Winter. Ugh.

By Stacy Kunstel

My heart goes out to my Boston area friends. The photos on Instagram and Facebook have been nothing less than shocking. I particularly feel for New England retailers and builders. What a blow. I’ve particularly enjoyed seeing photos on Instagram posted by @robertcouturier58, @urbancottageblog, @vineyardgazett, @jillrosenwald, @lekkerhome and @mkdoovah. Tag me at @dunesandduchess if you want me to see your snow pics!

Photo from Vineyard Gazette by Tim Johnson

Last week New England Home hosted a designer luncheon at the new café inside Lillian August in Norwalk. Not only did I have the best kale salad I’ve ever tasted, but I got to hear about a number of exciting projects that Connecticut designers are working on. I hope we’ll be able to do another get together like this so let us know if you’d like to be part of it.

Photo by Stacy Kunstel

I think we’re all dreaming of warmer weather and big part of that will be entertaining. I’m thrilled to find these trays by Connecticut-based Starboard Planks. The only challenge will be deciding between the original holly and teak or the new lacquered pieces.

Photos courtesy of Starboard Planks

While on a shoot with interior designer Victoria Vandamm I had couldn’t help but notice a stunning dining table she had made by artisan Greg Clark from Wilton, Connecticut. Lacey, cutout metal forms the base of the wood table, allowing light to come through.