The Middletown Press (Middletown, CT)
Hamden retreat showcases midcentury modern design
Perched among the treetops, this striking modern style home is beautifully sited on 12 wooded acres with glorious views from every room.
Privacy abounds from this tranquil location that borders 200 acres of state-owned land, creating a captivating retreat. Designed by native New Haven architect Vincent Amore, the home is a classic example of midcentury modern architecture characterized by flat planes, wide open spaces, extensive use of wood and expansive panes of glass that allow light to enter from multiple angles creating a wonderful integration with nature.
“This home incorporates a dramatic combination of glass and wood with treetop views from nearly every room,” says listing agent John Cuozzo. “It really takes full advantage of the gorgeous wooded location, with nothing but views for miles.”
A winding driveway leads to the home which is set high on a hill. The home enjoys a practical, sensible layout that lends itself well to entertaining as well as comfortable, everyday living. Following the midcentury modern tradition whose concept was designed to encourage an appreciation of the outdoors and healthy living, rooms have multiple outdoor views and access points.
Stepping in from the main entrance, the eye is immediately drawn across the living room to the full wall of glass that looks out onto the surrounding woodlands and opens onto the wraparound deck. Throughout the home, hardwood floors are thoughtfully balanced with warm, (tongue and groove) wood plank ceilings.
The living room is also accented with recessed lighting, a fireplace and a half-wall that brings in even more views. Next to the living room, a soaring two-story window sets the stage for the formal dining room, which is open to the floor above and separated from the living room by an angled wall, adding to the depth of space.
In the kitchen, the clean, long lines of the granite counters, generous cabinets and a breakfast bar work in concert to emphasize their simplicity and functionality. The kitchen also has access to the deck via sliding glass doors that bring the outdoors in.
The open, airy feeling continues to pervade on the second level, where a balcony overlooks the dining room as does a catwalk. There is also an open sitting area. Five bedrooms are located on this level, including the master bedroom suite. The bedrooms are generously proportioned, all featuring spectacular cathedral ceilings, walls of windows and abundant closet space.
The home also features a detached two-car garage, central air
conditioning and city water. Homeowners will enjoy the best of both worlds in an extremely private and seemingly isolated location that is also convenient and just minutes to shopping, Route 15 and Interstate 91. Listing agent: John M. Cuozzo, Jr., Press|Cuozzo Realtors, (203) 2881900 ext. 124, jcuozzo@presscuozzo.com