Reflections Est. 1980.
73 Bay Walk
Like a mirage in the desert as you approach the Pines by ferry there sits a white castle like home on the bay called “Reflections.” A home designed for the elaborate parties that took place there by the hostess of the Pines Gloria Demann and husband Larry throughout the 1980’s.
Built in 1980 and designed by Architect Gary Stluka the house exterior was originally California redwood. The house was owned by Gloria and Larry DeMann. After completion Gloria decided to paint the whole house white.
Gloria & Larry Demann were known for their lavish parties held at the home including “Carnival Rio” and “Hooray for Hollywood”.
Café Pacifico
The famous camels that watch guard over the bay were from Gloria’s restaurant in New York called Café Pacifico. The camels are copies of marble camels the Shah of Iran had on his terrace. Also included were the inside palm trees.
Gloria and Larry cultivated many friends who were designers that would help build the party themes.
The house is still the epitome of the 80’s. When you step in it is like a episode of TV’s Dynasty.
As the 80’s ended so did Gloria and Larry’s good fortune. The house went to auction where Clern LaFountaine bought it, and then flipped it to George Hoffman. He then re-engaged original architect Gary Stluka to add on an eastern addition. Architect Gary Stluka and wife Christine Corso- Stluka (below).
Gil Neary
The addition was seamless and feels as if it was always there. Then purchased by longtime Pines resident Gil Neary for $1.125 million the party tradition continued as Gil opened the season with his annual Birthday blast…
2023
The tradition returns…
Independance
The home also hosted “Independence.” A party benefit for GMHC and other charities.
2007
In 2020 The house was leased to nightlife promoter Daniel Nardicio as a guest house, entertainment complex and continued into 2022.
2023. Daniel Nardicio returns to Cherry Grove to manage the Ice Palace, and the home returns back to Gil. It now remains a guest house and event space, however the yearly tradition Birthday/ Opening season party continues carrying on the legacy of the home.
As for the camels, they have had a coat of many colors over the years, but they still remain guard over the home and the cherished memories it holds…
