Monday, November 30, 2009

2009 House Tour & Onsen For All

Well, I'm back. I know I took a bit too much time off, but I have been busy, believe me!

2009 House Tour - An Insider's View

As a follow-up to the 2009 House Tour sponsored by the Princeton Historical Society, the subject of my first posting, it was a HUGE success! Nearly 1000 people visited the eight homes on the tour. I especially loved hosting the Dairy Barn on Parkside Drive. Unlike the other houses on the tour, which are wonderful, although more traditional transformations of historic structures, the Dairy Barn is owned by architects with a unique vision for spatial purity and scale.

Rather than the intimate authentic interiors which characterize the other homes, the Dairy Barn boasts spectacular soaring spaces supported by massive wood beams spanning the rich textured brick walls. It is awesome space ideal for elegant entertaining, art exhibitions, and compartmentalized living. The central living space lies between two impressive towers, which lead to flanking brick wings embracing a private gated courtyard - a sanctuary of quiet natural beauty.

Hidden jewels like this can be found all over Princeton - but you need an invitation or a guide to see them! Don't miss next year's House Tour! It is your ticket to see some of our community's most treasured private homes.

Onsen For All - Princeton's newest "Hotspot"

Princeton's newest "hotspot" is a beautifully conceived Wellness Center envisioned and brought to life by Dale Krieger in order to provide an affordable means of achieving healthy living. With its formal opening on November 14th, Onsen For All, opened its doors and soaking hot tubs to anyone and everyone in the community. Encompassing the concept of Full Circle Wellness, the facility exudes peace, tranquility, and hope.

The Center resides in an exquisitely restored Revolutionary War structure, the oldest in Franklin Township. Social, meditative, and treatment rooms feature rich woods, earthy colors, and original artwork. The senses are rewarded by the warmth of fireplaces, the gentle murmur of fountains, and the aroma of teas and freshly squeezed natural juices. Outside, a beautiful Japanese-style spa garden sheltered by stands of bamboo accommodates four cedarwood soaking hot tubs and a wood burning sauna.

An unexpected oasis in the heart of Central Jersey, Onsen For All promises to improve the health and lives of all who come. The Center offers an ambitious array of spa services and classes. For the complete schedule, you can visit their
website. Please check it out and let me know if you love it as much as I do!

Things to Come

Well, with Thanksgiving now behind us, we are heading into the most exciting and yet most stressful time of the year. We can all meet at Onsen For All after the holidays OR BEFORE- you choose. By the way, gift certificates to Onsen would make excellent presents!

My next post will talk about Princeton's official opening of the Holiday Season with the arrival of THE MAN (yes, Santa Claus, if you weren't sure) and the lighting of THE TREE at Palmer Square.

See you soon!