When discerning New England homeowners have a major renovation or rebuild in mind, many come to Cardello Architects. Why? They trust the leading, high-end architecture firm to walk with them each step of the way and to create something truly singular.
Known for delving into the essence of each property they step foot on, the firm always aims to achieve harmony between architectural form and nature. As a result, their work—which can be found from New York to Florida and beyond—deeply resonates with clients and has a strong sense of place.
Amidst the woods of Greenwich, Connecticut sits a prime example of the firm’s exceptional architecture and thoughtful execution. The homeowners commissioned them for an extensive remodel, but decided to pivot to a total tear-down/rebuild endeavor after crunching numbers with their experienced team. Ready to adjust at any moment, Cardello Architects then got to work crafting their dream home from scratch.
For each project they take on, Cardello Architects first and foremost seeks to understand their clients’ unique desires and personalities. They find out what ignites their passion and use that as the project’s compass. For these homeowners, they had young daughters and wanted to build a forever house that would suit them long-term and fit every person’s needs. The goal was to make an exquisite, timeless home they would grow into and keep enjoying through all of life’s phases.
The original structure was a gambrel, which the clients loved, but they also wanted something that felt natural and organic. So, it was decided to keep the classic gambrel style as the home’s framework while embracing the forrest surroundings with striking wood and stone selections. “The best way to describe it is ‘Rustic Traditional’,” shares the architecture firm.
Wood and timber are defining elements of the new, 18,000-square-foot residence. Coming up the long driveway and passing the picturesque pond, visitors will find that a barn-like garage immediately draws the eye with its bold use of wood.
But, that’s far from the only place where wood make a strong impression. Refined, warm interiors nodding to the lush landscape captivate as soon as you step inside.
Since the family likes to entertain on a large scale, the residence was designed around a great hall that is as spacious as a ballroom yet feels bright and inviting. That’s mainly thanks to the double-sided stone fireplace, bold use of wood, and soaring wall of glass that looks out to a stunning courtyard. Green views and sunshine abound as you mingle or dine inside. For summer soirées, swinging open the room’s abundant glass doors then creates the ultimate setting for indoor-outdoor parties of 100+ people, which is nothing new for the homeowners.
While undeniably vast, the great hall still exudes great coziness. Collaborating with New Energy Works for the timber and a talented builder—Chris Quinn, Project Manager at BkBuilders—Cardello Architects devised this majestic heart of the home with rustic wooden beams that are both structurally and aesthetically essential.
Thinking of all entertaining occasions and members of the family, the kids’ bunk room provides a whimsical and functional destination for sleepovers. The girls also rule the roost in the designated kids’ zone perched at the top balcony. There, a magical treetop atmosphere makes it easy to dream and imagine. The clients even installed a cork map where their children can use pins to keep track of their travels. They have high hopes that one of their daughters could become the youngest person to visit to every country.
But, dreaming and fun isn’t just for kids at this Greenwich oasis. The owners’ favorite feature, in fact, is their temperature-controlled wine room sprinkled with areas for entertaining. They love to experience the world and this sophisticated space reflects that passion. Each bottle in their collection tells a story of their globe-trotting journeys, standing as testament to their unyielding thirst for discovery.
When designing this important showpiece for their clients, engaging with a rustic and historic ambiance was top-of-mind for Cardello Architects. Combining rich timbers, brick ceilings, arches, and limestone heated floors with thermally broken glass and the latest wine storage technologies, it was crafted to be a true retreat within the residence. You’re taken on a trip faraway as the grand double doors act as a portal, transporting you to a traditional European vineyard. The entry sequence features a barrel groin vault clad with brick, which leads on to a sitting/dining area surrounded by hundreds of bottles cradled within specially-routed millwork.
Just picture the glamorous dinner parties or sommelier-led tastings that can unfold here with friends. A delight for all who encounter it, this spectacular wine room unsurprisingly earned Cardello Architects an athome A-List Award in 2021.
Throughout the design and build process, it’s clear the homeowners trusted the seasoned architecture firm to shoot for the stars. But, they also knew Cardello Architects would approach their treasured project practically. Thinking of every detail during construction, a lead architect realized they could save the homeowners a million dollars in excavation simply by flipping the floor plan. With this new idea and the team’s fine-tuned adaptability, the homeowners spent less than originally anticipated while getting everything they wanted. That means, of course, more funds leftover for their exciting future travels.
When they’re not jet-setting, the family can relish in how the estate comes alive each spring and summer. Just imagine grand, tented events on the manicured lawns or relaxed pool days once school is out. From the stone arched porthole centered on the pool to the covered outdoor living areas, there are endless spots to soak up Connecticut’s seasonal beauty all year long.
Wherever you are at this woodland marvel, what you see is a testament to Cardello Architects’ pursuit of the clients’ vision and dedication to delivering something completely tailored to them. Drawing upon decades of expertise, the architects were steadfast in their commitment to create an extraordinary home that reflects the family who lives in it.
To see more of Cardello Architects’ work or get in touch to see how you can work with the accomplished firm, visit cardelloarchitects.com.