By Tyler R. Morrissey
It’s a scene that’s often repeated across film and literature, a group of people relaxing on their home’s porch. Basking in the warm summer sun and watching the world go by just steps from your front door is a great way to spend an afternoon. In the evening your porch becomes the ultimate relaxation spot as the temperatures drop and fireflies light up your lawn. If this paints a picture of how you want to spend this summer, then you’ll want to learn more about the following listings that offer the best porches around.
43 Penwood Road – Bedford Corners, New York
For more information: Joanna Rizoulis, 917.359.7885, joanna.rizoulis@juliabfee.com, Amy Smith-Sroka, 914.523.0678, amy.smith@juliabfee.com
This brick and limestone home was built in 2007, but completely renovated and expanded in 2015. One of those expansions was the three season porch with garden views, heated from above with infrared heaters as well as by a gas fireplace. The current owners bought this home knowing they would add a porch. Jimmy Crisp, a well-known Hudson Valley architect, did the design. Upon entry, the gracious foyer greets you with radiant marble floors, a cathedral ceiling and a grand staircase. The foyer leads to the formal living room on one side and the formal dining room on the other. An updated kitchen features rare Baha’i blue granite as well as a large island. Upstairs is the luxurious master suite with a gas fireplace, plus four additional bedrooms, three full baths and a bonus room.
759 Hancock Road – Williamstown, Massachusetts
For more information: Jeff Loholdt, 413.652.7423, jloholdt@williampitt.com
For those seeking a country retreat that’s ideal for taking an afternoon horseback ride through their own property or taking a tranquil moment on your front porch, this beautiful New England estate is just the home you’ve been looking for. Containing over 100 acres of land in the pastoral, scenic setting of Williamstown, the residence offers fully equipped horse stables with countless equestrian opportunities for all seasons. There’s also over five miles of maintained trails, which can be used for riding in addition to other outdoor activities, such as hiking, mountain biking, ATV riding or even cross-country skiing. In the warmer months, residents and visitors can enjoy the property’s three spring-fed ponds, two of which have trout fishing, a dock and swimming opportunities.
153 Two Town Rd – Craryville, New York
For more information: Dan Alden, 413.335.9300, dalden@williampitt.com
Enjoy the best of the Hudson Valley and the Berkshires of Massachusetts in this fantastic property residing on 50 acres of rolling fields and woodlands. The bucolic setting features a meticulously restored farmhouse and converted barn. The house features four bedrooms, two full baths, fireplace, beautiful woodwork, flowing layout and fully updated finishes. There’s also a phenomenal front porch where you can observe the rolling hills and the stunning converted barn, which is the showpiece of this property. The barn offers additional living space, a gourmet kitchen, sleeping loft, two bedrooms and a hot tub and sauna.
432 Beach Avenue – Mamaroneck, New York
For more information: Meri Hopkinson, 203.627.8065, mhopkinson@williampitt.com
This proud corner Colonial with charm and grace resides among historically significant homes and offers a short walk to the train, restaurants and the beach. The welcoming wraparound porch enjoys sunlit mornings and the potential for gorgeous evening entertainment. A lovely fenced yard leads to the detached garage and inside the home you are greeted by a large entry foyer, arched doorways and hardwood floors. The main stairwell leads to four second floor bedrooms, including the master bedroom, which abuts a smaller room that’s currently a home office.
334 Barrack Hill Road – Ridgefield, Connecticut
For more information: Mary Phelps, 203.546.0315, mphelps@williampitt.com
Stylish and sophisticated are just a couple of words to describe this Ridgefield Colonial that backs up to spectacular open spaces. Enjoy a cup of coffee in the morning on the front porch, or enjoy stunning views of the hills and Lake Mamanasco all year long. Inside the home, upscale finishes can be found throughout including the marble countertops, subway tile and Viking appliances in the kitchen. Upstairs, the master suite features sliders to its own private balcony and a walk-in bath with Jacuzzi tub. The three additional bedrooms are spacious and feature ample closet space, hardwood floors and a large hallway bathroom.
285 Twin Lakes Road – Salisbury, Connecticut
For more information: Ethan Watt, 860.671.1936, ewatt@williampitt.com
Perched with an extraordinary view of Washining Lake of the Twin Lakes in Salisbury, this Arts and Crafts era home consists of medieval, romantic and folk styles. Not only does the main house on the property feature an ivy covered wraparound porch, but the guest cottage also includes a front porch that takes relaxation to a whole new level. The beautifully situated lot showcases many marvelous perennial gardens, as well as breathtaking lake views. As you approach the house, you are immediately drawn to the grand, hand-built stone entrance. A gracious foyer leads to the newly renovated chef’s kitchen, with top of the line appliances, adjacent to a formal dining room. The upstairs great room includes a wall of windows that provide additional lake views. There’s also an open and spacious third level of the home that is currently utilized as an art studio, but this space could easily be converted into a huge master suite or two more bedrooms.
