Property Week

Charming Simsbury colonial has upgrades for contemporary living

The home at 27 Crestwood Road in Simsbury demonstrates conclusively just how flexible the L-shaped garrison colonial architectural style can be. In this case, carefully thought out upgrades have created a home that is ideal for modern living, while retaining the appeal of a traditional colonial. Over the years, the current owners have modified some walls to create an open floor plan on one side of the first floor, which is ideal for entertaining. Yet, this home still allows family members to enjoy a book in a quiet corner.

“It is a home with lots of nooks and crannies,” said owner John Parsons. “During Covid we had a student staying with us. All four of us could be on the main floor and not see each other, or, for that matter, hear one another.”

Arriving visitors who park in the driveway are initially greeted by gently curved staircases and walkways that go to the front door. Visually, they are inviting and intriguing. At two points these stairs bisect low stone walls that are an attractive part of the landscaping of the front yard.

The front entry hall is welcoming, has a closet for coats, and provides immediate access to the kitchen. Here, the removal of a wall has created a roomy seating area that includes built-in book shelves over cabinets along an outer wall. The kitchen’s working area features Corian countertops and an array of new appliances, which are included in the sale. An island with a contrasting granite work surface provides additional space for meal preparation along with seating for four. A breakfast nook is located beside the counter and island, while the counter’s backsplash and adjacent wall feature attractive white tiles in a running bond pattern. A compact pantry offers additional and easily accessed storage.

Just beyond, the formal dining room is open to a sitting room at the rear of the home. It enjoys direct access to a three-season screened-in porch that overlooks the large backyard. Other highlights of the dining room include crown molding, two corner display cabinets, a chair rail molding and a lovely contemporary chandelier. “You have space for different groups when entertaining,” said Scott Glenney of William Pitt Sotheby’s International Realty, while describing the floor plan. He is handling the sale.

On the other side of the first floor is the formal living room. It runs from the front to the rear of the home and includes a wood-burning fireplace that “throws lots of heat,” the owner said. The living room would be ideal for larger gatherings, though it should also work nicely for more intimate get-togethers.

Hardwood oak flooring is used throughout most of the first floor, with the exception of the entry hall and a half bath, which have tile floors. The half bath also holds a full-size washer and dryer.

The second floor includes four comfortably sized bedrooms. The primary suite includes a private bath with a large shower and two closets. The other three bedrooms are served by a second full bath with a soaking tub.

As on the first floor, oak flooring is used throughout the second floor, except in the bathrooms. Here, tile flooring is featured. The shared bathroom also has wall tile in a running bond pattern. Throughout the home, attractive six panel doors enhance appearances and, as Parsons points out, “they are solid and in mint condition.”

The basement accesses an attached two-car garage and a large open area that could be used for many purposes. Parsons says he has used it as his “man cave.” Other uses would include a workshop and storage. “It is a very nice area,” he said. “It is dry, cool in the summer and warm in the winter,” thanks to the nearby boiler.

The yard is large, as can be seen from the threeseason porch. “We own all the way up to the tree line,” Parsons said while looking toward the rear of the property. There is also sufficient room at the side of the house for a patio that can be accessed from the porch or a door in the kitchen. It makes outdoor entertaining an attractive option. Finally, there is a storage shed that is partially hidden from view by plantings. It would be ideal for storing gardening, lawn care, and recreational equipment.

Asked what he liked most about living in this home, Parsons immediately came up with a long list, starting with the neighborhood. “It’s a neighborhood for kids, and the neighborhood people are good people. It’s a close-knit community,” he said.

Then, there are bike trails that are easily accessed from the house. “The bike trails will take you 80 miles, all the way into Massachusetts and all the way down past Hartford,” he said. In addition, there is the proximity of the house to the town. “I can walk into town. You are close to good schools. You can walk to the Meadows, to the concerts.” The quality of the schools is another attraction of living in Simsbury, he said, and he noted that the school bus stops right at the corner on which his house is located.

“We’re not leaving because we don’t like it here. We love it here and I love this house,” he said. The move, he added, is prompted by the desire to get closer to family members who have relocated from this area.

To learn more, go to 27crestwoodroad.com.