I have to admit, I was a little leery when I heard we were going to do our first “Best of Everything” issue. After all, how to choose what’s best? We took a page from Westchester Magazine’s Best of Westchester issue, now in its 10th year, and asked countless interior designers, architects, and style makers for their opinions. And, of course, we weighed in with our own. What’s the best new trend in design? Which home furnishings store should be on your “must-visit” list? Where should you go for the best selection of mid-century modern furnishings, artisan goods, Chinese lacquer ware, even professional cooking gear at rock-bottom prices? Find the answers to these questions and others.
No shelter publication is complete without inducing some covetous thoughts, and this issue is no exception. We visit a contemporary interpretation of an American farmhouse with the most amazing panoramic views of the Northern Westchester countryside—the interior views are just as stunning. We give you a before-and-after look at an interior designer’s own renovation, and a tour of Shobha Vanchiswar’s celebrated Chappaqua garden, where you are sure to experience some extreme peony envy.
We also felt those pangs of jealousy when we looked at Jayni Chase’s vegetable garden in Bedford. She and her husband, actor Chevy Chase, talk the talk and walk the walk when it comes to preserving the environment.
In Trends, we take a new look at Lucite. Sure, it has always been in style, but now there is a rebirth of interest, with Lucite turning up in surprising new colors and styles. And to those who say analog clocks are obsolete? We say, “nonsense!” Clocks do more than simply mark the time. As you’ll see by our selections in Picks, they also can be quirky, clever, and artistic.
Interested in updates from us about home and garden events, fabulous finds, and real estate news? This issue coincides with the launching of our WestNest e-newsletter. If you’d like to see the latest in kitchen and bath design, find out which of your neighbors’ homes are on the market (and for how much), get (free) home decorating and home repair advice, and get a heads-up on events in the County having to do with the home and garden, sign up for our newsletter. It’s free, of course. All you have to do is click on the “Sign Up for Our Newsletters” button. WestNest will make its way to your inbox every two weeks. Good deal.
Nancy L. Claus
Executive Editor
