Fairfield resident Alyssa Kent is an architect who has spent most of her career in real estate development, building multifamily and mixed-use buildings and doing historic renovations in the Tri-State area. With a natural love of renovation, Alyssa slowly began the search for that special home to renovate when her family was clearly growing out of their former house. She notes, “Our incredible realtor, Andrea Viscuso, knew exactly what we were looking for and was a key partner in the process.” They embarked on another vintage find in Stratfield Village.
Lucky to once again land in one of the most charming areas in all of Fairfield, Alyssa took her inspiration for the reno from their beautiful historic street, “Each house is quite unique and beautiful while all feeling like they belong together. The roof pitch, cedar shakes, brick detailing, and color choices were all chosen with the intention to fit in, more than to stand out.”
Juxtaposing classic details and charm with modern family living was essential and ultimately impactful. The goal was to create clean, light-filled spaces that were beautiful but functional. “Real people live here, and the house should reflect that," says Alyssa. She prefers rooms that speak to each other through color and pattern - rather than an open concept. And although she still would like to add in more layers in some of the spaces with wallpaper, drapes, and accessories, she has established a palate of hues and textures in each room that relates to the overall vision.
One unexpected decision - to have the roof in the family room reframed after discovering it was in terrible shape, impacted their original budget. But it gave way to a happy accident, the opportunity to open the ceiling to be vaulted, creating the perfect sun-drenched family room. Another surprise was the space created by opening the 2nd floor stair and hallway into the 3rd floor – essentially creating a foyer in the bedroom area of the house. “I knew this space would feel unique, but underestimated how light and airy it would feel and how well it would work to make the bedrooms feel connected, “ delights Alyssa.
Alyssa admits that renovating can be challenging, with chaos, disappointments, and a lot of stress. Even knocking the house down and starting from scratch may have been easier. “There were plenty of frustrations along the way- everything from zoning amendments to things not fitting as intended, to budget busts, but in the end, we feel incredibly fortunate to be living here – a house that is perfectly suited for our family.” Alyssa is grateful. Raising her family here is extraordinary - a college and beach town with a robust, vibrant hamlet. “The Stratfield neighborhood, in particular, has the best vibe and a real sense of community. Our kids play with their friends in the street and ride bikes to the park together, and there are lots of incredible community events in the neighborhood that make this such a special place to live.” Especially in their beautiful dream home.
"Real people live here, and the house should reflect that."
"Our kids play with their friends in the street and ride bikes to the park together, and there are lots of incredible community events in the neighborhood that make this such a special place to live."
