By Megan Montemarano
When a masterfully built home displays masterfully created art, the result is flawless. Whether hanging in a room with just the right amount of light, in the form of abstract sculptures or in a hallway or studio dedicated to showcasing beautiful paintings, artwork is often the best décor. Here are five homes designed with this idea in mind, their walls adorned by inventive pieces that are sure to catch the eye.
85 South Main Street—Sharon, Conn.
Specifically designed for the avid art collector, this contemporary Sharon, Conn., estate owned by master printer Kenneth Tyler has several impressive features dedicated to showcasing and preserving quality art. Tyler works beside the artist, drawing upon his expert knowledge to suggest materials and methods throughout the creative process. That being said, it comes as no surprise that the materials and designs included in this very home were meticulously considered. Built to exhibit Tyler’s art collection, while also serving as his place of residency, this structure features a 75-foot gallery hall built to museum specifications, with special lighting, glass and humidity control and construction details that mimic well known contemporary art museums. There are three levels in total, all of which contain numerous top-of-the-line amenities and have elevator access. The property’s guest wing has a private stone patio and exterior entrance, and is joined to the house through the pool room and art hallway. The grounds additionally contain a separate cottage, which offers full living capabilities, with a kitchen, fireplace, wood floors, artist’s studio, two bedrooms and two baths. Tyler has a strong connection to Sotheby’s auction house, and has numerous archives commissioned in institutions throughout the globe, including The Kenneth Tyler Collection at the National Gallery of Australia.
For more information: John Harney, 860.921.7910, Jharney@williampitt.com
19 Beverly Road—Purchase, N.Y.
This classic Federal-style abode was built in 2005, and contains bright and airy rooms with the finest architectural features to perfectly accommodate an extensive art collection. Custom millwork, raised paneling and pristine hardwood floors flooded with natural light offer an inviting feeling in each room, accompanied by a luxurious setting for standout art. As you walk into the living room, dining room, or perhaps down the second-story hallway, it’s impossible not to slow down to appreciate the bursts of color and abstract images dressing the walls.
For more information: Wendy Alper, 914.806.6868, Wendy.Alper@Juliabfee.com
218 Sleepy Hollow Road—New Canaan, Conn.
Not only does this stunning Philip Johnson-built, mid-century modern present a unique opportunity to match an abundance of contemporary art to its contemporary interior style, but it also features an impressive gallery on its grounds. Created from a reconstructed barn, this one-of-a-kind space, which is surrounded by the home’s 6.33 acres of sloping lawns, is an art enthusiast’s long-awaited dream come true. Complete with museum-like displays and lighting, the gallery makes sure no artistic piece or collection goes unnoticed at New Canaan’s 218 Sleepy Hollow Road.
For more information: Inger Stringfellow, 203.321.9361; John Hersam, 203.417.5198
23 Spring Lake Road—Sherman, Conn.
Owned by well-known photographer Howard Schatz, this Litchfield County residence blends art with light and design to create an exquisite sanctuary right at home. Located off one of Sherman’s most beautiful country roads, the 5,936 square-foot structure has undergone two expansive additions, designed by renowned architect David Specter. Its stunning double-story glass living room is just one of many interior spaces filled with natural light to perfectly highlight all of the professional photography displayed throughout the home.
For more information: Irit Granger, 203.803.3748, Igranger@williampitt.com
112 Birch Hill Road—Weston, Conn.
This dramatic modernist home in the town of Weston, Conn., was originally constructed in 1978 by noted local architect Roger Ferris, and substantially remodeled over the past decade by the current owner, architect Allen Swerdlowe of d7architects. Swerdlowe has produced an impressive track record of award-winning projects and designs. His works are displayed in numerous collections, some of which include the Museum of Modern Art, the Minneapolis Institute of Art and the University of Connecticut. Expansive walls of windows illuminate this five-bedroom, three and a half-bath home, creating a sense of engagement with the surrounding landscape of the two-acre property, as well as ample opportunity to properly exhibit art. The high-ceilinged living room is the ideal place to feature sculptures and other artsy décor pieces, while large paintings against long expanses of white walls in the dining room and other areas, provide the home with a vibrant splash of color, style and distinct artistic flair.
For more information: Barry Katz, 203.858.3733, Bkatz@williampitt.com; Cynthia Melchiori, 508.566.9495, Cmelchiorri@williampitt.com.
