The Compound

The metal roof pops and groans as the early morning sun warms its surface, and the chirping of the birds is interrupted only by the occasional (ok, sometimes frequent) cries of little India. It is a rare moment of idyll at 36 3rd Ave. Then the buzzer sounds, the security gate rolls slowly to one side, and the non-stop carousel of characters in and out of the house begins anew for the day.

This house was originally built in the 40's, but Jacqui and Ivan bought it several years ago and completely transformed it. Over the course of two years the house was gutted and its stucco walls expanded on either side, the result being a home of resort like quality. Though certainly a gorgeous home, it is people that make this place hum. The interior is all cozy light walls and dark wood, but it's out back where the action takes place. From early in the morning until dark this is the social hub for an extended network of friends, family and business associates.

A long veranda follows the entire the back wall of the house. Underneath young Ethan screams along on one of his vehicles, followed closely by India tottering dangerously close to the steps down to the pool and picking up anything that isn't nailed down. Jacqui's mom Claire sits at the long dining table, cutting and organizing fabric for napkins and placemats. Jacqui has a cell phone mashed to one side of her head as as she simulataneously yells at the kids and entertains multiple visitors, her "free" hand gesticulating wildly with a cigarette as if conducting the madness surrounding her. Then the buzzer sounds, the gate rolls slowly open and another cast member joins the show.