above: Julie Potack consulting with her clients on floorplan and decor options.
After years as a Westport-based real estate broker, Julie Potack founded The Renovation Concierge; your direct line to an elite circle of design and architecture professionals.
Having worked on diverse projects from new builds to historic revivals and Art Deco restorations, Julie Potack knows firsthand that the key to a successful renovation is finding the right professionals who can deliver on your expectations.
After 10 years working as a trusted real estate salesperson in Westport, Julie has shifted her focus to what happens after the closing papers are signed. Founded in 2023, The Renovation Concierge (the-renovation-concierge.com) goal is to streamline the home renovation and new-build process by providing access to a vetted network of top-tier design professionals, ensuring a bespoke, enjoyable and harmonious experience.
Below, Julie outlines the four main creative players in any new build or renovation project and what role they each play. She also highlights some local professionals who bring their unique aesthetic, and strong collaboration skills, to each of their projects.
Architecture
The Renovation Concierge starts most large renovation or new build projects by researching and working with their clients to select an architect. If there is something unique about your project, i.e., a historical renovation or a waterfront property, it’s important to ask if they have ever worked on a similar project. An architect not only designs an aesthetically beautiful home, but also addresses less glamorous features like the mechanicals and engineering of your structure.
Austin Patterson Disston
With offices in Norwalk, CT, and Quogue, NY, APD has designed some of the most beautiful homes in the tri-state area. Their designs range from modern to traditional, but each project is respectful of the history of the site, with an eye on modern day living. Their attention to detail and high expectation of quality construction are consistent in all of their homes. Their designs will stand the test of time.
Spring Architecture + Design
The principal of Spring Architecture + Design is a Westport mom. She is known for her ability to design eco conscious and sustainable homes. She was also recently hired to design the new Rye Arts Center.
Interior Design
Nowadays, it is easy to see the work of hundrends of talented designers with a few swipes on Instagram. The Renovation Concierge helps you narrow down your style, scope of project and budget and matches you with designers that are the right fit for your project. Designers each have a unique way of sourcing products, building a design scheme and billing. It’s important to understand how the process will flow before hiring someone. The Renovation Concierge works with an extensive list of Interior Designers who range across all aesthetics and budgets.
Robin Henry Studio
Robin Henry Studio was founded in NYC, but Robin has since made the move to Westport. Her style is very layered and she has fun with colors and patterns. Her work is a nice departure from most of the design we are currently seeing in Fairfield County.
Landscape Design
Anyone who has driven by a new build in town, that has not yet been landscaped, knows that even the most beautiful architecture does not shine without a landscaper’s touch. When possible, it is ideal to bring a landscape designer on towards the beginning of a project, so that they can work hand in hand with the architects. They are also a huge asset in the planning process if you want to save some mature vegetation that is already on your property.
Verdant View
Kathy, the principal of Verdant View, is a true nature lover and a walking encyclopedia of plants and trees. Her landscapes, once installed, look like they have been there for years. Her designs strike the perfect balance between being manicured and natural, always with a touch of whimsy.
Art Advisory
The right art completes a room. While some interior designers are happy to source decorative art, there has been a shift towards homeowners wanting more input and knowledge around the art in their homes. Over the last decade, more art advisors have emerged to serve clients who are new to the art world. These advisors work with their clients to help them uncover their personal taste, gain them access to the often-intimidating gallery world, and counsel them on whether a purchase is a sound investment. The Renovation Concierge works with art advisors who can source and place art from emerging artists as well as Blue Chip artists, and everything in between.
Liz Legget Art Advisory
Westport resident, Liz Legget, is an artist herself. She has studied art, including a residency in Israel, worked at Sotheby’s auction house, and was the director of MOCA for 7 years. She has a close relationship with local and international artists and galleries and an exquisite eye for talent.
Teamwork…makes the dream work
Once all of your players are on board, the next step is to get everyone on the same page in terms of style direction, goals, timeline and budget. The Renovation Concierge can facilitate these beginning conversations and is available to consult for their clients through the entire process. Julie believes that the process should be joyful, and that even the biggest construction obstacles can be worked through when you have the right team in place.