A magnificent property now offered for sale in Madison, Connecticut, joins the modern with the historic in a unique way. Named for its mid-century owners, art collectors and patrons Burton and Emily Tremaine, the Tremaine Estate dates to 1720 but underwent an important renovation under the ownership of the Tremaines. They worked with famed architect Philip Johnson during the 1950s to re-envision the property, and from there, a masterwork was born. The property is now exclusively offered with William Pitt Sotheby’s International Realty.
The Tremaines became close friends with Johnson based on a common passion for art and modern architecture. Johnson is highly regarded for his modern designs such as New York City’s Seagram Building, which he worked on alongside renowned architect Mies van der Rohe, as well as Yale University’s Kline Biology Tower and the Museum of Modern Art’s Department of Architecture and Design. Yet Johnson, the first-ever recipient of the Pritzker Architecture Prize in 1979, is perhaps most known for the stunning Glass House, located in New Canaan, Connecticut. That is the property that largely inspired the re-imagining of the Tremaine Estate.
Johnson constructed a mid-century glass pavilion that looks out onto the swimming pool, with its eight-foot wall borders, as well as the expansive lawns and courtyard with stone walls. In addition, he removed a single wall from the property’s original 1720s barn, replacing it with a floor-to-ceiling wall of glass. The rest of the barn he left in its original condition, which creates a fascinating effect of joining the modern with the 18th century. In fact, the mingling of history with contemporary comfort and sophistication is the consistent theme throughout.
Located at 6 Opening Hill Road, the property includes a main Cape residence that has been carefully updated by recent owners, making renovations that were consistent with Johnson’s original vision. Also including a two-bedroom guest house, this relaxed country retreat offers a total of 3,204 square feet of living area, four bedrooms, three full and five half baths, a private office and additional guest space. The property also boasts six fireplaces, granite counters, wood floors, central air, a security system, full basement and separate garage accommodating three cars. The grounds encompass six superb acres, professionally manicured and featuring a recently added outdoor kitchen, garden areas and a charming babbling brook. For $2,475,000, this spectacular offering provides the chance to live in and enjoy an amazing piece of New England history.
To schedule a private viewing, please contact Margaret Muir at +1 203 415-9187.
