Darn, I missed a kitchen tour lol! I do like going on kitchen tours and wondering "what were they thinking". I'm careful not to say it out loud when the KD is present, though. Gotta tell ya, a 12' island between refrigerator and microwave had me baffled though. (And yes, another person on that tour paced it off lol) And I always wonder if any of the other visitors are GWers? Maybe we should have a secret signal!

This one is an annual fundraiser for a local non-profit. I've been going for 15 yrs. & today's was their 25th. We've known some volunteers who said that they suggest home owners not be present. But sometimes they are there. I've never heard tour goers express harsh comments - at least when in the space ;)

i always marvel at the generosity of people opening up their homes to let people traipse through.

Some are just exquisite and others are examples that lots of money and access to professional designers doesn't necessarily result in functional or tasteful outcomes.

ETA No photographing is allowed, otherwise I would have been happy to post some shots.

Amck, I'm sorry I didn't spy you back! I organized a group from our neighborhood. It was the first time at this tour for everyone but me. I agree that we are spoiled with the kitchens here on GW. There we a few that I liked, but none that I had to have (though I wouldn't mind visiting the 5th floor of One Harbour Place for a weekend). Must admit that I did sneak a few pictures. I'm on a stool and mantel mission. Guess you didn't hear me with my comments about the microwave that was 5 feet off the floor. One of the ladies I was with kept opening up cabinet drawers and doors. I'm surprised they didn't throw us out!

We had a lovely day seeing what you get for $1M+, followed by lunch at Rudi's. If you haven't been there, check it out. I understand they have a great Sunday jazz brunch.

Glad you made it, too. And now I'm certain it was you among that group of happy women.

Walking those streets made me realize what a lovely city Portsmouth has become. I moved to the NH seacoast area in the early '70's and it has undergone such a transformation! One of my favorite stops was the little condo over the chocolate shop. I've driven down that street dozens of times but never noticed the charming atmosphere - archways opening to pocket gardens and small parks. We went back to the shop after the tour to buy a few things...Delicious. But what a temptation to have that so close!

The weather could have been nicer, but DH & I looked at it from the perspective that we didn't regret not accomplishing any yard work. There simply wasn't any better way to spend a cool & drizzly spring day.

I will keep Rudi's in mind for a new place to try!