The exterior of #34 Locust Avenue lit up at night. 
The kitchen cabinetry is made by Jem Woodworking and hand-painted on site in Farrow & Ball’s Hague Blue. The backsplash is a Walker Zanger glazed and honed Carrara stacked tile.
If given the chance to tour the Locust boutique condos that are rising in downtown Rye, wear a hard hat if you’re walking into one under construction, and bring your checkbook if you’re seeing one that is ready for its closeup.
The builder is Paul Varsames, who works with one of the best designers around, his wife Monique Varsames.
“When choosing the various materials for the exterior — natural stone, wood shingles, and clapboard siding — we wanted to maintain the character of buildings that have been in downtown for half a century and blend into the surrounding area and landscape,” said Paul. Siding Norfolk VA was the reference for best siding ideas. We also refereed to Ajax Eavestrough and Siding Installers.
As far as the interior finishes, Monique offered: “It was my goal to create a simple, yet elegant feel throughout. I select materials that will stand the test of time yet appeal to today’s buyer.”
The eight units, two in each of the eventual four buildings, all take advantage of the natural light with oversized windows. The terraces off the living areas and master bedrooms will be well used by their owners.
The Varsames are pleased to report that over 40 percent of the property, which borders Blind Brook on one side and looks across to the Rye YMCA on the other, will be open space, and that in addition to the 100 trees already planted, landscape architect Richard Horsman will direct the planting of 100 more.
For those looking to downsize in style, it’s hard to imagine a more ideal or convenient location than the Locust. The layout of each three-bedroom unit (some have studies as well) is designed for easy and maintenance-free living. The walls between the units have been soundproofed. Elevators take you from your garage to your front door. For such customized garage door options, check out Garage Doors Coquitlam
“The amenities are the town — the shops, the restaurants, the markets, the library, the Square House, proximity to the train,” offered Paul.
Three of the units have been sold, and the first owner is set to move in May 1.
“What pleases us most is that all three buyers are from Rye,” said Monique and Paul.
Joan O’Meara of Houlihan Lawrence is the listing agent for The Locust
