ROBIN RICHMAN

Description

Welcome to a remarkable estate where 18th-century history meets timeless craftsmanship and modern luxury. Originally constructed in 1791, the oldest part of the home—now serving as the foyer—once housed an entire family on the ground floor with a sleeping loft above. The original hearth used for cooking and heating remains intact, offering a rare glimpse into early American life. The current owners added a coat closet with doors crafted from 100-year-old pine by B&D Builders, an esteemed Amish team from Paradise, PA, preserving the home’s authentic character. In the early 1800s, the home underwent its first expansion, adding what was then a spacious parlor on the main level—now the dining room—and three bedrooms above. The current owners, who moved in in 2017, tastefully updated this space by installing drywall between original beams to brighten the rooms, adding dimmable recessed lighting, upgrading electrical systems, and maintained the original 200-year-old hardwood flooring. Upstairs, the same thoughtful updates were made to the flooring and wiring. A later expansion brought in a kitchen, laundry, and a two-and-a-half-car garage on the right side of the home. This area has since been transformed into a stunning chef’s kitchen and elegant master suite. Designed from scratch for the serious cook, the kitchen features vaulted ceilings with mahogany collar ties, two skylights, and random-width flooring made from 150-year-old heart pine. Handcrafted mahogany cabinetry and high-end appliances elevate the space, including a Viking 6-burner stove with griddle and dual convection ovens, Viking dishwasher, Sub-Zero refrigerator and freezer, commercial-grade vent hood, and a Monogram microwave with convection. The former garage now serves as a luxurious primary suite with lofty ceilings, skylights, and matching collar ties. The flooring is 125-year-old mahogany, while the bathroom features rustic 100-year-old barn siding. A skylit walk-in closet completes the suite, blending comfort with character. In 1960, a 400-square-foot living room was added, continuing the aesthetic of exposed collar ties and tall ceilings. The current owners installed 150-year-old heart pine flooring to match the kitchen and updated the lighting with recessed, dimmable fixtures, maintaining design continuity throughout the home. Outdoor features are equally compelling. The pond—reaching 14 feet at its center—has been carefully maintained and enhanced. A man-made stream channels rainwater into the pond for continual flow, supported by an aerator system, enzyme treatments, and a balanced fish population including koi, goldfish, bass, and catfish. In 2019, a new deck was added, perfect for outdoor living, with a propane fire pit and built-in propane-fed range, ideal for entertaining or quiet evenings. The infrastructure has been thoughtfully modernized. A new cedar shake and metal roof, installed in 2020, offers 35- and 50-year life expectancies respectively. That same year, the entire stone exterior was repointed. Inside, a four-zone air conditioning system was installed between 2019 and 2020, and a full-home water purification system ensures clean, filtered drinking water throughout. While the home exudes 18th- and 19th-century charm, it offers the convenience and comfort of a contemporary residence. One of the estate’s most exceptional features is its privacy. Situated on over four private acres, the home is surrounded by protected, undevelopable land. To the left, it borders a 12-acre land trust that can never be built upon. The front faces protected open land, while the rear adjoins mature woods and a working 50+ acre farm. To the right lies land owned by this estate, giving the feel of being nestled in 75 acres of secluded serenity. In summer, no neighboring homes are visible. This is more than a residence—it’s a rare blend of historic preservation, artisanal construction, and refined modern living.

Features