Fifteen years ago David Whitman and his partner, Peter Stiglin, were planning a move to the Adirondacks when they chanced upon our region. Inspired by the beauty of the area, they opened Pergola in 2005 and the shop quickly became a touchstone of the burgeoning New Preston community. Here, David talks about why he (happily) never made it to the Adirondacks. Peter and I landed here 15 years ago quite accidentally. During a short-term rental in Lakeville while planning a move to the Adirondacks, we stumbled upon a web of remote dirt roads on the Sheffield/Salisbury border and said, “This will do." We’ve been captivated by the magical corridor hugging the state line ever since. Our work trek to Pergola takes us through the hills of Litchfield County, around Lake Waramaug, and into the village to our own wonderful waterfall flowing right behind the shop! Nature certainly calls but the sophistication and variety to be found in the 10 shops of tiny New Preston is unmatched anywhere. Naturally, hike and bike trails are close by the house. Race Brook Trail off Route 41 is a favorite, heading up past layered pools and waterfalls to a stellar view looking east. Race Brook connects with the Appalachian Trail at the top, for points leading north or south. Heading either way on the Appalachian Trail, be sure to plan ahead with a vehicle drop for the descent! I like to fuel up either before or after at Sweet William's bakery on Main Street in Salisbury. The best summer Sunday mornings are meeting with friends on West Twin Lake and paddling across both lakes to O’Hara’s Marina for Mary’s pancakes. Sitting on the café’s simple porch watching the laid-back dock scene is a vacation in itself. While dreaming of summer during this very cold winter, I have been poring over the upcoming season brochure for Jacob’s Pillow. The level of dance that gets performed up in the Becket woods is world class and is always a must for out-of-area guests in summer. All of this of course attracts people who match the landscape in variety and abundance. Being only a couple of hours from NYC and Boston, we’re lucky to have an easy-access urban connection without having to actually live there! Best of both worlds I’d say.
