Sneak Peek: Perfecting the Past

By Maria LaPiana

It’s not every day that an architect gets the chance to revisit an earlier project—and improve upon it, within the context of the current style. But Judith Larson got just such an opportunity—and she embraced it fully. Larson, a principal in the design/build firm Gardiner Larson Homes in New Canaan, Conn., was asked to take the formal edge off of a Gold Coast home she designed in the Georgian style more than twenty-five years ago. The exterior, time-honored in every way, had held its own nicely. But the interior, with its dark cherry cabinetry, terracotta tile, heavy trim and lacquered brass hardware—needed work. The homeowners commissioned some skilled collaborators to bring their expertise to the project (interior designer Kathleen Walsh of New York City and kitchen designer Veronica Campbell of Kitchens by Deane)—and together, they brightened, softened, and opened up the home in a thousand oh, so, fresh ways. The story appears in the next issue of New England Home Connecticut. Be sure to pick it up when it hits stands later this month! 

Photos by John Gould Bessler