By Megan Montemarano
The mid-century modern movement, a time of urban development and architectural design between the 1930s and late 1960s, integrates nature with simplicity and wide open space. Iconic architect Frank Lloyd Wright, best known for his mid-century masterpiece “Fallingwater,” describes the art behind this distinct style as streamlined and basic. “The architect should strive to continually simplify; the ensemble of the rooms should then be carefully considered that comfort and utility may go hand in hand with beauty.”
Such is the case with these five mid-century modern marvels throughout Connecticut and Westchester County, N.Y. Each home exudes a bold, dramatic atmosphere that is clearly one with everything that surrounds it.
42 Crosstrees Hill Road—Essex, Conn.
This totally renovated mid-century modern residence was built by Dutch architect Rem Huygens, a protégé of the legendary “Harvard Five” architect Marcel Breuer. Situated on a one-acre plot overlooking the Connecticut River in Essex, Conn., the renovated structure remains true to its roots, maintaining its distinct modernist design, with updates completed by award-winning architect Christopher Arelt of Nautilus Architects in Old Lyme, Conn. The 3,200 square-foot residence features expansive views, one-floor living, as well as a separate area with two bedrooms, a living room and full bath for guests. New vaulted ceilings and concrete floors accompany custom furniture-grade cabinetry, built-ins and the latest appliances throughout the home. The property also offers a new dock that extends off a grassy peninsula into South Cove.
For more information: Jack Meier, Jmeier@williampitt.com, 860.805.6706
9 Truesdale Lake Drive—South Salem, N.Y.
Tucked into the natural landscape of Truesdale Lake in South Salem, N.Y., lies an architectural gem, built in 1957—a prime time for mid-century design. Architectural elements from this historic movement are ever present throughout the home. Double-height windows on the ground floor take full advantage of unobstructed lake views all year long, while the kitchen area, living room and sitting room all have glass doors leading to the patio. “The property’s impressive boat house, which also contains a large expanse of windows, has a little perch that is perfect to sit at the edge, feet dangling towards the lake,” comments listing agent Joanna Rizoulis. She goes on to describe the home as “paradise,” where both entertaining and everyday living is easy.
For more information: Joanna Rizoulis, 917.359.7885, Joanna.Rizoulis@juliabfee.com; Amy Smith-Sroka, 914.523.0678, Amy.Smith@juliabfee.com
275 Dibble Hill Road—Cornwall, Conn.
Functionalism, minimalism, extensive use of glass and simple lines comprise this extraordinary house. Inspired by its natural setting, the 1955 mid-century structure was strategically built on a ledge overlooking Mill Brook, stone outcroppings and lightly wooded grounds in the scenic Litchfield County town of Cornwall, Conn. Mindful renovations have been completed over the decades, making sure to stay true to the home’s original design. A galley kitchen opens up to the living room, which offers walls of glass and doors to a terrace facing the brook. The master suite is on the upper level, while the lower level provides a studio/office with built-in bookcases and sliding glass doors to another terrace. A guest space was added in 2004, and features a full bath, large windows, a high ceiling and skylight.
For more information: Ira Goldspiel, 917.626.3481, Igoldspiel@williampitt.com; Howard Schissler, 917.304.0871, Hschissler@williampitt.com
25 River Road Drive—Essex, Conn.
Commissioned by a NYC ad executive in 1960, this Essex, Conn., mid-century modern marvel was brought to life by noted AIA architect Paul K.Y. Chen, who is best known for his work on the Chinese Pavilion at the 1964 World’s Fair and the transformation of the Hong Kong & Shanghai Bank Building in Manhattan. Referred to as “Friday Point” by the original owner, this stunning shoreline property served as his weekend retreat for many years, and it’s no wonder why. The unique dwelling welcomes the outside in with walls of glass, and features multiple extraordinary amenities such as an indoor pool, sauna and soaking tub, atrium koi pond, detached garage with studio, an additional detached garage, as well as a “chart room” with barrel ceilings, a bird-watching hut, wet bar, fireplace and more.
For more information: Rick Weiner, 860.227.3191, Rweiner@williampitt.com
122 Woods End Road—New Canaan, Conn.
Discover the wonder of New Canaan’s quiet Woods End Road with this 1967 mid-century modern, which is listed on the New Canaan Historical Society Modern Homes Survey. Sited on over four acres of peaceful, private land overlooking the Noroton River, the five-bedroom home has been masterfully updated and maintained. Renovations and additions include the kitchen, family room, bathrooms and an additional two-car garage. An abundance of glass, balconies and patios grace this striking, nature-embracing residence—trademark features of its classic mid-century beginning.
For more information: Becky Walsh, 203.858.5909, Bwalsh@williampitt.com; Susan Blabey, 203.979.7774, Sblabey@williampitt.com
