Address: 270 Guard Hill Road
Bedrooms: 7
Bathrooms: 8
Square feet: 11,000
Price: $8,750,000
This turn-of-the-century Colonial estate in Bedford Corners, NY was designed by architectural firm Kenneth Muchinson in collaboration with Mott Schmidt. The 1903 estate was meticulously restored in 2006 to maintain its historical charms with period millwork, hardwood floors, refurbished fixtures and six fireplaces.
“The impressive center staircase provides the first glimpse into the grandeur of the past,” says real estate agent Muffin Dowdle of Ginnel Real Estate in Bedford, NY. “The main rooms maintain their perfect proportions while showcasing the substantial millwork of the period. Fixtures and fittings, including the original servants call box, have been carefully refurbished.”
The home has always been a prestigious address. “Historically, the topography made for some of the finest farmland in the area,” says Dowdle of the property, which once spanned 250 acres in the center of Guard Hill. The farm was built by the grandparents of noted equestrian and environmental pioneer Wilhelmine Waller. She was former president of the Garden Club of America and an instrumental figure in the campaign against spraying DDTs in the 1950s. “A true steward of the earth, she encouraged her neighbors to help make their communities more beautiful. Her early intervention and dedication to her property cemented Guard Hill’s enduring beauty.”
Today, the home maintains not only its history but also its beauty, while having the needed upgrades to meet today’s homeowner. “The home was completely restored and expanded in 2006-07. Painstaking attention was paid to maintain the architectural detail and integrity of the classic design,” says Dowdle.
Custom Christopher Peacock cabinetry in the kitchen seamlessly fits with the character of the home while providing all the modern conveniences that today’s cabinetry includes, like slow-close drawers and doors and swing- or slide-out storage. A large island with marble countertop has lots of prep space and seating for four.
“The finest materials were used in the renovation, including hickory siding and cedar roof,” adds Dowdle. “There is an expansive in-home gym and multiple offices for working and schooling. All mechanical systems and appliances were completely updated along with a full house automatic generator.”
Outside, an expansive terrace includes an outdoor fireplace, built-in buffet and grass bocce court for entertaining and fully equipped outdoor kitchen with pizza oven. A gate house and cottage, sand ring, multiple barns with 25 stalls and farm buildings have been maintained for equestrian endeavors. Beyond barns, a fruit orchard, fenced paddocks and open meadows provid needed space for horses and a gorgeous view.
“There are so many features that make this property unique,” says Dowdle, pondering her favorite aspects of the home. She concludes her favorite spot is the terrace, which overlooks the property. “The grounds are exceptional with old stone walls, original fountains, gardens and an allée of incredible, 100-year-old maples.”
CONTACT
Muffin Dowdle
Ginnel Real Estate, Bedford, NY
914-234-9234, muffin@ginnel.com
