By Megan Montemarano
Architecture has the power to reflect a specific time and a place. Distinct styles and designs hold distinct associations that span history and the globe. Whether a Tudor home derived from medieval architecture in England, French Normandy-styles, or perhaps Mediterranean architecture, which peaked in popularity in the United States during the 1920s and 1930s, incorporating characteristics from the Spanish Renaissance, there are countless European-inspired structures that paint neighborhoods across the country with unique character and meaningful designs.
Travel through the ages and impeccable styles of these five featured homes, all of which convey a clear and beautiful European approach.
74 Thayer Drive—New Canaan, Conn.
This custom-designed, modern country home was built in 2010 to reflect several details of England’s trademark Tudor architecture. Located in the coveted estate area of New Canaan, Conn., the five-bedroom residence offers an open floor plan with exquisite details and high-end finishes. The house is reminiscent of English Renaissance buildings, with its stucco and stone exterior, steeply pitched roof with intersecting gables, pitched-roof dormers, long casement windows with separate casement screens, dormers with leaded diamond pane windows and arched openings. To top it off, the residence additionally enjoys over two acres of pristine, private land with multiple blue stone terraces and an outdoor fireplace for the utmost relaxation.
For more information: Inger Stringfellow, 203.321.9361, Istringfellow@williampitt.com
Also in New Canaan, 36 Hemlock Hill Road offers interested buyers a French Normandy-style residence of superb proportions and finishes. Enter into an extraordinary world of sophistication and incredible architectural design, encompassing the finest materials. A charming cobblestone courtyard welcomes individuals to a lifestyle of refined country living, complete with park-like grounds, as well as a luxurious pool and spa. Whether serving as a full-time residence or weekend retreat, this property provides all homeowners and guests with a perpetual European getaway.
For more information: Rita Kirby, 203.984.7665, Rkirby@williampitt.com
286 Lyncroft Road—New Rochelle, N.Y.
This 1920s Spanish Revival residence nestled in the heart of Wykagyl, a suburban community in New Rochelle, N.Y., displays an outstanding design, thanks to the beautiful details of its architectural roots. Specific features include arched doorways, wrought-iron balconies and a tile roof. One will also find an entrance hallway with stucco embellishments, as well as a curved staircase and sunroom with gorgeous stained glass windows. Lush English gardens surround the home, which boasts a convenient location just a short walk from schools, worship, shops, tennis and other town offerings.
For more information: Alice Regan, 914.980.1675, Alice.Regan@juliabfee.com; Eileen Kelly, 914.329.6763, Eileen.Kelly@juliabfee.com
120 River Road—Essex, Conn.
This breathtaking European-designed home encompasses over ten acres of land on one of Essex, Conn.’s highest points overlooking the Connecticut River and Long Island Sound. The structure’s views are unbeatable, capturing boat-filled harbors of Essex and Hamburg Cove from its walls of glass, multiple terraces and decks. Built under the guidance of a Swedish craftsman, the residence was constructed using premium materials, superior workmanship and of course, European-inspired architectural details. Highlights include a distinctive red-tile roof, masonry stucco, wooden beams, handmade French tiles, and five European fireplaces with raised hearths.
For more information: Jennifer and Jane Associates, 860.227.6634, Jenniferandjane@williampitt.com
397 2nd Hill Falls Lane—Bridgewater, Conn.
Travel to the French countryside in Bridgewater, Conn. at this brilliantly designed French country estate, which is sited on over 44 acres of land containing mature gardens, old-world stonework and sweeping lawns. The home’s attention to detail is impeccable, with top-notch craftsmanship and distinct features throughout including a lovely grand entryway, paneled living room with French doors leading to a covered porch, cozy paneled library, spacious family room with cathedral ceilings and a stone fireplace, and so much more. There is also a sun-filled solarium overlooking the property’s luxurious gunite pool and bluestone terrace. The grounds boast an adorable, one-bedroom English cottage-style guesthouse, as well, which further adds to the estate’s clear European atmosphere.
For more information: Pat Lahoud, 860.866.7756, Plahoud@williampitt.com; Maureen Burmann, 203.948.7572, Mburmann@williampitt.com
