Spruce up your Outdoor Living Space

We’ve all been spending more time at home, and many are making the most of this time to clean, organize, and even complete some DIY projects.

Now that the weather is warming up, we can all start utilizing our decks, porches, and patios, giving us a change of scenery and making out homes feel more spacious.

Keep reading for tips to spruce up your outdoor living space.

Replace hardware.

How old are your doorknobs, house numbers, and outdoor light fixtures? Dingy fixtures can bring down the entire curb appeal. Replacing hardware creates a new style at a low cost.

Add some color.

Sometimes all it takes to spruce up an outdoor living area is to add a pop of color. This can easily be done with some fresh flowers and planters, which are readily available this time of year. If flowers aren’t enough, consider repainting your doors, or add a colorful outdoor rug to your space.

Power wash your deck or patio.

Winter elements can leave your deck or patio looking dingy. Power wash your outdoor living space for a quick revival. You can also give a fresh coat of paint or stain to the deck if needed.

Clean up your patio furniture.

Don’t stop with the deck and patio – clean up your patio furniture. A deep clean might be all it takes to brighten up a table and chairs. Want to add a bit more comfort? Get new seat cushions or opt for some bright pillows that make seating more comfortable.

Set the mood with outdoor lighting.

Efficient lighting allows you to use your outdoor space after the sun goes down, adds security, and can change the entire vibe. Accent lighting highlights beautiful landscaping, while bistro string lights set a fun mood.

Add in some fun.

What does your dream backyard look like? Yard games, a new grill, outdoor bar, or firepit can all be easily incorporated into your living space. You can involve the whole family by taking on some DIY projects and designing the space together.

Working on your outdoor space now will give you time to enjoy it during the summer. What outdoor projects are you taking on right now?

May 5, 2020 0

How Builders are Responding to Changing Times

Connecticut, like many states, has deemed construction as an essential business. Builders and developers have quickly adapted to make worksites and client interactions safe for all.

According to a recent survey of NAHB members, several measures are being implemented that allow the construction industry to continue to build and sell homes.

The majority of those who responded stated that non-construction employees are working from home during these times. Also, instead of open hours for tours, 59% of those surveyed are scheduling private showings.

Though not mentioned in the survey, many builders are also implementing virtual options. At the Residences at 66 High Street, interested parties can either schedule a private showing (two people per showing), or a virtual showing. We are able to utilize technology to best fit the needs of every individual.

Even with an essential business status, not all construction jobs have continued. Of those surveyed, 48% have halted construction projects, or will do so in the near future. Fortunately, however, only 25% have needed to lay off or furlough workers.

At The Horton Group, we continue to make adaptations and follow CDC guidelines so we can continue to move forward safely.

April 28, 2020 0

31 Home Maintenance Projects to Complete Now

We all have a list of home maintenance projects we would love to take on “when we have more time.” Now that many of us are spending more time at home, we can begin to tackle those projects. Some of you may have already started your spring cleaning and organizing, while others may be overwhelmed with the thought of doing all the tasks you usually put off.

Either way, you can use this checklist to help you get started. No need to do everything at once – pick one or two small projects to get started, and determine where you want to go from there.

Deep Clean

Spring is synonymous with cleaning and airing out. After you complete your basic cleaning routine, dive into these projects to make your home feel brand new.

Clean vents and baseboards.
Wipe down blinds
Wash windows, window tracks, and screens.
Wash curtains.
Scrub tile grout.
Wipe down light fixtures and fans.
Sanitize garbage cans.
Clean under your furniture.
Clean cabinets and drawers (inside and out).
Clean the inside of your dishwasher and oven.
Descale faucets and shower heads.
Wipe down doors and walls.
Wipe down the inside of your refrigerator and freezer.

Organize

If you tend to hold on to everything you’ve ever gotten, now is an excellent time to sort through your belongings and get rid of what you do not need or want. Here is where you can start:

Closets
Drawers and cabinets
Entryway
Garage
Basement
Attic
Shed
Pantry

Rearrange

All of the cleaning and organizing may get you in the mood for a whole new look. That doesn’t mean you have to go out and spend money on new furniture and decor. Try rearranging what you have to change things up.

Furniture layout (in any room!)
Books on bookshelves
Kitchen cabinets
Wall art

Landscape and Property

You can also give some attention to your property and outside living space. Here are some outside projects to work on:

Clean up the lawn from leaves and winter debris.
Sweep or power wash patio and deck.
Prune shrubs.
Clean patio furniture.
Wash siding of the house.
Prep for planting.

Are you doing any home maintenance projects right now? Let us know what they are in the comments!

April 21, 2020 1

Community Spaces in Development: More Important than Ever

We’re all seeing it: the Zoom calls, car parades, and balcony gatherings. People are supporting local businesses, showing thanks to those on the front lines, and donating to those in need.

Even though we are physically separated, our communities are growing stronger than ever. It’s made us think about the growing trend we have seen in new developments – one that will likely continue long after this has passed.

Master Planned Communities

From developments with single-family homes to mixed-use construction, developers have been focusing on incorporating more community spaces over the past few years.

At 66 High Street, the pool, once installed, will be a gathering place in summer. Before the current health crisis, residents often walked downtown together, and met up in each other’s units for a glass of wine and some conversation.

At Overland Lofts in Springfield, community spaces will be available for residents only. Since the building is mixed-use, there will also be stores, cafes, and restaurants that people from all over downtown can enjoy together.

Developments all over the country have already started adding in more community spaces. Why? Because it brings people together. Now, more than ever, we see how important connection is.

What to Watch For

One thing we’ve all learned recently is that connection can still happen when we are separated. While we know developers will continue incorporating spaces for gathering in person, we anticipate that builders will also start thinking about how to integrate technology. Here are some things to watch for in development, according to Best in American Living:

Personalized concierge sales experiences, including a mix of technology and human interaction.
New ways to access amenities so people can gather utilizing technology.
Tech-enabled events and participation, such as online book clubs, art classes, or movie nights.
Greater integration between homebuilders and community developers throughout real estate transactions, including virtual tours for potential buyers.
Doubling down on outdoor spaces for walking, biking, and gathering.

What would you like to see in a residential development? Let us know!

April 14, 2020 0

Virtual Updates at 66 High Street

When we broke ground for The Residences at 66 High Street, in 2015 we had a vision in mind:

To become the premier destination for luxury living and make every unit a work of masterful craftsmanship.

The past five years have been filled with adventure and connection. Now, as we face this unprecedented time, we are more grateful than ever for the unparalleled community that surrounds us.

Keep reading to learn updates for the community, and how we are able to assist residents and clients during this time.

Model Unit 33

Unit 33 is complete! Due to the vision of a talented team of people, we are able to make every unit at 66 High Street unique and awe-inspiring. Nicole White, one of the real estate agents representing 66 High Street, designed the interior, and Madison Furniture Barn staged the entire unit. Watch the video above and take the virtual tour here. Tell us your favorite design elements in the comments!

Virtual Tours

Technology allows us to set up virtual tours for any unit. We can utilize FaceTime or Zoom to show you a completed unit, progress in space that is being constructed, or new materials that arrived to the unit. When required, we are also able to set up in-person showings for up to two people at a time.

Communication and Safety

One thing that hasn’t changed is our level of communication. We continue to talk daily, connecting with our team, our suppliers, and our clients every step along the way. Every group that we work with is going above and beyond to meet the needs of the moment while putting strict safety measures into place.

As we continue with our ongoing projects, the people that make up 66 High Street and the shoreline communities continue to share their generosity and support, proving once again what a special place this is.

April 7, 2020 0

3 Ways to Help Right Now

How can I help?

It’s a question going through the minds of many right now. As we practice social distancing to keep ourselves and our neighbors safe, many want to do more. If you are in the position to donate your time or money, here are three local organizations that are assisting people in Connecticut right now.

If you find yourself needing support in these times, reach out to these same organizations to learn how they can assist you:

The Gift Card Project

The Gift Card Project launched last week in response to the desire of so many people asking how they can help.

We have all been affected by the current situation in some way: small businesses are temporarily closed, individuals are facing layoffs, and healthcare professionals and essential workers are bravely working overtime.

The Gift Card Project aims to help in more than one way: supporting local businesses, while at the same time supporting someone who could use a boost. Simply buy a gift card from a small business, send it to The Gift Card Project, and it will be distributed accordingly.

Learn more about The Gift Card Project here.

Guilford Cares, Ethan Miller Song Foundation & Town of Guilford Senior Programs

Guilford Cares is teaming up with the Ethan Miller Song Foundation and Town of Guilford Parks and Recreation Senior Programs to provide assistance to Guilford residents.

To ensure that the elderly and immunocompromised are not going out in public more than absolutely necessary, you can volunteer to help deliver pre-ordered food from a local grocer.

Learn more about the program here.

Cilantro Specialty Foods & Coffee Roasters

Cilantro Specialty Foods & Coffee Roasters have not only turned their restaurant into a grocery store, but have also turned the kitchen into a place to prepare meals for the homeless.

Working with the Columbus House in New Haven, meals are being prepared at Cilantro Specialty Foods. With so many regulations changing, food pantries and shelters will need access to a commercial kitchen.

Learn more about what co-owner Cindy Wallace is doing here, or drop off your canned goods right in front of Cilantro’s.

Do you know of other local organizations that are accepting donations? Let us know in the comments.

March 31, 2020 0

How the Guilford Community is Stepping Up

Communities all over the country are stepping up during this time of need.

Recently, Byron Lazine and Nicole White of One + Company Real Estate, spoke with Brian McGlone, the Economic Development Manager for the town of Guilford. They discussed some of the incredible ways residents and businesses of Guilford are offering their assistance.

Read on for highlights of the discussion, or listen to the full conversation here.

Bio-Med Devices and 4Catalyzer

Bio-Med Devices and 4Catalyzer, both located in Guilford, are contributing to the medical field. Bio-Med Devices makes ventilators and is currently ramping up production to meet the needs of the industry. Jonathan Rothberg of 4Catalyzer is working on a home test kit for coronavirus.

Women & Family Life Center

Women & Family Life Center, in collaboration with the Guilford Foundation and the Branford Foundation, have an assistance program available. If you are in need of assistance, you can fill out an application for a $500 grant. If you would like to add to the fund, donations are being accepted here.

Guilford Public Schools

Guilford Public Schools began distance learning, one week earlier than anticipated. Students who need a Chromebook can get one on loan from the school.

What can we do to help support our small, local businesses during this time as residents?

Brian McGlone, along with others from the town of Guilford, is encouraging people to continue to support local establishments by ordering food for curbside pickup or delivery, getting gift cards, and online shopping.

As we head into unknown territories, Brian reminds us of the positive things happening in the shoreline town.

“I see it with the town. Banding together, trying to help one another, encouraging people that we will get through this. We’re still on unchartered waters and some ideas might come up that might not be as successful. If people just remain patient, remain positive and optimistic, and practice kindness, we’ll all get through this,” he said.

March 24, 2020 0

Shoreline Community Restaurants

Here is a list of local establishments offering curbside takeout and/or delivery options.

It is as important as ever that we keep our communities strong and thriving during this time.

Thank you Shoreline Chamber – CT and members of our social community for helping to curate this list! We’ll keep adding to it as we get more information.

#StrongerTogether

Branford

Curbside Pick Up and Delivery

Coal & Daisies (203) 208-1263

Coffee Con Cannella (203) 208-4106

D onovan’s Reef (203) 488-5573

Eli’s on the Hill (203) 488-2700

H ome Restaurant (203) 483-5896

Jalapeno Heaven (203) 481-6759

La Cuisine Cafe & Market (203) 488-7779

M arco Pizzeria (203) 483-1544

Parthenon Diner (203) 481-0333

The Stand (203) 433-4728

Shoreline Cafe (203) 488-2600

Willoughby’s Coffee & Tea (203) 481-1700

Curbside Pick Up

Branford Breakfast Connections (203) 483-4597

Branford Food Pantry (203) 481-3663

Branford Townhouse Family Restaurant (203) 481-0550

Cafe Fiore (203) 208-4690

C ommon Grounds (203) 488-2326

G Café (203) 208-0930

Gourmet Wok (203) 481-7988

Il Forno Restaurant (203) 488-0573

LaLuna Ristorante (203) 483-9995

Lenny’s Indian Head (203) 488-1500

Love Bakery & Cafe (203) 208-2353

Pacileo’s Apizza (203) 481-5930

P asta Cosi (203) 483-9397

R ossitto’s Ristorante (860) 977-3087

Rosso Vino Wine & Bistro (203) 315-0005

U.S.S. Chowder Pot III (203) 481-2356

Guilford

Curbside Pick Up and Delivery

Amarone’s (203) 533-7377

Carpanzano’s Pizzeria (203) 453-7040

Cilantro Coffee Roasters (203) 458-2555

Panera Bread (203) 204-0097

Quattro’s Restaurant (203) 453-6575

R occo’s Off Wooster Pizza (203) 533-5032

The Marketplace (203) 453-4849

The Maritime Grille (203) 453-0774

Curbside Pick Up

Anthony’s of Guilford (203) 533-4259

Bishops Orchards (203) 453-2338

Chapter One Food and Drink (203) 533-7988

Forte’s Gourmet Market (203) 453-4910

KC’s Restaurant and Pub (203) 453-0771

Mr. J’s Asian Bistro (203) 453-3355

Naples Restaurant and Pizza (203) 453-4759

Pasta Avest & Pizzeria (203) 453-8779

S outh Lane Bistro (203) 533-5845

The Guilford Mooring (203) 458-2921

Vietnoms Café (203) 689-5299

North Branford

Curbside Pick Up and Delivery

Anthony John’s Pizzeria (203) 484-0433

Belle Foods and Pizza (203) 208-0078

Chat N Chew (203) 208-0097

G iovanni’s Pizzeria & Ristorante (203) 484-4535

JCakes (203) 488-2800

J oey Cal’s Deli & Catering (203) 208-1038

La Cucina Catering (203) 484-0463

N ataz Restaurant (203) 315-0180

Curbside Pick Up

D oody’s Restaurant (203) 484-0588

Milani Italian Pastry & Bakery (203) 484-5017

Northford Country Grill (203) 484-4899

R ose Orchards (203) 488-7996

S upreme Seafood (203) 484-2721

New Haven

Soul de Cuba Café (203) 498-2822

Comment below if you see a local establishment missing from this list 🙏

March 20, 2020 1

Kitchen Design: Forbes’ Top Trends in 2020

As the heart of the home and one of the most popular rooms to remodel, kitchens are always a main focus in residential construction.

At the start of the new decade, Forbes gathered predictions from seven industry professionals to share the top kitchen trends for 2020. Here’s what they had to say:

Floor Plan and Layout

An open floor plan has been a desired layout for many years, and this is one trend that isn’t going away. However, experts are noticing a trend toward semi-open spaces. Jean Brownhill, founder and CEO at Sweeten, said semi-open spaces use “decorative architectural elements like archways to define ‘zones’ without closing off the room entirely.”

Kitchen Storage

With the number of cooking appliances, tools, and utensils, storage is essential in the kitchen. Here are a few trends in kitchen storage this year:

Drawers with customized storage options.
Hidden storage is a key trend. Michele Alfano, principal at Michele Alfano Design, said, “Kitchen cabinetry is acting more like furniture with flat panels and integrated hardware. Our appliances are starting to be hidden and not visible in our kitchens.”
Floating shelves and glass-front cabinets open up the kitchen.
Soft close drawers and cabinets.

Appliances

Convection and induction cooking are becoming more popular options with homeowners. In addition, most appliances are becoming “smart.” With advances in technology, appliances can do more than ever before. For those more interested in the finish of appliances, the experts agree that stainless steel will remain popular.

Countertops

Quartz and porcelain are moving in, and granite is moving out.

“Porcelain slabs are proving to be more durable than granite and maintenance-free,” said Alfano.

In addition to countertops, these materials are being used for bar tops, island overhangs, and backsplashes.

Flooring

Porcelain is also making its way to the floor in kitchens, in the form of large, sleek tiles. People are becoming more playful with the design and texture of the flooring. Alfano said,

“We will see more surprising textures, unique shapes, and richer veining.”

Sinks and Faucets

Smart faucet sensors will continue to appear in kitchens, allowing people to turn the water on and off with the wave of a hand. Black and brushed brass fixtures are trending with pro-style chef sinks in the kitchen.

Kitchens are not only a place to prepare meals, but a room filled with social interaction, memories, and of course, good food. To make the most of a kitchen remodel, make sure the design reflects your style and way of life.

March 17, 2020 0

Most Wanted Features in a Laundry Room

Laundry may not be your favorite chore, but laundry rooms are among the most wanted features in a home, according to the National Association of Home Builders study What Home Buyers Really Want (2019).

More homeowners are moving their laundry rooms out of the basement and into the main living areas of the home. Not only is this more convenient – no more trips down to the basement – but a well-thought-out laundry room provides room for storage and organization. Keep reading for tips on making your laundry room functional and beautiful – no matter the size.

Mud and Laundry Room Combo

If you are fortunate enough to have a mudroom, you may as well make the most of it! Add a sink for quick rinses, nooks for coats and shoes, and an area for folding, ironing, and hanging clothes.

Make the Most of a Closet

If you don’t have an entire room that you can dedicate to laundry, don’t worry. Converting a closet is an option that can help you stay organized while keeping the machines out of sight. Stack the washer and dryer, and utilize the rest of the space for storage.

Use All Accessible Space

Use the space you have wisely. Wall space, cabinets, and shelves can be utilized for organization. Create distinct areas for storing cleaning supplies, folding station, drying, laundry baskets, and sorting clothes.

Hang Dry

Space to hang dry delicate items or freshly ironed garments should not be overlooked. Instead of a bulky drying rack that takes up floor space, install a couple of towel holders, closet poles, or a wall-mounted drying rack.

Play with Design

The laundry room is the perfect place to play with design. Bold colors, wallpaper, or a textured accent can liven up the laundry room. Since laundry rooms are typically small spaces, you can get creative with your design.

What does your dream laundry room look like?

March 10, 2020 0