not nourishment, food loses its sacred place in our lives.” Her life work demonstrates how we can cocreate—but not control—the wild Earth. Dina Falconi teaches us to care for the eco-culture, as well as ourselves and each other. RESOURCES Falcon Formulations; Earthly Extracts 468 County Route #2, Accord (845) 687-8938 BOOK RELEASE PARTY: July 14, 4–7pm Hollengold Farm 222 Lower Whitfield Rd, Accord More info at foragingandfeasting.com
FORAGING & FEASTING: A FIELD GUIDE AND WILD FOOD COOKBOOK Dina Falconi, illustrated by Wendy Hollender | Botanical Arts Press LLC, 2013, $40 THIS SUMPTUOUS BOOK weds the talents of two Hudson Valley treasures: herbalist Dina Falconi and botanical illustrator Wendy Hollender. Presenting the ancient art of gathering plants with contagious enthusiasm—“to forage means to dance with the land”—they detail each plant’s seasonal cycles, habitat, and culinary uses, with cautionary advice when needed. Dozens of flexible recipes (i.e. soups and frittatas that can vary with seasonal bounty) and hundreds of beautiful, scrupulously accurate drawings make this labor of love a nourishing feast for palate, eyes, and soul. —Nina Shengold
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SUSTAINABLE HOME
PUSHING THE GREEN ENVELOPE The renewable energy advocates who make green livable By Gregory Schoenfeld | Photos by David Morris Cunningham
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myriad of tensions continue to press the practical need for a new paradigm regarding how we build and power our homes and businesses: rising energy costs and rising ocean levels dictate that both widespread awareness and action are at a premium. Though the pace toward change may seem frustratingly lethargic at times, great strides are indeed being made. According to a 2012 article in Bloomberg News, energy harvested from renewable sources—solar, wind, geothermal, and biomass—doubled in the United States between 2008 and 2012. New York Governor Andrew Cuomo’s NY-Sun initiative, which pledges to quadruple the number of solar power installations statewide by the end of this year, has led a charge toward more affordable, sustainable growth. In the Hudson Valley, the tireless battle to join a more holistic relationship with the Earth with a higher quality of life is led by progressive visionaries from many fields. This past year, Assemblywoman Amy Paulin took the reins as Energy Committee chair. “We need a commitment from the highest level of government,” says Paulin, “and the financial resources. NY-Sun is that kind of investment, and I want to put all of my energy into making that a success. Energy is at the epicenter of all of our lives. In order to have any kind of quality of life, you have to have a reliable and responsible way to turn on the lights. Knowing I’m working on something that affects everyone I know and love, and beyond, is extremely rewarding.”
Sustainable and Practical “The most important thing is the education leap,” says New Paltz builder and Greenhill Contracting owner Anthony Aebi. “You’ve got to make sure that people know what they’re getting.” What is it that Aebi is offering? Simply this: zero-net-energy homes. He delivers dwelling that are self-contained, self-sustaining sources of their own power; homes that, rather than incurring astronomical energy costs, regularly garner homeowners a check from Central Hudson for the surplus energy they provide. Since breaking ground on his first development in 2008, Aebi has been a man on a mission, driven first and foremost by real pragmatism; the energy
Above: New Paltz builder and Greenhill Contracting owner Anthony Aebi.
efficiency and drastic reduction in carbon footprint are literally just the byproducts of doing it right. “I was building stick-built homes, and I realized: This is just stupid,” says Aebi. “We build these ‘temporary’ homes so we can keep repairing them, and then build another one in a hundred years.” Taking inspiration from European techniques, he changed from using wood framing to using Insulated Concrete Forms, or ICFs, which provide a long-lasting and airtight foundation. Superefficient triple-pane windows and comprehensive insulation complete Aebi’s thermal envelope design. The building’s infrastructure incorporates solar and geothermal power; a heat-recovery reclamation system captures, filters, and recirculates tempered air and moisture, ensuring not only proper humidity, but superior air quality as well. Aebi’s current project is his most ambitious yet: the Preserve at Mountain Vista in New Paltz. It incorporates improved planning and design to deliver not only a surplus of energy, but also an affordable bottom line. “Between the generous government tax credits and the savings on utilities, a $400,000 zero-net-energy home costs approximately the same to own and operate as a $300,000 traditionally built home,” explains real estate agent Wendie Reid. “And there are no more worries about what Central Hudson and oil companies are up to. These are truly the homes of the future.” In order to bring this undertaking to fruition, Aebi has recruited the assistance of John Wright of Rhinebeck’s Hudson Solar. Wright established his familyowned company, originally known as Hudson Valley Clean Energy, in 2002. Zeronet-energy building is nothing new to Wright; his Rhinebeck headquarters was the first commercial building in the state to require no external energy source. Having navigated the hard-fought progress through a time where prohibitive costs and limited availability made energy alternatives a tough sell, Wright is encouraged by advancements that make endeavors like Aebi’s both responsible and shrewd. “These systems pay for themselves,” he says. “Honestly, it’s cheaper to do it than not to.” Wright points to incentives like the 30 percent federal upstate House | S U M M ER 2 0 1 3 • 3 3
tax credit for renewable energy systems, state-level savings options like the NYSERDA rebate program, and recently expanded funding and governmental support for solar leasing programs that have made the technology available to a whole new demographic of homeowners. “Unfortunately, there’s this old argument that it’s still too expensive, and it takes too long to get the money back,” says Wright. “Those objections don’t work anymore. It’s a game changer.” Changing the game—and the playing field itself—is a primary motivator for geothermal designer Lloyd Hamilton of Verdae, LLC, in Rhinebeck. Hamilton is another essential contributor to Anthony Aebi’s work; in fact, he was integral in designing the first zero-net-energy home in New York, as well as installing its highly efficient geothermal heat pump (or ground source heat pump) (GSHP). “I am driven by a desire to lessen the impact to the environment that my work has,” offers Hamilton, who began his career in the HVAC field in the 1970s. His dedicated study of building science led him to innovations in refining the integrity of a building’s envelope (the physical separator between the interior and the exterior environments of a building), helping to reduce costs and sell sustainable systems when oil prices were still relatively inexpensive. Hamilton offers plans that reduce heating and cooling energy usage by 80 percent. Yet beneficiaries of Hamilton’s insights aren’t limited to those building a new home; much of his focus now goes to consulting on deep energy retrofits (DER), a first step toward leading almost any building toward a net-zero future. “Anyone who is ready to replace the siding and roof on their home is the perfect candidate for a DER,” he explains. The extra cost is low, and a possible 70 percent reduction in energy consumption, an increase in durability, annd improved comfort and indoor air quality are great payoffs for doing it. I see an awakening happening. People are starting to be aware that there is a difference, that efficiency and quality is possible.”
Conscience and Vision For decades, Manna Jo Greene has been a preeminent part of the movement to create awareness, on many fronts. The environmental director for the acclaimed Clearwater Foundation, she began as a teenager working with Dr. 34
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Above: Geothermal designer Lloyd Hamilton of Verdae, LLC in Rhinebeck
Martin Luther King to lobby for the passage of the Civil Rights Bill. It was 15 years ago that Greene took the cause of sustainable building under her wing. Her Sustainable Living Resource Center in Cottekill, completed a decade ago, has been a beacon of possibility throughout the area. Even Greene was in store for an awakening when fellow activist Lloyd Hamilton suggested her own Cottekill home serve as one of his DER research projects. The results have been astounding, says Greene, who has cut her energy usage in half and transformed her once-drafty 1945 Cape Cod into a warm, inviting, mold-and-dust-free paradise. “In this country we’re scraping that line where we will have gone beyond that point of no return,” she says. “If we can all reduce our heating and cooling costs and our energy consumption by 50 percent, that is going to make so much difference. This is really how you begin to fight climate change, and mitigate climate change by reducing your carbon footprint.” How can we create a living environment that is genuinely harmonious with the world around us? It is this challenge that New Paltz architect and builder Rick Alfandre has put before himself each day since the inception of his firm in 1991. Alfandre is devoted to creating ecologically sound, sustainably responsible structures in New Paltz and beyond, drawing on an everincreasing education in green building advancements. Alfandre Architecture’s photo gallery shows a design sensibility that works in harmony with the unique beauty of the Hudson Valley, which Alfandre has called home since the 1980s. While staying on the cutting edge of creating efficiency and livability, Alfandre also seeks something more: a true accord between man and nature. “It’s time for us all to be planting the seed in our minds beyond sustainability, toward something that is restorative,” he posits. Alfandre envisions a true symbiotic relationship, actually creating happy homes for wildlife while successfully sheltering humans and putting clean water in the ground. “I think of it as a multi-dimensional approach; spatial, but also in time. Look at a tree. Here’s a building that makes structure, creates beauty and habitat, cleans water, clean air, holds soil in place, and creates joy. How do we get there? How do we do it and have it not be so expensive? We’ve got to keep asking these questions.”
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upstate House | S U M M ER 2 0 1 3 • 3 5
HOUSE FEATURE
Rediscovering Romance IN THE CATSKILLS, ONE HOUSE, AND TWO LOVE STORIES By Susan Barnett | Photos by D.B. Leonard
T
he romantic potential always exists in older homes; decades of human drama can’t help but leave a trace. But some fortunate homes are blanketed in a fine mist of romance, a perfume that lingers over everything around them and lasts even after you’ve left. Nehapwa, a historic Arts and Crafts-style estate snuggled in Tannersville, is just such a place. It was built as a summer home in the late 1800s. In the 1920s the house was sold to an editor for the New York Times. It was later sold again and, as with many beloved summer homes, benign neglect began to take its toll. It stood empty for a year and a half. Until the romance bloomed anew. Route 23C curves up behind the main road from Haines Falls to Tannersville. It was, according to local lore, the path the Iroquois took into the hills each spring. Hundreds of years later, well-heeled businessmen and artists summer along that road, attracted to the pure mountain air and spectacular vistas. Nehapwa (or Napeena Gardens, as it was first known) was built for Philadelphia businessman George Roberts. Designer George Reid, the Canadian artist and architect responsible for 20 other structures in the area, was a member of the Arts and Crafts school, a movement that demanded that all designs, no matter how grand or how small, contribute to a community’s beauty. After moving into Nehapwa in 1892, George Roberts served as president of the Onteora Club, a summer artists’ community headquartered across the road. Famous artists, musicians, and writers gathered each summer and Nehapwa’s own 14 acres grew to include a massive studio building for Roberts’ daughter, artist Elizabeth Wentworth Roberts. Current owner Jeff Summer first found the area when visiting friends who had a home there. “I was in New York for three years and all I was doing was working, as one does,” he says. “I had no concept of Upstate.” Summer was “blown away” by the area’s beauty. He wanted a piece of it for himself.
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Summer says the massive brown house choking in overgrown vegetation called to him. He could see that the classic lines and the sweeping mountain views were irresistible. “The back of the house looks due east,” he says. “So the sunrises and the moonrises here are just magnificent. I lusted after that house, which is very dangerous. I knew I would do whatever it took to get it.” But it wasn’t for sale. And then a friend offered to introduce him to the owners. Businessman Elias Sayour and his wife Janette had owned the property for years. Their six children inherited it, and although they loved it dearly, the house was, in essence, abandoned. It took nine months to get all the heirs to agree to sell. “I even had to fly to California to meet one of them,” Summer says. “It wasn’t the money. They just wanted to be sure it would be sold to the right person.” The house Summer finally bought was in a sorry state. “It was falling apart. There was a leaking roof, broken pipes, animals in the chimney,” recalls Summer. “I’ve done construction all my life, but this house has taught me the difference between construction and renovation.” Summer did the demolition himself every weekend. There was a parade of dumpsters; he estimates 20 or 30. “The room that is now the library was covered with 1970s paneling,” he says. “Every other wall had old wallpaper and woodwork buried under high-gloss white paint. Underneath that cheap paneling was gorgeous wainscoting. I was determined to uncover the original house and let it breathe. One workman spent all winter stripping the fireplaces in the bedrooms. We found that each one is done in a different style.” He found a 1922 Country Life magazine article about the house and kept it for inspiration. Summer kept going every weekend, driving up from the city, tackling one enormous job after another while the house continued to throw challenges at him. And one day he finally broke down. “I went to the third
“ Nehapwa is a derivative of the Iroquois word for to find again. That seemed like the perfect description of not only this place, but us.” floor, where I hadn’t been working, and there was water coming through the roof,” he says. “The sheetrock was falling off. I was completely overwhelmed. But then I made the decision: ‘I’m not giving up; I’m going to figure out a way to do this.’” Summer adopted a strategy, systematically addressing the house’s issues from the top floor down. He created an idea book, where he pasted photos of the dark rooms with painted woodwork and 1940s-era wallpaper, and opposite them he pasted magazine pictures of his ideas for what the rooms could be. Seven years later, Nehapwa is a gracious, grand bed and breakfast with a classic, muted color palette, and room after room of gleaming woodwork. There’s a totally modern kitchen and a separate scullery and bakery. There’s a living room with windows looking onto the wraparound porch and a library overlooking the perennial gardens. Each of the four guest rooms has a covered sleeping porch as well as its own private, modern bathroom. Situated in each corner of the second floor, the rooms are connected by a gallery hallway that opens to the living area below. Summer’s office occupies the room in the center of the back of the house, featuring the view of the mountains which drew him in from the start. The third floor, the place where Summer almost lost faith, is now the owners’ living quarters. Summer proudly admits that the riotously colorful flower gardens are his personal obsession. The property extends into a pine barren and a former orchard to one side and to the studio past a Victorian-style wooden water tower on the other. The back yard is a gradual slope, with the mountains beyond. “Nehapwa is a derivative of the Iroquois word for ‘to find again,’” Summer explains. “That seemed like the perfect description of not only this place, but us.” On a perfect late-summer day, Summer’s partner, Tom Uberuaga, proudly points to a beautiful little stone-rimmed pond that drains into a hand-laid
Opposite: The back of 19th century Arts and Crafts-style house faces due east. Above (clockwise from top): The gardens within a stone wall courtyard are lush and blooming all year; Adirondack chairs offer a peaceful intimacy; A wooden water tower in the Victorian-style.
stone-lined streambed. “I found that when I was cleaning out the weeds yesterday,” says Uberuaga, who manages the estate. The couple met when they were first starting their careers. Both of them were working in Seattle. “We had a relationship for three years, then we parted ways,” Uberuaga explains. “But Jeff was someone I always thought of. Always.” Summer had moved East; Uberuaga stayed on the West Coast, where he owned a series of restaurants. After 22 years, he found a letter in his mailbox. The return address was New York. It was from Summer. They decided to start a new life together in Summer’s Catskills home. Summer had nearly abandoned his dream of opening a high-end bed-andbreakfast, putting Nehapwa on the market after working on it for seven years. It had gone way beyond a reasonable investment. “Then everything just came together,” Summer says. The bed-and-breakfast is open from April through November, but Nehapwa accepts reservations all year. Guests can rent one room or the whole house. The couple is finding that guests who come to Nehapwa can’t wait to come back. “It’s the Catskills,” says Summer. “This area has so much, and yet somehow it’s still undiscovered.” Summer and Uberuaga are working on plans to open a new restaurant that will tie into the Nehapwa brand. And things that some residents find a nuisance are, in their opinion, advantages. “We’ve got no cell phone reception here. At first, people are frantic,” Uberuaga says. “But we do have wireless Internet and a landline. You can just see [guests] shift, they start to disconnect.” “They sit on that back porch and all you can see are mountains,” Summer continues. “There’s nothing man-made at all. Just the notch between the mountains that the Native Americans called Manitou—‘the place where the Great Spirit resides.’ When people come here, it’s a rediscovery.” For more information, visit Nehapwa.com or call (518) 589-6834. upstate House | S U M M ER 2 0 1 3 • 37
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Fiberglass
Two artists find home in a 1970s modular By Jennifer Farley | Photos by Matt Petricone
W
hen Eleanor White and Karlos Carcamo decided to trade apartment life in Beacon for a single-family home with enough land for dogs and a vegetable garden, they expected to buy something fairly conventional and jazz it up. Both White and Carcamo are artists, and White, who grew up around the antiques business in Arizona, had started collecting mid-century modern furniture at an early age. As first-time homebuyers, they were really open-minded but needed their budget to stay under $300,000. Other requirements: near the Metro-North train, as both commute weekdays to Manhattan; and ideally, they wanted enough space for two studios without sacrificing a guest bedroom. “Our real estate agent found this place, it was totally her idea,” says White. “We weren’t looking for something unusual, and when we first saw it we weren’t so sure. It was the question of ‘Is this really ugly or is it really cool?’” They did like the location, however: a quiet street in a conventional, middleclass Wappingers Falls subdivision, the part nearest Fishkill and Beacon.
The exotic design grew on them quickly. Soon, they were renting the house and figuring out how to buy it, which they finally did in 2009 with financial help from White’s parents. The couple declines to say what they ultimately paid for the two-and-a-half-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bath house on one and one-third acres. Located less than 10 minutes from I-84’s exit 11, the house features about 1,200 square feet of fully finished interior, plus an enclosed garage, laundry area, and almost 800 square feet of ground-floor studio space divided into “his” and “her” rooms. The White-Carcamo home is a 1974 fiberglass, modular prototype designed by architect Eugene Comilloni, for himself, at the beginning of his career. He tried to market the “new concept in residential construction” commercially, apparently without success. Little is known about Comilloni; in fact, Carcamo would appreciate any information anyone reading this article may have about him and the home’s construction. What’s most unique about the house is that it’s comprised of a series of color-impregnated, pebble-grain, gracefully arched,
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Above: Eleanor, in her cherished egg chair, snuggles with Stella, a Chihuahua mix, while Carlos holds Gigi, a Miniature Pinscher mix; while Zephyr, a Schipperke, lies on the guest bedroom’s fluffy area rug. Top right: A Bertoia “Diamond” chair, and a Saarinen table, both ‘50s. The latex relief wall sculpture is by Matt Harle, a friend who lives in Beacon. Bottom right: A vintage clock and two lamps show off their curves.
L-shaped fiberglass segments built off premises. The inner and outer walls of fiberglass sandwich two inches of polyurethane insulation. The interior wood walls clamp together and can be reconfigured at will. The fiberglass must be maintained annually with sealant and the occasional patch; the man who takes care of it for White and Carcamo is a boat-repair specialist. In sum, it’s a radical departure from conventional stick-built construction, and it looks simultaneously futuristic and retro. “The economy in the mid to late ’70s wasn’t so good around here,” says Carcamo. “Comilloni was probably young and interested in experimental modular home design, so he tried. But, obviously, this style concept did not become dominant. In fact, our home is the only unusual structure in our neighborhood.” Carcamo says Comilloni sold the home for about $65,000 in 1978 to an IBM programmer who worked out of the company’s Fishkill facility and lived in it until 2005, leaving it essentially unchanged. White and Carcamo met through work in 2004 and married a few years ago. They share their home with three dogs and do not have children. “I grew up a hippie child in Tucson, and now I work as an art handler at the Metropolitan Museum of Art,” says White. “But never did I imagine I would marry a former professional break dancer and live in a house that looks like an upside-down fiberglass boat.” “I moved to Jamaica Queens from El Salvador at age five,” says Carcamo, who really was a professional break dancer (he performed with the
legendary “Queen of Funk-Soul,” Chaka Khan, when he was 14) and now works full time as a master picture framer for the Museum of Modern Art. “My Dad worked two jobs, and it’s a really big deal in my family that I decided to be an artist—my parents were worried I’d starve. But Eleanor and I are making it all happen, although we both put fixing up the house ahead of our personal art careers for a few years. We really found our dream home, and basically never intend to sell it.”
Living Inside a Work of Art “It’s a little like living in a big covered wagon,” says White, who makes intricate collages out of cut-up playing cards. “You can’t just drive nails into the exterior walls to hang art; the fiberglass shell can’t handle that.” Carcamo paints and makes sculptures out of microphones. Their art, plus pieces from friends, are displayed throughout the house. The appeal of the house deepens with familiarity. There are literally hundreds of endearing details—swanky curves are everywhere—testimony to the fact that an architect designed it for himself. But it’s also really livable, not an uncomfortable intellectual conceit. The front deck is made of redwood. All of the glass is thermopane. The bedrooms all have full closets with bifold doors. The kitchen cabinets are custom made of natural birch. To save space and presumably also money, the staircase is a prefabricated, standard metal spiral. Inside it’s cozy, like a boat. upstate House | S U M M ER 2 0 1 3 • 39
Above (clockwise from top left): Carlos strikes a pose in front of “Hard Edge #115,” a graffiti-inspired latex and spray enamel painting; Eleanor puts the finishing touches on “Red Wave,” an artwork commissioned by a gallery in Miami; Eleanor painstakingly cuts playing cards at her studio desk.
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The house is on a circular street and has a feeling of generous acreage plus privacy, with the convenience and sociability of a neighborhood. There’s a large back deck off the living room that overlooks a spacious fenced yard abutting the Stony Kill Farm Environmental Education Center, a SUNY- and DEC-affiliated teaching farm that will never be commercially developed. “We adore Beacon, but the lots are really small,” says White. “I’m going to double the size of my vegetable garden this year.” After they bought the house, White and Carcamo first methodically updated the systems. In the living room, they installed bamboo flooring. This winter, they added a $4,000 pellet stove to supplement the conventional forced-air heating system. White expects it will cut their heating oil bill by one-third. Installing the pellet stove required some “MacGyver”-like venting, but a woodstove would have entailed cutting a huge hole in the fiberglass. The dark corner of the living room the pellet stove now occupies also “just never worked” for some reason as a spot for their prized “egg chair,” which is presently located in the guest bedroom. White says she’s deeply satisfied with the way her midcentury modern furniture works throughout the house. But this seamless sense of unity and perfect maintenance frankly took a lot of work. While the house has a casual vibe, in reality every inch of space has been highly considered. The couple just hasn’t been able to completely transform all of it yet. “Parts of the house had not been updated at all since 1974,” she says. “There was a lot of orange shag carpet. To save money, we did almost everything ourselves, sheetrocking walls, fixing leaks, ripping out rot. This house has a number of design quirks; it’s never going to need a new roof, but it doesn’t have gutters, for example.” To date, the couple hasn’t done much to the galley-like kitchen, or the standard ’70s-issue colorcoordinated tile bathrooms. “It was an extreme learning curve,” says Carcamo, a picture-framer who is known in Beacon for the gallery (now closed) Go North, and as cofounder of Windows on Main Street, an annual public art event that pairs artists with local businesses. “We put all our energies into working at our jobs and on the house—we didn’t produce any art.” Lately, though, they both have been busy making art. Springtime also means it’s time to spruce up the landscape, get the organic vegetables started, and power wash the house exterior. For reasons of safety and light, Carcamo took down quite a few trees that were growing close to the house. There was also a broken landscaping drain in the front yard that required a big excavation to repair. It was fixed just before Superstorm Sandy. “I did not enjoy the storm—we had some flooding,” says White. “But as a rule we really love the sound of rain on the fiberglass; it’s kind of loud. I grew up in big, old houses, so I appreciate the modernity of this place. I never want to leave.”
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Featured Listing: Loft in the Woods
STA N D FOR DVIL L E, NY
Listed by Gary DiMauro, Gary DiMauro Real Estate MODERN RESIDENCE AND THREE-BEDROOM GUESTHOUSE
The main residence is a newly built post-and-beam structure on 10 secluded acres near the Taconic Parkway. A stunning modern adaptation of a traditional Hudson Valley bank barn: • Conceived as an artist’s loft, with massive floor plates and an open plan that allows for living, working and/or art. • 4,760 square feet of living space with soaring ceilings, exposed hemlock structure and dramatic 30-foot window walls. • Radiant solar heat with propane back-up, ceiling fans and convection cooling, polished concrete floors • The building offers maximum flexibility, it is ready for immediate habitation or a further build-out The guesthouse consisting of 1,512 square feet, 3 bedrooms and 2 full baths sits on a second secluded site on the property • An open floor plan, attached two-car garage, central AC • Expansive views of fields and a pond from the front porch
upstate House | S U M M ER 2 0 1 3 • 4 1
Hillsdale House
$2,895,000
The Hillsdale House is a 4 bedroom, 4.5 bath 5425 sf Modern box-design home beautifully sited on a rolling knoll overlooking Catamount Mountain and the Berkshire foothills. The design of the home, by renowned firm F:T Architecture, features a gracious relationship to the outdoors from every room. The master suite, which occupies the upper level, has a dramatic terrace overlooking the property as well as a grand roof deck which surveys the pool and cabana below. The soaring living room includes 2 glass walls over 32’ long & 16’ high. Additional amenities include a state-of-the-art movie projection room, a spa with a sauna opening onto an outdoor shower, and a covered outdoor dining area with a built-in outdoor kitchen. Simply elegant!
❚ Gary DiMauro 845.757.5000 x11
Welcome back Upstate House Magazine. No one can stay away from the Hudson Valley for long.
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Check out the article on Gary’s house in this issue!
Brokeback Manor
$999,000
Built high on a hill in the desirable Mt. Merino area (near Hudson), this stucco, steel, concrete and glass masterpiece has breathtaking panoramic views of mountains and rolling fields. A modern take on a Palladian pavilion, classical yet contemporary. The open-plan loftlike interior is comfortable and lively, with high ceilings and expanses of steel-framed windows highlighting the sweeping views. This architectural gem is truly one of the best in the Hudson Valley.
❚ Harriet Shur 518.822.0800 x15 Battenfeld Farmstead
$595,000
Reminiscent of an old country farmstead, this elegant and newly renovated 4 BR home sits on a rolling 4.5 acre parcel in Northern Dutchess County with spectacular Catskill Mountain views and sunsets. The modern open-plan interior has high ceilings and gleaming wood floors. The upstairs is your own private master suite with a vaulted ceiling, dressing room, sumptuous whirlpool bath, and a balcony overlooking the mountains and vistas. The property has a barn, a shed and a fenced vegetable garden.
❚ Tracy Dober 845.757.5000 x13 River House
$2,995,000
It’s the stunning view that will take your breath away first. Glass walls running the length of the house reveal the most spectacular ever-changing view of the Hudson River and the Catskill Mountains. Specially engineered sliding walls, both front and back, open almost completely, so the separation of indoors and out is barely evident. This stunning award-winning home combines a modern aesthetic with the serenity and calm of an asian-inspired country house. Massive timbers and black walnut flooring warm the airy open spaces, and a 53 foot cantilevered ipe deck gives you front row access to the river. The 22.80 acre estate includes the 5100 sf main house and an adjacent 1200 sf guesthouse/studio. The 1/3 mile approach gently winds through cedar groves, open fields, past stone walls and a pond framed with iris. One of the finest properties we’ve had the privilege of offering. Featured in The New York Times and Hudson Valley Magazine.
❚ Gary DiMauro 845.757.5000 x11
Tivoli Farmhouse
To find out more about the cover property, go to our website 58 Broadway, Tivoli NY 432 Main Street, Catskill NY 423 Warren Street, Hudson NY 42
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online at upstater.net
$1,250,000
This gracious 5 BR house has metamorphosed from farmhouse to elegant home. Renovated in 2004, the home’s oldfashioned charm was carefully preserved while modern touches were seamlessly added; a gourmet kitchen, updated baths, new thermopane windows, a private third floor study/bedroom and a large tastefully finished downstairs playroom with bath. A long center hall opens to a spacious, formal living room with fireplace, a large sundrenched dining room, and a Great Room that combines kitchen, dining, and family room for effortless living and entertaining. There are slate patios, stone walls, barn, paddock and 2 car garage with guest room. Set on the edge of town on 6 lovely acres, it combines the ease of country living with the convenience of village amenities.
❚ Adelia Geiger 845.757.5000 x12
garydimauro.com
Ne w York Cit Y
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GRACIOUS 26 ACRE ESTATE / WOODSTOCK, NY Excl. Beautiful vistas. 3 homes with - Indoor and outdoor pools and tennis courts. $7.9M. Web#3788164 Jean Stoler 518.755.4298/Chester Gelband, EVP 212.381.3225
WOW / COPAKE, NY Excl. Artist designed 4,000SF home. Vaulted ceilings, stone fireplace. Mountain views, Gunite pool, artist’s studio. $2.8M. Web#3835205 Jean Stoler 518.755.4298
BUCOLIC WEEKEND ESCAPE / PATTERSON, NY Excl. 1790 farm. 4 bedroom, 4 bath authentic farm, kitchen, 5 fireplaces, in-ground pool, barn with 2 living quarters, 40 acre pastures. $2.695M. Web#4029614 Mary Stapleton 518.929.7783
AMAZING VIEWS/SETTING/HOUSE / COPAKE, NY Excl. Inspired quality construction, sophisticated and green setting on 24 acres. Fireplace, deck, patio, 2-car garage. $1.6M. Web#3106715 Nancy Felcetto, SVP 212.381.6554
LOFTY PARADISE / HILLSDALE, NY Excl. Sophisticated bright open interior, magnificent gardens, dreamy pool, barn, expansive views. $1.395M. Web#3992161 Jennifer Capala 917.685.6925
A WORLD OF YOUR OWN / TAGHKANIC, NY Excl. Unique 5 bedroom, 3 bath, 1770 Colonial with barns, ponds, fields, views and privacy. 240 acres. $1.35M. Web#3335902 Jennifer Capala 917.685.6925
PRIVATELY SITED 1800S JEWEL / OLD CHATHAM, NY Excl. Meticulously restored. Dream eat-in kitchen with wood burning fireplace, deck. 4 bedroom, 3.5 baths. English basement and barn. $839K. Web#8505374 Nancy Felcetto, SVP 212.381.6554 / Robin Horowitz 917.626.6755
THE BAY FARM CLAVERACK / HUDSON VALLEY Excl. 1740 Historic 4 bedroom, 4 baths, 4 fireplaces, guest home, barn with deck, garden, ponds and creeks. 38 acres. $759K. Web#1602367 Mary Stapleton 518.929.7783
FLOWING WATERS PARADISE / CLERMONT, NY Excl. One of Mother Nature’s magical displays – 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2-car garage, workshop. 10 glorious acres. $750K. Web#4029162 Nancy Felcetto, SVP 212.381.6554 CHIC ELEGANCE AND GRACE / HUDSON, NY Excl. 3-story brick Victorian beauty on famed Warren Street. Flooded with light, details. Roof deck and views. $550K. Web#8500204 Nancy Felcetto, SVP 212.381.6554 / Robin R.obinHorowitz Horowitz 917.626.6755
CONTEMPORARY FARMHOME / HILLSDALE, NY Excl. Peace and quiet here. 3 bedroom, 3 baths, 3,392SF. Hardwood floor, radiant heat, gourmet kitchen, pastures. 5.81 acres. $745K. Web#4000786 Mary Stapleton 518.929.7783
In the City
COUNTRY PARADISE AWAITS / CATSKILL, NY Excl. Sweet 4 bedroom, 2 bath Cape on private lot. Many extras: wood burning fireplace, wet bar, granite kitchen. Must see – mint condition. $259.5K. Web#8500469 Bruce Pace 917.370.0704
In the Country
At the Shore
Find Yours at halstead.com
Halstead Property, LLC We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the Nation. We encourage and support an affirmative advertising and marketing program in which there are no barriers to obtaining housing because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin. All information is from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, prior sale or withdrawal without notice. No representation is made as to the accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footages are approximate and all information should be confirmed by customer. All rights to content, photographs and graphics reserved to Broker.
upstate House | S U M M ER 2 0 1 3 • 4 3
R E S I D E N T I A L E X P E RT I S 35 YEARS OF E
PURE COUNTRY- Casual elegance abounds in this privately sited 3200 SF farmhouse contemporary on 6+ acres with meandering stream. Sunwashed interior features stunning gourmet kitchen, open plan living/dining space opening to large deck, den/library, deluxe main level MBR suite + 2 add’l BRs up, 2.5 baths & 3-car garage with perfect home/office over. Sweeping lawns and gorgeous stone work are truly special. MUST SEE! $589,000 TEXT M212067 to 85377
HUDSON RIVER ESTATE- Extraordinary 3500 SF contemporary on 6.9 acres with spectacular River views, frontage and & dock rights. Luxurious interior features 24’ sunken LR w/ bluestone fireplace, custom cook’s kitchen, 3 huge river view BRs, deluxe master bath, 4-season solarium open to riverside patios, magnificent 25’ soundproofed, skylit STUDIO, Spanish tiled library, wine cellar & 7-zone heating & cooling. Porches and patios invite warm weather dining. TRULY SINGULAR! $1,490,000 TEXT M154486 to 85377
HUDSON RIVER FRONT!- Amazing 330’ of glorious and RARE Hudson River front crown the 4.3 acre site of this delightful c. 1872 charmer. Vintage detail & character abound w/beamed ceilings and wide pine floors throughout gracious interior. Country gourmet kitchen with granite counters & SS appliances, 3 bedrooms, breezy screen porch, detached garage & perfect stone patio just steps from the water. WATCH THE SHIPS SAIL BY! $787,000 TEXT M205824 to 85377
SPLASH!- Just out the door of this distinctive 4700+ SF country contemporary and into the pool! Sunwashed airy & open floor plan offers 22’ LR with fireplace, 20’ family/media room, cathedral ceilings, superb gourmet kitchen, 3 en suite bedrooms, 4 full baths, den, office, expansive decking PLUS 7 stall horse barn & 3-car garage with finished office/studio over. All on 11 acres of mature landscape with Esopus Creek frontage for fishing & boating! $747,000 TEXT M194113 to 85377
Call Amy Levine, Lic. Assoc. RE Bkr., 914-388-7393
PONDSIDE & PRIVATE!- Nestled on 20 acres with utmost privacy & overlooking a magnificent spring-fed swimming POND, this stunning log home offers peaceful respite in desirable Gardiner. Features 28’ cathedral timbered Great Room with massive stone fireplace, open plan gourmet kitchen, cherry wood & ceramic floors, 3 BRs, 2 full baths, 46’ finished lower level, 2 gorgeous meadows, views and enchanting cabana at water’s edge. PERFECT! $735,000 Call Naomi Castillo-Smith, Lic. Assoc. RE Bkr., 845-3896528 or Karin Peters, Lic. RE Salesperson, 845-750-2280. TEXT M156379 to 85377
ON A CLEAR DAY- You can see forever! Brilliant 180-degree Hudson Valley views grace the 10+ acre Woodstock site of this luxurious one-level contemporary nestled at end of a private road. Gracious open plan living features vaulted ceilings, HW & marble floors, custom gourmet kitchen, cozy stone fireplace, 3 bedrooms, 3 full lavish baths, 5-zone heat, central AC, 2-car garage, deck and VIEWS to CT & MA. TRULY SINGULAR! $1,079,000 Call Harris Safier, Lic. RE Bkr., 914-388-3351 TEXT M193263 to 85377
w ww.westwoodrealty.com
RIVER FRONT STONE- Prominently featured in “Country Home” magazine. Meticulous restoration of historic 18th & 19th c. stone house features 7 fireplaces, wide board floors, deluxe chef’s country kitchen, 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, 21’ LR, family/media room, extraordinary sep. studio/office/guest house with soaring fireplace, gardens, walkways & lush private waterfront for swimming & kayaking. Artist/owner-created masterpiece! $1,100,000 Call Barbara Ellman, Lic. RE Salesperson, 845-399-1570 or Barbara O’Hare, Lic. Assoc. RE Bkr., 845-389-7660
WOODSTOCK WONDERFUL- Singular architect designed country contemporary nestled on 4 open acres with mountain panorama. Spectacular 2-story Great Room warmed by a Tulikivi soapstone hearth & radiant heated stone floor, custom country kitchen, 20’ family/media room, 3 bedrooms, 3 full baths, French doors to covered veranda PLUS 30’ heated workshop w/ skylit studio/office over and a wood-fired sauna, too! PERFECTION! $699,000 Call Elise Glenne, 845-399-2882 or Lisa Cooper, 914-388-0624 Lic. Assoc. RE Bkrs. TEXT M212047 to 85377
THINK NEW!– If only NEW will do, then hurry to check out the plans for these handsome contemporary Colonial homes to be built on the last two 2+ acre lots nestled privately on a quiet cul-de-sac with easy access to NYS Thruway. Offering 2600+ SF, the gracious center-hall design features 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, maple cabinets and granite counters, central AC, full basement, oak stairs and more. Customize your color palette and finishes. $425,000 Call Shirley Paley, Lic. Assoc. RE Bkr., 914-388-0432
R E S I D E N T I A L E X P E RT I S 35 YEARS OF E
LUXURY LIVING- Casually sophisticated country living at its finest! Extensively upgraded Toll Brothers estate home nestled perfectly on 7+ acres in prestigious “Mountain View at Gardiner”. Gracious 4500+ SF in an airy sunwashed open plan perfect for entertaining and practical daily living - 4 BRs, 3.5 baths, family/media room w/ stone fplc., gourmet kitchen, den/office PLUS full walkout basement. ONE OWNER. $785,000 Call Debra Dooley, Lic. RE Salesperson, 845-475-4248 TEXT M163640 to 85377
PRIVATE PARADISE- Long private drive past tranquil pond accesses magnificent 4600+ SF Jim Barna log home on 40+ acres of nature’s bounty. Have it all! State-of-the-art gourmet kitchen, floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace in LR, stone fireplace in lavish MBR suite, 5 bedrooms, 4.5 baths & 24’ 2-story family/media room. Enormous walk-out lower level expands living space. 3-car garage & deck, too. Adj. NYS lands. All season recreation at your doorstep. $1,980,000 TEXT M156646 to 85377
HISTORIC STONE REBORN- Meticulously renovated c. 1770 stone offers rich original detail & all modern amenities. Casually elegant interior features fireplaces in 20’ LR and gorgeous gourmet country kitchen, wide board floors, formal DR, 4 generous bedrooms, 2.5 luxe baths with soaking tubs & Carrara marble, artfully designed stone patio w/ fire pit all commanding 21 pastoral acres with babbling brook. STUNNING! $795,000 TEXT M156680 to 85377
KINGSTON CLASSIC- Fine period craftsmanship is evident throughout this singular 4700 SF home - ornate oak woodwork, stained glass in most rooms, gorgeous inlaid flooring, 2 tiled fireplaces, butler’s pantry, front and rear stairs, 5 BRs including romantic MBR suite, 3.5 baths, formal DR & studio in finished basement. Extensive decking, patio and pool, too! SINGULAR! $399,900 Call Hayes Clement, Lic. RE Salesperson, 917-568-5226 TEXT 3132 to 85377
COUNTRY SOPHISTICATE- Lush 25-acre homestead with majestic Catskill views enclose this enchanting 1840 farmhouse gem. Masterfully preserved original details & thoughtfully designed additions - beams, polished wide board floors, classic country kitchen, formal dining room, inviting study, 3 bedrooms, 3 full baths & 20’ screen porch PLUS enchanting writer’s studio w/ stone fireplace and a post & beam BARN. Magical landscape of meadows & woods. $675,000 TEXT M164230 to 85377
TOP OF THE WORLD- Truly singular 66-acre estate parcel with panoramic VIEWS from Mohonk to the Catskill high peaks. Absolute privacy! Sprawling 8000+ SF cedar contemporary with soaring ceilings and walls of glass - 33’ MBR suite w/ fireplace, 33’ LR w/ fireplace, 7+ bedrooms, 5+ full baths, office, fitness room, massage room, 25’ family/media room, 4 fireplaces, 4-car garage, high efficiency systems and more. 90 minutes to NYC! ONE-OF-KIND! $2,900,000 TEXT M151000 to 85377
OH SO PRIVATE- Gorgeous 11-acre country setting with STREAM encloses expansive 4200 SF custom post & beam contemporary home featuring skylit 24’ Great Room with soaring stone fireplace, open plan country kitchen/dining with French doors to solarium, vaulted MBR + 3 or 4 add’l BRs, 3.5 baths, 29’ family/media room with wet bar, rec room, wine room, stone patio & lighted game court (tennis, b-ball). HAVE IT ALL! $569,000 Call Naomi Castillo-Smith, Lic. Assoc. RE Bkr., 845-389-6528 TEXT 3101 to 85377
Call Jeff Serouya, Lic. Assoc. RE Bkr., 845-626-5000
EXTRAORDINARY LAKEFRONT!- Incredibly rare find! Fantastic Craftsman’s style contemporary on 3+ tranquil acres with approx. 355’ frontage on pristine Lake Sharon in gorgeous Gardiner. Architect designed and stunningly detailed. 4 BRs incl. full floor MBR suite, 3.5 baths, cathedral beamed ceilings, massive stone fireplace, 2 gazebos and dock. Swim and canoe in your own backyard. TRULY SINGULAR! $1,450,000 Call Sandy Reid, Lic. RE Salesperson, 845-417-1314 TEXT M139263 to 85377
YOUR OWN SWIMMING HOLE!- 10+ acres on both sides of a quiet country road provides a perfect setting for this charming post & beam cedar 2-story offering gleaming wood floors throughout, living room with cozy brick fireplace, dining area opening to deck, 2 BRs, 2 full baths, open plan kitchen & family/media room in finished lower level. Short stroll to yearround stream & swim hole. SPLASH!! $259,000 Call Diane Silverberg, Lic. Assoc. RE Bkr., 845-750-0744 TEXT M159066 to 85377
OFFICES IN: NEW PALTZ • WOODSTOCK • WEST HURLEY • KINGSTON • STONE RIDGE
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VILLAGE GREEN REALTY
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Housing inventory is low NOW. Call us to list your house.
2 story with lakefront & easy access to both Hunter and Windham for skiing, zipline, fishing, & everything Greene County offers in a spectacular setting, Catskill Mountain views. Less than 10 years old and 2 hrs to NYC. $350,000
One of Windham’s most admired Main St properties dating back to 1907. Perfectly preserved and steeped in local history. If you yearn for simple living in a quaint village where everyone knows your name, you have found your special place. $399,000
Farmhouse with outbuildings on the outskirts of the hip little river town of Rosendale. Renovated kitchen and baths, remainder of the house needs TLC. Walk to town for dining, entertainment, arts and local produce. $119,000
New Patlz Village home, charming inside and out! New kitchen hardwood floors, gas fireplace in living room. Beautifully landscaped front lawn with perennial plantings. Walk to town for dining, arts, shopping, keep going for hiking, climbing and fishing. $298,000
Located in Catskill, the Hudson Valley’s “5th Best Place to Live” this 5,647 sq ft residential/commercial home has it all: open plan, radiant heat, spacious deck w/ an 8 person Jacuzzi, master with private balcony, walk-in closet and gorgeous bathroom. $415,000
Fairytale Chalet in the lake community of Sleepy Hollow. Quality home perfect for a quiet or recreational getaway. Sit on the balcony or play tennis, swim, and boat from the launch at the end of the road. Near Hunter & Windham for all the best of the Catskills. $249,000
Sun-filled 1850’s farmhouse on 8+ acres nestled among birches and pines on a quiet country road 10 miles to Stone Ridge/High Falls. This special home is perfect for any occasion, with beautiful Catskill views & renovated 900 sq. ft family room. $400,000
An idyllic little farmhouse, with a fresh coat of paint has arrived just in time for summer enjoyment. Conveniently sited between Woodstock and Saugerties this offers every opportunity to enjoy the relaxing way of life that the Hudson Valley is known for. $278,000
Step outside this spacious home in Highland to a vacation-like atmosphere with an outdoor kitchen, inground pool, heated gazebo, pond and gardens. In the winter there’s even ice skating! The gardens will make you feel like you are living on an exotic paradise island. Inside is beautiful, functional and unique - a must see. $450,000
New Paltz 845-255-0615
Privately sited, architect designed gem in Gardiner with high end features and materials throughout. Generously proportioned rooms perfect for gatherings, gourmet kitchen, sauna, and steam shower are just the beginning. Seasonal ridge views, meandering creek, and manicured gardens offer a peaceful environment. $635,000
Retreat complete with a spring fed lake that is yours to fish, boat, or swim in. Spacious Ranch home located on lake front & surrounded by 17 acres of evergreens and wildlife. Only 10 min from the NYS Thruway; convenience and the peace & serenity of the Catskill Mtns. $190,000
Unique private artist’s contemporary on 4+ acres in Saugerties. The light flooded interior with polished concrete floors, open kitchen, 11ft ceilings and sliders that open to back deck all combine to create a relaxed modern feeling that’s connected to the landscape of open level land woods, a stream, rock gardens, and stone walls that surround the house. $299,000
www.VillageGreenRealty.com Stone Ridge 845-687-4355
Woodstock 845-679-2255
Kingston 845-331-5357
Windham/Greene Co 518-734-4200
*Reported by the Ulster County Multiple Listing Service 2013 Year To Date and Columbia Greene Northern Dutchess Multiple Listing Service 2013 Year To Date
upstate House | S U M M ER 2 0 1 3 • 4 7
CIRCA 1800 HISTORIC COLONIAL with original wide board floors and chestnut beams, nestled in quiet solitude among beautiful old trees, stone walls and 29 private acres, including a stocked pond. A naturalists wonderland with an old Christmas tree farm at the high point of the property. The original stone portion of the house has 3 working fireplaces and generously sized rooms. The sensitively designed kitchen/ gathering room is supplementally warmed by a Vermont Casting wood stove, has terracotta tiled flooring, a Wolf brand stove with griddle and salamander broiler, stainless steel appliances and exceptionally beautiful cherry counter tops.It opens out onto a raised blue stone patio overlooking the serene, water lily flecked pond and in-ground Gunite pool. The extraordinary 15’ x 45’ former chicken coop has electric, a shingle roof and is in sound structural condition. It would make a charming studio. Conveniently Located minutes to Stone Ridge, Kingston and Woodstock. $1.1 Million.
FIND YOURSELF... route 213 high falls, ny
845-687-0911
info@marycollinsrealestate.com
Have a Great Summer in this 8 year old beautifully built Colonial/Farmhouse with expansive views of the Shawangunk Ridge. Spacious 2,772 sq. ft.
EXPANSIVE VIEWS OF THE SHAWANGUNK RIDGE
5 bedrooms, 3.5 baths. Gourmet custom kitchen, ceramic tiled baths, hardwood floors, two fireplaces. There is a studio apt for guests or family. The large dry basement is a huge unfinished space for living space or storage. Big attic with skylights just itching to be finished. $525,000.
Laurie Willow Willow Realty
Contact Laurie Willow • Willow Realty 120 Main Street, Gardiner, NY • 845-255-7666 or 845-235-7511 • Laurie@WillowRealEstate.com
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Quality Hudson Valley Historic Properties
The Bennett House
10 OutlOOk Farm Drive, NeW PaltZ
Contemporary & Award Winning Designed by Matthew Bialecki. The stunning interior features a living room with high ceilings, gently curved walls, tinted concrete floor and a RAIS wood stove. A gourmet cook will enjoy the Vulcan Stove, center island and walk in pantry in this unique kitchen. The sunken family room, originally an artist’s studio, can easily be converted back. Office loft overlooks the living room with a spacious master suite to one side, and bedroom to the other. Detached two car garage with workshop area and large, heated studio above.
Majestically perched on a knoll overlooking a quaint village, the stature of this four plus bedroom home stands alone. Originally erected in the 1800’s with load bearing bluestone walls, it’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Architecturally intact property is noteworthy of regional transition from domestic to sophisticated trends as seen in the two grand sized living areas, which are graced with Rumford fireplaces with Federal style mantels, wide pine board floors, and high ceilings. Original open stringer staircase leads to two levels of incredible living space, including master suite. Pristine condition throughout. First Offering. $1,200,000.
Mary Ellen Harrington
845-234-3799 maryellenharrington.res@gmail.com
Darlene Stuber
914-443-9057 darlenestuber@gmail.com NYS ReAl eSTATe SAleSpeRSONS RJ SMitH REAlty
• PinE BuSH, ny • 845-744-2095
304 Wall St. Kingston NY 12401
Mary M. Orapello Associate Broker GRI, ABR
office (845)338-5252 cell (845)590-0386
Just 3 minutes to the Village of Rhinebeck. This fantastic 24.9 acre horse farm features a 6-stall barn w/ bath & heated tack room. Almost all 24 acres are fenced, complete with a Dressage Ring, pastures and spring fed pond. Classic Colonial is situated nicely off the road w/ 3 BR, 2.5 baths, beautiful living room, dining room combo w/ French Doors out to the back deck, gas burning fireplace, a great country kitchen w/ stainless appliances & granite countertops. $749,900
80+/- Rolling park like acres full of Stonewalls, ponds and Lake. Featuring many building sites such as: Dogwood Meadows, Eagles Roost, Cedar Grove and Ox Ridge. Country gravel roads wind through the property complete with underground electric. Picturesque barn overlooking beautiful Spring fed pond. All this seclusion and privacy and yet conveniently 5 minutes to NYS Thruway. This one of a kind property, for your one of a kind discriminating buyer. $799,000
Magnificent late 17th century “Hasbrouck House” country estate surrounded by 35 acres of pristine gardens. Architectural features preserved, systems updated, fully furnished with authentic period antiques. Six bedroom suites, carriage house, converted barn guesthouse, in ground 50x20 pool making it ideal for family compound or retreat. Presently operated as an Inn/Restaurant. Additional 117 acres can be purchased separately, $3,750,000.
William Slutzky
Nan Potter Licensed Real Estate Broker, GRI, CSP
Associate Broker
nanpotter@att.net
845-331-0898
PotterRealtyProperties.com upstate House | S U M M ER 2 0 1 3 • 49
A new way to look at Catskills real estate
FreeStyle REALTY Susan Barnett LICEnSEd SALESpERSon
Historic Uptown Kingston, Live/Work, $750,000 A unique opportunity to be a part of Ulster County’s hottest area. 6600 sf Wall Street address with View of the Beaverkill River from River Lodge, Roscoe, NY. retail, 3 BR loft apartment and 3rd Absolute Auctions & Realty, Inc. floor studio space plus additional bed and bath. Walk to restaurants ADVERTISING PLACEMENT FORM www.CountryHouseRealty.net Date June 6, 2013 and bus station - be in the heartToday’s of Account Number 46201 where it’s all happening! Freestyle Specializing in fine Upstate properties Publication Upstate House, Realty Exclusive. and fishingRalph realJenkins estate.
AARAuctions.com
Ad Section Display/Classified Publication Date Total Budget
Residential Real Estate – Ulster County Display 1/4 page 845.985.5116 Summer 2013 $425.00
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AUCTION 47 Hudson Hollow Road, Shokan, Ulster County, NY
Off Grid Luxury in Woodstock, $2.5M Imagine: 186 acres of stunning, protected property with meadows, mountains and forest and a massive open concept 3 BR barn-style home with solar power plus radiant heat. Huge, semi-finished lower area can be extra living space. Separate guest cottage and sauna/bath house. A retreat, a possible meeting center, a one of a kind refuge from the world, yet minutes to town. Freestyle Realty Exclusive.
845-514-5360
www.freestylerealty.com mywoodstockhome@gmail.com
Online Auction Ending July 31 @ 1:10PM Owner says ‘Sell!’ Spacious 5,888 square foot contemporary with soundproof recording studio plus rehearsal space. 4 Bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, cook’s kitchen, radiant heat, in-ground pool all on 2 acres. The smart way to buy real estate, free & clear of liens. No Minimum Starting Bid! For complete details & photos:
AARauction.com We Can SELL Yours! 800-243-0061
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Please Phone Jessica: (845) 635-3169 x104/ FAX (845) 635-5140 for quote prior to first ad. NOTE: We must have proof of ad insertion for each date of publication. Please provide fax copy
Zero Net Energy Homes
Now Being Built in New Paltz!
Sleek and Modern in the Hills of Austerlitz Tucked away on a quiet back road along the Taconic Mountain Range and bordering Massachusetts, Austerlitz is favored for its scenic vistas and low population density. Early settlers served in the Revolutionary War. What a contrast this modern and sleek contemporary offers on its 5 birch-studded acre setting. Hardwood floors, a wonderful wood-burning stove, master bedroom with Jacuzzi and sauna are just a few of the features this special light filled home has to offer. Lots of windows to capture the peaceful surroundings. Great deck for outdoor enjoyment. Attractive detached garage. Simply stunning. Near the Berkshires and all cultural and recreational activities. $429,900.
Grace A.
Post Realty Drinda Post, Licensed Real Estate Broker 871 Route 23, Hollowville, New York, 12540 (518) 851-7855 Office located 1/4 mile west of Taconic Parkway on Rt. 23 mail@gracepost.com www.gracepost.com
RHINEBECK’S LEADING
Only minutes to the village of New Paltz, The Preserve at Mountain Vista offers beautiful and affordable ENERGY STAR® rated Zero Net Energy Homes. Now being built by Greenhill Contracting, each home will be capable of producing more energy each year than it consumes. That means no Heat and Electric Bills!* There is still time to make some building and decorating choices!
Prices starting at $399,900 for 2350 sq.ft. 3BR/2.5Bath with full basement & 2-car garage! 2-10 Acres Lots.
New York ENERGY STAR® Certified Homes resonate with positive energy! High efficiency heating and cooling systems. Save Money and the Environment. Enhanced air-sealing and insulation. $23,500 TAX CREDITS now available to Buyer
CALL TODAY! 845-255-5634 www.GreenAcresNewPaltz.com
*ZNE is possible, but not guaranteed
REAL ESTATE OFFICE
YOUR SEARCH ENDS HERE www.northerndutchessrealty.com
$799,000
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Our new website is a premier real estate resource. Browse our interactive Gallery of Homes showcases. Experience properties “up close.” Stay informed about real estate trends. Whether you’re a buyer or a seller, let us put our expertise to work for you. ContactNorthern one ofDutchess our real professionals today. Realtyestate Website Gallery of Homes Exclusive Previews
Rhinebeck Village Unique! Historic Circa 1833 Mansion on National Register The Maples, a 21-room circa 1833 Greek Revival building listed on the National Register of Historic Homes, is currently a renovated medical office building. It has potential for conversion to a stately family residence, lodging or B&B. $997,000 For additional information: Contact Gail Lee: 845-546-2303 gaillee46@hotmail.com
FEATURES:
1.7 acres of land • 8140 square feet • Taxes $15,320 • Overall condition: Restored • 28 rooms • Bamboo and oak floors • Oil forced air heat and central air • Security system • Community water • One fireplace • Updates include roof, heating system, generator, interior/exterior paint, floors, oil tank, electric • 34 parking spaces
NORTHERN DUTCHESS REALTY INC. | 6423 MONTGOMERY STREET SUITE 5 | RHINEBECK, NY 12572 T: 845-876-8588
E: info@northerndutchessrealty.com
NORTHERN DUTCHESS REALTY INC. | 6423 MONTGOMERY STREET SUITE 5 | RHINEBECK, NEW YORK 12572 Phone 845-876-8588 Fax 845-876-0248 E-Mail info@northerndutchessrealty.com © 2012. All rights reserved
upstate House | S U M M ER 2 0 1 3 • 5 1
Exceptional Columbia County Property
GRAND COMFORTABLE HOME Expansive living areas have fine 1890’s detail including front door and staircase, elaborate mantels, classic trim, and ornate office ceiling. Includes light-filled dining area with cathedral ceiling, inground pool, and garage. Located in a hamlet of historic homes… $395,000
EARLY HOUSE AND CONVERTED BARN Beautifully updated home in historic Malden Bridge has lovely gardens and tall trees. Original house has living room with fireplace, sunny dining room, country kitchen, den, and master suite. Attached converted barn has two guest rooms and bath… $379,000
MID-CENTURY MODERN HOME IN PRIVATE PARK ON DEAD END ROAD Set among 23 acres of spectacular natural features the property includes a two-acre lake, a stream, massive rocky cliffs and outcroppings, and mature woods. The rambling 2,900 square foot house has a heated indoor swimming pool, a billiard room, a huge fireplace, and glass block windows typical of 1960s quality construction. The house has views of nature from every room... $585,000
CLASSIC SECLUDED FARMHOUSE Tastefully restored 1790 architectural gem with authentic early detail, three fireplaces and perfect proportions. A tranquil reminder of the peaceful life, privately located on a dead end road, with antique barn, huge old maples, stone fences, gardens, and abundant nature. Ten minutes to the Parkway and between Great Barrington and Hudson… $695,000
VILLAGE VICTORIAN Charming home with front porch, fireplace, two bedrooms and two baths on a quiet street… $195,000
WARREN STREET CHURCH Dramatic 9000 sf brick church in the heart of Hudson’s business district. Huge open spaces await a new project… $550,000
COUNTRY EYEBROW Early 1800s home, has living room fireplace, cook’s kitchen, three bedrooms, barn with shop, eight acres… $249,000
SIMPLE COUNTRY Cozy and light-filled, 19th century cottage with open lawns, a great old barn and a new studio or shop on a quiet rural road… $275,000
LAKE SIDE COTTAGE Charming three-level home sits directly on the water and has stunning views. Two (could be three) bedrooms, three baths, and barn/garage… $275,000
COUNTRY HIDEAWAY Private, contemporary three bedroom home has cathedral ceilings, skylights, woodstove, expansive decks, and heated pool… $295,000
FAMILY FARMHOUSE Five bedrooms, three baths two fireplaces, studio; on a country acre… $175,000
19TH CENTURY FARM 1820 Greek Revival farmhouse on 50 acres with barns, fields, woods, and stream… $485,000
Peggy Lampman real estate
602 Route 23B
PO Box 360
Claverack, New York www.peggylampman.com
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Patricia A. Hinkein Realty 19 Church Ave, Germantown, NY (518) 537-4888 www.hinkeinrealty.com Charming Germantown Farmhouse with separate studio space. Completely renovated 3 Br/2 B farmhouse features kit with marble countertops & soapstone sink, LR with exposed beams, wood flrs throughout, front porch, side deck & so much more. Finished studio space perfect for artist or work area with garage space in lower level. Landscaped grounds. Fenced private backyard. Seasonal Catskill Mountain views. $339,000
Germantown Farmhouse on 34 acres with a combination of open/wooded land, stream & barns all located on a quiet country road. This 5 BR/4B light filled house features, large renovated kit, formal DR with bay, LR with fplc, double FR, den, wood floors, wonderful front porch, large back deck. A country retreat with farm potential. $675,000
1890 Centerhall on 2.8 private acres bordered by a year round stream. This 4 BR/2B house features wood floors, LR with fplc, tin ceiling in study, Country Kit, formal DR wonderful heated sunroom overlooking backyard & stream, & large open front porch. Desirable country location. Only minutes to Hudson, Amtrak & Bard. $349,000
Recently renovated Eyebrow Colonial in charming country hamlet setting on just under an acre of land. Wideboard flrs throughout, LR with beamed ceiling, light filled DR, updated Kit, 2 BR & 2 baths. Many recent improvements throughout the house. Only minutes to Hudson & all its amenities. $174,900
Over Three Decades of
Representing
Fine Country Properties in the
Hudson River Valley Millbrook, NY 12545 • (845) 677-9822
www.heathercronerrealestate.com
upstate House | S U M M ER 2 0 1 3 • 5 3
This landmark building at the intersection of Rte 376 & 52 in East Fishkill was constructed circa 1740 and has
had several incarnations over its lifespan. Currently it serves as a restaurant featuring 3 dining rooms, bar and
outdoor seating. The 2nd floor has large banquet room, office and cold storage. Although it currently functions as a restaurant, happily the owners have been good stewards - respecting all of the period details making this
real estate offering equally ideal as a location for a professional office, B&B, or grand homestead asking 519,900
RECOGNIZED BY WHO’S WHO IN LUXURY REAL ESTATE
J AMESON H ILL FARM ~ C LINTON C ORNERS, NY Charming 1890 Farmhouse with nearly 80 acres of beautiful farm land on both sides of a country road features exposed beam ceilings, wood floors and an antique fireplace. The renovated, one bedroom cottage is ideal for guests or as a rental. In addition, the property is equipped for horses with paddocks, a turn-out shed, barns and two ponds. Situated in a private country location a short distance from Millbrook. $875,000. Call Marie-Laure Collins (845) 677-5311.
hwguernsey.com A Heritage of Fine Homes and Property H W
GUERNSEY
R E A LT O R S , I N C .
S INCE 1908
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Millbrook 845-677-5311 So. Columbia County 518-398-5344
Rhinebeck, the “Jewel of the Hudson,” combines the amenities of country living with the sophistication of an upscale area steeped in history, culture and the arts, fine dining, boutique shops and an abundance of recreational activities. Discover the treasures & unique lifestyle.
THE AT RHINEBECK Starting in the mid
$200,000
‘s
• Single-Level & 2-Story Living • No Step Entry Exteriors
• Wolf All Wood Cabinetry • Clubhouse with Fitness Center
• One-Car Garage & Storage Area
• Swimming Pool
• Spray Foam Insulation
• Walk to Village & Park
• Hardie Plank Lap Siding • Fully-Applianced GE Kitchens
• Tennis Courts • Low Taxes
LIMITED-TIME SPECIAL INCENTIVE PROGRAMS 2012 Hudson Valley Builders Association Pinnacle Award Winner
BROKERS WELCOME
www.GardensAtRhinebeck.com
11AM-5PM Thurs-Mon by appointment also
Gardens Model Office 301 Ivy Trail Rhinebeck, NY 12572
845-516-4261
The complete terms are in an offering plan available from the sponsor. All elevations and room dimensions are for illustrative purposes and are for approximations only. The complete terms are in an offering plan available from the sponsor. File number CD12-0051. Advertising by AJRoss © 2013 www.ajross.com
Le Grand Real Estate, Inc. 4 Enterprise Dr., Rhinebeck, NY • (845) 876-2630 • www.legrandrealty.com • e-mail: legrandinc@aol.com
Milan Historic stage stop 1850’s stage stop. 9 bedrooms on 60 acres with beautiful 5 acre pond, 4 rented bungalows. Was formerly a boys summer camp and a retreat for the Metropolitan Opera. Needs TLC but a great buy. Just off the Taconic Parkway. Offered at $695,000.
red Hook estate House 4 bedroom custom colonial on 8 private acres. 4,500 square feet, top quality, custom built by area’s master builder. Walking distance to village. Granite counter tops, top grade appliances and wood floors. In-ground pool, barns and outbuildings. Offered @ 899,000.
red Hook Like new town house at The Fairways Golf Community. An exceptional unit in a quiet section of this lovely complex. 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, wood floors, nice kitchen with granite countertops. Full basement offered @ $338,000 close to Taconic Parkway, Red Hook Schools.
clerMont FarM Located in historic Clermont just over the border from Dutchess Co. Has 95 acres of land with Catskill views and a charming 1900’s 4 bedroom eyebrow colonial with ample road frontage. Large barn and outbuildings. Estate needs some TLC but a great value offered at $695,000.
Milan Large 3 bedroom ranch, stone fireplace, wood floors & two car attached garage on 3 acres with 500 feet LAKE FRONTAGE on small private lake, great for swimming or boating. Priced to sell @ 297,500.
Milan Historic 6 bedroom colonial farm house, with original detail retained, on 150 acres. Land is beautiful and home is in excellent condition and subdividable. Has large barns and outbuildings as well as a tennis court. Close to Taconic parkway and 5 minutes from Rhinebeck. Priced right at $1,790,000.
Visit us at www.legrandrealty.com • e-mail: legrandinc@aol.com upstate House | S U M M ER 2 0 1 3 • 5 5
CHOICE COLONIAL IN SOPHISTICATED AREA Located on a dead end tree lined street with median, feels like a hidden location. This charming 3 bedroom 2 bath home has hardwood floors, fireplace, family room with beamed ceiling, screened porch overlooking inground pool and two car garage. A fantastic Buy, So Hurry! $289,900
KINGSTON, NY
UPTOWN GEM! Absolutely charming, totally renovated home. Rocking chair front porch leads to a spacious foyer, new kitchen with granite counters, living room, dining room, tons of natural light, hardwood floors, 3 bedrooms and bath with walkup attic. Great house, Great price. $165,000
KINGSTON, NY
PATTY CONTI REALTY GROUP
“EXPERTISE YOU CAN TRUST”
845-340-4480 70 Main Street, Kingston, New York 12401
INDEX OF ADVERTISERS A.O.K. Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Ghent Wood Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
New York Designer Fabric Outlet . . . . . . . 13
Absolute Auction & Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Glenn’s Wood Sheds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Nine Yards Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
After the Barn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Grace A. Post Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Northern Dutchess Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Alfalla’s Well Drilling and Pumps . . . . . . . . 31
Granite Factory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Patricia A. Hinkein Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Alfandre Architecture, PC . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
H.W. Guernsey Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Patty Conti Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Allen Ross Architecture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Halstead Property . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Peaslee Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Amy Krane Color . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Heather Croner Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Peggy Lampman Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Ashokan Architecture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Helen Coyle Bergstein . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Phinney Design Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Associated Lightning Rod Co. . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Herzogs True Value Home Center . . . . . . . . 7
R.J. Smith Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Atlantic Custom Homes . . . . . . . Back Cover
Hometown Bank of the Hudson Valley . . . . 1
Richard Miller, AIA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Augustine Landscaping & Nursery . . . . . . . 31
Hudson Solar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Rundle & Long . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Bee Works Biz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union . . . . . . 2
Snorkel Hot Tubs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Bialecki Architects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Hudson Valley Sunrooms . . . . . . . . . . . . . 06
SUNY Ulster . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Cabinet Designers, Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Irace Architecture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Susan Barnett-Freestyle Realty . . . . . . . . . 50
Coldwell Banker Village Green Realty . . . . 47
Kevin Gremli Construction Co. . . . . . . . . . . 9
Terra Tile . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Country House Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Kingston Farmers’ Market . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Ulster Savings Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Dermasave Labs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Le Grand Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Vineyard Commons . . . . . Inside Back Cover
Domus Studios . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Mari Kirwood Design Associates . . . . . . . . 15
Wall Street Abstract . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 03
Eco Architecture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Mark James & Co. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
WCW Kitchens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Evolve Design Gallery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Marlys Hann Architect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Wendie Reid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Four Seasons Realty Group . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Mary Collins Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Westwood Metes & Bounds Realty . . . . . . 44
Gardens at Rhinebeck . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Mercer Interior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Westwood Metes & Bounds Realty . . . . . . 45
Gary Dimauro Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Murphy Realty Group, Mary M. Orapello . . 49
Will III . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Gate House Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
N&S Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Williams Lumber . . . . . . . Inside Front Cover
George Cole Auctioneers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Nan Potter Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Willow Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
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Uncommon Rentals. Unmatched Luxury.
Under New Management!
VINEYARD COMMONS Highland, NY
Welcome to Vineyard Commons. The luxury, maintenance-free rental community for active adults (55+). We offer several floor plans in two and three-bedroom designs, including granite countertops, 9 ft. ceilings and wood laminate floors. Our Resident Amenities Include: Indoor pool and spa, fitness center, tennis courts, walking trail and putting green, theater and gourmet restaurant. We’re located in the heart of the scenic Hudson River Valley, where you can easily explore Woodbury Commons, New Paltz, Rhinebeck, Woodstock, Hyde Park, Poughkeepsie and the many wineries, shops and area attractions. Visit Vineyard Commons today
and you’ll agree, it’s as far from common as apartment living can be.
(914) 610-3662 • www.VineyardCommonsNY.com 300 Vineyard Avenue • Highland, New York 12528
modern
Elements of Lindal Living Innovating since 1945, Lindal is uniquely modern. Extensive portfolio of fresh, modern home designs Lindal is the exclusive producer of the Turkel Design homes for the Dwell Homes Collection At home in a remote wooded setting or urban context Expansive window walls and open living areas
As the leading producer of system-built homes, Lindal is uniquely warm. Sun-drenched post and beam homes, crafted of natural materials Lifetime structural warranty The first Green Approved building system by the NAHB Research Center Select from existing plans, personalize a Lindal plan or design a custom home
To learn more about Lindal...Call 1-888-558-2636, visit our web sites or our offices located in Cold Spring, NY.
Atlantic Custom Homes 2785 Route 9 Cold Spring, NY 10516 888-558-2636 ach@highlands.com www.lindalny.com www.facebook.com/atlantichomes