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July 9, 2025

Chestertown Spy

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Food and Garden Notes

Wine of the Week: Langhe Nas-Cetta del Commune di Novello 2021

May 30, 2025 by Jennifer Martella Leave a Comment

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Ciao Tutti!

This weekend at Piazza Italian Market we will taste a white wine from the Langhe Nas-Cetta del Commune di Novello 2021 ($26.99, 12.5% ABV) from the Azienda Agricola Cogli  L’Attimo di Serena Anselma in Piemonte. “Cogli L’Attimo” translates as “seize the moment”, which a fitting phrase for how this wine has made its way to Piazza’s shelves. 

This weekend at Piazza Italian Market we will taste a white wine from the Langhe Nas-Cetta del Commune di Novello 2021 ($26.99, 12.5% ABV) from the Azienda Agricola Cogli L’Attimo di Serena Anselma in Piemonte.

Last year, Emily attended Vinitaly, which is the leading international wine & spirits trade fair for exhibitors, buyers and wine lovers. Emily sought out small scale producers, one of which was Serena Anselma, who asked Emily for advice about breaking into the US market. Emily seized the moment and contacted one of Piazza’s importers, Doria Wines, since they seek out artisanal winemakers. The brother and sister duo of Marco (Torino) and Cristina (DC) seized their moment and Marco visited Serena and now they represent Cogli L’Attimo!  The winery is a perfect fit to Doria Wines’ criteria of native grape varieties, sustainable farming, minimal intervention, small scale production and winemakers who are personally involved from planting the vines to bottling. 

Serena Anselma

Serena Anselma left her career of teaching languages to fulfill her dream of producing wine from her family’s old vineyards, whose grapes had previously been sold for bulk production.  In 2016, she founded her own winery on her grandparents’ land in Novello, one of the eleven municipalities that produce Barolo. Her annual production is small (about 15,000 bottles). Her winery may be less than ten years old, but it is rooted in the beautiful Langhe hills. She works with Sergio Molino, a renowned oenologist, to produce wines that are authentic native varieties since a great wine is dependent upon the quality of the grapes.  

Currently, Serena produces Barolo cru Cerviano Merli, Nebbiolo d’Alba, Barbera d’Alba, Dolcetto d’Alba, Nas-cetta and one orange wine. The native grape Nas-cetta almost disappeared, but has a new life thanks to its rediscovery by small producers in the municipality of Novello like Serena and her wine entered the market in 1994. Eight years later, it became part of the Langhe DOC. In 2010, the Langhe Nas-cetta del Comune di Novello DOC designation was created to recognize only one municipality, Novello, for the use of 100% Nas-cetta grapes. 

Emily has fond memories of this white wine’s floral and fruity aromas and its vibrant citrus flavor. Pair with fresh seafood or risottos, white meat entrees with lemon and herbs, dishes with asparagus or fennel, goat or feta cheese.  

Come seize your moment and join me Friday from noon to 5:45 or Saturday from noon to 4:45 and celebrate this new wine’s debut at Piazza!

Cin Cin,

Jenn


Piazza Italian Market is located in the Talbot Town Shopping Center, suite 23, in Easton, MD

Contributor Jennifer Martella has pursued dual careers in architecture and real estate since she moved to the Eastern Shore in 2004. She has reestablished her architectural practice for residential and commercial projects and is a real estate agent for Meredith Fine Properties. She especially enjoys using her architectural expertise to help buyers envision how they could modify a potential property. Her Italian heritage led her to Piazza Italian Market, where she hosts wine tastings every Friday and Saturday afternoons.

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

Filed Under: Food and Garden Notes

Design with Jenn Martella: Landscaping at The Miracle House

May 29, 2025 by Jennifer Martella Leave a Comment

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With guidance from Jan Kirsh, the previously random space was transformed into a picturesque garden nestled beneath towering oak and pine trees, perfectly harmonizing with its surroundings on the Chesapeake Bay.

Since one of my criteria for selection of a House of the Week is Landscape Design, I always look forward to featuring the work of Landscape Designer Jan Kirsh. Several years ago, the historic Miracle House property was a House of the Week, so my focus then was on its architecture and its unique history. The property with a cottage and one room school house was once a ten week summer haven for Baltimore children whose parents had been exposed to  tuberculosis. The Miracle House’s tranquil setting on the Chesapeake Bay and the fresh breezes, swimming in the Bay and nutritious food helped the children build up their resistance to the disease.  The Miracle House is now a private residence with a main cottage and a school house is now a guest house.  

Soon after the Owner acquired the property, he realized that his existing random collection of plantings did not maximize the site’s potential. Four years ago, he retained Jan Kirsh to re-invent the spaces to “turn the garden around, and to make it into a head turning garden.” 

Kirsh began by accenting the majestic Oak and Loblolly pines with three native flowering Viburnum shrubs strategically placed to act as visual anchors in the entry bed. On the day of my visit,  I admired the golden yellow carex (sedge) a grass-like plant, that are evergreen and how they lighten the shady garden. A texturally rich combination of shrubs and ground covers provide seasonal interest, with flowers, glossy leaves and various shades of green foliage. Many shrubs are evergreen so the garden is not dormant throughout the winter.

Majestic pines and oaks provided “good bones” for the stunning redesign.

Seeing the transformation of the entry drive to the property, I remembered its  “before” look. The Owner was quite fortunate to have these extraordinarily  towering Loblolly Pines and Oaks that evoke an almost ‘Cathedral like’ feeling. The dappled shade they and other trees provide were an asset in his vision for the gardens that would have breathtaking views of the Chesapeake Bay. 

Lush plantings along the entry drive blend vibrant textures and colors amid dappled light from the canopy above.

As I slowly drove along the gravel entry drive that is parallel to the front elevation of the house, I admired how one side of the drive faces the grove of pines and the other side facing the house now has a profusion of green plantings with accents of color. Kirsh told me she had slowly walked the pine area and sprayed white paint in a meandering line to show her landscaping crew the demarcation line where the bed of pine needles would meet the grassy area along the gravel drive. 

New plantings of  epimedium (heart shaped ground cover) and shrubs of dwarf nandina, viburnum, and boxwood offer shades of green. The Owner is especially fond of annuals so  Kirsh added the purple sunpatiens in front of the white dwarf abelia (flowering shrubs).

Thoughtful gravel textures and meticulous plant arrangements redefine pathways between the main house and guest house.

At the parking area by the main house, I recognized the deep lavender butterfly bushes next to the golden yellow sedge’s thin strands with the evergreen shrub chamaecyparis obtusa (false cypress) as a sentinel in the background. 

A dynamic blend of butterfly bushes, golden sedge, and evergreens adds depth to the driveway landscape.

After parking my car, I admired how Kirsh’s mix of blue-gray gravel for the driveway and parking area and the 3/8” Delaware gravel walkway areas defines their common edge. The driveway curves to provide parking for the Guest House. In between the houses, more plantings surround the pool area with views of the Bay. Kirsh deftly handled the adjustment and redesign of the parking areas to define +how guests would approach the three entries to the main house and the one entry to the Guest House. 

Soft lamb’s ear and hardy native grass form a striking border along the pathway’s edge

Groups of Lamb’s Ear, Panicum Virgatum (native ‘switch grass’) and the tall Northern Bayberry that is a native, very hardy shrub, form the edge of the 3/8” Delaware gravel walkway.  

Native grasses and delicate blooms guide the transition between driveway and walkway with seamless textures.

At the corner of the blue chip gravel parking area, a single stone paver marks the transition from the parking to 3/8” Delaware gravel walkway to the main house. I admired the textures of the Lamb’s Ear, Hydrangea shrub and Molinia (commonly called muhly grass). In the early fall, this native grass displays a cloud of delicate pink flowers that is a surprising visual treat. 

Layered greenery, tropical accents, and thoughtful composition revive the entry under towering trees.

What was once a somewhat barren area under the majestic oak and loblolly pines near the entrance to the main house is now a vibrant mix of boxwood, sarcoccoca and viburnum shrubs, pots of tropical plants, “elephant ears” with annual torenia and the low epimedium ground cover. Kirsh’s keen eye for texture, shapes and sizes of plant leaves and how the composition rises from the low epimedium to the tall elephant ears comes together beautifully in this tranquil spot.  

Repurposed bluestone pavers and oversized river rocks merge craftsmanship and artistry in the terrace design.

I have long admired Kirsh’s special talent for creating hardscapes. To expand the Owner’s deck onto a terrace that would blend into the front walkway, Kirsh recycled ‘left overs’ from the pool surround, and the masons saw cut the bluestone pavers into strips. Kirsh’s  scale drawing was transferred to the ground and was actually drawn with paint; then Kirsh oversaw the team of masons who installed the work. I loved the textures and colors of the hand selected oversized river rocks and the Owner was quite appreciative of Kirsh’s artistry. 

 

Subtle asymmetry and natural tones define this unique stone path linking the deck to the pool area.

One of Kirsh’s signature paths with random large stone using Mexican beach pebbles as “mortar” connects the deck at the side of the house to the pool.  (This photograph shows the work when it was in progress.)  The grasses to the right are calamagrostis and the grasses to the left are acorus and dark green perennial allium ‘Millenium’ (its splendid small globe shaped flowers are not in bloom yet.)

Bluestone paving and complementary plantings balance bold views of the Chesapeake Bay with rich textures.

Before Kirsh was involved with the landscape design, the Owner had turned his keen eye to the design and construction of the swimming pool and its surround of bluestone paving.  Kirsh designed complementary plantings with sweeps of acorus with patches of ornamental grasses and summer blooming allium that continued the very contemporary tone of the Owner’s vision. 

The pool area highlights how unique this site is. The expanse of the Chesapeake Bay could have been too dominant but here it is a partner. The grand view of the Bay is balanced by color, foliage, hardscape and new planters..  

Wide bluestone terraces connect the pool and dining space, highlighting interplay between structure and color.

The Owner’s design for the bluestone pool surround widens to include a dining area and wraps around the diving board at the waterside edge of the pool. Blocks of color draw your eye from indoor and outdoor entertaining areas, across the expanse of the glistening pool water’s surface to the maturing background hedges. At the edge of bluestone are yellow acorus, allium, calamagrostis (feathered red grass) with the northern bayberry and callicarpa dichotoma (Beauty Berry) at the back corner.

Plumed feather grass contrasts vibrant blooms, creating a harmonious late-season visual near the pool area.

The trio of texture and color of this part of the landscape at the rear corner of the pool area is exquisite when summer turns into fall. Yellow acorus is between the allium ‘Millenium’ with mature seed heads in the fall and the tall, narrow Calamagrostis (feather reed grass) in flower with plumes is the backdrop to this delightful late season composition.

Towering elephant ear hybrids with bold lines accent the sunroom steps leading to the waterfront deck.

I have always loved Elephant’s Ears and these newer hybrids with their yellow “spine” and their giant leaves are set against the rear wall of the main house. Steps from the classic restored sunroom lead down to the Bayside hot tub deck.

Hardy shrubs and pops of annual color frame the expansive lawn, perfect for outdoor activities.

Given the strong cold winter winds over the Bay, Kirsh specified hardy shrubs and trees. She chose evergreen boxwood as accents along the expanse of lawn to the Bay. At the BBQ grille location, Kirsh chose a tree lilac that is another solution to withstand winter’s cold temperatures and winds from the Bay. Spots of annual color add summer interest to the shrub borders. The flashes of color here are annual Lantana, whose delicate flowers belie its being a tough, deer resistant plant that requires minimal care.  I love to play croquet and the wide and deep lawn would be perfect for the game.

Layered shrub borders with gaps for Bay views showcase a thoughtful blend of privacy and visual appeal.

Kirsh specified shrubs including hydrangea paniculata, abelia, weigelia and Osmanthus to both screen the pool equipment shed and to also provide a colorful rotation during the season when the pool is the primary outdoor room. The shrubs form a background for the plantings surrounding the pool, which was Kirsh’s intentional painterly backdrop for the planting. When Kirsh created the  mixed ‘privacy shrub borders’ of paramount importance was her respect of  the views from neighboring properties so that their long views to the broad water of the Bay would remain open. 

 As I strolled past the pool area, I was struck by how Kirsh located the shrubs in offset parallel rows perpendicular to the Bay so one can see the Bay between the rows as you stroll the grounds. When I reluctantly reached my car, I looked back and the diagonal vista of the shrubbery rows seemed to form a continuous  meandering line. I was also impressed how Kirsh creatively re-used existing plants and transplanted them so they could happily thrive in their new locations. She also added kousa dogwoods along the lawn edge where it meets the existing woodland to make a crisp and clean bed line that defines the lawn. 

As I drove away, I contemplated how the grounds were transformed in the years since I last visited this magical spot. The Owner was a true collaborator with Kirsh and he clearly articulated the specific feeling he wanted the grounds to represent. His primary goal was to make the property a space of pure delight for family, friends and visitors with the hope that they celebrated this naturally beautiful setting, enhanced by seasonal gardens, as much as he does. He was fortunate to have had a Landscape Designer as gifted as Kirsh is for his collaborator. She attentively listened when he described his vision, which enabled her to not only meet but also to exceed his goals.  Kirsh appreciated how the Owner’s enthusiasm for the project affected everyone from the contractors to the  installation crew and how he also contributed his labor to artfully placing some of the Mexican beach pebbles in the paths. 

I don’t use these Italian superlatives lightly but bravissimo to the Owner and bravissima to Jan Kirsh for their transformation of this exquisite property! This novice gardener thoroughly enjoyed passing her mini-course on identifying plants by their correct names.


Landscape Designer: Jan Kirsh, Jan Kirsh Studio, www.jankirshstudio.com, 410-745-5252

Contributor Jennifer Martella has pursued dual careers in architecture and real estate since she moved to the Eastern Shore in 2004. She has reestablished her architectural practice for residential and commercial projects and is a real estate agent for Meredith Fine Properties. She especially enjoys using her architectural expertise to help buyers envision how they could modify a potential property. Her Italian heritage led her to Piazza Italian Market, where she hosts wine tastings every Friday and Saturday afternoons.

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

Filed Under: Design with Jenn Martella

Wine of the Week: 2021 Cannonau Capo Ferrato DOC

May 23, 2025 by Jennifer Martella Leave a Comment

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Ciao Tutti!

This weekend at Piazza Italian Market we will taste the 2021 Cannonau Capo Ferrato DOC ($15.99, ABV 13.5%) from the Cantina Castiadas winery. Founded in 1959, the winery takes its name from the region in which it is located, in the picturesque southeastern part of  Sardinia in the Cannonau di Sardegna DOC denomination.  “Capo” translates as cape or promontory and “ferrato” probably refers to the iron rich soils of this region. “Capo Ferrato” also pays homage  to the beaches of Capo Ferrato on the Tyrrhenian Sea NE of inland Castiadas. 

   

Cantina Castiadas is considered one of Sardinia’s most esteemed wineries. Its unique location near to both the rugged mountainous landscapes and also the picturesque Costa Rei beaches, results in grapes of exceptional quality, due to their daily optimal solar exposure balanced by cooling breezes from the Tyrrhenian Sea. The vineyards are rooted in clay soils and granitic sands and produce wines of intense minerality from their vinification in stainless steel vats that preserves the cannonau grape’s natural character. Always present is the fragrance of the macchia, the ubiquitous low ground cover found all over the island. ( If you are a fan as I am, of Daniel Silva’s books, one of the protagonists makes regular visits to a retired Mafioso for advice and during his drive, he savors the macchia’s fragrance on his way the Mafioso’s compound). 

Cantina Castiadas now has 115 hectares containing 14 grape varieties. The Capo Ferrato Cannonau is full bodied, 100% Cannonau grape, with ripe raspberry and strawberry aromas, and delicate floral notes with well balanced tannins and a long velvety finish. The bonus is the wine contains three times the amounts of anti-oxidants, compared to other red wines, resulting in cardiovascular benefits almost ten times higher than varieties of grapes from other areas of Italy. The cannonau grape was featured in Netflix’s feature “Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones”.

Pair the Capo Ferrato Cannonau with hearty dishes of roasted lamb, grilled veggies,  Piazza’s aged cheeses or pasta with rich tomato sauces and spicy sausages.  For those of you who have tasted our current Pala Cannonau, come join me Friday from noon to 5:45 or Saturday from noon to 4:45 to compare tastes.  If you haven’t tried wines from Cannonau grapes, come taste and start your “Live to 100” journey. 

Cin Cin, 

Jenn 


Piazza Italian Market is located in the Talbot Town Shopping Center at 218 N. Washington St., suite 23, in Easton, MD

Contributor Jennifer Martella has pursued dual careers in architecture and real estate since she moved to the Eastern Shore in 2004. She has reestablished her architectural practice for residential and commercial projects and is a real estate agent for Meredith Fine Properties. She especially enjoys using her architectural expertise to help buyers envision how they could modify a potential property. Her Italian heritage led her to Piazza Italian Market, where she hosts wine tastings every Friday and Saturday afternoons.

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

Filed Under: Food and Garden Notes

Design with Jenn Martella: The William Smith House, c. 1794

May 22, 2025 by Jennifer Martella Leave a Comment

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Design with Jenn Martella:” The William Smith House, c. 1794”

Stately brick façade showcases 18th-century craftsmanship in this historic grain merchant’s home.

On one of my recent Sunday drives, I discovered the quaint town of Hillsboro, just over the Talbot County line.  I learned it is the oldest town in Caroline County and it was named for Lord Hillsboro of Maryland’s Calvert family. Earlier this month, I visited the Metropolitan Museum of Art and saw many paintings by Charles Wilson Peale, who briefly resided in Hillsboro. He was  a leading portraitist of the American Revolution, particularly for his depictions of George Washington. 

After crossing the Tuckahoe River, I drove up Main Street for my visit to the William Smith House. This distinguished brick dwelling stands out in its surroundings streetscape of  frame dwellings. The brick was befitting for the residence of a successful grain merchant who lived in an important hub for grain and tobacco.  As I walked up one of the two sets of steps that led the wide stoop, I noticed the white areas of the red brick.  I wondered if the house had once been painted and later during my tour,  I saw an earlier picture of the house with white facades. 

Classic architecture meets nature with expansive windows and towering dogwoods.

The house is set close to the Town sidewalk so the majority of the deep 0.66 acre corner lot is devoted to its mature landscaping with a parking area off the side street. Passing the side yard, I admired the dogwood as tall as the second floor and one of the largest oak hydrangeas I have ever seen. The house’s exterior color palette of red brick, dark shutters and  white trim is classic and I especially admired the 4/4 wide and tall windows

Thoughtful additions harmonize with the original 1794 design, creating a timeless silhouette.

The house has been altered slightly through many decades, but the character of the original building dominates the architecture and retains the feeling of its 1794 era. Later additions included a brick addition and two frame additions that telescope down from the two-story portion of the house. The story and a half addition contains the kitchen, a side entrance past the laundry area and a full bath. Above is the primary suite’s bathroom and walk-in closet. The one-story addition is a family room surrounded by the lawn and gardens .

Vibrant roses bask in filtered sunlight beside the carefully fenced garden retreat.

The side yard adjacent to the neighbor’s property is fully fenced and I later saw a large formerly feral cat whom the Owner has patiently coaxed him to call her garden home. The crape myrtle will bloom midsummer but now the red roses are preening in the filtered sunlight.  

Majestic trees provide shade for blooming hellebores and a hospitable birdbath centerpiece

In the open landscape, giant trees are grouped together and at the ground the cluster of hellebores are beginning to bloom. The pineapple, symbol of hospitality, in the middle of the bird bath stands ready to welcome all avian friends. 

Versatile outbuildings combine utility with charming period details.

Near the rear of the property, there are two outbuildings, one for lawn and garden maintenance and another for myriad uses-studio, playhouse, etc. 

Historic staircase design accentuated by intricate molding and indirect natural light.

After my stroll around the house and garden, I was eager to explore the house. The listing agent met me at the wide front door that opened into the foyer of the center hall floor plan.  I admired detailing of the original stairs to the second floor with the dark newel post and cap rail, light colored pickets, stained treads and painted risers and the decorative molding below the edge of the treads.  Opposite the front door is another exterior door that leads to a short flight of steps to the lawn and garden. The stairs have indirect daylight from the window in the hall above.

One could add a glass storm door to the garden door to bring both light into the foyer and also to create a long vista of the garden from the front door. I loved the choice of one of my fave historic colors for the doors and trim. The long Oriental rug adds color and the period pendant light fixture’s glass shape floats serenely in the space. 

Original millwork and large windows frame the sunlit living space with timeless elegance.

 Next to the stairs is the charming living room with a fireplace and original mantel between bespoke millwork. I did not need to turn on a light since there was ample sunlight from the wide and tall windows at the front and rear of the room. The upholstery of the seating around the coffee table pick up the colors in the Oriental rug and I especially admired the upholstered antique settee. Placing the curtain rods for the window treatments very close to the high ceiling accentuates the room’ high ceiling.

Flooded with natural light, ample storage, refinished mantle, and a Georgian chandelier define this dining space.

On the other side of the foyer is my fave room, the elegant dining room. Sunlight streams into the room through the front and side windows that offer views of the side garden. On top of the refinished mantel is a collection of Native American ceramics and I was delighted to see several pieces from the Acoma Pueblo that are very similar to ones I own. The large Oriental rug anchors the antique wood table and Chippendale chairs and the bespoke millwork at the side of the fireplace with closed cabinets above and glass fronted doors above for display provide ample storage. The Georgian chandelier is the perfect finishing touch.

Rare antique corner cupboard adds a striking focal point to this elegant room.

The focal point of the dining room is a stunning Maryland Eastern Shore “ cross raised panel tombstone arch raised panel barrel back” corner pine cupboard with iron hinges in a deep cranberry color. The listing agent confirmed the Owner once had an antique store in St. Michaels. Small world-I then realized I had bought an iron bed for my guest room from her several years ago!

Exposed beams and brick elements connect modern convenience with rich historic character.

From the dining room, I stepped down to the open plan kitchen-gathering room. I appreciated how this kitchen combined old and new elements. Combined with the exposed stained beams and the brick wall of the stairs to the attic, this kitchen has so much character. The light colored cabinets’ design have low “feet” instead of a full knee kick. The large island cabinetry with a butcher block top is perfect for baking. At the side of kitchen is a short hall past the laundry area and a full bath to an exterior door leading to a deck that offers a secluded retreat in the fenced garden.

Vaulted ceilings and oversized windows invite nature into this cozy off-kitchen retreat.

The kitchen overlooks the gathering room with its pitched ceiling and stained collar beams in homage to the kitchen’s older exposed beams. The wide picture window and side window provide panoramic  views of the fenced garden. The half glass/half paneled exterior door is another window overlooking the landscape and leads to a stoop and a paver path to the parking area. The mix of antiques and other furnishings create a charming space for end of workday relaxation. 

Uniquely curved moldings around the stair landing enhance architectural fluidity.

There are so many charming details in this house but my fave one is how the steps end at a landing with risers on either side up to the second floor. The graceful curvature of the baseboard and molding flows seamlessly onto each side of the landing and the stair’s cap railing echoes the curvature to the railing above overlooking the foyer.

Bright, airy hallway offers antique accents and views of the lush garden below.

The width of the hall allows space for a corner mini-office with an antique writing desk and chair for checking emails with daylight from the hall window overlooking the garden. The bookcase holds memories of loved ones to keep one company. Beyond the doorway is the primary bedroom at the corner of the house.

A serene corner of the primary bedroom, complete with an inviting fireplace.

The antique corner cabinet, wood trunk, Oriental rug and wood chair and footstool create a cozy corner for relaxing and the fireplace’s trio of iron candlesticks and waterfowl are charming accents.

Sunlight and views of the historic streetscape in the Primary bedroom frame elegant open canopy bed

I can’t resist canopy beds and this one with its gentle curved open frame is beautiful as it is, but one could easily add a lace canopy.  The front windows provide plenty of sunlight and views of the neighborhood.

Period details like beadboard wainscot and a clawfoot tub define this timeless second-floor bathroom.

The second floor’s bathroom has a claw foot tub outfitted with a shower head. The beadboard wainscot, chair rail, wood floor, rug and both the arched top plantation shutter and window treatments create a charming bath that evokes the house’s period.

Charming period pieces and a sunny window create a welcoming guest retreat.

I would be a contented guest in this charming bedroom with the bowfront antique chest of drawers, fireplace, Oriental rugs wood pencil post bedframe, duvet and the chair by the window.

Brightly lit stairwell showcases exposed brick and artistic accents in a seamless transition space.

The story and a half addition to the house is reached by stairs from both the kitchen and from the primary bedroom if an ensuite is desired. This space is more than mere circulation with its bright yellow walls, the exposed brick of the original part of the house and the beautiful wood floors.  Accents of  the boat sculpture in the window and the large artwork on the brick wall give this space a unique personality.  Windows at each side wall of the stairs keeps the space sunny and bright.

Eclectic touches like a pie safe and vintage fixtures give this bathroom a unique visual appeal.

The addition contains a large bathroom and walk-in closet. The antique pie safe is a much more charming storage closet than door to a linen closet.  Along with the pie safe, the wood antique storage unit between the two porcelain vintage pedestal lavatories, wood floors accented with small Oriental rugs and artwork all create a charming eclectic look.  

Desirable deep corner lot with mature landscaping in a small historic town very close to Easton’s shopping, arts and cultural events. Highway 404 is also close by for quick access to the beaches and DC. The Hillsboro Public Landing on the Tuckahoe is only a block from the   property. The house’s appealing architectural style, and the interior’s high ceilings, wide and tall windows, multiple fireplaces, built-in millwork and beautiful original wood floors are combined with modern conveniences for today’s lifestyle.  Brava to the Owner’s interior design and her collection of antiques that give this house its individual personality. If you are seeking a historic property, this gem is one not be missed, at a very competitive price compared to  a restored house in another Eastern Shore Historic District.  


For more information about this property, contact Broker Nancy McDonald McGuire at Maryland Heritage Properties , 410-778-9319 (o) ,443-480-7342 (c), or [email protected]. For more photographs and pricing, visit www.marylandheritageproperties.com/home , “Equal Housing Opportunity.” For decades, Nancy McDonald McGuire has specialized in representing historic buildings in Maryland in general and the Eastern Shore in particular. 

Photography by Jennifer Martella

Contributor Jennifer Martella has pursued dual careers in architecture and real estate since she moved to the Eastern Shore in 2004. She has reestablished her architectural practice for residential and commercial projects and is a real estate agent for Meredith Fine Properties. She especially enjoys using her architectural expertise to help buyers envision how they could modify a potential property. Her Italian heritage led her to Piazza Italian Market, where she hosts wine tastings every Friday and Saturday afternoons.

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

Filed Under: Design with Jenn Martella

Wine of the Week: Rosato Toscano IGT

May 16, 2025 by Jennifer Martella Leave a Comment

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Ciao Tutti!

This week at Piazza Italian Market, we will taste the Rosato Toscano IGT ( $19.95, 12% ABV)  from the Istine winery in Radda in Chianti, Toscana. Production of Rosato began in Italy many centuries ago, but the Rosato style wasn’t typical in Italy as France’s counterpart in Provence until a sea shift in the early 1900s. Winemakers discovered during their production of red wine that if they reduced the ratio of skin to juice, some of the just-crushed dark shinned grapes bled away. This runoff was then fermented separately to produce a simple Rosato.  Soon, growers made wine from grape varieties explicitly grown to become deeply flavored Rosati. 

Rosato Toscano IGT ( $19.95, 12% ABV) from the Istine winery in Radda in Chianti, Toscana.

Istine’s high-altitude, small vineyards are located in Radda in Chianti and Gaiole in Chianti in the Chianti Classico area. Winemaker Angela Fronti’s family was originally engaged in the construction and management of vineyards and grew grapes previously sold in bulk. 

When you have three vineyards in the heart of the Chianti Classico region, in high locations having soils in which the Sangiovese grape of Chianti Classico thrives, it is time to get into the game. Fonti took a leap of faith and in 2009 launched her first wines. She became a rising star in Chianti wine and seven years later, the winery was certified organic.  Her portfolio of wines now includes ten wines and spirits, including Rosato, Bianco, Merlot, five Chianti Classico, and Reserva; Gin, and Vermouth. 

Fronti is also a member of the FIVI (The Italian Federation of Independent Winemakers), founded in 2008. The distinctive decal on the neck of bottles signifies the winemaker cultivates his/her own vineyards and bottles and sells his/her own wine as an extra indication of quality.

Istine Rosato is made from 100% Sangiovese grapes. It has a deep pink color, a lush nose of ripe red fruit aromas, bright acidity, and a mineral-driven finish. It is very easy to drink as an aperitif or to pair with grilled fish or veggies. 

Many of you are fans of this winery’s Chianti that is currently in Piazza’s collection so come join me on Friday from noon to 5:45 or Saturday from noon to 4:45 to taste Chianti’s cousin Rosato!

Cin Cin! 

Jenn


Piazza Italian Market is located in the Talbot Town Shopping Center at 218 N. Washington St., suite 23, in Easton, MD.

Contributor Jennifer Martella has pursued dual careers in architecture and real estate since she moved to the Eastern Shore in 2004. She has reestablished her architectural practice for residential and commercial projects and is a real estate agent for Meredith Fine Properties. She especially enjoys using her architectural expertise to help buyers envision how they could modify a potential property. Her Italian heritage led her to Piazza Italian Market, where she hosts wine tastings every Friday and Saturday afternoons.

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

Filed Under: Food and Garden Notes

Design with Jenn Martella: The Tilley House Redux

May 15, 2025 by Jennifer Martella 1 Comment

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Graceful mansard roof showcases the home’s “Second Empire” architectural heritage.

This is the second opportunity for me to feature a project by Jones & Jones Properties. For the last four years, this talented brother and sister duo has specialized in the restoration of significant residential properties in Chestertown’s Historic District.  Together they develop a vision for a property; then Patrick as craftsman builder makes the vision a reality, assisted by Kathleen’s eye for design elements and finishes. Their first two ventures were the restoration/renovation of historic houses on Water and Cannon Streets and the latter was a previous House of the Week.

Today’s feature is their most ambitious project to date. As Owners and Builder, their restoration/renovation of “The Tilley House” was a labor of love for them. The house’s distinctive mansard roof identifies it as the “Second Empire” architectural style, with its steep lower roof pitch and low higher pitch. Popular from 1855-1885, the style’s name honors Napoleon III’s Second Empire. He retained Baron Haussman for a massive urban renewal project of Paris that created boulevards lined with apartment blocks with mansard roofs that are highly prized real estate today. 

Intricate dormers and bay projections highlight the home’s remarkable symmetry.

This property’s prominent site at the corner of High and Water Streets offers vistas to the Chester River  from both the front and side porches and many rooms. This photo shows the original part of the house where the mansard roof ended;  later additions had lower gable roofs. I admired the articulated front elevation with the main floor porch and its metal hipped roof, angled bay wall projections at the corner of both floors and the mansard roof’s dormer containing a double unit window. No detail was too insignificant; even the bars of the vents in the brick foundation wall pay homage to the ones in the historic Custom House across the street!  

Elevated porch offers serene views of the Chester River and nearby gardens.

The bay wall projects into the front porch to expand the view of the Chester River  from the living room. The rest of the porch floor is deeper to easily accommodate chairs. On the day of my visit, it was easy to linger enjoying both the garden of the property cattycorner to this property and the view of the Chester River. High Street slopes down to the waterfront and combined with the height of the porch floor above the brick sidewalk, this porch becomes a private outdoor room.

Restored staircase and arched openings create elegant transitions between spaces.

I first saw this house before renovation work began and I was amazed to see how splendid the spaces have been transformed.  The beautiful original staircase that rises to the third floor was restored and is now a sculptural element against a background of white. Jones & Jones decided to give buyers the option of selecting one’s choice of finishes so they created a list of allowances for buyers to choose finishes that fit their budget. What was formerly a wall behind the stairs is now an arched doorway to the dining room that also extends the perspective from the front door. Another wide wall opening in the stair hall leads to the front parlor.

Sun-filled bay nook complements the finely crafted fireplace mantel and floors.

The solar orientation of the corner living room casts sunlight deep onto the room’s beautiful wood floors that flow throughout the house. The angled bay is a delightful nook in this spacious room and the gas fireplace’s mantel was crafted to be in keeping with the period of the house. Throughout the house, the original window and door trim with rosette corners have been carefully restored.

Thoughtful layout blends classic proportions with sleek cabinetry and modern details.

Behind the parlor is the kitchen-breakfast area and the kitchen layout was carefully thought out around the long existing windows. The window next to the cabinetry is centered on a space that was sized wide enough to accommodate a breakfast bar at the higher countertop. The sleek cabinetry design with a mix of light gray and deep slate blue island should please any cook and the countertop material is another allowance item to suit a buyer’s own taste. I especially liked the design of the cabinet pulls that echoes the R/F door pulls and how the mix of glass and solid fronts of the upper cabinets rise to the underside of the ceiling to maintain the spatial volume. The  kitchen’s location in the middle of the main floor’s open plan layout makes it the hub of the house. 

Beadboard wainscot adds texture and defines the cozy dining space.

To support the wide wall opening between the kitchen and dining room, slender offset columns and a corner post define the dining area. The windows are very close to the adjacent neighbor’s house so a window treatment of plantation shutters would add both texture, daylight and privacy. The beadboard wainscot around the perimeter of the space adds texture and an opportunity to add either an accent paint color or wallpaper.

Period-style doors enhance the flexibility of the family room’s design.

The doors at the corner of the family room lead to a full bath next to a closet facing the kitchen. The other door at the corner is another closet so this flexible space could be a family room with a sofa bed for guests who prefer a main floor bedroom. Throughout the house, the style of the new four-panel doors look like original period doors. 

French doors lead to a private deck and garden space ready for customization.

The pair of French doors and full sidelights overlooks a deck and the yard that is a blank canvas for a gardener to plan their private dream garden. Fences on either side of the yard provide privacy and creates a safe play space for young children and the family pet. At the end of the yard is a garage that can accommodate a single vehicle. The garage’s loft storage is a bonus. 

Arched passageways elevate transitions to the laundry and primary suite landing.

Beyond the gorgeous staircase at the second floor landing is another wide wall opening framed by a graceful elliptical arch leading to the laundry room and to the primary ensuite at the rear of the house. 

Gas fireplace and wide windows frame cityscape views from this tranquil retreat.

The sumptuous primary bedroom has a gas fireplace opposite the bed wall and views of the Historic District from the two windows. The door next to the fireplace leads to the primary bath and walk-in closet.

Smart compartmentalized design ensures function and flow in the ensuite bath.

The primary bath is compartmentalized with a walk-in closet at the rear corner opposite the dual lavatories. The door to the toilet compartment backs up to the shower-tub area under the window.

Herringbone tile and dual niches add sleek touches to the sophisticated shower space.

The tiled wainscot defines the location of the tub on axis with the window. I admired the dual recessed niches at the shower wall, the options of both a wall mounted and hand held shower heads and the herringbone pattern of the floor tile.

Bay window showcases treetop and river views in the guest bedroom’s sunny corner.

Lucky is the guest who gets to stay in the second-floor corner bedroom with a view of the roofs and treetops of the surrounding Historic District and the Chester River from the bay window and the single window!

Elegant tilework and warm tones evoke period authenticity in this refined bath.

Kathleen Jones has a flair for selection of finishes and I loved the leaf pattern and colors of the second floor bath’s shower wall. The size and color of the floor tile evokes the flooring found in Second Empire houses.  

Under the mansard roof, thoughtful design transforms full-height space into versatile rooms.

I love mansard roofs for the full height spaces they provide. The front part of the third floor tucked under the mansard roof is finished with two guest bedrooms/offices with the clever detail of the perimeter HVAC built out to form a ledge. Truly a breathtaking bird’s eye view!

Set prominently on two historic streets, the home’s renovation balances heritage and modernity.

The site aerial shows this corner property’s prominence on two of Chestertown’s Historic District’s earliest streets with the neighboring properties of Widehall and the Custom House, the latter of which was one of the original British Royal Ports of Entry to the Americas. The Tilley House was completely renovated last year, including all systems, kitchen and bathrooms. Original period details including the majestic wood stair that rises up three floors, many doors and molding were carefully preserved. The original layout of rooms connected by doors were creatively modified with graceful arches or wide wall openings supported by columns that opened up vistas between the rooms. Sunlight now penetrates deeply onto the beautiful hardwood floors. Instead of a mix of rooms, the main floor is now an open plan living room, kitchen, dining and family room with easy flow among the rooms. 

The front porch for interacting with neighbors on their daily stroll or simply relaxing to enjoy the tranquil view of the Chester River and the rear fenced yard that awaits your own garden design are semi-private and private outdoor rooms.  Other bonuses include the partially finished basement’s ideal temperature for wine storage and the one-car garage for off street parking. 

You can truly make this exquisite property your own by selecting finishes from the Allowances List. This is a rare opportunity to become the next steward of this unique property that combines both 19th century charm with 21st century conveniences that has been meticulously restored and renovated by one of Kent County’s renowned craftsman builders, Patrick Jones. Jones & Jones have set the bar very high for the Historic District and I eagerly await their next project—Bravissimmo and Bravissimma to this talented duo!   


For more information about this property, contact Murphy O’Neill at Coldwell Banker Chesapeake Real Estate Company, at 410-778-0330 (o),443-480-4275 (c), or  [email protected] .For more pictures and pricing, visit  www.easternshoreofmarylandrealestate.com “Equal Housing Opportunity”. 

Photography by JM real estate photos [email protected]

Upcoming Open Houses Dates: 
Saturday, May 17th from 9:30-11:30 
Sunday, May 25th, 11:00-1:00

Contributor Jennifer Martella has pursued dual careers in architecture and real estate since she moved to the Eastern Shore in 2004. She has reestablished her architectural practice for residential and commercial projects and is a real estate agent for Meredith Fine Properties. She especially enjoys using her architectural expertise to help buyers envision how they could modify a potential property. Her Italian heritage led her to Piazza Italian Market, where she hosts wine tastings every Friday and Saturday afternoons.

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

Filed Under: Design with Jenn Martella

Wine of the Week: Campo Di Marte Pecorino Offrida DOCG

May 9, 2025 by Jennifer Martella Leave a Comment

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Ciao Tutti!

This weekend we will taste the Campo Di Marte Pecorino Offrida DOCG  ($13.50, 13.5 ABV) from the Tenuta De Angelis winery in Castel Di Lama in Le Marche. It has been very popular with our customers but it is long overdue for its debut at our weekly tasting. In Italian, “pecora” means sheep. The sheep favored eating the sweeter Pecorino grapes during their seasonal migration and the shepherds may have offered their Pecorino cheese to the vineyard owners as compensation for the grapes consumed by their flocks of sheep. The woodpecker on the label symbolizes the bird’s importance to the god Mars, who guided the Picenes, an ancient Italic people, to the province of Ascoli Piceno in Le Marche. The vineyard is the Field of Mars (Campo Di Marte)

In the 1950’s, the De Angelis family constructed their first winery to vinify both their own grapes and those from other producers. Soon new vineyards were planted in Castel di Lama and Offrida and all wines are fermented with native yeasts and are certified organic. The winery is now managed by winemaker Quinto Fausti and his son Alighiero.

Le Marche is home to many ancient castles, such as the one that overlooks the Offrida vineyard.

The Campo di Marte Pecorino is 100% Pecorino indigenous grape and offers floral aromas, ripe pear flavor, bright acidity with an edge of minerality and a dry, crisp, finish reminiscent of bitter almonds. Pair with spring salads, soups, light pasta dishes, fish or other seafood.

If you have not yet tasted this customer favorite, come join me Friday from noon to 5:45 or Saturday from noon to 4:45 and taste how good it is!

Cin Cin,

Jenn


Piazza Italian Market is located in the Talbot Town Shopping Center, 218 N. Washington St., in Easton, MD

Contributor Jennifer Martella has pursued dual careers in architecture and real estate since she moved to the Eastern Shore in 2004. She has reestablished her architectural practice for residential and commercial projects and is a real estate agent for Meredith Fine Properties. She especially enjoys using her architectural expertise to help buyers envision how they could modify a potential property. Her Italian heritage led her to Piazza Italian Market, where she hosts wine tastings every Friday and Saturday afternoons.

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

Filed Under: Food and Garden

House of the Week: Go Dutch Colonial!

May 8, 2025 by Jennifer Martella Leave a Comment

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Charming Dutch Colonial style with symmetrical elegance and unmatched curb appeal.

Several of my friends have very fond memories of growing up in this neighborhood off Goldsborough with its long blocks, wide streets with parking on both sides of the streets and rear alleys. This house on a corner lot has been well maintained and it is now being offered for the first time in forty years. Its Dutch Colonial architectural style with its signature gambrel roof maximizes the sizes of the second floor rooms. The symmetry of the front door and windows, exterior color palette of the charcoal gray architectural roofing shingles, light yellow lap siding and white shutters in a mature landscape creates great curb appeal.

Distinctive gambrel roof framed by stately trees and enhanced by modern extension.

The massive deciduous trees provide shade in the heat of summer but now their bare branches frame the distinctive shape of the side elevation’s gambrel roof. A later addition with a low sloped roof and a wide bow window expanded the living space. The high wood fence surrounds the rear yard for total privacy.  

Architectural harmony of roof dormers and extended living spaces creates the perfect corner for poolside lounging

This view of the house shows the distinctive shape and shallow depth of the roof dormers in the steep pitch of the lower portion of the gambrel roof. The low slope roofed addition of a family room and the pitched roof addition of a sunroom overlook the pool area. From the sunroom, sliding doors open onto a  wrap-around deck. 

Adding a picnic table and grill to the poolside patio allows for al-fresco evenings 

The large deck has a picnic table and grille awaiting al-fresco dinners by the pool. Two one-car garages at each corner of the property are accessed from the alley.

Ample storage solutions with dual garages and a dedicated garden shed.

Between the two garages is a small shed for lawn and garden maintenance. The large pool will soon provide hours of fun in the sun!

Serene and spacious living area, bathed in natural light through tall windows

The front door opens into the living room with its serene palette of neutrals accented by the Oriental rug, footstool, pillows and the red splash of the throw over the sofa. The pale color of the window treatments and the valances placed directly below the ceiling blend into the wall so the room feels larger than it is. Tall windows provide ample sunlight. 

Originally a dining space, this room has been repurposed thanks to its position between the living room and the elegant staircase.

The rooms flow easily from one to another since they are connected by doors instead of a hall. This room next to the living room was originally the dining room with the stairs at the rear wall leading to the second floor. Sunlight from the front window is projected deep into the room.

Efficient kitchen design with crisp white cabinetry to brighten and elongate the space

Another door leads to the kitchen at the other corner of the house and the layout is divided into two work areas. This area contains the sink, cooktop and island with a butcher block countertop. The row of cabinetry behind the island contains the R/F that creates a compact work triangle. The white cabinetry with upper cabinets rising to the ceiling blend into the white walls and maintain the spatial volume.

Cozy breakfast nook snuggles perfectly between the dual kitchen workspaces.

The vista from the former dining room’s door is to the charming breakfast table and pair of Windsor chairs that separates the two areas of the kitchen. The wall behind the table contains the wall ovens. Recessing open shelving into the wall was a clever way to provide extra storage.

Additional cabinet area enhances functionality with a second sink and comfortable vinyl flooring.

The second length of cabinetry also contains a second sink for extra prep space or space for crafts. The easy care vinyl flooring is also easy on the feet!

Bright and private main-floor bathroom showcases distinctive floor and wall patterns.

Between the kitchen and the rear sunroom is a full bath opposite the short hall to the family room. Plantation shutters provide both sunlight and privacy. The white background and the green chamfered corners of the floor pattern are reversed in the green background and white diagonal strips of the wallpaper

Delightfully cozy family room washed in sunlight streaming from bow and rear windows.

The long family room is accessed from both the living room and the hall from the kitchen to the sunroom. The sunlight from the wide bow window and rear window TV area balances the cozy feel of the seating around the fireplace.

Architecturally vibrant sunroom with total indoor/outdoor harmony and adjustable lighting.

Since the sunroom is a one-story space, opening up the ceiling to the underside of the roof’s framing gives it architectural character and the pairs of wide sliding doors around the perimeter give the space total transparency for easy indoor/outdoor flow. The white wicker furnishings with colorful cushions create areas for seating and dining. The track lighting can be adjusted for ambient lighting as needed.

Sunny second-floor bedroom offers warm wood furnishings and charming architectural details.

The stairs to the second floor rise against the rear wall to a hall connecting the two corner bedrooms and the third bedroom in between. The front wall high knee wall at the spring line for the  gambrel roof adds charming interior architectural character and a comfortable sense of enclosure. I  admired the color palette of this lovely bedroom with the gold bedspread and plaid bed skirt and the design of roses on the pillows and window treatments. Three windows provide ample sunlight and the wood furnishings of the pencil post bed and other pieces add warmth.

Clever bathroom design makes the most of angled knee wall space.

The width of both the stairs and the hall creates space for the bathroom at the end of the hall. The white fixtures stand out against the butter yellow walls and the foot of the tub is set against the high knee wall so the shower head is against the high wall. 

Serene guest room with ample daylight and complementary color scheme.

The other corner bedroom mirrors the other corner bedroom’s interior architecture of the high knee walls, dormer window in the front gambrel roof and a side window for ample daylight. Blue and gold are complementary colors and here the color scheme creates a serene space for any guest.

Great in-town corner lot location close to the Rails to Trails and the amenities of Easton’s Historic District. Lovingly maintained by its Owner for forty years, it awaits another Owner’s individuality. Charming Dutch Colonial architecture, main floor with a living room, family room and sunroom for relaxing with family and friends. Both the living room and the family room have fireplaces and the sunroom is aptly named for its exterior walls are infilled with wide sliding doors for easy flow to the deck and in-ground pool and hot tub area. The two separate garages off the alley are a unique plus as well as the large pool and deck with outdoor lighting. For the gardener, there is small shed  to maintain the lovely gardens. Great family home!

For more information about this property, contact Mary Haddaway with Benson and Mangold at 410-745-0415 (o), 410-924-8574 (c), or 

[email protected]. For more photographs and pricing visit  www.bensonandmangold.com,  “Equal Housing Opportunity”.

Photography by Greta Clopper

 

Contributor Jennifer Martella has pursued dual careers in architecture and real estate since she moved to the Eastern Shore in 2004. She has reestablished her architectural practice for residential and commercial projects and is a real estate agent for Meredith Fine Properties. She especially enjoys using her architectural expertise to help buyers envision how they could modify a potential property. Her Italian heritage led her to Piazza Italian Market, where she hosts wine tastings every Friday and Saturday afternoons.

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

Filed Under: Design with Jenn Martella

Wine of the Week: Fiordiligi Grillo DOC

May 2, 2025 by Jennifer Martella Leave a Comment

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Ciao Tutti!

This weekend at Piazza Italian Market, we will taste the Fiordiligi Grillo DOC ($15.99, ABV 12.5%) from the Assuli winery near Trapani, Sicily. The stylish label was inspired by the character Agramant, the king of Africa and Charlemagne’s opponent in “Orlando Furioso”, an epic poem by Ludivico Ariosto.  Antonio Vivaldi was inspired by the poem to create his opera “Orlando” and the Assuli labels illustrate the characters in the opera. 

Fiordiligi Grillo DOC ($15.99, ABV 12.5%) from the Assuli winery near Trapani, Sicily

Sicily is Italy’s largest region and its three primary winemaking areas vary from the slopes of Mt. Etna in the NE coast to Vittoria in the SE and the NW where Assuli is located near Trapani. In the Sicilian dialect, “Assuli” means “Al Sole (the Sun) which is an apt description of their unique terroir of blazing sunlight, soils with strong minerality and fragrant scents that are borne on the breezes from the Mediterranean Sea.  The results are wines with distinctive personality in the “Sicilia” DOC.

Assuli Winery is owned by the Caruso family.

Being an architect, I could not resist including the picture of the Assuli winery, owned by the Caruso family. The Assuli story began in 1948 with Giacomo Caruso, an entrepreneur who discovered a new marble variety, “Perlato di Sicilia.” The demand for the marble soared and Caruso purchased new quarries to keep up with orders. In 1972, Carrara, a global stone center, moved to new headquarters that were designed by Italian architects Bertelotti and Bertelli. This efficient and modern building is a reinterpretation of an ancient baglio on the site, dating from the 18th century. 

Their grillo grape is grown in the Carcitella vineyard near the coastal towns of Frapani and Marsala in NW Sicily.

By 1993, Assuli’s estate covered more than 130 hectares containing five distinct vineyards where seven indigenous grapes are grown. Their grillo grape is grown in the Carcitella vineyard near the coastal towns of Frapani and Marsala in NW Sicily. Since 2016, the third generation of the Caruso family, Nicoletta, Roberto and Michele have been leading the winery to new heights. Their current collaboration is with the Instituto Vite Vino di Marsala for management of an experimental field of 600 vine grafts of six grapes. The goal is to bring these ancient vines back to life that reflect the Caruso family’s strong link to its terroir.  

It has been a while since the Grillo grape has been in Piazza’s collection. I enjoyed its fruity nose of citrus and strong pineapple and fresh minerality-perfect pairing for spring, with tomato and watermelon or smoked trout salads; pasta dishes with seafood, grilled veggies, especially asparagus; seafood or white meat entrees and fresh goat cheese.  

Come join me Friday from noon to 5:45 or Saturday from noon to 4:45 for a taste of this delectable wine!

Cin Cin!

Jenn


Contributor Jennifer Martella has pursued dual careers in architecture and real estate since she moved to the Eastern Shore in 2004. She has reestablished her architectural practice for residential and commercial projects and is a real estate agent for Meredith Fine Properties. She especially enjoys using her architectura

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

Filed Under: Food and Garden Notes

House of the Week: Captivating Craftsman Bungalow

May 1, 2025 by Jennifer Martella Leave a Comment

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Graceful gables and textured siding create timeless Craftsman curb appeal.

When I began my search for this week’s feature, I looked no further than this Craftsman Bungalow, since I am besotted with bungalows in general and this one in particular! I coveted it when it was on the market before and I enjoyed my tour to reacquaint me with its many charms. This bungalow has the classic design elements of its style: one-and-a-half stories, compact building footprint, gabled roof with overhanging eaves, shed dormers at the front and back, large windows, connecting rooms instead of hallways and natural materials.

The textures of the red brick chimney, the smooth creamy yellow bands that separates the lap siding from the scallop pattern under the eaves and the beams for the porch’s openings, along with the sage green of the façade creates an irresistible curb appeal!

The porch’s robust columns and layered masonry embody handcrafted charm.

My fave feature of this Craftsman Bungalow is the large, covered front porch with its tapered columns resting on a solid railing. I especially admired the mix of materials and textures used for the house and porch’s  foundation. At the porch, alternating layers of rusticated concrete masonry units to simulate stone, running bond brick, brick laid to create square openings for ventilation at the porch’s railing, and a topping of concrete like icing on a slice of torte wrap around the porch. Finials mark the beginning of the solid railing at the sides of the steps. 

Functional and flexible—a rear deck primed for expansion or creative reuse.

The rear elevation’s deck and steps with a shed roof supported by brackets has the potential to be infilled with walls to become a mud room/laundry. The shed also has potential as an office, studio or a potting shed. The majestic crape myrtle will add color in the summer.

Natural stone terrace and lush greenery invite backyard relaxation.

The terrace formed by random stones has grass instead of mortar between the stones and its irregular shape blends into the deep rear yard. Behind the shed are garden beds and at the end of the property is the original garage that would be just right for my Ford Focus!

Screened serenity with heritage details, from slat ceilings to blue hues.

The porch was originally open but when the porch was screened, solid wood paneling covered the ventilation spaces in the railing’s brickwork at the interior of the porch. The solid railing offers seated privacy and the wood slat ceiling is painted in the traditional pale blue color. This color selection is rooted in the Gullah people’s belief that spirits would not cross over water and painting ceilings blue to resemble water would ward off evil spirits. 

A breezy corner nook perfect for porch swings and peaceful afternoons.

The front porch’s NW orientation provides cooling breezes during the warm months. The entry door is centered in the porch to define spaces for sitting or dining and the Craftsman style light fixture is the perfect touch. I would spend Sunday afternoons on the porch swing reading a book with my cat in my lap!

Elegant columns frame the flow between spaces with timeless Craftsman design.

The front door opens into a foyer and the stairs. The typical Craftsman detail of separating rooms with columns and bases with hinged doors for storage always provided great vistas between adjacent rooms. I imagine at one time the woodwork and stair balustrade were stained wood but the white color does lighten the space. The white risers accentuate the stained wood of the stair treads and the beautiful wood floors flow through the main rooms.

Sunlit and spacious, the living room highlights bold window trim accents.

The spacious living room spans two-thirds of the house’s depth and the long windows cast sunlight deep into the room.  The craftsman style window trim is accentuated by rosette corners that project slightly past the top and side of each window for emphasis. 

Contrasting green-washed fireplace bricks create a cozy focal point in this open living space.

The green color of the exterior palette becomes lighter green walls in the spacious living room. The side wall’s fireplace between two long windows is simply detailed with deeper green brick and a wood mantel. At the rear wall, a wide wall opening infilled with a pair of French doors leads to the den.

Rich wood paneling and outdoor access make this a cozy corner retreat.

The den at the corner of the house has high wood wainscoting and an exterior door to the covered deck overlooking the rear yard. The short hall past the adjacent full bathroom leads to the kitchen at the other corner of the house.

Checkerboard floors and black accents bring a sophisticated vintage vibe to the bath.

I admired the bathroom’s black and white color scheme with the checkerboard tile floor and white tiled walls with accents of black. The full bath’s soaking tub could be removed for use in a second floor primary bath. The pedestal lavatory is opposite the lavatory but it could easily be relocated next to the toilet to create more floor space. 

Craftsman updates include sleek granite counters and glowing natural light.

Removing the wall between the kitchen and the dining room created an open plan with windows on the three exterior walls. The current Owners updated the kitchen with craftsman style wood cabinets, granite countertops, tile backsplash, farmhouse sink and stainless steel appliances.  The high counter facing the dining room creates a spot for a breakfast bar. The double-unit windows over the sink and the single window at the rear wall add to the ample sunlight from the dining room’s windows. 

Generous proportions complemented by a pendant fixture echo historic style.

The spacious dining room could easily accommodate family dinners or larger celebrations and the period pendant fixture is the perfect touch. I surmised that instead of a single door opening in the wall to the foyer was not original.  That portion of the wall probably matched the Craftsman style opening to the living room. Since the framing probably is hidden in the wall, opening up the foyer wall would create great vistas and easier flow between the rooms. 

Classic balustrades lead upstairs, illuminated by a charming window in the hallway.

The stairs to the second floor lead to a hall with a window for daylight. The side by side washer and dryer are located in the corner but with a little creative space planning, the appliances could be relocated to a closet. The door opposite the stairs opens into the centrally located full bath.

Triple dormer windows brighten this tucked-away bath with thoughtful details.

The full bath is tucked under the shed dormer with triple windows for sunlight and privacy. The wood wainscot highlights the white fixtures and lavatory cabinet. Opposite the windows is the tub/shower.

Soft northern light filters through dormer windows in this welcoming space.

Although this room is not labeled as the primary bedroom, this bedroom in the center of the floor plan would be my choice for its charming interior architecture from the wide shed dormer infilled with triple windows. Since the windows face north, soft daylight with no glare would be a plus.

Potential meets practicality with gable storage and ensuite opportunity.

At each side gable walls are the other two bedrooms with storage rooms at the front and back of the house. Since two closets would not be necessary, making one of the front rooms a bath for the shed dormer bedroom would be my choice for to create a primary ensuite.

Expansive proportions make this versatile bedroom ideal for shared use or play

At the other gable end of the house is the third bedroom that spans the full depth of the living room below. This bedroom could easily be shared, or could also be a bedroom with a play space for a child. I imagine the square window with its sill at floor level would be claimed by the family pet for his/her sleeping space!Charming Craftsman Bungalow on a desirable and deep corner lot location, only four blocks from the center of St. Michaels’ shops and restaurants along Talbot St. After crossing Talbot St., Railroad Ave. becomes Cherry St., which ends at the pedestrian bridge to the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum and the harbor restaurants are nearby. At the other end of this street is a park and the entrance to the Rails to Trails. The bungalow’s compact floor plan with minimal halls maximizes the room sizes and creates easy flow among the rooms with abundant sunlight from the long windows. Original Craftsman details, especially the millwork between the foyer and the living room, stair balustrade, moldings and beautiful hardwood floors set the scene for gracious in-town living. The screened porch that spans the full length of the house and the rear stone terrace overlooking the yard are great outdoor rooms for relaxing with family and friends. I am so grateful for having the chance once again to become captivated by this charming bungalow! 


 

TTR Sotheby’s International Realty at 410-745-2596 (o), 410- 310-0225 (c), or [email protected] . For more pictures and pricing, visit monicapenwell.sothebysrealty.com “Equal Housing Opportunity”.

Photography by Eve Fishell, Chesapeake Pro Photo LLC, 443-786-8025, www.chesapeakeprophoto.com, [email protected]

Contributor Jennifer Martella has pursued dual careers in architecture and real estate since she moved to the Eastern Shore in 2004. She has reestablished her architectural practice for residential and commercial projects and is a real estate agent for Meredith Fine Properties. She especially enjoys using her architectural expertise to help buyers envision how they could modify a potential property. Her Italian heritage led her to Piazza Italian Market, where she hosts wine tastings every Friday and Saturday afternoons.

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

Filed Under: Design with Jenn Martella

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