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Serenity Now
Story by Cheryl Kenny ● Photos by Susan Teare
New York couple builds a soothing Vermont getaway
Building a second home in Cambridge, Vermont, was like coming home for New Yorkers Joe and Jennifer. Joe, who works in the business side of the entertainment industry, and Jennifer, a foster child volunteer, met while attending St. Michael’s College in Colchester, Vermont. Although Joe’s career took them to the city lights of the Big Apple, they never forgot the serene beauty of the Vermont landscape.
When they decided to return, it took the couple three years to find the perfect property—50 acres of rolling woods and meadows overlooking Mount Mansfield—and complete their 7,500-square-foot retreat.
Three In One
Joe and Jennifer, who wanted to use local talent and materials as much as possible, worked with Pete Kochalka, an owner of North Woods Joinery in Cambridge. After a few meetings, Pete suggested bringing in Stowe, Vermont, architect Sam Scofield to collaborate. “We have designers on staff, but sometimes find that with higher-end homes and more difficult mechanical situations—heating and plumbing—it’s helpful to bring in an architect,” Pete notes. “I recommend architects who are local because they understand the views, the weather conditions, and have relationships with local builders. They also can make site visits.”
The couple had seen timber frames and liked the flexible, open interiors they offer. “We knew we would spend a lot of time at the house with friends and with our children and their friends,” Joe adds. “The house needed to accommodate a lot of people, yet also feel warm.” |
