Annalise Taft-Gersten, a renowned interior designer, and her husband James Gersten, principal at Silver Street Hospitality, have garnered extensive experience in home renovations over the years. From a London-inspired Connecticut farmhouse to historical New York City apartments, they’ve transformed several properties. However, in a bid to simplify their lives amidst an empty nest scenario, they recently sold their real estate holdings to renovate a summer cottage in Sag Harbor, turning it into their forever home with a unique Scandinavian flair.
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Interior Designer: Annalise Taft-Gersten
Principal: James Gersten at Silver Street Hospitality
Construction: Rimland Construction
Location: Sag Harbor, Hamptons
Showroom: ALT for Living
Originally built in the 1950s, the wood-shingled house was more suited for summer stays rather than year-round living. Inspired by Long Island’s magical light, the couple undertook a strategic renovation. They transformed the 2,200-square-foot cottage into an abode that feels less wasteful and more meaningful. Annalise embraced the cottage aesthetic, giving it a Scandinavian touch, while drawing inspiration from artists like Leslie Sokolow and Jackson Pollock, whose work has been influenced by the area’s distinct lighting, famously described as “clear as gin” by poet John N. Morris.
Collaborating with Rimland Construction, Annalise added and enlarged windows, creating a light-filled haven. The new design palette departed from the traditional Sag Harbor style, instead capturing the dreamy hues of changing sunlight in shades of gold and cream, complemented by soft textures and fabrics in flesh tones and grays. The interiors reflect an intentional use of space, showcasing ALT for Living’s Veil cashmere drapery and vintage furnishings, while wood paneling and original ceiling beams with steel cladding add architectural interest and warmth.
A dormer addition at the back of the house allowed for the creation of an expansive primary suite on the second level, featuring ample closets, a sitting area, and a deluxe bathroom. The luxurious bathroom, incorporating a cascading marble tub and brass detailing, reflects the couple’s experience in the luxury hospitality sector. Their expertise is evident in spaces designed for seamless functionality and relaxation, offering beautiful aesthetics and the practicality of working from home.
The heart of the house, as with most homes, resides in its kitchen and dining area, meticulously designed for entertaining. Instead of a formal dining space, a versatile area features a Guillerme et Chambron table and Charlotte Perriand chairs, comfortably seating up to 12. The custom cork-covered banquette offers the look of leather with easy care, adding to the practical charm. Storage beneath the banquette keeps fine china and crystal accessible, streamlining entertainment processes, reflecting the couple’s desire for intentional living without excess.
This transformation has been liberating for the Gerstens, creating a home that fulfills their needs with intentional design and restoration. With features like a fireplace, firepit, pool, and serene outdoor sitting areas, the home accommodates both work and leisure. As James Gersten expresses, the house encompasses their personality and lifestyle preferences, prioritizing things they love over filling space unnecessarily, allowing them to live fully and joyfully in their newly established Hamptons retreat.
