An unmatched preservation of the fabric of American heritage and unquestionably one of the finest restorations in New England, the Pitkin house is a true historical treasure. Considered among the finest examples of pre-Revolutionary architecture in Connecticut, this home has stood prominently steeped in heritage and offers an exquisite glimpse into a time when craftsmanship was an artform. Originally sited in East Hartford, the larger part of the house, built in 1764, was added to a circa-1660 ell built by Joseph Pitkin, a relative of the former Connecticut Governor, William Pitkin. In its early glory, notable guests are said to have been General Washington and Count de Rochambeau during the Revolution. In 1955 the residence was dismantled board-by-board and re-erected by builders Landon & Hall on its present site in Guilford where it is nestled within a nearly 4-acre setting of mature landscaping, manicured lawns, and magical gardens. Recognized in 1979 by the National Register of Historic Places, this classic revival is sure to be celebrated by the most discerning antique home enthusiasts and home lovers alike. First time on the market in over half a century, this is a once in a lifetime stewardship opportunity that is not to be missed.
Its rebirth allowed for modern flair to be discreetly integrated into the structure and interior to enhance functionality and enjoyment while preserving its historical details. Contemporary comforts include a poured conrete foundation with tall ceilings, geothermal system, full house generator, humidifier, central A/C, propane gas, Pella windows, heavy shake wooden roof with under rubber membrane, hardy board siding, fiber optic cables, irrigation system, security system, city water, and underground utilities, just to name a few. Current owner has made significant upgrades and additions including a detached 2-car garage with half bath and expansive upper level bonus room, pool and pool house, tennis court, and back garage barn with full apartment, all exemplifying a harmonious fusion of old and new and completely transformed for today's living.
Remarkably private, the estate unfolds down a long winding driveway off a quiet cul-de-sac road. Follow the neverending stone walls to a crushed stone circular motor courtyard for a high profile welcome. The house stands proud with its broad gambrel roof, 2 tremendous handmade English brick chimneys, and massive double door entry.
Interiors graciously unfold over more than 5,500sf of formal, casual, and whimsical living spaces. A total of 8 fireplaces conjure up a romanticized vision of an era gone by. The centrally located kitchen is well appointed with all the modern luxuries including a large island, granite countertops, double sink, double wall ovens, custom wood cabinetry, and quality appliances. Rays of sunshine flow through skylights over an eat-in dining area with blush lined built-in hutches. A wall of cabinets and butler's pantry provide ample storage and function. A basement-to-attic dumbwaiter makes for easy transport of items from any of the 4 floors. The dining room, with its paneled walls, crown moulding, fireplace, and original 1754 hemlock floor, is dressed for glamourous entertaining. The formal living room, once the drawing room, offers a setting for intimate conversations with its own fireplace and deep bay window. The family room is brimming with historic New England charm with its original 18"-wide hemlock floor boards, 2 incredible beams each weighing one ton, and a great copper-hooded fireplace which takes 6' logs and has a Dutch oven, also gas ready.
French doors tease a glance of the spectacular surrounding grounds. The garden room transports one into an enchanting Neverland where the lines between real and imaginary blur. A massive brick fireplace with beam mantle is a central focal point. Beautifully appointed with vaulted ceilings, brick floor, wet bar, and fanciful fine art murals of frisky creatures. A pair of French doors bring the outdoors in with one opening to a gorgesous garden courtyard and the other flowing out to expansive patios and broad covered side porch. The 440sf octagon-shaped solarium is what dreams are made of. Painted foliage, lattice, and sky mimic the outdoor vistas framed by glass. Inner and outer spaces blend as one with light streaming in from floor-to-ceiling windows, each with its own crowning skylight. Walls are covered in trompe l'oeil wisteria, stenciled lattice, and playful butterflies, birds, and flowers. A voluminous 25' peak, topped by an octagonal cupola, joins the sky to the inner ceiling of painted clouds, swallows, and bees in flight.
The main level is further graced with a lovely guest suite with cozy fireplace and ensuite full bathroom. A well-scaled mudroom, with brick floor, coat closets, and half bathroom conveniently opens to an attached 2-car garage with built-in cabinets, crown molding, and pristine interiors.
The upper level gives way to a labyrinth of remarkably restful retreats. Three generously-sized bedrooms, each adorned with their own fireplace, a dressing room with built-in closets, and 2 luxurious ensuite bathrooms provide admirable space for family and friends to stay awhile. The handsome primary suite retains the original pine floor. Conveniently located 2nd floor laundry room. A magnificent library/study is unexpected and wonderous. 12-foot high vaulted ceilings and skylights beautifully showcase the rich paneling made of original 1690 24"-wide ship boards. Further appointed with a large built-in desk and upper cabinets, a full wall of bookshelves, and additional built-in cabinets anchored above by gorgeous hand-painted window pane murals of historic Guilford. A place for quiet and solitude while enjoying a favorite novel or ideal for a work-from-home professional. Library could also be dually used as an additional bedroom.
The spacious 3rd floor is versatile with 2 additional bedroom spaces with beams, another full bathroom, and cedar closet. A massive unfinished attic area, with high ceilings, could be further designed should more finished space be preferred. A pristine basement, with tall ceilings, a fireplace, and built-in cabinets and counter is excellent for storage, workshop, or home gym. Beyond its meticulous craftsmanship and significant present-day functionality, this architectural masterpiece exudes a sense of soul. If a house has feelings, this home emanates pure comfort and joy.
The surrounding landscape is a symphony of colors and fragrances. Sunlight filters through mature trees and down to lush lawn expanses, while a kaleidoscope of flowers greets you in every direction. Follow expansive bluestone patios through a rose-kissed arbor to a crystal clear in-ground salt water swimming pool, echoing the blue skies above. The cupola-crowned pool house maximizes indoor/outdoor enjoyment with a kitchenette, half bathroom, and storage. A large pond, ringed with over 20 varieties of summer lilies, adds a touch of tranquility to the vibrant scene. A private tennis court adds further recreational enjoyment and could be reimagined as a pickleball court or replaced by a riding ring for an avid equestrian.
This considerable lot is maximized to its fullest with a number of outstanding outbuildings, further enhancing function and value. The largest structure, located in the rear of the property, is a massive heated garage barn. Towering overhead bay doors accommodate most construction equipment. The 2-level ceiling height would easily allow for the installation of car lifts for the automobile aficionado. A separate tool room and half bathroom complete the main level. The partial upper level boasts a full legal apartment with spacious living room, bedroom, full kitchen, private washer and dryer, and balcony deck. Opportunity to be rented with income potential or serve as a residence for extended family. Could also be redesigned for use as a horse barn. More directly neighboring the primary residence is a detached 2-car garage, comfortable in any season with heat and A/C, and equipped with built-in cabinetry, a half bathroom, and full upper level finished bonus room. The original garage now stands as a functional relic ideal for outdoor equipment and garden storage. An expansive stockade fence adds further privacy and serenity.
Just minutes from the scenic Guilford green and historic town center, dotted with its charming shops and restaurants and a short drive to the town's beautiful waterfront. Exceedingly convenient, with direct access to I-95, just 20 minutes to New Haven, and equidistant to New York and Boston.
This exceptional heirloom estate is poised to be treasured for infinite life to come. Must be seen in person to fully appreciate this legendary treasure.
173 Highwoods Drive
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