The lazy days of summer have come to an end! As your family launches into back to school season, there are some steps you can take to ease the transition.
Photo: PBS.org
Start by taking a look at wherever you consider to be your command central station and make sure it is ready for the onslaught of new activity. Clear out old paperwork to make room for the new. Set up a file system for school notices and activity reference paperwork and consider a bulletin board for papers that will be referred to frequently. Consider color coding activities by family member.
Photo: Houzz.com
Where will the kids do their homework? If there is not an official homework zone, make sure you are well stocked on supplies in the kitchen or near where the kids will usually be working. This is a great time and opportunity to clean out that junk drawer!
Image: Housebeautiful.com
This is also a good time of year to spend a little time de-cluttering the kids’ bedrooms. Go through their clothes for what fits and donate what does not. Make a list in advance of what needs to be purchased right away vs. what can wait until later in the season to simplify shopping. Don’t forget to label new purchases with each child’s name to guard against the inevitable items that will land in lost and found!
How does your mudroom look? What about the garage? Do an inventory of everything and check the condition of sneakers, cleats, helmets and sports equipment.
Photo: HGTV.com
Organize the pantry and pull out your recipes for easy make-ahead weeknight meals. As you start to pack school lunches again, you’ll want to replenish container supplies that are worn out or missing.
Your new home is ready and you can’t wait to move in. If only you could snap your fingers and have all of your furniture and possessions magically transported from one place to the next! Of course it’s not that easy, so time to take a deep breath and get moving. The process may feel intimidating, but the end result will be so worth it!
Photo: MarthaStewart.com
A top notch mover can really ease the process and help ensure that your treasured possessions make the move in good shape. Ask for recommendations and check references. Don’t forget to create an inventoried list of antiques and valuables for insurance purposes just in case.
Photo: ArchitecturalDigest.com
Moving is a great opportunity to cut back on clutter and start anew. Begin going through your house and closets as early as possible to weed out items that do not need to be moved and should be donated to charity. You will also want to start eating the food in your pantry and freezer so there is less to pack from the kitchen.
There are so many change of address notifications that you will need to make. Schools, doctors, insurance companies, utilities…it helps to create a checklist and keep adding to it as you think of things. Completing a change of address form with the postal service is a must.
Photo: Idealhomegarden.com
When it comes to packing, an early start is helpful as well. Start with items that you use less frequently. You can never have too much bubble wrap and packing tissue! China and breakables will be more protected in rigid plastic tubs than cardboard boxes. Place heavier dishes on the bottom. Align plates on their sides and place bowls upside down – this protects them better structurally. Don’t forget to label kitchen knives and other sharp objects clearly so they can be carefully unpacked.
Photo: bhg.com
Find out what kinds of blankets and materials the mover will use and consider supplementing with your own for an extra layer of protection. Plastic furniture bags can be very helpful to prevent fabrics from being soiled by dirty hands. If there are castors or wheels on chairs or sofas, make sure they are wrapped to prevent them from falling off and getting lost.
Photo: Ecobox.com
You may want to pack a suitcase or a few boxes to transport yourself of items you couldn’t live without for even a day. If you have pets, pack their food, water dish, etc. in a clearly labeled box to be opened right away. (Don’t forget to update their tags and microchips!)
Photo: bhg.com
Once all the boxes have been unloaded, try to resist the urge to rush the process of unpacking. Setting up a new home is more fulfilling and the end product will be more livable if you allow yourself the time to really think through ideal placement for everything, focusing on one room at a time. It’s ok to eat takeout for a while – you have enough on your plate. Your dream home is coming to life. Enjoy it!
As consumers become more aware of their footprint in their world, the days of the mega mansion are being replaced by a trend towards smaller homes. With this trend comes an increasing need to maximize functional space, and built-in cabinets have never been so popular. Built-ins can be leveraged throughout an entire house to create found space, convenience and access. Virtually any nook or alcove can be turned into inviting storage and seating. Think shelving, benches, cubbies and cabinetry!
Well designed and thought out cabinetry is critical for a functional kitchen. At Milton we will walk you through the process, beginning with learning about your own unique needs. Do you have a collection that you would like to display, or do you prefer more hidden storage to keep clutter out of sight?
When space is limited, flexibility is especially important. There are many creative ways to build versatility into a design. We think this extendable kitchen island is a clever idea:
Photo: bhg.com
What do you like to cook? Which small appliances get used every day and which can be more tucked away? Appliance garages can be built around your own unique needs and preferences.
Photo: Atlantahomesmag.com
It is often the little details that make all the difference. A built-in charging drawer is a great idea, as is strategic placement of electrical outlets out of sight – allowing for the seamless look of an uninterrupted backsplash.
Photo: houzz.com
And we love the concept of this pull-up plug:
Photo: houzz.com
Do you need a place to tuck a sponge out of sight? What about dishtowels, both clean and dirty?
Photo: houzz.com
There are so many creative ways to maximize precious space and add storage. These built-in stair cabinets are a smart solution.
Photo: Realsimple.com
The bottom line? The right built-ins help to define and finish a space, both visually and functionally.
Of course the designing of your dream home should include spaces that are allocated for your own particular passions and pursuits. We love that Julia Child had a walk-in pastry room!
Photo: Architectural Digest, circa 1976
How would YOUR dream built-ins allow you to live better? We’d love to hear about it!
At Milton, we believe a true dream home begins with its setting. Location has always been the cornerstone of our philosophy, and our communities reflect that commitment. From expansive acreage and timeless streetscapes to prestigious cul-de-sacs, every Milton home is placed in a neighborhood that elevates both lifestyle and legacy.
Westport, Connecticut is where timeless New England charm meets the sophistication of New York City living. Nestled along the Saugatuck River and Long Island Sound, this coveted shoreline community offers a rare balance of natural beauty and modern refinement. Rolling hills, sweeping waterfront vistas, and lush woodlands set the stage for a lifestyle enriched by endless recreation, vibrant culture, and a spirit of connection that makes Westport one of the most desirable places to call home.
Westport’s Levitt Pavilion for the Performing Arts. Photo: Fairfield After Dark
Westport is defined by its charming and sophisticated neighborhoods—each with a unique character that makes the town so desirable. As Westport’s premier luxury home builder, Milton has an intimate understanding of these communities, from their most coveted streets to their subtle distinctions. Our deep local expertise allows us to guide clients with confidence and insight, ensuring every home is perfectly matched to its setting.
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Of course, what makes the perfect neighborhood depends on your unique lifestyle. For families, being within walking distance to schools can be a game-changer. For commuters, easy access to the train brings convenience and balance. And for those making the move from the city, the ability to step outside and stroll to shops or a favorite café often feels like the best of both worlds. Every buyer has their own vision—and Westport offers something for everyone. It all depends on each buyer’s own personal needs and wishes.\r\n\r\nWe asked award winning Fairfield County Realtor Jillian Klaff, who resides and specializes in Westport for some insight: JILLIAN KLAFF: Westport is a very desirable town. All of the schools are good, although buyers will sometimes choose specific neighborhoods because of a certain school district they want to be in.
This scenic town wins awards with the quality of its school system. Photo: Greatschools.org
The neighborhoods all have their own unique benefits.GREENS FARMS is prestigious and near the train. This is the oldest neighborhood and “original” Westport.
Westport is just slightly over an hour to Grand Central Station by train. Photo: Westportmoves.com
For those who don’t mind being a little further out to get more privacy and land, COLEYTOWN provides more peace and quiet. It is not really as far as people perceive.\r\n\r\nOn the other hand, there are many clients who need to be close to the train or would like to be able to WALK TO TOWN. I have found that buyers wanting to be close to town do not care about having a lot of property. They like to be close to the action and want their commute time to be as little as possible. Many young families from Manhattan are often nervous about feeling lonely and isolated when moving from the city, so they seek a neighborhood feeling and a sense of community. They are also attracted to brand new construction. Supply here is limited so prices can be higher for these homes.
Westport downtown: a quaint atmosphere with upscale shops makes for easy window shopping. Photo: Virtualtourist.com
LONG LOTS is very central and close to schools. These tend to be smaller lots, but often on desirable cul de sacs.\r\n\r\nBuyers seeking new homes BY THE BEACH area naturally want to have as great water views as possible and easy access to the beaches. After the massive storms in the past few months, I find buyers want to be out of a flood plain area and want to make sure a house is raised to above flood level heights to simplify insurance. There is also great demand for generators; all Milton homes have them, so this is a given.
A view of Westport’s popular Compo Beach. Photo: Panoramio.com
No matter the neighborhood, today’s buyers share common priorities. They want homes tucked away from busy streets, with flat backyards, walk-out lower levels, and timeless yet transitional design. More than anything, they value the peace of mind that comes with a brand-new home—one backed by a builder whose reputation precedes them. That’s why so many families already know and trust Milton before they even begin their search. For us, there is nothing more rewarding than connecting families with the home of their dreams. And if you’re exploring the market yourself, you’re already in the right place—Milton.
Living in your dream house is easier than you might think. Though we’d love for you to select Milton, we are here to help in whatever way we can so here are some expert tips to help guide your decision. PLANNING: When building a new home, you have the opportunity to create floor plans customized to your own family’s needs. Finding the right site for new construction or finding the ideal site on an existing property is an important consideration. If you’re looking for renovations, you have an opportunity to dramatically improve your quality of life by customizing your environment to how you live, work, play and dream.
Make sure your builder asks questions like, “what is your typical day like?” and “what is most frustrating about your current home?” They should meet with every member of your family and get to know what they like and don’t like so you have a living space that is not only livable but lovable for everyone!
You want an expert to help you navigate through the myriad of options and address concerns like energy efficiency and durability of materials, and of course compliance with all applicable codes and regulations – so make sure you have someone with years of experience building quality homes. CONSTRUCTION: We all want the best, and good quality construction is critical. Many good builders offer a package of services. The quality of the offered services will have a critical effect on your enjoyment of the house. Warrantees, design, architecture…all things that you need to take in to consideration. Make sure the builder is properly licensed and insured, and expect solid communication: everything should be clearly spelled out in terms of work components and timelines.
Quality craftsmanship is the most important part of your investment – artisan details speak for themselves! Make sure you contact references, look through their client photos and even visit a site to see the final product. Make sure you choose the references – the last three projects they worked on and the timeline they worked on them (this will give you an idea that their work is consistent and you are in control of who you talk to rather than just be introduced to their happiest clients.) DESIGN: Design makes the difference, both inside and out. Working with a well-rounded builder provides a true advantage here. Do they offer a design center that stocks samples, from plumbing fixtures and tiles to built-ins and trim details for your review in one convenient location?
Do they get your personal aesthetic? Are you going to have to do all the design grunt work or are you choosing a builder with a qualified team to provide assistance in making your visual dream a reality? SERVICE: A good builder delivers extraordinary quality and stands by their work. References will attest to well-managed timelines, excellent service, and closely communicated budget expectations.
With Milton, you are hiring a team of professionals from architect to carpenter, cabinet maker, plumber, electrician, landscape architect and interior designer, all whom have an established background of successful experiences. Your comfort is key – both throughout the process and when it comes to enjoying the end product. Milton’s comprehensive commitment to doing whatever it takes to make you happy begins with your first visit and continues well after you move in. We’d love to help you. Contact us today to set up a consultation.
As we approach the December 21 winter solstice and our daylight hours continue to get shorter, this is the time of year when the right light in our homes adds so much to our comfort and sense of well being. As with all aspects of home design, the quality of lighting really matters. From acting as an architectural accent to setting the tone for an entire room, the right ambience begins with the right fixture. In this month’s email, Milton Architect and Decorator Marybeth Woods shares some of her current favorites; below are a few more. Beautiful lighting lends depth and texture to an interior – think dynamic and dramatic or engaging and expressive; the goal is to create a sense of balance to complement the natural mood of a room. Today you’ll find plenty of options for every room in the house that do not compromise on design or functionality, especially important for rooms like the kitchen. In the living room, pick something you love and go for the wow factor with a statement chandelier that creates a strong visual focal point.
Consider giving your existing light fixtures a makeover with new bulbs. Different bulbs produce different lighting effects and tones, from clean whites to cool blues to warm yellows, so you can customize the feel and intensity to your taste. At Milton, we are strong believers in the power of dimmers – changing a simple on/off switch to a dimmer creates a sudden new range of options, literally putting light control at your fingertips. Use these in every room of the house! Then change things up at a moment’s notice – make it softer and sexier by dimming to lower, flattering soft shadows and you’ll save on energy too!
Marybeth’s pick: Teardrop Sconce by Robert Sonneman.
For another easy quick update, sometimes all a lamp needs is a new shade. Just don’t forget that lamps and shades are all about proportion – for best results, bring the old shade (and/or lamp!) with you when you shop to make sure the size of your new shade will continue to complement the design of the lamp.
Marybeth’s pick: Clear Glass Table Lamp by Currey & Company
What are your own favorite fixtures and lighting techniques? We’d love to hear from you. Wishing you all a light and bright holiday season!
Nowhere do aesthetics and functionality need to come together as in the mudroom for the modern family. As a daily entry point into the home, the right mudroom should be a welcoming haven. Milton’s clients seek beautifully designed spaces providing convenience and ease, and the flexibility to grow with a family’s needs over time. This month we share the floor plans for a new mudroom in a custom built Milton home for the Zinzi family, which will include smart features like a washroom with a shower for easy clean-up of kids, sports equipment, swimmers and dogs.
Lauren Zinzi with children Olive & Samuel
When designing a mudroom, think first and foremost about storage and providing a designated space for everything. This is where the right cubbies and receptacles come into play – you will want a careful balance of both open storage to grab on the go and concealed storage to hide clutter. Concealed storage should be easy to access – Milton makes these custom cubby baskets on wheels that do the trick nicely. Maximize the amount of space at your fingertips with creative solutions to keep everything within reach. We like this built-in ladder that provides access at all heights.
The right flooring materials set the stage for both beauty and practicality. Milton loves the classic and natural look of slate floors, which are more durable than many people think. Slate tends to wear well and doesn’t show dirt; consider matching the color of the grout to the slate for a seamless look and even less maintenance.
Not to be forgotten are accessories that facilitate organization on the go like a conveniently located charging station and a bulletin board. Or think chalkboards, which are both practical and a great way to keep the kids creatively entertained while trying to get everyone out the door. For a built-in look, try chalkboard paint. What works for your family? We’d love to hear from you on Facebook!
A child’s room can be one of the most challenging, and yet the most enjoyable rooms in the house to design, plan and decorate. Create a beautiful space for your child, where he or she can indulge in their creative spirits and play for hours, while still expressing your personal style. There are many ways to personalize each space designated for children using patterns, themes and colors in everything from the furniture to bedding, fixtures and lighting, and even architectural design. The possibilities are endless! Playrooms serve to be the most magical havens, where kids dream, learn, imagine and grow. Treat your children to a sanctuary that’s all their own, with kid-sized playroom furniture including a mini-kitchen, table and chair sets, a Victorian dollhouse, sofa and love seats, rockers and a puppet theater. Add inspiring toys, stimulating wall colors and décor to accent your overall theme that will truly bring out your child’s personality. And, just because it’s a child’s playroom doesn’t mean it has to be a mess. Playroom storage options range from custom toy bins and toy chests shaped like castles and trucks, to storage benches that provide pretty seating as well. Every parent wants their children to have a space where he or she can rest, learn, play and most importantly be themselves. Create a special bedroom for your child using calming colors accented with plush pillows and blankets. Personalize the space with your child’s name, initials or monogram by adding wooden or framed wall letters, one of the most popular décor addition’s to nurseries and kids’ rooms. Finish off the space with the perfect lighting, a feature that can be both decorative and functional. Not ready to give up your entire basement to the kids? Share the space by creating a relaxing atmosphere that’s suitable for both your children and the adults. Shown in the picture above, a family from Long Island designed a huge couch where everyone in the family could lounge and even nap together, and added two TV’s on opposite walls so the whole family could play at the same time. Dividing the basement into several designated spaces allows everyone in the family to take advantage and enjoy the area. Designate one space for the kids, adding colorful cubbies with low enough spaces for even the youngest child to store his or her toys; and a short, long desk where they can draw and work on arts and crafts. Leave the rest of the space for the adults, whether it is an in-home gym (seen in the picture below), wine cellar or entertainment area. Using one color palate will help unify the spaces, keeping a flow throughout the basement.
At MILTON we believe that outdoor spaces are quickly moving in a popular direction, popping up as true extensions of the home, providing a comfortable, inviting and functional entertainment retreat. We were recently reading one of our favorite websites, houzz.com, and discovered a great article by Sandy Koepke. If you’re in the midst of planning your patio, deck or yard for lots of festivities this summer, here are three tips on what makes a great outdoor entertaining area.
Consider the Infrastructure: this is especially important if you’re planning on creating an outdoor kitchen area or family room. Introduce a gas line, water, or electrical work before anything else.
Aim for Accessibility: when it comes to making an outside area work as an extension of the home, Sandy recommends upping the accessibility – make it easy to get outdoors and work towards good flow by using lots of windows and doors. Access to the outside should look and feel completely effortless.
Create an Enclosed Space: An enclosure, whether it be a pergola, walls or salvaged windows and doors, gives a sense of place without taking away the fact that you are outdoors.
We incorporated the outdoor living on the third floor of our new home on Buena Vista we are building a spacious outdoor deck with a fireplace, so the homeowners can enjoy a outdoor retreat year round. For more information on Buena Vista please CLICK HERE.What will your outdoor retreat be used for this summer? Let us know on the Milton Development Facebook Wall, linked HERE.
