Sycamore Ledge – the Greenwich, CT home of Helen Maher featured in this episode – is all about effortless elegance. From the softly whitewashed façade of the Tudor-style home, to the warm wood paneling in some of the spaces, to the curated collection of treasured furnishings and antiques from Helen’s family and that of her husband, the overall look is eclectic and welcoming.
Set on four acres of land which also include a pool house, guesthouse and Helen’s treasured, orchid-filled greenhouse, the home was purchased by Helen and her husband five years ago. The couple had a shared vision for the renovation of Sycamore Ledge, a vision that Helen fulfilled after her husband’s sudden passing shortly after they purchased it.
At the front entrance is a stone that has been engraved with “Fun is Important,” a message that is repeated on the mantle of the fireplace in the trophy room. And Helen is very much about having fun. In addition to raising orchids her in greenhouse which she calls, “One of my special places,” Helen is an avid hunter and cook – the kitchen is exquisite! – and an expert at needlepoint.
While touring Sycamore Ledge with Helen, Host Parker Kelley can’t resist trying on a couple of Helen’s husband’s hats. “I love a good hat,” she exclaims while donning a vintage boater.
The next day proves a busy one for Parker. She talks with Architect Douglas VanderHorn, principal of Douglas VanderHorn Architects, who oversaw the renovation of Helen’s home, and tries her hand at skeet shooting at Helen’s nearby club. Parker then heads to l’escale on Greenwich Harbor where she chats with Executive Chef Frederic Kieffer who will prepare dinner that evening for Helen and a group of her friends, and her daughter who comes in from New York for the gathering. Parker also stops in at Greenwich Orchids where she meets with the owner, Wendy Siegel.
Back at Sycamore Ledge, Parker joins Chef Kieffer in the kitchen to help him prepare a five-course dinner which he describes as very “spring oriented and light.” Just before guests begin to arrive, Parker talks wine with Theresa Rogers, the owner of Horseneck Wines & Liquors, who has carefully chosen a wine to accompany each course of the evening’s menu.
As the show closes, everyone raises a glass to toast New England living.
New England Living TV is sponsored by Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances, Clarke Appliance Showrooms, Kohler, 7 Tide and Supply New England.
