The Middletown Press (Middletown, CT)
Gorgeous gardens grow across region
It has been an unseasonably mild winter in Connecticut. Make of that what you will. Even February days hinted at spring’s forthcoming arrival. Crocuses and daffodils, perhaps confused by the conditions, began to peek out. For avid gardeners across the region — or those who simply appreciate the return of florals and greens to the landscape — the warm temperatures excited and conjured images of renewal.
For residential real estate buyers across Greenwich, the spring buying season often means touring properties at their most regal presentation, when the leaves fill out the trees and gardens begin to grow and bloom. This week, Greenwich Time presents a few currently listed homes that come with the added perk of remarkable gardens.
Ellen Mosher, a Realtor with Houlihan Lawrence, is the listing agent for 45 Stanwich Road, a 1912-era sixbedroom stone colonial, complemented by a threecar garage, heated pool and pool house.
“This stunning residence, set on a high, meticulously landscaped, private setting on lower Stanwich Road, with heated pool and pool house, has gorgeous gardens, blooming throughout the spring and summer,” Mosher described the grounds, spanning 1.12 acres.
“About the time the forsythia starts to bloom around Greenwich, the yellow Goldmound spirea will begin to pop. The dense row of Kwanzan cherry trees in the front yard welcomes you to the property,” Mosher said. “Several species of day lilies and hydrangeas will bloom throughout the summer, as well as perennial gardens meant to have something continuously blooming, and help to minimize the need for planting annuals.”
The 6,001 square feet of living space within the stately home have been beautifully renovated, with generously proportioned formal rooms, high ceilings, three fireplaces, and design details like French doors and coffered ceilings.
“Views from the majority of the main-level rooms reveal various red maple trees that add color all summer long, but the most beautiful view will be of the pool garden beds, with layers of blue, pink and red. The wall of pink Rose of Sharon comes out to help in the late days of August — all creating a nice oasis for summertime entertaining,” Mosher said. 45 Stanwich Road is listed for $3.795 million.
Located on a quiet country lane, behind wroughtiron gates, the five-bedroom Georgian manor at 21 Vineyard Lane, Greenwich, perfectly presides over its 2-acre grounds. Christopher Finlay, a Realtor with Halstead Real Estate in Greenwich, is the listing agent for the $7.975 million home. Here, the landscaping has been sculpted with fruit trees and perennial gardens. Stone pathways lead to various reflective or entertaining destinations around the property, including outdoor dining areas and an in-ground pool and spa, embraced by an entertaining terrace and pergola. Expansive lawns are bordered by boxwoods, colorful plantings and specimen trees, and a natural stream meanders through the acreage.
Paradise perfect
As you pull up to 2 Jenifer Lane in Cos Cob, the rock outcropping in the front yard immediately catches the eye.
It is the star of the understated landscaping set before the six-bedroom colonial. The simplicity of the landscaping at the front of the house is contrasted by extensive gardens in the home’s fully fenced backyard.
“The private rear yard at 2 Jenifer Lane is a lush, resort-like paradise,” according to listing agent Susie Hart Quinn of Sotheby’s International Realty in Greenwich. “Flowers and shrubs bloom everywhere, beginning in late spring. Surrounding the saltwater pool, there are mature blue hydrangea and red roses, accented by yellow and white roses. While preparing dinner in the outdoor kitchen and dining on the outdoor terrace, one can admire the puffy white hydrangea that overflow in the adjoining garden. There are also pink hydrangeas to complement other areas of the gardens.