Shelter Summer 2016 LOW RES

THE HAMPTONS | BUILD BUY DESIGN 

Premiere Issue Summer 2016 

ShelterTheHamptons.com 

A New Wave of Speculative Builders 

Black Barns | Inside Katie Lee’s Kitchen 

ShelterTheHamptons.com SHELTER Summer 2016 1

MODERN ARCHITECTURE 

& INTERIOR DESIGN 

www.mojostumer.com | 516.625.3344 | Greenvale, NY

SHELTER—CONTENTS 

DEPARTMENTS 

ILLUMINATION Bling for the Home—10 

FIXTURE PERFECT Fabulous Faucets—14 

WELL HUNG The Impact of Well-Placed Art—18 

INNER WORKINGS Hamptons Bathroom 

Roundtable—22 

INSIDER LOOK Kitchen Confidential—26 

OUTER WORKINGS Shingle Style—30 

SPLURGE A Grand Slam—32 

ON THE BOARDS Bittersweet Build—34 

RENOVATION Pierre Expands to Give 

Sagaponack a French Twist—38 

RANT Bring Back the Rake—86 

ON THE COVER 

190 Fowler Street, Southampton 

Architect: Blaze Makoid 

Builder: J Bialsky 

THE SUITE—42 

FEATURES 

THE AUTEURS—46 

The New Crop of Visionaries Behind the Latest Building Trend 

THE BARN GROWS UP—56 

Building His Own House Inspired a New Direction in Designer Mark 

Zeff’s Career, and Launched His Lifestyle Brand, BLACKBARN 

STYLE MAVENS—62 

Designers Speak to the Hamptons Aesthetic 

LANDSCAPE MAKEOVER—68 

A ‘50s Bungalow Gets a Facelift 

COLUMNS 

THE CUSTOM BUILDING DILEMMA—16 

THE ZEN OF CLOSING—84 

DIRECTORY LISTINGS—74 

ANTHONY GEORGE 

WATER MILL 

• NEW YORK 

734 Montauk Highway 

631.726.0683 

www.anthonygeorgetile.com 

4 SHELTER Summer 2016 ShelterTheHamptons.com ShelterTheHamptons.com SHELTER Summer 2016 5

ROSEHIPPARTNERS 

REAL ESTATE 

140 Egypt Lane, East Hampton 

Exclusive 

The Hampton’s only boutique real estate agency, 

offering the highest level of personalised services. 

ROSEHIP PARTNERS REAL ESTATE 

3 Railroad Avenue - East Hampton - NY 

631-324-0009 

www.hamptonsproperties.com 

www.hamptonsrentals.com 

Serving Long Island Since 1980 

CUSTOM BUILDING AND RENOVATING 

from the Hamptons & North Fork in Suffolk to Nassau County 

631-731-3030

SHELTER 

Publisher 

Gary Glanz 

Editor 

Debra Scott 

Co-Founder 

Joseph Blatz 

Creative Director 

Paul Domzal 

Contributing Editor 

Ed Krug 

Contributing Writers 

Jonathan Smith 

Harold Clark 

Esperanza Leon 

Published by 

Apples2Apples 

Southampton, NY 

631.875.9061 

www.A2A.house 


PUBLISHER’S LETTER 

Another Hamptons magazine, really? 

Having worked in the Hamptons luxury home industry since 2008, I came to three 

startling observations: 

Cox 

INTE R IOR, 

INC. 

HATFIELD, PA 1-800-733-1751 WWW.COXINTERIOR.COM 

• It’s a $4.5 billion annual market. 

• Fewer than 4,000 real estate transactions take place each year in the Hamptons. 

• No publication is covering the industry from an insider’s perspective. 

That $4.5 billion is huge—more than half of the entire US telecommunications industry, 

i.e. mobile phones. Or larger than the GDP of 36 countries. And it’s all being transacted 

within a 20-mile radius of Sag Harbor. So yes, there is more than enough room for a 

magazine focused on the South Fork’s design and building process and the people 

behind it. You will see that we have taken a peek behind the proverbial curtain to reveal 

the inner workings. We’re not just a pretty face. 

You most likely found this in your mailbox or it was handed to you by an industry insider. 

Allow yourself to be flattered. We have specifically targeted you as someone who is in the 

market for a home or looking to build or renovate. Hence, you won’t find copies piled up 

in a doorway near you. 

What follows is the debut issue of SHELTER, which focuses on the ascendancy of luxury 

speculative building. We examine what we are calling the auteur phenomenon, whereby 

builders are hiring top notch architects to create multi-million dollar “custom” homes for 

which there is as yet no buyer. As usual, the Hamptons are ahead of that curve. 

We hope you enjoy this first of three issues to be published in the next six months, and 

look forward to hearing from you. 

—Gary Glanz 

from Dreams 

to Traditions. 

10 SHELTER Summer 2016 ShelterTheHamptons.com

ASK RAPHAEL ABOUT PERELLO BUILDING CO. 

ILLUMINATION 

BLING FOR 

THE HOME 

Sag Harbor Designer Gets Her Glow On. 

Artist Rendering 

119 Newlight Lane, Bridgehampton Lot 1 | $5,995,000 

7 bedrooms, 7 baths, 5,000 sf, 1.38 acres. Web# H50251 

Sag Harbor lighting designer Helen Gifford regards lighting as 

jewelry for the home. In an East Hampton manse, her seven-foot 

long pendant, Upstream, hovers like an illuminated necklace above 

a long table. In Sagaponack her large-scale—three to four feet— 

spherical fixtures hold court like tiaras in a grand entry hall. At an 

estate section Southampton house a gem-like piece dangles like an 

earring. 

With a degree in environmental design, Gifford uses recycled 

steel and glass and repurposed incandescent flame-tip light bulbs. 

Designing and building most pieces herself, she sources a local 

welder, glass blower and electrician, all within a 10-mile radius. 

Artist Rendering 

While most of her designs are custom, thus “limitless,” the 

former model sells three lines through her website. The sculptural 

forms of her Urchin series, architectural lines of her Concord collection, 

and glimmering glass of her Vidro line will bling out any 

home. {S} helenbilt.com 

135 Newlight Lane, Bridgehampton Lot 2 | $6,495,000 

7 bedrooms, 7 baths, 5,500 sf, 1.62 acres. Web# H50245 

RAPHAEL AVIGDOR 

Lic. Assoc. R.E. Broker 

O: 631.204.2740 | C: 917.991.1077 

raphael.avigdor@elliman.com 

JAMES PEYTON 

Lic. R.E. Salesperson 

O: 631.204.2738 | C: 917.882.5589 

james.peyton@elliman.com 

KNOWN GLOBALLY. LOVED LOCALLY. 

12 SHELTER Summer 2016 ShelterTheHamptons.com 

Photo Eric Striffler 

2488 MAIN ST, P.O. BOX 1251, BRIDGEHAMPTON, NY 11932. 631.537.5900 | © 2016 DOUGLAS ELLIMAN REAL ESTATE. ALL MATERIAL PRESENTED HEREIN IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATION PURPOSES ONLY. WHILE, THIS INFORMATION IS BELIEVED TO BE CORRECT, IT IS REPRESENTED SUBJECT TO ERRORS, OMISSIONS, CHANGES OR WITHDRAWAL WITHOUT NOTICE. ALL 

PROPERTY INFORMATION, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO SQUARE FOOTAGE, ROOM COUNT, NUMBER OF BEDROOMS AND THE SCHOOL DISTRICT IN PROPERTY LISTINGS ARE DEEMED RELIABLE, BUT SHOULD BE VERIFIED BY YOUR OWN ATTORNEY, ARCHITECT OR ZONING EXPERT. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY.

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opening to large deck, waterview master suite, 3 additional bedroons, fully finished lower level opening to bluestone patio. Green design, energy 

efficient, highest quality finishes and fixtures. 

REBEKAH BAKER 

Licensed Salesperson 

d: 631.907.8468 c: 631.258.5991 

rebekah.baker@sothebyshomes.com 

EAST HAMPTON BROKERAGE 

6 Main Street I East Hampton, NY 11937 I 631.324.6000 

Local experts worldwide 

sothebyshomes.com/hamptons 

Sotheby’s International Realty and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered (or unregistered) service marks used with permission. Operated by Sotheby’s International Realty, Inc. 

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FIXTURE PERFECT 

Fabulous Faucets 

ESTATE CRED 

If your look is classical, you can’t go wrong 

with the Lefroy Brooks Classic wall shower. 

It has instant estate home credibility. 

CLASS ACT 

The Perrin & Rowe bridge faucet is an 

elegant kitchen fixture that can swing traditional 

or transitional. Whatever your style, 

it’s a real class act. 

CRYSTAL CLEAN 

The classic styling of Michael Smith’s For 

Town faucet by Kallista pairs beautifully with 

the crisp crystal cross handles. Like jewelry, it 

should be delivered in a velvet box! 

DECO DECADENCE 

From retro company Lefroy Brooks comes 

this ‘30s-inspired Mackintosh faucet, boasting 

a blend of clean lines and soft details. It 

can play with any architecture. 

Curated by JENNIFER MABLEY and AUSTIN HANDLER, the wife and husband team behind Water Mill’s Mabley Handler Interior Design. 


THE CUSTOM BUILDING DILEMMA 

A New Company Promises to Save Homeowners Their Money and Sanity. 

by Gary T. Glanz 

So you want to build your dream house? I’m here with a solution to a huge issue facing you—the lack 

of communication between your architect and builder. Here’s how it typically works... 

THE PROBLEM 

The architect interviews the client and 

builds a wishlist of fabulous features that 

the new home will include: finished lower 

level, wine cellar, guest suite, swimming 

pool, pool house, pergola, outdoor kitchen, 

media room, gym, sauna. The list goes 

on and on. At some point in this process 

the architect and the client “settle” on 

a budget. However, since the architect 

does not know what things cost—yes, 

you heard that right—and does not want 

to be the bearer of bad news, the budget 

frequently takes backseat to the wish list. 

“SINCE THE ARCHITECT DOES NOT 

KNOW WHAT THINGS COST, THE 

BUDGET FREQUENTLY TAKES BACK- 

SEAT TO THE WISH LIST.” 

Next, plans are drawn and a builder (or 

builders) is asked to price the job. The 

estimate comes back, frequently inflated 

to protect the builder (from known 

unknowns) and a project that was “budgeted” 

for $2.5 million comes in at $3.2 

million. 


“A PROJECT THAT WAS BUDGETED 

FOR $2.5 MILLION COMES IN AT 

$3.2 MILLION.” 

What to do? Options include removing 

items, reducing the square footage, 

canceling or delaying the project. Time 

drags on. The project is delayed. Plans are 

redrawn by the architect eliciting no compensation, 

and the builder is asked for a 

new unpaid estimate. No one is happy— 

architect, builder, especially you. 

THE SOLUTION 

A new company has emerged to form a 

liaison among all parties. Apples2Apples 

(named for the process of getting subcontractors 

bids in line with one another) 

works with architects to achieve accurate 

pricing estimates during the design process 

rather than waiting until after it goes 

to bid. By involving A2A in the process 

from the start, the true costs of construction 

are known, thus eliminating the 

client’s disappointment and the architect’s 

and builder’s unpaid frustration. Oh, and 

the client saves significant money and 

time. {S} 

SHELTER ISLAND MAKEOVER 

Last summer A2A was hired by a 

prominent national environmental 

Not For Profit group (NFP) for a project 

on Shelter Island. The structure, 

needed new bathrooms, bedrooms, 

a kitchen extension, an elevator 

and the re-creation of a grand front 

porch. 

The NFP needed four things: a 

realistic estimate; detailed specifications 

to ensure accurate bids; 

multiple bidders to ensure fairness, 

and assurance that the winning bid 

would be at or below the original 

estimate. A2A worked with architect 

and 7 builders and was successful 

in providing all requirements. The 

winning bid was indeed under the 

original estimate. The project is 

nearing completion in time for the 

annual fundraiser in July. Smooth 

sailing the whole way. 

Food 

Shelter 

Water 

DESIGN/BUILD 

CONCEPT TO COMPLETION 

LANDSCAPE RENOVATION EXPERTS 

50 Hill Street #285, Southampton 

pembrookefinelandscapes.com 

(631) 909-2558

WELL HUNG 

THE IMPACT OF 

WELL-PLACED ART 

Photo courtesy of ARTSOLAR 

by Esperanza Leon 

Walls need art. Artworks are aesthetic 

markers that can guide people through a 

space, providing moments of pause or exhilaration. 

They also reflect a homeowner’s 

taste, intellect, and lifestyle. No matter the 

potential challenges posed by a structure’s 

interiors—sweeping or angular, ornate 

or austere—well-selected and properly 

placed art will enliven the space. 

Art collector and founder of Hamptons 

Contemporary, Rick Friedman, has 

amassed a collection of 250 museumquality 

artworks. In looking to buy a 

house, he “looked for a 40-foot wall that 

I could light for black-and-white works on 

paper dating from 1940 to 1960 including 

Willem de Kooning, Jackson Pollock and 

Henri Matisse.” 

“THE NEW BREED OF HAMPTONS 

HOMES BOASTS BOTH ENORMOUS 

WINDOWS TO FRAME OUTSIDE 

VISTAS AND GENEROUS WALLS TO 

DISPLAY ART.” 

GET THE PICTURE 

In my work with homes on the market, I 

take into account architectural and décor 

elements, which translate into a certain 

aesthetic. A farmhouse might lend itself 

to contemporary figurative and landscape 

works. Trim-heavy interiors will be complemented 

by traditional gilt-framed canvases, 

but will also shine with an eclectic 

collection of contemporary works loosely 

based on a landscape theme. The harder 

edges of a contemporary residence call for 

highly geometric and graphic pieces, while 

mixed media works with unconventional 

materials will add texture and color to 

soften the severity of the space. 

relationships 

TRACI ROBINSON 

brokers 

Real estate agents affiliated with The Corcoran Group are independent contractor sales associates and are not employees of The Corcoran Group. The Corcoran 

Traci robinson 

Lic. assoc. re broKer 

sag Harbor office 

RELATIONSHIPS – it’s one of many 

qualities that make Traci 

one of real estate’s premier 

agents. Let Corcoran Agent 

Traci Robinson help you find and 

secure the home of your dreams. 

Call 631.525.6319 today or write 

trobinson@corcoran.com 

corcoran.com 

20 SHELTER Summer 2016 ShelterTheHamptons.com Group is a licensed real estate broker located at 660 Madison Ave, NY, NY 10065. Licensed as Traci D Robinson - Lic. Assoc RE Broker. 

ShelterTheHamptons.com SHELTER Summer 2016 21 

live who you are

Get out on the water! 

Photos Paul Domzal/EdgeMediaProd.com 

Rather than harmonize the art with the décor—matching 

the painting with the sofa, 

so to speak—think of your art as a way to 

enhance its surroundings, perhaps even 

dictate a color scheme or style rather than 

the other way around. “Art brings an extra 

dimension into the room, be it color, story, 

or structure,” says Rima Mardoyan-Smyth, 

a noted fine artist and realtor with Brown 

Harris Stevens.” 

HANGING BY NUMBERS 

The way the art is displayed is as important 

as the selection. A casual beach 

house might call for a collection of small to 

medium-size works on paper (watercolors, 

drawings, prints, photographs) grouped 

informally—salon style—in various areas, 

and two or three large statement pieces 

in key locations like above a sofa or in 

a dining area. A formal estate would 

benefit from several strong paintings in 

such prominent places as an entryway or 

topping a mantel, and symmetry in the 

hanging. 

I do not like sticking to rules, though, 

and often insert pieces like punctuation 

marks, injecting humor or mischief with 

unconventional subject matter that might 

not seem to fit a staid traditional space, 

or emphasizing a small bathroom with 

a large striking piece. The main point is 

that there should be a flow. Artworks, like 

words, should steer you along or provide a 

sensation. 

Sculptural work further defines and 

elevates a space and is not as difficult 

to display as people believe. I treat small 

sculpture as I would any object, such as a 

bowl or a book, and display it casually on 

a coffee table, shelf, or mantle. Sculpture 

coexists with the architecture, furniture, 

objects, and landscape to make things 

less mundane. 

NATURAL SELECTION 

In the Hamptons the views of nature are 

of equal importance to the art on the 

walls. The new breed of Hamptons’ homes 

boasts both enormous windows to frame 

outside vistas and generous walls to display 

art. I like to find art to reflect natural 

surroundings by hanging a Dalton Portella 

photograph representing a wood similar 

to that seen through the sliding door; 

or a María Schön paining portraying an 

abstracted ocean and sky in a house near 

the beach, or an Aurelio Torres’ rustic 

abstracted sailboat beside a fireplace near 

Gardiner’s Bay. 

Anna Cléjan of developers Modern- 

NetZero says the firm strives to invite 

nature into the homes they design by having 

many large windows along perimeter 

walls, balanced by interior walls placed 

to create a sense of comfort, security and 

warmth. “The art is what gives the interior 

space movement, emotion and character.” 

{S} 

Art curator and consultant ESPERANZA 

LEON has studied the display of art for 

nearly two decades while working with 

museums, galleries, and private collectors. 

She currently advises builders, architects 

and realtors seeking to add aesthetic value 

to a residential structure. 

Make this summer matter. 

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The Shagwong Marina, East Hampton 

The Surf Lodge, Montauk 

www.paddlediva.com 

631-329-2999 

Paddle Diva Watersports 

Gurney’s Hotel in Montauk 

www.gurneysmontauk.com 

631-668-2345 


INNER WORKINGS 

HAMPTONS BATHROOM 

ROUNDTABLE 

Home Designer KRISTEN FARRELL, of Farrell 

Building Company, Hosted a Roundtable on 

Hamptons Bathroom Trends for SHELTER at 

One of Her Company’s Houses on the Former 

Polo Field at Two Trees Farm. 

PANEL: TONY GEORGE AND SAMANTHA RIZZO ANTHONY GEORGE 

(TILE AND STONE) TOM PEREZ TOM PEREZ FINE CABINETRY 

NANCY DAVIS FIXTURES AND FITTINGS GINA HICKEY GREEN ART 

KITCHEN BATH HOME DAVID HORNUNG AND ANGELO VARISCHETTI 

D&J DESIGNS BILLY O’NEILL COMPASS 

Size Matters 

A wow-size master bathroom is a must to allow a couple to change 

outfits several times a day. —O’Neill 

Color It Beautiful 

We like to provide a clean palette and let people add color with the 

wallpaper. —Farrell 

People want white with a little pop of color, which is very French. 

—Davis 

Metallica 

Polished nickel is big right now. —Davis 

We’ve been going with chrome because it’s important to us that the 

metals match. —Farrell 

I’m seeing both metals. People are using unique subtle finishes like 

antique nickel. —Perez 

Boob Tube 

Robern sells a TV embedded straight into the medicine chest. 

—Farrell 

The man needs to know what’s going on. —Davis 

Declutter Device 

People want an in-shower medicine chest so they don’t see 26 

bottles of hair products. —Davis 

Infinity drains in wet rooms give a clean, smooth look from bathroom 

floor to shower floor and can be tucked under a free-floating 

bench. —Farrell 

Hot and Steamy 

Steam showers provide health benefits for circulation and breathing. 

—Hickey 

We’ve been putting them in our bathrooms for 20 years. We put 

stone benches in every one that allows for it. —Farrell 

Loos News 

Wall carrier toilet bowls comes straight out from the wall, no base, 

very European. —Davis 

The Toto from Neorest—it buffs, it dries, it’s a bidet, it flushes itself. 

It even talks to you. —Farrell 

Vanity Fair 

I’m seeing a lot of natural wood in cabinets—white oak and ash— 

and light natural finishes. There’s slight texture to it, it’s finished but 

has a coarse grain. —Perez 

Pull Their Weight 

Knobs are out. People are getting unique pulls—they’re almost an 

architectural statement. —Perez 

Get Stoned 

90 percent of our business is marble. —Rizzo 

Over the Top 

Sconces of course, but chandeliers are definitely huge right now. 

—Davis 

Rub-a-Dub 

I think people are putting in freestanding tubs more for looks than 

actually using them. —Hickey 

As you get older they’re hard to get in and out of! —Davis 

You’re All Wet 

Wet rooms—entire shower rooms—are hot. —Davis 

Not the traditional white and gray marbles, but more in the light 

blue family. —George 

Dolomite is hot right now. —Davis 

Younger clients are loving slate and black tile. —Rizzo 

Raindrops Falling on my Head 

We put rain-heads in oversize master baths that call for an extra 

design element. —Farrell 

But they’re sometimes problematic. —Farrell 


Bathroom from Farrell house at 50 Bridgefield Road, Southampton; photo above Geir Magnusson 


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INSIDER LOOK 

Cookbook author and TV personality Katie Lee is gearing up for 

her new show, Beach Bites, which premieres this month on the 

Cooking Channel. The series is about her two favorite things— 

cooking and the Hamptons. Well, not just the Hamptons—she does 

venture to other beach-y locales from St. Thomas to Mackinack 

Island, but, of course, she features some of her favorite Hamptons 

recipes. 

The house’s interiors were designed by Lee’s close friend Nate 

Berkus, the interior designer/TV star known for his home makeovers. 

“He is a genius and always knows exactly the right thing to 

do to make it all come together,” says Lee. 

The dynamic West Virginia-raised chef loves her indoor kitchen 

—but that didn’t stop her from building an outdoor one too. “So 

much of living in the Hamptons is outside.” The outdoor space 

includes “a great grill” (Wolf), gas burner and commercial grade 

pizza oven “just like in restaurants.” 

“I’m obsessed with my pizza oven,” says Lee, who actually 

attended “pizza school” to learn how to use it. The chef makes traditional 

Neapolitan pizzas in the gas or commercial grade gas and 

wood-fired Woodstone oven, which reaches up to 900 degrees. But 

she doesn’t limit it to baking pizza. The petite beauty has been 

Kitchen Confidential 

Cookbook Author and TV Personality KATIE LEE Took Us on a Personal 

Tour of the Indoor and Outdoor Kitchens in Her Water Mill Home. 

known to pile clams and mussels in a big cast iron pot with fresh 

tomatoes, garlic, basil, white wine into the pizza oven—buonissimo! 

“The mussels and clams open up, releasing all their juices. 

It’s wonderful.” She also roasts whole fish, steak and garlic bread in 

the pizza oven. “It’s been a great addition to my kitchen.” 

A fire enthusiast, Lee also built a fire pit outdoors surrounded 

by comfy seating. “We sit around the fire, have an after dinner 

Photo Jake Rajs 

Photo Miki Duisterhof 

drink and just hang out.” For her landscaping she used Groundworks 

in East Hampton. 

Lee is also thrilled with her indoor kitchen, which comes with a 

big stone Island where her guests can grab a glass of wine and a 

bar stool and join her as she cooks. It features all Wolf appliances 

including three ovens and two dishwashers. There’s a wine cellar 

in the basement that holds more than 2,000 bottles. “It’s nowhere 

near full!” 

Her kitchen is also the repository of her collections. “I love dishes, 

especially vintage. I’m always buying them,” Lee says. She also 

collects vintage linens and teacups. “And I don’t even drink a lot 

of tea!” Her shelves are so brimming with collectibles that she has 

put a moratorium on her purchases. Meanwhile, she adores mixing 

plain white dinner plates with patterned pieces. 

But mainly Lee uses her kitchen as a place to be with friends 

and family. “Many of my favorite childhood memories are in my 

grandma’s kitchen. It was where I first learned to cook, where we 

gathered around the table to share meals and stories of our days 

and laugh. I try to recreate that same spirit in my kitchen.” 

While her gorgeous 7,000 square foot traditional home, which 

sits on two acres, was recently on the market, Lee pulled it off and 

has decided to stay put—for now. “I had a change of heart. I love 

the house. For now it is where I want to be.” And where she holds 

court in both of her kitchens. {S} 

Photo Jake Rajs 


“I think of the building process as a pyramid, at the top is a clear 

understanding the client’s goals, the second level is creating 

a realistic budget and timeline, and the third is implementing 

the best resources the industry has to offer.” 

Let Us Elevate Your “PHQ” 

(your Personal Happiness Quotient) 

• Award-winning pool design 

• 30 years experience 

• Custom installations 

• Hydropool Hot Tubs 

• Helo Saunas 

• Infinity Massage Chairs 

Joseph brings a deep respect and appreciation for the building arts culled from 

his 25 years of working on the east end as a craftsman, builder and entrepreneur. 

Please contact us to discuss your next project. 

Joseph Blatz 

General Contracting 

Renovations 

Additions 

New Building 

joseph@buildingartsinc.com 

www.buildingartsinc.com 

(631) 806 2982 

45 Hampton Rd 

Southampton, NY 11968 

(631) 283-2837 

doug@harborhottubs.com 


OUTER WORKINGS 

SHINGLE STYLE 

Olde Town, Southampton, courtesy of Kean Development 

Jonathan Smith is an historic house enthusiast and a licensed real 

estate agent at Sotheby’s International Realty in Southampton, NY. 

“DURING THE 1999 RENOVATION OF THE HALSEY HOUSE IN 

SOUTHAMPTON VILLAGE, SHINGLES WERE REMOVED FROM 

THE GABLES THAT DATED BACK TO 1730.” 

Visitors to the Hamptons often remark on the pleasing aesthetic 

that typifies “Hamptons-style” houses. Think: steep twin gables, a 

broad stance and multiple roof planes. But without question, wooden 

shingle siding is the ubiquitous trait that says Hamptons like no 

other. And its regional use stretches back over four centuries. 

Wood coverings on exterior walls is a feature that exemplifies 

the American Colonial style of the earliest houses built on the East 

End, although until the 18th century the long planks of the clapboard 

style were preferred over shingles. Robert Hefner, Director 

of Historical Services in the Village of East Hampton, notes that the 

first shingles started to appear in the mid 1700s, but they were dissimilar 

to those that are common in the trade today. These original 

shingles were regularly three feet in length, and made of old growth 

pine rather than cedar. 

With only a single coat of paint for protection, these early 

shakes were expected to last long beyond the life of the homeowner. 

Amazingly, during the 1999 renovation of the Halsey House in 

Southampton Village, shingles were removed from the gables that 

dated back to 1730. 

Pine is rarely used today for exterior applications because new 

growth pine has a propensity to rot quickly when exposed to the 

elements. Since its introduction from the South in 1820, and possibly 

coinciding with the advent of steam-powered sawmills, cedar 

has increasingly become the wood of choice for siding and today is 

used almost exclusively. Since many varieties of cedar have exceptional 

resistance to moisture, the shift from pine marked the beginning 

of a slow progression away from painted shingles towards the 

more natural weathered look of today. 

“SHINGLE LOOKS FANTASTIC ON ALL TYPES OF HAMP- 

TONS HOUSES—FROM THE TRADITIONAL DUTCH GAM- 

BREL, TO TRANSITIONAL BARNS, EVEN MINIMALIST 

ULTRA-MODERN HOMES.” 

Over the last hundred years homeowners have shown a preference 

for Western Red Cedar, which ages to the dark reddish black that 

is characteristic of historic houses throughout New England, from 

Montauk to Kittery Point. However, as is often the case with natural 

resources, overuse and a resulting scarcity of Western Red Cedar 

has led to a change in building techniques and a corresponding 

shift in the regional style. While of the same family as Western 

Red, Alaskan Yellow Cedar has become the more commonly used 

shingle material. 

At first application, different cedars are almost indistinguishable 

from each other and the fresh facades of newly built houses 

in the Hamptons still present that warm cedar coloring for several 

years. A significant change, however, is that Alaskan Yellow Cedar 

weathers to a gray or silver tone when exposed to the elements over 

time, therefore, houses sided with this material ultimately take on a 

slightly different color palette than their colonial-era neighbors. 

John Laird, of Kleet Lumber in Huntington, points out that the 

trend over the last five years has been increased interest in prefinished 

painted shingles available in a multitude of hues including 

Mist Green, Bar Harbor Blue and Butter Croissant, among a plethora 

of stocked and custom colors. Despite these new-fangled color 

options, the most popular Hamptons choice is gray. 

Regardless of finishing, the shingle remains a constant on the 

East End. “Whether stained gray or beige, bleached to look fresh 

or left natural, shingle looks fantastic on all types of houses—from 

traditional Dutch gambrel, to transitional barns, even minimalist 

ultra-modern homes,” says Austin Handler of Mabley Handler 

Interior Design in Water Mill. {S} 


SPLURGE 

A GRAND 

SLAM 

When It comes to Realizing 

Amenities in the Zoning 

Challenged Hamptons... Where 

There’s a Will There’s a Way. 

When the folks at 456 Development Group chose to build a tennis 

court on a two-acre Mecox Bay-front parcel in Water Mill, they 

were thwarted by the usual setback and wetland restrictions. Not 

letting that stop them, they built the house at 100 Crescent Street 

to accommodate the court. While the street-facing façade was 

made to emulate shingle-style neighborhood abodes, the court was 

“buried in the attic space,” according to architect Philip Rossmillo. 

“We created a steel structure like a tabletop with a concrete slab 

court and built the house around it.” The “complex structure” was 

designed to resist the vibrations of powerful serves and the pitterpatter 

of Nike-clad feet. It cost somewhere around $1.5 million, as 

opposed to about $85,000 for a ground court. 

BTW, Venus Williams’s firm, V Star Interiors, will be decorating the 

court for the annual Holiday House Hamptons design extravaganza, 

which will be held at the property from June 19 to July 26. {S} 

34 SHELTER Summer 2016 ShelterTheHamptons.com Photos courtesy of Douglas Elliman 


ON THE BOARDS 

Bittersweet 

Build 

by Sally Goldstein 

Philanthropist Jean Shafiroff Tore 

Down Her Southampton Home in 

Order to Build Her Dream House. 

It took one dinner for this philanthropist to buy her house—and 

20 years to tear it down. Socialite Jean Shafiroff, who has just 

penned a book on philanthropy, and her husband, Martin, made 

the decision to buy their Southampton estate section home while 

dining with friends Steve Tanger, of Tanger Outlets, and his thenwife, 

Debby. 

“It was a teardown,” says Shafiroff. But the couple loved the 

home so much that they never tore it down... until now. While 

they loved the house and had it “done a few times over the years,” 

the social couple needed more space to house guests and entertain. 

They finally called in the wrecking ball in November. “I was so sad 

when they tore it down,” says Jean. “I couldn’t watch. We had 20 

years of memories there.” 

“PEOPLE HAVE DIVORCES OVER HOUSES. 

IT ISN’T WORTH IT.” 

We invite you to join us for the 21st Annual All Against Abuse 

A Night in Monte Carlo 

Saturday, June 25, 2016 ~ 6:30 to 10:30pm 

Ross School Lower Campus Field House at 739 Butter Lane, Bridgehampton 

Honoring Dr. JoSepH o’Connell 

to benefit 

Honorary Committee 

Lorraine Bracco • Bobbie Braun • Matthew Broderick • Kiran Gandhi • Ann Liguori • Susan Lucci 

Chris Martin • Kaitlin Olson • Mercedes Ruehl • Jessica Seinfeld • Jerry Seinfeld • Martha Stewart 

Event Committee 

Steve Bergerson • Amy Cerullo • Ann Chwatsky • Richard Demato • Ellie Jannetti 

Ayse Manyas Kenmore • Deborah Lyons • Gail Rothwell • Sheri Sandler 

Barbara Shapiro • Arlene Slavin • Loretta K. Davis, Executive Director 

Join us for Cocktails, Cuisine by Cynthia Battaglia 

of Distinctive Catering, Silent & live Auctions, 

raffle and Wine ring Toss 

To purchase tickets or for more information, 

please call 631.329.4398 

or visit www.theretreatinc.org 

36 SHELTER Summer 2016 ShelterTheHamptons.com Photo Michael Paniccea 


Why go through the hassle of a rebuild now? In the beginning 

the couple used their country home only on weekends. But like a 

growing number of city folk, they have come to embrace the beach 

lifestyle all year round. “We love it here, even out of season.” So, 

one day “my husband pulled out these architecture plans and said 

he was building a new house.” 

The new Wyandanch Lane edifice will still occupy two acres 

a mere 800 feet from the ocean fronting Old Town Pond. But it 

will almost double in size, from 6,000 to 11,000 square feet, and 

will feature nine bedrooms, instead of three. While the old house 

was contemporary, this one will be a traditional shingle-style 

home. “Architecture in the Hamptons is so important. There is so 

much history here, and traditional is in keeping with Southampton 

Village,” says Shafiroff. “You never want to build a house that sticks 

out like a sore thumb.” The architect is John Laffey. 

Because they plan to live in the house during the off-season, especially 

fall, they chose to build an indoor pool. “This way, we can 

swim year round and have a big yard for parties in the summer.” 

When covered, it will serve as a double-height ballroom. A big 

chef’s kitchen will also be a key part of the new home. “I love a nice 

kitchen with a big professional stove like a Garland or a Viking.” 

Shafiroff says she decided to leave the decisions to Martin after 

a joint visit with the builders when she questioned the placement 

of a closet. “Martin looked at me and said, ‘If you don’t like what 

I’m building, I’m not building it,’ so I thought – let the closet hang 

from the ceiling. I don’t want any arguments over it,” Shafiroff says. 

“People have divorces over houses. It isn’t worth it. I figured I’d live 

with the closet in the wrong spot.” In the end her husband came 

round and it was placed where she had wanted it. 

As for the interiors, those decisions have not been made in 

full yet. “I want something beach-y, but maybe with a modern 

edge,” Shafiroff says. “We want a relaxed house that is comfortable 

and welcoming for us and our guests.” One thing is for certain, the 


rooms will be “sunny and light filled.” The western-facing master 

bedroom will have “rounded glass on one side like a circle, so there 

is almost a greenhouse bedroom,” she says. “When the sun sets, it 

will be really nice in those rooms.” 

While the house will be big it won’t be grandiose. “My husband 

does not want anything over the top. He is a very laid back kind of 

guy. We both are. My house won’t be the Taj Mahal but it will be a 

nice house.” 

Meanwhile the house won’t be move-in ready till next summer, 

but Shafiroff won’t be going there any time soon. “I still haven’t 

seen it. I’m afraid to. I don’t want to have any arguments with my 

husband!” {S} 

“WHEN COVERED, THE INDOOR POOL WILL SERVE AS A 

DOUBLE-HEIGHT BALLROOM.” 

Celebrating the opening of summer season 

June 3 — 5, 2016 Southampton Design Pavilion at Elks Fairgrounds 

Friday, June 3: Opening-Night Premiere and Benefit hosted by Architectural Digest 

Saturday, June 4: 15th Anniversary Celebration for Hamptons Cottages and Gardens 

Tickets at: HamptonsContemporary.com 

An inaugural 

fair that defines 

the fine art 

of living well 

Media Sponsor

RENOVATION 

Sagaponack is about to get a little ooh la la. For Pierre Weber 

of Pierre’s Restaurant in Bridgehampton, that twinkle in his eye 

usually means his foodie footprint is expanding. His latest venture 

takes over Sagg General Store, one of the most historic buildings 

in Sagaponack. But if you’re looking for toilet paper or toothpaste 

you’re out of luck. The new incarnation, christened Pierre’s Market 

Sagaponack, is all about delicious food all the time. 

“This place is mythic,” explains Weber of the location. “Everyone 

in the Hamptons has something nice to say about it. It’s linked 

to their youth or to their family or a romance. Like a little madeleine 

in Proust.” The space was originally home to the Sagaponack Post 

Office, which now occupies the other half of the building. Locals 

remember when there was sawdust on the floor and posters of the 

most wanted hanging on the walls. The store and the post office 

swapped places and the General Store went through numerous 

incarnations. 

Weber comments, “I changed completely the space from what 

it was before.” Pierre set out to create a more open and modern 

look bringing in new equipment and space design to create better 

traffic flow. The front room has been whitewashed and opened up 

to reveal shelving that no longer holds beach buckets and T-Shirts 

but artisanal local chocolates, teas and honeys. Special display 

cases have been installed near the front, which will hold the “grab 

and go” pre-made items. Adjacent is the new juice and smoothie 

bar with a large blackboard listing the tasty and healthful ingredients. 

Also in an effort to make check out more efficient, three hightech 

registers take the place of the old-fashioned counter. 


Pierre Expands his Foodie 

Footprint to Give Sagaponack 

a French Twist. by Heather Buchanan 

In the rear Weber acknowledges the beautifully renovated kitchen 

put in by the Thayer family about ten years ago. “The Thayers did 

a major renovation to the building and it is very solid and very well 

thought out,” says Weber. “I added my touch but it is very sound.” 

The former display cases in front of the kitchen have been cleared 

out to make room for a beautiful professional rotisserie. 

And just as the “lower level” has become prime real estate for 

Hamptons homes, the basement is a potential gold mine for Weber. 

With proper permits and construction it can be a profit center for a 

future catering business. “It’s a beautiful basement,” says Weber. 

“It’s clean and ready to go and we can potentially do more production 

there.” Let’s just say that one of the wealthiest zip codes in the 

country has become a little bit sweeter. {S} 

Photo John Musnicki 

EDGE 

MEDIA 

PRODUCTIONS 

Your go-to Hamptons agency for: 

CONTENT 

• Renderings 

• Photography 

• Video 

BRANDING 

• Websites 

• Identity 

• Books 

ADVERTISING 

• Ads 

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Paul Domzal 

631.725.2316 

Paul@EdgeMediaProd.com 

EdgeMediaProd.com

Modern Comeback 

Architecture Firm Gets Its Hamptons Mojo Working. 

Known for its “warm modernist” approach, the acclaimed architecture firm Mojo Stumer 

Associates made a foray into the South Fork decades ago. But Hamptonites were not yet 

ready to embrace the bold asymmetries and right angles of modernism. While the team led 

by Mark Stumer and Thomas Mojo designed a slew of Hamptons homes to the mostly traditional 

tastes of their clients, the zeitgeist was not ideal for making the sort of formidable 

statement the principals desired. For the past 20 years, the staff of 25 located UpIsland in 

Greenvale, has focused their attention on designing hundreds of millions of dollars’ worth of 

residential apartments in New York City, and an untold number of important retail, commercial 

and hospitality projects. MSA designed the first 8 equinox gyms in Manhattan. 

Enter 2016. 

42 SHELTER Summer 2016 ShelterTheHamptons.com Photos Mark Stumer 


A New Concept in Residential 

Housing for the Hamptons 

As the Hamptons undergo a revival of modern architecture— 

sleek palaces being erected from shimmering waterfront to picturesque 

potato fields—the firm has launched a comeback. 

This is not to say that the architects haven’t made a mark with 

their previous Hamptons projects. Masters at blending styles, they 

streamlined the interior of a classic shingle style house in East 

Hampton festooning it with a metal fireplace, linear railings and 

caged teak canopies with bronze light fixtures. Another very successful 

and very contemporary home was a renovation to a ranch 

house in East Hampton. This home won numerous design awards 

including accolades from local Hamptons magazines. 

After leaving the Hamptons behind, the highly regarded firm 

continued its award-winning work throughout the metropolitan 

area. Since its founding in 1980, Mojo Stumer has accrued more 

than 100 (and counting) national and regional architecture and 

interior design awards. Their numerous sophisticated high-end 

buildings have included retail stores and shopping centers, hospitals, 

country clubs, religious institutions and office complexes. 

Because of their commercial work they contribute a superior 

knowledge about the latest contemporary techniques and materials, 

which they translate to the residential sector. “We have discovered 

many materials including aluminum panels and clay tile rain 

screens that we’ve taken from the commercial sector and introduced 

into our modern residential work.” 

The firm was a pioneer in incorporating interior design into its 

projects. “We don’t do a job unless we’re doing the interior design,” 

says Stumer. “To be successful architecture must synthesize 

interior design with exterior form to create a successful and total 

design. How do you separate the two?” 

The five-person interior design department is known for its upto-date 

knowledge of materials, color, lighting and furniture. “We’ve 

taken interior design to a new level,” says Stumer. “The success of 

our interiors is evident by the many national design awards we’ve 

won—from furniture placement to window treatments. We add the 

touches that make it luxurious.” 

The firm prides itself on its intense collaboration with clients, 

making them an integral part of the design process—all in their endeavor 

to create a home that surpasses their client’s dreams. “The 

architect must be a good listener, be able to hear not only input but 

criticism, and ask the right questions,” says Stumer. “The process 

should be as rewarding as the finished work.” {S} 

“TO BE SUCCESSFUL ARCHITECTURE MUST SYNTHESIZE 

INTERIOR DESIGN WITH EXTERIOR FORM.” 

Renderings Mojo Stumer Associates 

While working with Hamptons clients to help them realize their 

structural and lifestyle needs, Mojo Stumer has also made a 

foray into speculative building here, partnering with Villadom 

and Birchwood Associates, the developers behind Sag Harbor’s 

Lighthouse Landing and other local subdivisions. They have 

not broken ground yet, but have several designs of what they’re 

calling a new concept in residential housing for the Hamptons 

which is an open loft barn-like approach reflecting the agricultural 

heritage of the Hamptons yet creating a modern lifestyle. 

“Mojo Stumer’s creative approach looks beyond the design 

of the basic structure and takes into consideration how the 

building will be utilized, resulting in something exciting, fresh 

and new,” says Ron Horowitz of Birchwood. 

The “clean and contemporary” domiciles will be a refreshing 

departure from the “common Hamptons shingle style 

home,” says Stumer. Each dwelling will feature “very modern 

detailing that enhances the relaxed feeling of the Hamptons 

experience.” The firm’s interpretation of the modern vernacular 

is not all about hard edges and materials. “A modern home 

has to have a warmth to it,” says Stumer. “We’re now using 

earthy materials. We are designing a home in Orient Point, Long 

Island that takes a much more earthy approach to its design. 

Although on the water, there is no beachfront, it is more of a 

woodsy type of environment.” 

Sited on half-acre to one-acre lots, the 3,500 to 4,000 

square-foot residences will be “smaller and more affordable 

alternatives to the area’s overdone homes. Not everyone can afford 

a $40 million house,” says Stumer. “A well-designed small 

home can incorporate many of the luxuries of a larger home, 

creating a feeling of vast space and yet still be affordable.” 

In a bid to individualize each house, the architects have developed 

multiple variations, giving clients the ability to choose 

from a Chinese menu of façades with such intriguing features 

as a canopy, silo or trellis. Inside there will be optional choices 

for materials. 

“You can experience a great feeling of space in this open 

plan and yet still feel the comfort of a home,” says Stumer said. 

But most important to him: “It will be fun.” 

44 SHELTER Summer 2016 ShelterTheHamptons.com ShelterTheHamptons.com SHELTER Spring/Summer 2016 45

COOL VIBE 

There is no doubt that the East End is full of beautiful houses, 

A case in point: Stephen Alton, an architect and my business partner 

in Rennew Properties, and I felt that a certain spec homebuyer 

was looking for a stylish-but-modest (by Hamptons standards) 

vibe—something a bit cooler than the usual thing. They would want 

to spend their days paddle boarding and clamming. Environmentally 

conscious, they would appreciate our commitment to renovating 

and re-using instead of tearing down. And they would want to 

move into a house where the aesthetic was firmly established from 

the rugs to the cutlery. 

enough to provide design publications like this one with juicy content 

for the foreseeable future. And, the fascinating people who live 

in them are usually a big part of the story, full of anecdotes about 

how they came to occupy this particular place in their particular 

style—collaborating with designers, architects and builders to 

create their home. Now, some of those same players are taking 

inspiration from their clients’ stories and their own notion of a life 

well lived, and joining forces in new ways to offer the market fully 

realized houses that speak to a particular vision. 

THE 

AUTEURS 

OF SPECULATIVE 

BUILDING 

While South Fork developers have done well for years with the 

large, traditional spec house that has become associated with 

this place, new buyers with a range of ideas about how they want 

to live are emerging. Whether they desire a house with a favorite 

designer’s lifestyle stamp, a stylish surf shack or a period house 

brought perfectly up to date, some of the best-known names in the 

business are stepping up to meet these individual needs, with projects 

that reflect their own personal style and vision. Let’s call them 

the “auteurs” of spec building. Just as a film reflects a director’s 

personal vision, so too do the new Hamptons “spec” builds reflect 

their creators’ individual styles. 

In our most recent spec project we took a waterfront Northwest 

Woods contemporary with a French pavilion flair and gave it a 

clean modern twist, leaving the footprint and massing as is, in 

keeping with the scale and tone of the neighborhood. Edwina von 

Gal’s Perfect Earth Project advised us on how to make the harborfront 

landscape nontoxic and sustainable. Elizabeth Dow furnished 

the house for the sophisticated and casual family life we imagined 

for the buyer and Ille Arts curated an art collection to the same aesthetic. 

The furnishings and art are available to purchase, and everything 

else from linens to dinner plates can be provided through 

Elizabeth Dow Home in East Hampton. It turns out we are not alone 

in following this trend, working with collaborators and building for a 

specific prospect. 

The New Crop of Visionaries 

Behind the Latest Building Trend 

An architect by training, Ed Krug has been exercising his right brain 

by building and renovating houses in East Hampton. Passionate 

about the agriculture, art and architecture that have shaped the 

East End, he serves on the Town of East Hampton Architectural 

Review Board, and on the board of the Peconic Land Trust. 

And it’s buyers who are driving the movement. “Buyers’ taste is 

definitely much more sophisticated now—there’s so much more 

exposure to design. People want something done to a very particular 

standard,” says Frank Newbold, Hamptons Regional Manager 

at Sotheby’s International Realty. And by “done” he means turnkey, 

often down to the flatware. They want it all now. “They can’t get 

tangled up with contractors—they want to have a cocktail party the 

day they move in.” 

Rebekah Baker at Sotheby’s has the listing at $2.795M. 

“BUYERS’ TASTE IS DEFINITELY MUCH MORE 

SOPHISTICATED NOW—THERE’S SO MUCH MORE 

EXPOSURE TO DESIGN.” 

Photos Lena Yaramenko 


EPIC SAG HARBOR RENOVATION 

Living in one of the Hamptons’ villages is the preferred choice 

of many homebuyers, and although Sag Harbor is often at the 

top of their list, the thought of working on an older house can be 

daunting. Acclaimed designer and part-time Sag Harborite Steven 

Gambrel has removed that concern by renovating the 1853 Captain 

John Overton house, teaming with Atlanta’s Historical Concepts on 

the architecture. “I have a vision for what life in Sag Harbor should 

be,” says Gambrel, and this “somewhat irreverent” reworking and 

addition to the house is the expression of it. “Sag Harbor has a 

certain history and scale and this project is in keeping with that.” 

MODERN FAMILIES 

Gambrel’s desire to develop comes as much from a passion for 

the place as the desire to have an impact on the neighborhood. “It 

makes me happy when I drive by to know that the original joists, 

the cast iron pipes, the perfect plaster, the carefully selected wideplank 

floors and millwork are all in place.” Building a spec house is 

also an opportunity for him to perfect his craft, without the constraint 

of an actual client. “It’s almost as good as doing it for myself. 

I want to leave something that will last, and be a good example of 

what can be. The buyer will be passionate about where and how 

they live”. 

The house is fully furnished in classic Gambrel style, and those 

furnishings are available for purchase. There is also a stunning collection 

of art in place, mostly from his own collection. Is the art for 

sale? “Yes, but the day of that sale might be a painful one—for me 

and the buyer,” he jokes. 

A vision of community plays out too in Modern Green Home’s 

Three Sisters Lane in Amagansett. The triple-unit development 

evokes the many charming private lanes and ‘associations’ 

throughout the east end. “We jumped at the opportunity to create 

our ‘own’ neighborhood, as it would afford the design team at 

MGH the ability to create a new standard for the spec world,” says 

principal Peter Sabbeth. “We created our own neighbors.” The 

“new traditional” architecture of the three homes plays on familiar 

shapes, but with added modern detail. The buyers will be families 

who appreciate the proximity to village and beach, and a neighborly 

balance between community and privacy. 

Represented by Melissa Green of Saunders, the homes range in price from 

$4.5M to $5.25M. 

Photos Eric Piasecki 

The house is listed for $10.5M by Jane Gill and Terry Cohen of Saunders. 

“SOME OF THE BEST-KNOWN NAMES IN THE BUSINESS 

ARE STEPPING UP TO MEET THESE INDIVIDUAL NEEDS.” 


Photo courtesy of Bates Massi + Architects 

EARLY MODERNIST SPIRIT 

Life on the beach is also central to a project Bates Masi + Architects 

has completed for a developer/client in the Amagansett 

Dunes. The presence of wetlands forced the architects to think 

about how to place the house lightly on the land, and use the very 

small building envelope to best advantage. After a lengthy permitting 

process, the result is a sculptural two-story 600sf house with 

two bedrooms, steps to the ocean. Principal Paul Masi says, “It’s 

nice to see something that reflects the minimum requirements for 

living, rather than the maximum, and not built lot line to lot line. It’s 

wonderful to be able to preserve the land.” He feels that this house 

is in the spirit of early modernist beach houses like those of Andrew 

Geller. “In those days it was really about experiencing the beach 

to its fullest potential and being outdoors with your neighbors, not 

being alone in a compound.” 

Rylan Jacka at Sotheby’s has the listing for $1.495M. 

SEAMLESS SUSTAINABILITY 

ModernNetZero’s Marc Clejan likens his firm’s vision of moving 

home technology and sustainability into the future to that of Tesla. 

“It’s all about livability and comfort and the seamless integration 

of sustainable technology,” he says. “Home owners don’t need to 

understand the technology that allows for zero outside energy consumption 

in a luxurious 6,000sf home.” Clejan knows this firsthand 

after having lived with his family in one of the home models he is 

speculatively developing. “I wanted to be sure these homes would 

live up to the claims we were making.” He was almost giddy with 

pride in announcing his family’s joyous yearlong experiment. “We 

loved it! The overabundance of natural light, the air was never dry, 

and it was quiet without a traditional HVAC system rattling around 

behind the walls.” 

Two ModernNetZero models are available at the $2.5M and $4M price range. 

“THE ULTRA-LUXURY SPEC HOUSE IS STILL VERY MUCH 

IN EVIDENCE, THOUGH INCREASINGLY THEY ARE UNIQUE 

EXPRESSIONS OF THEIR BUILDER, AND NOT JUST A 

COLLECTION OF THE USUAL LIVES-OF-THE-RICH-AND- 

FAMOUS FINISHES AND AMENITIES.” 


THE MOGUL 

We’re Not in Kansas Anymore. 

ULTIMATE LUXURY 

And finally, the ultra-luxury spec house is still very much in evidence 

in the Hamptons, although increasingly they are unique 

expressions of their builder, and not just a collection of the usual 

lives-of-the-rich-and-famous finishes and amenities. “I don’t build 

any home I wouldn’t want to live in myself,” says builder Jay Bialsky 

of J Bialsky Premiere Design & Development, who is developing 

a modern waterfront manse in Southampton, working with 

architect Blaze Makoid. The $32.995M structure features walls of 

glass, numerous terraces and decking and a series of “green roofs” 

designed by landscape architects LaGuardia Design that tie the 

house to the surrounding natural vegetation. The 11,000sf, 7-bedroom, 

7.5-bath beach house sits on 2.8 acres directly fronting 

Sayers Pond with views to the ocean and is co-represented by 

Zachary and Cody Vichinsky of Bespoke Real Estate and Carol 

Nobbs and Erica Grossman of Douglas Elliman. “It’s great quality 

construction on a great piece of land,” says Bialsky. “It’s definitely 

something that will make sophisticated buyers sit up and take 

notice.” {S} 

While some visionary builders can be considered “auteurs,” 

at the scale that the Farrell Building Company produces houses, 

circa 40 per year, the firm might best be compared to that of a 

Golden Age Hollywood studio—with principal Joe Farrell cast in 

the role of, let’s say, Louis B. Mayer, the force behind Hollywood’s 

most storied “dream factory,” MGM. 

The company has rebranded itself this summer with new ads, 

a magazine and a website coming this fall to a computer screen 

near you. But all that is really playing catch up to the new phase 

launched four years ago when Joe’s wife, Kristen, came onboard 

to head up a design department focused on “elevating our 

finishes.” 

“Prior to the design team the finishes were not at a level you 

would see in a custom home,” Kristen admits. Before Kristen the 

firm followed “the universal Hamptons theme: the same shaker 

kitchen door, paneled foyer, white subway tile in the bath.” 

Worse yet, elements often didn’t match. Now, she sets a design 

“theme” for each house, making sure that all finishes—from 

stair railings to exterior windows—coordinate around that motif. 

Take Polo 2, a new build on Two Trees Farm in Bridgehampton. 

Its “Americana” theme is played out in its color scheme 

(lots of white and pops of navy blue on bathroom vanity, front 

door and shutters) and underscored by such textural details as 

planking on the great room walls and custom-designed wainscoting 

in the mudroom and hallway. Then there’s 423 Parsonage 

Lane. The goal of the “Natural Sophistication” theme is to 

“harmonize nature into the design utilizing driftwood finishes, 

brushed metals and a soft neutral palette bringing the warmth 

and light of Sagaponack indoors.” 

The goal is to “stay neutral to appeal to a wide variety of 

customer, but be specialized enough to stand out.” Louis B.’s 

formula exactly. Farrell houses range in price from $2.795 to $30 

million. 

by Alex Greenwood 

Photo Paul Domzal/EdgeMediaProd.com 


Dining 

Cocktails * Wine service 

Accommodations 

Private beachfront 

108 ram island drive 

631.749.0811 

Www.theramsheadinn.com 

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE PART 

OF A HAMPTONS’ HOUSE? 

The South Fork is catching up with the Southwest and focusing on outdoor living where decks and patios 

are furnished with everything from sofas and dining tables to kitchens and fireplaces. Since we spend so 

much time indoors in winter it’s the ultimate luxury to spread outside in summer. 

FAVORITE SUMMER HANGOUTS? 

Bay Kitchen Bar for the most dazzling estuary views, yummy seafood and bustling scene. 

The bar at Wolffer Kitchen for its lively conversation and lollipop lamb chops. 

FAVORITE ARTIST? 

Fairfield Porter’s familiar local landscapes make you feel like you’ve come home. 

Magical view from affordable 

Southampton summer rental. 

REAL ESTATE BACKGROUND? 

This is my third incarnation in real estate — first in Manhattan at Whitbread 

Nolan followed by working for Vicky Bagley in D.C; then for Braverman Newbold 

Brennan in Sag Harbor in the ‘90s, before they were bought by Sotheby’s. Writing a 

real estate column for the East Hampton Star reawakened my interest. 

DEBRA SCOTT 

Licensed Salesperson 

Corcoran, East Hampton Office 

631.237.1040 

debra.scott@corcoran.com 


The Barn Grows Up 

Building His Own House Inspired a New Direction in Designer Mark 

Zeff’s Career, and Launched His Lifestyle Brand, BLACKBARN. 

An architect by training, Ed Krug is a principal of East Hampton 

design/build firm Rennew Properties. 

When they found themselves needing to 

move from a beloved waterfront rental in 

Noyac, designer Mark Zeff and his wife 

Kristen were faced with a dilemma familiar 

to many would-be East End home buyers: 

priced out of classic properties south of the 

highway, uninspired by the legions of newer 

shingle style or aging contemporary houses 

elsewhere, and unable to make the smaller, 

older “character” cottages they saw work for 

the family they were planning. Now what? 

Inspiration to build came when the Zeffs discovered a plot of land 

near the bay beach where they’d been married a few years earlier 

in East Hampton’s Northwest Harbor. “Designers like myself spend 

our careers working for other people—we rarely get a chance to 

build for ourselves, so this was a special opportunity,” says Zeff. 

The mission was to build something “cool, chic—not the usual 

thing” in less than six months, and do it economically. It would 

need to be simple. 

Although a died-in-the-wool modernist, Zeff had always been 

drawn to the honesty, efficiency and simplicity of farmhouses and 

their accessory structures, and now he had his chance to explore 

those typologies in his own house. “The word ‘barn’ evokes the 

familiar, accessible, comfortable and safe. The battle is to keep it 

pure and disciplined, avoiding themes and rustic clichés.” Why 

black? “Black is soothing, and makes the house disappear into the 

landscape.” 

56 SHELTER Summer 2016 ShelterTheHamptons.com Photo Eric Laignel 


The house was precisely sited and carefully but simply landscaped 

to create a sense of expansiveness beyond its shy 2-acre lot size. 

Zeff feels strongly that creating outdoor spaces and connecting 

the house to both natural and created views is as important as the 

house itself: “It’s what you’ll see for the rest of your life.” 

The result? A peaceful, spacious compound, connected to the land 

in all seasons—the sophisticated grown-up essence of a barn. 

Zeff felt he was on to something. “I knew that there had to be a 

market for people who lead big lives, and want something simple 

and cool like this,” he says. With that idea in mind, BLACKBARN 

Real Estate was formed in 2015 to build houses in the spirit of his, 

both speculatively and for clients. The first is now complete in Sag 

Harbor with others on the boards and soon to follow. 

Then came BLACKBARN the book last December, and now the 

project Zeff is perhaps most passionate about, the BLACKBARN 

Emporium opening in Dumbo in late Spring. The store will reflect 

Zeff’s own collecting habits and include furniture, lamps, rugs, 

crockery and “curiosities” from places as diverse as South Africa, 

Polynesia, Spain and Morocco, as well as BLACKBARN-branded 

housewares. Most important to Zeff though, is his plan to create 

something of an incubator for Brooklyn-based artisans. “There’s 

nothing quite like it in Brooklyn, or Manhattan for that matter.” {S} 

Mark Zeff will be signing books: 

Saturday, July 9, 4–6 pm, Sylvester & Co Modern General® 

103 Main Street, Sag Harbor 

Not long afterward, John Doherty, former Executive Chef at the 

Waldorf Astoria and a weekend guest, was cooking with Zeff in his 

kitchen when the two were struck by the idea that the same concepts 

of simplicity, honesty and authenticity would apply artfully to 

both food and restaurant design. Black Barn the eatery opened in 

September 2015, off Madison Square Park in Manhattan. 

“THE WORD ‘BARN’ EVOKES THE FAMILIAR, ACCESSIBLE, 

COMFORTABLE AND SAFE.” 

58 SHELTER Summer 2016 ShelterTheHamptons.com Photos Eric Laignel and Gianni Franchelluci 


“...trip the light fantastic...” 

stottarchitecture.com 6 31.283.1777 pepidesigngroup.com 6 31.702.2089 


Style Mavens 

Designers Speak to the Hamptons Aesthetic. 

This summer Pamela Fiori, former editor of Town and Country, will be hosting Behind the 

Design at Guild Hall, a trio of talks with interior designers with close Hamptons’ ties: 

Jonathan Adler, Richard Mishaan and Charlotte Moss. Despite their widely differing styles, 

the trio was chosen for “aesthetics that suit the landscape.” SHELTER spoke to the players 

about their views on the Hamptons aesthetic. 

MAGICAL LIGHT 

These days Pamela Fiori writes for such outlets as Manhattan 

magazine and 1stdibs and does “a fair amount of public 

speaking.” Her Hamptons house, a two-level contemporary with 

floor-to-ceiling glass, is in Northwest Woods, but “feels as much 

like southern California as the East End.” 

WHAT IS THE HAMPTONS AESTHETIC? 

The ideal would be architecture that adapts to each town: seaside 

cottages, whalers’ houses, grand shingled estates, renovated barns. 

The reality is something else—hence a proliferation of faux chateaux 

and post-modern piles. 

FLAWLESSLY CHIC 

Iconic potter turned home décor maestro and author Jonathan 

Adler shares a home on Shelter Island with his husband, humorous 

fashion commentator Simon Doonan, which he describes as 

“warm, rustic modernism. It’s a little California, a little Japanese, 

and a little bit Swedish.” 

FAVORITE ELEMENT OF YOUR SHELTER ISLAND HOME? 

I made custom tiles that I used throughout the house. I started out 

as a potter, and everything I do starts in the pottery studio. The potter’s 

wheel is where I work out all my ideas. 

WHAT ITEM IN YOUR HOME COULD YOU NOT LIVE WITHOUT? 

In an emergency I’d sling my hubby Simon over one shoulder and 

our dog Foxylady over the other and run out. The rest is just stuff. 

WHAT MAKES A GREAT HAMPTONS INTERIOR? 

Whatever enables the natural light to do its magic. 

HAMPTONS MUST HAVES? 

A swimming pool and deck with ample room for outdoor 

entertaining. 

Photo courtesy of Jonathan Adler Enterprises 


GLAMOROUSLY ZEN 

Colombia-born designer Richard Mishaan is a favorite of art 

collectors, known for his harmonious juxtapositions of such unlikely 

marriages as an antique console and dramatic contemporary 

sculpture. 

FAVORITE ELEMENTS OF YOUR SOUTHAMPTON HOME? 

The dining area on our covered porch, my Venetian-inspired bedroom, 

the family room filled with friends and family. 


Whether traditional or modern, Hamptons homes are more laid 

back than city homes. Because they’re usually bigger I see larger 

scale artwork and rooms that accommodate larger groups and dining 

spaces that can have 20 for dinner and not lose the intimacy. 

HAMPTONS INTERIOR MUST HAVES? 

Fireplaces ablaze. Massive wine storage. Great kitchen. Collectables 

(art and travel finds). 

EASY LIVING 

Most often found reclining on a rattan chair or dining in her 

screened-in porch, Virginia-born Charlotte Moss delights in that 

she can view the flora of her splendid landscape from every room. 

“Filled with collections and favorite objects,” her East Hampton 

abode is a refuge for family (human and canine). “At night nothing 

beats the sound of crickets, the ocean and a crackling fire.” 


Sun-filled rooms that invite you to put your feet up—comfortable 

without sacrificing beauty, objects or great decorative detail. 

FAVORITE ELEMENT OF YOUR EAST HAMPTON HOME? 

Walking in the front door and looking straight through the living 

room to the garden. I like the interplay between interior and exterior. 

MUST NOTS? 

Fancy French furniture. Jamais! Anything that requires you to keep 

the elements out because windows and doors are to remain open 

as often as possible. Un-pet friendly floors, furniture and fabrics. 

DESCRIBE YOUR SOUTHAMPTON HOUSE. 

I’m going to describe it with five oxymorons: Glamorously Zen, Collected 

Simplicity, Energetically Calming, Crowd Gatheringly Cozy, 

Athletically Decadent. 

Photo courtesy of Richard Mishaan Design 

Photo Pieter Estersohn 

WHAT IS THE HAMPTONS AESTHETIC? 

Good lord, I hope there isn’t one. Whether country French, minimalist, 

chintz and wicker—a house in the country allows you to 

explore a different aesthetic because we come here to be more 

relaxed. {S} 



Landscape 

Makeover 

A ‘50s Bungalow Backyard Gets a Facelift. 


When a successful entrepreneur acquired a North Sea bungalow 

that had been in his family since 1955, he set about a total redesign and renovation of the 

backyard. While the small pool and a picnic area had been sufficient for hosting extended 

family gatherings, the space now needed to be reinvented as a luxurious summer backdrop 

for his small nuclear family. 

He hired Pembrooke Fine Landscapes, a 10-year-old firm that 

specializes in transforming existing outdoor spaces into serene 

sanctuaries with all the amenities expected of a modern outdoor 

living area. “We’re known as a premier boutique design-build 

firm,” says partner Chris Hall. “We don’t typically work with new 

construction. We breathe life into what most consider to be ordinary 

and we make it extraordinary.” 

The focus of the new design is a spectacular pool that encompasses 

both a 74-foot lap pool and a shallow wing that is crowned 

with a spa. While some family members swim laps, others can 

lounge on an underwater bench in the shallow area and meditate 

on the trickle of the waterfall that spills over the negative edge. 

Because the project was designed for the family’s needs and 

not resale, Pembrooke was able to clad the patio with South Bay 

Quartzite. The soft white stone is cooler on the feet than heatattracting 

bluestone, the Hamptons must-have pool surround. The 

side of the lap pool is bordered by a glass wall and moat lined with 

river rocks. 

All was not hunky-dory at the beginning. The team was faced 

with several challenges including negotiating zoning restrictions 

with town officials, especially regarding setbacks. The property 

is flanked on three sides by roads, so essentially has three backyards. 

“With thoughtful planning we were able to position the pool 

and amenities to conform to requirements,” says Hall. 

Pembrooke replaced the former picnic area with a full-fledged 

outdoor kitchen replete with a freestanding custom fireplace. The 

kitchen foundation supporting the appliances—featuring refrigerator, 

grill top and icemaker—is made from the same stone. “We 

pride ourselves on making each project unique, beautiful and 

functional,” says Hall. “It’s a labor of love.” {S} 


SHELTER—IN THE NEXT ISSUE 

Hamptons Smart Home 

Jean-Georges Vongerichten holds forth on the new design at his Topping Rose 

eatery. 

So you want to be a developer... 

A Feng Shui master brings balance to a celebrity’s home. 

Selecting windows and doors? We’ll ask an architect what you need to know. 

Our next RANT—Light Pollution 

EXQUISITE DERING HARBOR ESTATE 

Shelter Island 

web: 0056535 | $11,995,000 

Celebrating Local Artisans 

Expanded Directory Listings 

SOLD 

SHELTERTHEHAMPTONS.COM 

SHELTER HOME SHOW AUGUST 18 

Intelligent Home & Stylish Design 

Is your house smarter than a fifth grader? 

Expert Advice—Smart Home Lifestyle Choices 

Accessing the Advantages of Smart Home Design 

Smart Home Tech That Works for You Instead of Against You 


Michael Conroy I Licensed Salesperson 

d: 631.227.4942 I c: 631.988.7475 I michael.conroy@sothebyshomes.com 

Jonathan Smith I Licensed Salesperson 

d: 631.227.4950 I c: 917.714.9022 I jonathan.smith@sothebyshomes.com 

ExtraordinaryHamptons.com 

PICTURESQUE ESTATE 

Southampton Village 

Last Asking: $17,995,000 

SOUTHAMPTON BROKERAGE 

50 Nugent St. I Southampton, NY 11968 

631.283.0600 

sothebyshomes.com/hamptons 

Sotheby’s International Realty and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered (or unregistered) service marks used with permission. Operated by Sotheby’s International Realty, Inc.

DIRECTORY 

DIRECTORY 

DIAMOND 

Electrical Contracting, Inc. 

Established in 1960 

A full service electrical contracting company 

providing service in the residential and commercial 

electrical field. 

Services Provided: Electrical wiring in residential and commercial; 

Residential and Commercial Service and Repair; Lighting and 

power; New services 100 amp 200 amp 400 amp and larger; Panel 

Installations and replacements; Recessed Lighting, Design and 

Installation; Landscape Lighting and Design; Generators installation 

and maintenance; Smart home integration and installations. 

SHAWN KRUK 

Absolute Improvement Inc 

Call for your FREE Estimate: 1-866-HOME TO 1 

www.absoluteimprovementinc.com 

Our goal has always been to provide customers 

with quality workmanship and products 

that we would be proud to put our name on. This still holds true 

today, not only do we strive to exceed our customers expectations, 

but we strive to exceed our own. We take pride in every job we do. 

Whether it’s your dream home or just creating that perfect space 

our standards are upheld in every step of the job. 

COUTURE OUTDOOR 

18 Windmill Lane, Southampton. 

631.287.9495 

Exclusive home to the world’s premier luxury outdoor collections, 

Couture Outdoor offers custom design services for elite residential, 

commercial and hospitality projects across the U.S., Canada, 

Mexico, and the Caribbean. Their state-of-the-art Designer Showroom 

provides a curated experience for a discerning clientele that 

values exceptional quality, design, and authenticity. 

DANISI ENERGY 

631.283.0400 

Providing Premium Service from Manhattan to Montauk for Over 

50 Years! 

VERITAS STRUCTURAL CONCRETE 

631.413.9162 

CONCRETE and stone masonry CONTRACTOR “SPEED, QUALITY, 

and ACCURACY” VERITAS brings experience and professionalism 

to every project, no matter the scale. Our understanding of the intricacies 

of concrete and stone masonry, make us a reliable partner 

for general contractors as well as private clients. Our goal is to work 

successfully with you or within your team to create work that will 

last, we’ve got the experienced team to complete your job safely 

from start to finish. 

Services: Concrete, Bluestone Flagging, Bluestone Stair Tread 

Installation, Belgian Block, Cobblestone, Swimming Pool Patios & 

Stone Coping, Walkways, Driveways, Full Poured Concrete Foundations, 

Extension foundations, Concrete Slab. 

Free Estimates, Plans Reviewed. Value Engineering Services. 

RIGOR REMODELING GROUP LLC 

Medford, NY 11763 

631.905.9598 

wmcall@gmail.com 

Diversified services. Unwavering quality. 

We get just as excited building a birdhouse as when providing strategic 

counsel to our clients. 

Rigor Remodeling Group Creating a sustainable future through 

building preservation, green architecture, and smart design. 

GREEN ART 

KITCHEN BATH HOME 

1576 County Rd 39, Southampton, NY 11968 

631.488.4210 

Green Art is a wholesale and retail supply company 

that has been servicing the Tri-State area for almost threequarters 

of a century. We’ve partnered with thousands of interior 

designers, architects, and contractors on residential and commercial 

projects from Manhattan to Montauk and beyond. Green 

Art offers everything from complete professional kitchen design, 

cabinetry, lighting, fixtures, and appliances, to plumbing parts, 

heating and ventilation supplies, water heaters, boilers, water purification, 

building materials, and even fire suppression products. With 

unbeatable selection, competitive prices, and superior service, find 

everything you need for your kitchen, bath and home in one place! 

Licensed and insured, Danisi Energy is your one stop shop for all 

of your comfort needs. Your privacy is our top priority. Each of our 

employees are screened, factory trained and certified to provide 

Premium service for the premium customer. With a fleet of over 30 

trucks we pride our selves to be able to do “what it takes” to keep 

you and your family comfortable Summer, Winter, Spring and Fall! 

We Service and Install: 

Central Air Conditioning, Geothermal, Ductless System, Hot Water 

Heaters, Heat Pumps, Pool Heaters, Gas/Propane Heating, Oil 

Heating, Automatic Oil Delivery, Solar. 


DIRECTORY 

DIRECTORY 

GATOR GLASS 

John Gaita 

8 Herkimer St. 

Mastic, NY 11950 

631.395.4663 

gatorglassinc@yahoo.com 

Custom Frame-less shower doors -mirrors-table tops-insulated glass 

replacements-store fronts. 

“Gator Glass has provided showers enclosures for several building 

projects I have been involved with over the years. Recently I 

engaged Gator Glass to provide a shower enclosure for my own 

home. John is easy to work with and provides a quality product and 

professional installation . . on-time and on budget. I recommend 

him without reservation.” Gary T. Glanz Publisher SHELTER 

DAVID SENDLENSKI BUILDER 

79 Prospect Street 


631.926.2911 

Providing quality craftsmanship for both residential and commercial 

construction projects. 

SUSAN R BRENNAN 

AGENCY INC. 

631-288-5777 

198 Montauk Highway 

Westhampton Beach, NY 11978 

Living and insuring your home on the East End can be tricky and 

just down right frustrating. For close to 20 years, as an agency, we 

have been insuring homeowners and the people who build them. 

We are a one stop shop for insurance on the East End. Whether it’s 

the homeowners insurance itself, flood, or builder’s risk, we got you 

covered. 

And for all our builders out there, we are a full service commercial 

agency as well. We write general liability, tool and auto policies to 

keep you covered while building these amazing homes. WE DON’T 

CHARGE FOR CERTIFICATES AND ARE COMPLETED WITHIN 24 

HRS OF RECEIPT. 

BLUE GIRAFFE LIGHTING 

Christopher Stark 

4 Carter Lane, East Quogue, New York 11942 

Christopher@BlueGiraffeLighting.com 

BlueGiraffeLighting.com 631.655.7963 

Interior, Architectural & Landscape Lighting Design. The Poetry of 

Light. Our goal is to create the most beautiful lighting installation 

possible while bringing forth the vision of the owner, architect and 

designers. Invite an expert on board who intimately knows all the 

intricacies involved in modern lighting design and its technologies. 

Delight in premier illumination made with a poetic blend of beauty, 

form and function. Complete installation services available, Lighting 

controls, automation, and programming. 

ROSSA COLE 

PHOTOGRAPHY 

www.rossacole.com 

917.929.1474 

rossa@rossacole.com 

With over 25 years experience, Rossa Cole is a 

widely recognized photographer and artist with an extensive body 

of work. Rossa specializes in architecture, commercial, portrait and 

fine art photography. His work has appeared in countless print 

and web publications including Hamptons Magazine, HC&G, Town 

& Country and Elle Decor. With Rossa’s artistic eye and highest 

standards of production, he’ll capture stunning images and the 

turnaround time won’t leave you hanging. Finishing a renovation? 

Listing a new property? Call Rossa for a consult, he’ll work tirelessly 

to capture the true essence and character of your space. 

AARON’S REFRIGERATION 

Sub-Zero Specialists 

917.991.5787 

www.aaronsrefrigeration.com 

www.subzerospecialists.com 

We repair built-in refrigerators and freezers 

brands including Traulsen, Viking, GE Monogram, and Kitchen/ 

Aid, we specialize in servicing Sub-Zero Products. From the earliest 

models to the new integrated 700 series, you can depend on us to 

keep your Sub-Zero all Sub-Zero, whether it be a refrigerator, freezer, 

ice machine, or wine cooler. We also buy and sell preowned 

Sub-Zero refrigerators and freezers and provide shipping services 

to anywhere in the USA. Built-in Refrigeration 

Contact us about custom wine room design & service. 

SHELTER DIRECTORY LISTINGS 

YOUR AD HERE! 

TELL THE HAMPTONS LUXURY MARKET PLACE ABOUT YOUR 

BUSINESS or SERVICE! 


SAVE THE DATE! 

SHELTER HOME SHOW AUGUST 18 

Intelligent Home & Stylish Design 

Is your house smarter than a fifth grader? 

Expert Advice—Smart Home Lifestyle Choices 

Accessing the Advantages of Smart Home Design 

Smart Home Tech That Works for You Instead of Against You. 


Guess where all the builders buy? 

APPLIANCES 

DESIGN CENTER 

HAMPTONS FARMINGDALE NEW YORK CITY 

DESIGNER APPLIANCES | COUNTERTOPS | HOME THEATER 

Third generation 

contractors. Building 

and renovating homes 

on Long Island for more 

than forty years. Offering 

services from design to 

finish. 

Shoreline Builders 

24 Shore Road 


631-691-2852 

brian@shorelinehomebuilders.com 

www.shorelinehomebuilders.com 

790 COUNTY ROAD 39 • SOUTHAMPTON Corner Tuckahoe Ln 631.353.3290 

ANDREW ROEHRIG, Director of Builder Sales 

andrew@hamptonhouss.com 

Photo Courtesy: Miele, Inc. 

hamptonhouss.com 


THE AUTHENTIC LOOK OF CEDAR AND 

SLATE WITH LIFETIME PERFORMANCE 

Enviroshake ® products authentically replicate the look of natural cedar 

shakes, and slate while offering discerning homeowners the 

maintenance free lifetime performance they expect from their 

roofing and siding products. Installed for the same as cedar and 1⁄2 

the cost of real slate! Enviroshake Inc. products not only offer the most 

authentic cedar shake & slate look, they are designed to offer 

superior performance in coastal climates. All Enviroshake Inc. products 

can withstand winds up to 180 MPH, are fire retardant, not damaged by 

UV or saltspray, and are mold, mildew, and insect resistant. In 

addition, all Enviroshake products are maintenance free, and the run off 

water is potable. When roofing your coastal property don’t think cedar 

or slate, think Enviroshake. 

For a free sample, to see a completed Enviroshake project near, or for a 

free material quote call us at 1-866-423-3302 or visit us online 

www.enviroshake.com 


THE ZEN OF CLOSING 

Leave Your Ego at the Door. 

Ira Kornbluth is a Hamptons real estate attorney in practice for 30+ years. He is not a 

pitbull. For a little more background go to hamptonsrealtylaw.com. 

The outward nature of a real estate closing 

is that it is an adversarial process. After 

all, each side—seller and purchaser— 

hires a lawyer to fight for his respective 

interest. But if we think out of the box, 

what the two parties are really after is the 

same thing—to close. Fighting with each 

other on inessential can only prevent that 

from happening. 

But come to loggerheads they often do. 

THE WAITING GAME 

If there is a mortgage contingency there 

is only a finite amount of time for the 

buyer to obtain the bank’s commitment. 

In today’s market you are talking about six 

weeks. When that time is up and the commitment 

has not been obtained, the seller 

has the right to call off the contract and 

return the buyer’s down payment. 

So as the deadline looms the phone calls 

and e-mails start flying back and forth, 

creating an atmosphere of palpable crisis. 

The buyer fears that the seller will not 

grant an extension of time to obtain the 

mortgage commitment and the seller is set 

to wondering whether he should agree to 

an extension if the purchaser is going to 

be eventually rejected by the bank. 

But by this point in time the deal has 

gone too far forward not to close. Should 

the seller say no to an extension and put 

the house back on the market he would 

have lost considerable time, sometimes 

as much as a year. Granting an extension 

usually involves waiting only another 

two or three weeks, maybe less. Heed 

my words Seller: There is no reason to 

suspect the seriousness of the buyer when 

you consider his expenditure of time and 

money. 

Keep calm. It will be all right. 

IN DEEP WATER 

Another common area of conflict is the 

pool. The contract stipulates that it be in 

working order at the time of closing. But 

it’s not an easy piece of equipment to 

check out in winter. This is a fine opportunity 

to negotiate an escrow agreement and 

argue about how much money should be 

set aside to make possible repairs until the 

flowers bloom. The respective parties can 

take great pride in how their attorneys represent 

them. Or, they can obtain a letter 

from the pool company as to the condition 

of the pool when they winterized it. At the 

point of closing the pool company’s loyal- 

ties are 100 percent with their prospective 

new client—the buyer. 

BEYOND THE HEDGES 

Another thing that happens is that after 

both parties agree on everything a new 

survey is introduced into the scenario. Lo 

and behold the parcel actually extends a 

few feet beyond the hedges and is swallowed 

up into a neighbor’s land. The buyer’s 

kneejerk reaction is to make a fuss. 

I’ve seen it where they become hysterical 

and walk away. They inevitably regret it. In 

this case I advise the seller to take a bit off 

the price as a gesture and urge the buyer 

to realize that they’re getting exactly what 

they looked at. The point is to move on 

with the deal. 

Stop arguing, smile, pass the keys and 

offer your congratulations. 

There is no place for egos, either on the 

part of the lawyers or the parties. The way 

to reach the goal of the transaction, i.e. 

the closing, is for the parties to help each 

other out along the way, unless you need 

to have a story to tell about your horrendous 

real estate closing. {S} 

Every client is different. 

Your clients’ mortgages 

should be too. 

At Citizens Bank®, we make the mortgage process clear for your clients with the personal attention they want. 

We offer a wide range of mortgage products such as: 

• 80-10-10 tandem mortgage: Up to 90% combined financing with a 10% down payment and no mortgage 

insurance for conventional and jumbo loans. 

• Doctors and dentists:* Up to 95% financing with no mortgage insurance for loan amounts up to $850,000 

• New construction: A single loan program for both construction and permanent financing with a one-time close 

• Major home renovations: Construction-to-permanent financing for clients considering a major home makeover 

It’s never too early for your clients to explore their options, so contact me today. 

Johnny Vlogianitis 

NMLS ID# 420544 

516-410-4583 

johnny.v@citizensbank.com 

*The Citizens Bank Doctor Loan is available to licensed and actively practicing Doctors of Medicine (MD), Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine (DO), Doctors of Dental Surgery (DDS), and Doctors of Dental Medicine (DMD) as well as newly licensed medical residents currently 

in residency or who will begin their residency within sixty (60) days of mortgage closing. Self-employed borrowers are ineligible. Available only in CT, DC, DE, IL, IN, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, SC, TN, VA, VT, and WV. Mortgages are offered and 

originated by Citizens Bank, N.A. Citizens Bank® is a brand name of Citizens Bank, N.A. (NMLS ID# 433960) and Citizens Bank of Pennsylvania (NMLS ID# 522615). Citizens Bank, N.A. and Citizens Bank of Pennsylvania are affiliates. All loans are subject to approval. © 2016 

84 SHELTER Summer 2016 ShelterTheHamptons.com Citizens Financial Group, Inc. All rights reserved. Equal Housing Lender. 450374 


RANT 

BRING BACK THE 

RAKE! 

“PERHAPS WE ARE CREATING OUR 

OWN ARMAGEDDON, BUT DAMN THE 

LAWN LOOKS GREAT!” 

“HOMEOWNERS HAVE BEEN LED TO 

BELIEVE THEIR PRIVET HEDGES AND 

LAWNS NEED A NEAR BRAZILIAN WAX.” 

With the arrival of a new summer 

season comes the inevitable uptick of airplane 

traffic, and the even more inevitable 

avalanche of letters to the editor about 

their production of noise. But is a little 

bi-plane hum or Sikorsky clatter really our 

greatest threat to peaceful enjoyment of 

the outdoors? I’d suggest not, and am far 

more rattled by the incessant angry buzz 

of steroidal cicadas. Which is to say, leaf 

blowers. 

In previous decades many local homeowners 

exhibited a laid back Summer of 

Love attitude to an inexpertly trimmed 

lawn, but more recently they have been 

led to believe their privet hedges and 

lawns need a near Brazilian wax of fastidiousness. 

Who has not seen a comically 

determined lawn worker with an overly 

horse-powered backpack of blow chase a 

lone errant leaf across an entire yard? Why 

not simply pick it up? Would that feel like 

less of an accomplishment than strafing 

the front forty? Who knows? But what we 

do know are the other byproducts all this 

leaf-directed rage: 

HEAR NO EVIL 

Leaf blowers scream at 90-110 decibels 

(dB). Compare that to a jet taking off at 

JFK: 150 dB. Thankfully the jet actually 

leaves. A leaf blower hangs around 

to rattle your nerves for hours; when the 

fusillade from the east ceases, you can bet 

the cacophony from the west will commence. 

It is the exact antithesis of what 

brings people to the Hamptons. 

POLLUTION MACHINE 

The average two-stroke engine in a leaf 

blower creates more carbon monoxide 

than 80 cars driven 12,500 miles a year. 

While the Koch brothers aren’t the least 

bit dismayed by this, a few million pesky 

scientists assert that climate change is 

accelerating, catastrophic, and, um, real. 

The comparative pollution production of 

leaf blowers to your average car—of nonmethane 

hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxide 

and carbon monoxide—is staggering. 

Perhaps we are creating our own Armageddon, 

but damn the lawn looks great! 

HOLD YOUR BREATH 

The force of a leaf blower’s Dyson-level 

excitement makes airborne a multitude of 

herbicides, pesticides, fungi, molds, bacterial 

spores, insect bits, and animal poop. 

Yes, your landscaper is single-handedly 

staging your own personal production of 

Fido’s Fecal Fog, a breath of not so fresh 

air on the East End. 

But even if leaf blowers cannot be entirely 

eliminated there are alternatives to maintain 

our sanity: Municipalities can institute 

regulations that specify when leaf blowers 

can be used. Call it Noisy Thursday—or 

whenever—if use is confined to a limited 

amount of time, the inconvenience is not 

a round-the-clock assault. As well, those 

neighbors who systematically rev up their 

Ryobis as you are sitting down to a poolside 

soiree would be sufficiently stymied. 

Either way, it’s time to reclaim what is 

great about being outdoors in the Hamptons, 

and recognize peaceful enjoyment 

and quietude should not be blown off. 

Because of the adverse health 

and environmental impacts, over 

400 cities—including Los Angeles!—have 

outright banned them 

in an effort to reduce greenhouse 

gases, asthma attacks and Saturday 

afternoon rage. 

Going cold turkey might be 

alarming to some, but there are 

alternatives to cleaning your lawn 

debris. Electric powered leaf 

suckers are substantially quieter 

and collect debris, rather than 

disperse it. As well, push powered 

leaf collectors. Let’s not forget 

the retro rake: quiet, efficient 

and healthfully aerobic. 


Integrated Landscape Design 

Glenn Lawton BLA. ASLA. 

www.spatialarts.net 

Member American Society of Landscape Architects 

Our Focus is Design 

• Environmental sensitivity 

• Architectural confluence 

• Mechanical and ultilitarian effectivness 

• Broad aesthetic appeal 

Our goal is to enhance space as singular, transitional or sequential, 

giving rise to a visual discovery offering you a platform to dialogue 

with nature not as an observer but as a participant. Spatial Arts 

has been balancing the quintessential with the avante-garde in the 

Hamptons for 28 years. 

Come see us at Dodds and Eder, 

11 Bridge Street Sag Harbor, New York 

Call anytime — 631.332.2502 


Hampton Racquet. 

A Country Club for Adults. A Country Club for Kids. 

Hampton Racquet is a family-owned boutique Country Club. Our mission is to provide a premium experience accessible to 

everyone. With our main focus on tennis, we provide a unique atmosphere for all lovers of the sport regardless of age or 

level of play. Tennis isn’t all we offer. We have numerous Fitness Classes, our Cafe, the Pro Shop and weekly Social Events. 

At Hampton Racquet, we always endeavor to provide a special environment for our clients and the community. 

Our Country Club experience isn’t just limited to adults. At our Summer Camp, your kids are not just campers, they are special 

members of the Hampton Racquet Summer Camp Club...the Country Club for Kids. Our Summer Camp Club is not a free-for-all. 

Rather, it’s a well structured Fun-For-All for kids 4-14. From our unique tennis, multi-sport multi-faceted and off-court 

experiences, we’ve designed a summer with more fun and possibility for growth than any kid can imagine. 

To f ind out more visit us at Hamptonracquet.com or call 631-324-0297 

Serious Tennis. Serious Fitness. Serious Fun. 

NEVER WORRY ABOUT YOUR WINDOWS AGAIN! 

Upgrade now with Integrity from Marvin ® 

Integrity windows and doors, made with Ultrex ® fiberglass, outperform vinyl, 

aluminum and vinyl/wood composites. A smart investment for your home with 

enduring beauty. They are energy efficient, low maintenance and worry-free. 

CONTACT KLEET LUMBER TODAY TO DISCUSS WINDOW AND DOOR 

SOLUTIONS FOR YOUR NEXT PROJECT. 

777 Park Avenue, 

Huntington, NY 

800.696.KLEET 

kleet.com 

©2015 Marvin Windows and Doors. All rights reserved. ®Registered trademark of Marvin Windows and Doors.

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