Hard Hats with LKRE

Last Friday, I joined the Libby Kirwin Real Estate (LKRE) team for a tour of their latest collaboration with builder Behan Bros, Inc., and developer, Arch Street Development LLC. In the midst of construction, (hence the hard hats), The Carey School Residences will transform any notion one has had of Newport living. If you have been privy to Libby Kirwin's Renovation and Design Consulting business (LKRDC), you'll know that her team's eye is fresh, edgy, functional and always one step ahead. They have single-handily taken the stale air out of real estate. That approach is alive and well with this project. With a team comprised of a renowned builder, developer AND listing agency-meets-design consultancy, you'll want to keep tabs on this project. The structure was once an elementary school, and while some original architectural elements will be preserved, it is gracefully morphing into what will be 13 units of condominiums in prime Newport locale. Floor plans will range from a one bedroom unit to penthouse units with views of Newport Harbor and beyond. Finishes will be classic Newport but with an industrial sophistication. Get LKRE on speed dial for the latest on the listing.

Intrigue in Ibiza

It feels naughty to dream about vacation when you're ON vacation, but alas, I can't help but be intrigued by the above property. The home belongs to Luis Galliussi, and although I can't speak a lick of Spanish, by the looks of the online editorial, he lives my kind of lifestyle. See more in Architectural Digest España.

A Pleasantry

Breakfast is my favorite meal of the day. One of the best things about being on vacation is having more time to savor things that might otherwise count as routine habits or practices. One has the ability to even look at such things in a new light which may be cause for change or adjustment. Although I am still early to rise on vacation, I love being able to sip my coffee a little slower and enjoy what's left of the fresh summer fruit in New England for breakfast. I've been able to fulfill my goal of swimming in the ocean and consuming seafood each day and for that, I'm a happy camper. It's the little things.

The Sea Lovers

Love this photograph of Italian architect Signor Giorgio Biusos, his wife Rita and children Guendaline, Ferdinando, baby Marta and Ursula. Their classic style ketch appropriately named Chérie (which translates to "dear"), stretches her sea legs just north of Rome on the rocky coast. I particularly love how this photograph exudes such vitality, mild disarray as each subject portrays a varied expression, yet beautifully harmonious in sentiment. Not much is known about this photograph, other than the fact that it was captured by the iconic John Cowan in the 60's.  There of course, is also the caption that accompanies the photograph just to the right. The last bit reads: "Able to come and go as they please, cooled by the breezes at sea, shaded in port by an awning over the deck, the Biusos are self-contained, self-sufficient in their happy family life; happy, healthy, attractive, good-humored, enjoying their boat and each other." Joie de vivre if you ask me!