A picturesque historic home
Rich colonial heritage on display at Shelton home
Connecticut’s rich colonial heritage has bestowed an abundance of historic homes throughout Fairfield County. Rarely does one find an antique home that retains its historic integrity while offering a seamless blend of modern amenities and elegant features.
Hidden from the main road on a picturesque site of nearly an acre, this beautifully renovated 1740 colonial and carriage house with five- room apartment stands as both a testament to the past and an invitation to the beauty of the present.
“I fell in love with this home the first time I saw it,” said the homeowner, who knew when he purchased it 11 years ago that with renovations inside and out, the property could be truly spectacular. The owners created a magnificent outdoor retreat among stone walls, lush landscaping and an expansive stone patio featuring a built- in grill, firepit and inground pool and cabana, complete with kitchenette and outdoor shower.
“There is something to be said for just sitting on the patio and relaxing on a beautiful evening,” the owner reminisces. “We will always have happy memories of our place.”
“The private backyard is a tranquil oasis with great amenities for entertaining with ease,” says listing agent Barbara Sylvester. “The patio has been completely redone, and the stone walls and vibrant landscaping create a captivating setting.”
The main house has been updated from top to bottom to offer an open floor plan while keeping true to the style of the era and maintaining its antique charm and character. Facing the entry, at the center of the home, is an impressive arched stone grotto. Equally impressive floor- to- ceiling granite fireplaces are found on each of the grotto’s three sides and face the formal dining room, living room and keeping room, all adorned with original ceiling beams and antique wide plank floors. All provide wonderful ambience for Details Address: 689 Long Hill Ave., Shelton
Price: $ 649,900
Square feet: 4,931
Features: Antique charm pairs with modern amenities in this beautifully renovated 1740 colonial and carriage house with 5- room apartment. The main house features three fireplaces, antique wide plank floors, keeping room, gourmet kitchen and family room. The exquisite grounds are highlighted by an in- ground pool, cabana and expansive stone patio. Schools: Long Hill Elementary, Perry Hill Intermediate, Shelton Middle School, Shelton High School entertaining, with the keeping room also featuring a wet bar.
The living room and kitchen step down into the spacious family room featuring a vaulted ceiling, radiant- heated floors as seen on “This Old House.” French doors extend the living space outdoors to the pool and patio area.
The gourmet kitchen boasts stunning renovations among an oversized island, granite counters, stainless steel appliances including double ovens and a gas cook top, plus radiant heated floors and French doors that open to the patio. Located off the kitchen is a mudroom and office area with built- ins.
Owners will also enjoy the convenience of a sunny and spacious main level master suite with vaulted ceiling, walk- in closet and pampering master bath with a large, Japanese soaking tub and radiant heated floor.
From the keeping room, a new staircase leads to the upper level where a charming landing provides a reading area with built- in bookcases. There are three goodsized bedrooms and a full bath. Two of the bedrooms share a walk- in closet, and all feature original antique floors.
Generous storage is available in the attic in addition to the large unfinished basement that includes an area for a wine cellar.
Capping off this exceptional property is the carriage house with four- car garage. Ideal as an income- producing apartment or in- law or guest accommodations, the bright and airy carriage house has also been extensively refurbished and features a living room and dining area with vaulted ceiling, kitchen, two bedrooms and a full bath. There is also a craft room or office on the garage level.
Both the main house and carriage house feature a tankless water heater, gas heat, city water and sewer. The main house also offers central air conditioning, a newer roof and freshly painted exterior.
Listing agent: Barbara Sylvester, William Raveis Real Estate, barbara8212009@ hotmail. com, ( 203) 929- 6388