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Washington Art Association Barn Dance at Waldingfield Farm

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tech <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/IMG_2692.PNG" style="width: 360px; height: 640px;"></p> <p>Love a good old-fashioned barn dance and country harvest festival? Then you don't want to miss this fantastic evening put together by <a href="http://www.washingtonartassociation.org/home">The Washington Art Association</a> and hosted by the well-loved <a href="http://www.waldingfieldfarm.com/">Waldingfield Farm</a>. There will be finger-lickin' barbeque, grilled foods, fresh garden salads, a pie contest and dancing for all!</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/564055_10150951200115888_801728962_n.jpg" style="width: 556px; height: 319px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Waldingfield Farm in Washington, CT</p> <p>During the festivities, The Washington Art Associations invites you to take "a break from dancing, enjoy the art exhibition on the walls of the barn. Featured will be scenes from farm life: landscapes of barns and fields, portraits of chickens and cows, and much more!"</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/images.jpg" style="width: 280px; height: 180px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">The Washington Arts Association is located in the Center of Washington Depot, CT</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/drawing.jpg" style="width: 400px; height: 397px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Drawing Classes at the Washington Arts Association</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/web-new-education.jpg" style="width: 400px; height: 350px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Education and Promoting the Arts is at the Heart of The Washington Arts Association</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/waldingfield-15.jpg" style="width: 550px; height: 309px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">A Lovely Entry to the Farm Stand at Waldingfield Farm</p> <p>Enjoy The Wool Hats band who will be playing your favorite reels and square dances! Family, friends and kids are welcome to enjoy this great night.<br><br> Place: Waldingfield Farm, 24 East Street, Washington, CT<br> Date: Saturday, September 26<br> Time: 5:30 - 10 pm<br> Price:<br> Adults -- $40 per person<br> Couple -- $75 per couple<br> Children -- $10 per child<br><br> Registration is required, please click <a href="http://www.washingtonartassociation.org/events/barndanceoldfashio/"> here</a>.<br><br> For more information, please contact The Washington Art Association by telephone at 860.868.2878 or by email at washingtonart@snet.net.</p> <p> </p>

Roxbury Luxury Retreat on the Shepaug River

Family Compound on the Shepaug River

This exquisite family compound simply has it all with over 10 acres with Shepaug River frontage. This provides plenty of options for outdoor activities including tubing and fishing from your own back yard!

Shepaug River

The Shepaug River is a 26 miles long river in Connecticut. The river begins in Warren and runs south through Washington, Roxbury, and Southbury, where it joins the Housatonic River at Lake Lillinonah. It is a pristine flowing body of water running through beautiful countryside such as this property.

Beautiful Tree

Nature in all its Forms enhance the Grounds

Stunning Poolhouse

The Stunning Poolhouse also serves as a Guest house

A view from above of the Poolhouse and Pool

A view from above of the Poolhouse and Pool

Beautiful Landscaping

Beautiful Landscaping around the Property

Living Area

The interior is spectacular with a five bedroom main house that includes a gourmet eatin kitchen that opens to a family room with a cupola. There are main and second floor master bedrooms, formal living and dining rooms and a finished lower level with a gym and a sauna. 

Master Bedroom

A beautifully designed Master Bedroom

Master Bathroom

A light-filled Master Bathroom

Patio for Entertaining

Splendid Patios for Entertaining

Porch with Seating Area

Quiet Spots to sit and enjoy the Countryside

Uber Chic Barn

This Uber Chic Barns boasts a Game Room and a Guest Room

Spectacular Designer Barn Sale In Roxbury, CT

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tech <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/3.jpg" style="width: 480px; height: 480px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">1940's Green American Pottery</p> <p>"The details are not the details. They make the design." This quote by Charles Eames resounds with all who love interior design. There will be exquisite details to add to your home including decorative objects, furniture, lighting and more at the Designer Barn Sale in Roxbury, CT. The event is next Saturday and Sunday, August 22nd and 23rd From 9 am - 5 pm each day.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/Barn.JPG" style="width: 541px; height: 537px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">The Buccolic, Beautiful Setting for the Barn Sale</p> <p>Renowned interior designer Glenn Gissler is doing the sale in collaboration with his long-time friend Tom Luciano – who co-founded the now well-known antique store Historical Materialism in NYC before moving to a fabulous storefront in Hudson for many years. Between these two design powerhouses, there many stunning pieces in the sale from seating, floor lamps and table lamps, artwork, cabinets, iron pieces, ceramics, tables, antique textiles and curiosities.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/4.jpg" style="width: 402px; height: 441px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">19th Century Gothic Starburst Hat Rack</p> <p>As confirmed by the host <a href="http://gissler.com/">Glenn Gissler</a>, the large barn is full and the delightful design pieces are spilling onto the lawn. We have our eye on several of the items but here is a taste of what will be in the sale.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/1.jpg" style="width: 598px; height: 751px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Chipped Wood Bureau</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/5.jpg" style="width: 540px; height: 540px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Cobalt Blue Drip Glaze Lamp</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/2.jpg" style="width: 598px; height: 567px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Mid-Century Spider-leg Oval Chairs</p> <p>To see more images and for more details, visit Glenn Gissler's blog by clicking on the link <a href="http://gissler.com/glenn-gissler-designer-barn-sale-in-roxbury-connecticut/"> here</a>. While you are there, subscribe to this fascintaing design blog that is always inspiring, informative and fun! For directions to the barn sale, please view on Google Maps <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/41.561466,-73.2892712/Roxbury,+CT/@41.553791,-73.301545,14z/data=!4m8!4m7!1m0!1m5!1m1!1s0x89e7f1f4d2ef4dcb:0x57893b1ecaf56b6b!2m2!1d-73.3087285!2d41.5564843"> here</a>.</p> <p>We are thrilled to have know Glenn as a client and a friend many years and to have introduced him to the lovely home that he has transformed so beautifully.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/House%2C%20560%20px%20width%20%20(1).jpg" style="width: 560px; height: 371px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">A Lovely Property in Roxbury, CT</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/Designer%20Barn%20Sale%2Cjpg.jpg" style="width: 560px; height: 792px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p> <p style="text-align: center;">MARK YOUR CALENDARS!<br>  </p> <p> </p>

Vote for Winivan in USA Today's Most Romantic Inn Awards

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tech <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/slider-home-81-1576x800.jpg" style="width: 576px; height: 292px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Luxurious Accomodations at Winivan Farm</p> <p>This ideal retreat for couples has been nominated for 'Best Romantic Inn' in USA Today's Reader's Choice awards. Travelers from all over the country and abroad have discovered what the locals have always appreciated; luxury accomodations, farm fresh gourmet cuisine in an exquisite setting.</p> <p>You can easily support <a href="http://www.winvian.com/">Winivan</a> by clicking on the USA Today link <a href="http://www.10best.com/awards/travel/best-romantic-inn/winvian-farm-morris-conn/"> here</a>. It will take you directly to the page where you can place your vote.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/slider-home-5-1576x800.jpg" style="width: 576px; height: 292px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Luxury Accomodations with Unique Touches</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/slider-home-1-1576x800.jpg" style="width: 576px; height: 292px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">A Beautiful Setting in Pristine Countryside</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/slider-home-2-1576x800.jpg" style="width: 576px; height: 292px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Gorgeous Tabletop Style</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/slider-home-7-1576x800.jpg" style="width: 576px; height: 292px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Farm Fresh Ingredients in Gourmet Dishes</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/PoolSlideThree-1533x800.jpg" style="width: 533px; height: 278px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Poolside Elegance</p> <p>There are eighteen extraordinary cottages, each with their own style and design as well as the Hadley Suite. <a href="http://www.winvian.com/">Winivan Farm</a> was purchsed in 1948 by the Smith family who have retained ownership to this day. They have a fascinating history which you can read by clicking <a href="http://www.winvian.com/experience/history/">here</a>.</p> <p>Don't forget to vote this morning by clicking the link to the USA TODAY page <a href="http://www.10best.com/awards/travel/best-romantic-inn/winvian-farm-morris-conn/"> here</a>.</p> <p> </p>

The Allure of Roxbury

tech <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" class="featured featured" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/11231260_698575343598905_4554534222550580327_n.jpg" style="width: 562px; height: 667px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Arthur Miller and Marilyn Monroe in Roxbury, CT</p> <p>In a recent <a href="http://www.bbc.com/travel/story/20150504-the-town-that-couldnt-contain-marilyn-monroe"> article</a>, writer <a href="http://www.amandaruggeri.com/">Amanda Ruggieri</a> wrote that Roxbury was a 'town that couldn't contain Marilyn Monroe'. What the town has ultimately become is a haven for writers, artists, composers and actors as well as all those who enjoy the buccolic beauty of this particular spot. Here is a brief excerpt from her well-written story:</p> <p>"Hidden among thick trees and hilly farmland, looped with stone walls and studded with red barns, the Connecticut town of Roxbury is 75 miles and a world away from New York City- not to mention Hollywood."</p> <p>The countryside is abunduntly beautiful and has attracted the greatest American writers including <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arthur_Miller">Arthur Miller</a>, <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_Styron">William Styron</a> and <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gay_Talese">Gay Talese</a>. Roxbury was also home for the much loved Irish author <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frank_McCourt">Frank McCourt</a> and is home for other luminaries such as <a href="http://www.candacebushnell.com/">Candace Bushnell</a>, <a href="http://denisleary.com/">Denis Leary</a>, <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jerry_Adler">Jerry Adle</a>r and <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stephen_Sondheim">Stephen Sondheim</a>.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/download.png" style="width: 524px; height: 295px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Photo Credit: Amanda Ruggieri</p> <p>Luxurious trails, fieldstone walls and lush fields are found throughout Roxbury. Incorporated in 1796, the town retains its historic charm with many classic colonial homes that are perfect architectural examples. The more contemporary houses are beautifully designed and meld well with the exquisite gardens and landscaping. Featured below are three Roxbury listings with exceptional appeal. </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/NS%201.jpg" style="width: 524px; height: 350px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Edgehill Farm</p> <p>Edgehill farm is made up of three homes which are set on 21.66 Acres. The main house is an 1860 colonial revival that was renovated in 1910. </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/NS%204.jpg" style="width: 524px; height: 350px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Beautiful Landscaping surrounds the Pool Area</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/NS%206.jpg" style="width: 524px; height: 350px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Stunning Porch Area for Entertaining</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/Southford%204.jpg" style="width: 524px; height: 348px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Southbury Rd Property in Roxbury</p> <p>This Roxbury Luxury Cottage-Style has a long winding gated driveway that leads to this 3 bedroom main house as well as a studio guest house.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/Southford.jpg" style="width: 524px; height: 391px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Exquisite Gardens</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/Southford%20Road.jpg" style="width: 524px; height: 350px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">An Enchanting Pool Area</p> <p> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/WW%203.jpg" style="width: 524px; height: 350px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Washington Woodbury Road Property</p> <p>This is a beautifully crafted classic with complete privacy. The home is elegantly renovated with fabulous architectural details. There is a gunite pool with Jacuzzi, stonewalls, perennial gardens, a rushing brook and a covered bluestone terrace</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/WW%204.jpg" style="width: 524px; height: 350px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">A Gorgeous Outdoor View</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/Washington%20Woodbury%201.jpg" style="width: 540px; height: 405px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">A Pool Area made Tranquil by Nature</p> <p>There is a fun quote in Ruggieri's article from Roxbury Town Clerk, Perter Hurlbut: </p> <p>"It's not Fifth Avenue or Beverly Hills," he'd told me. "But you have to go a long way to beat this place."</p> <p> </p> <p>To see more properties in Roxbury, CT, please click on the link <a href="http://cmls.matthewsgroupre.com/search-by-town/roxbury-cmls/">here</a>: </p> <p> </p>

The Washington Green Fair has Fun, Food and Activities for All!

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tech <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/tumblr_nqh9h4mhGG1tdir62o1_540.jpg" style="width: 540px; height: 360px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">A Wagon Ride with Magnificent Percheron Horses</p> <p>This Saturday, July 11th, the Green Fair returns to Washington, CT with activities for families and numerous booths of plants, home baked goods and vintage delights. The fair opens at 10 am and runs until 2 pm. There are plenty of parking spaces available next to the Washington Green (follow the signs) and the address for those using a GPS device is 6 Kirby Road, Washington, CT.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/tumblr_n8lv21KREj1tdir62o2_1280.jpg" style="width: 580px; height: 387px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Talented Local Musicians peforming at Last Year's Fair</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/tumblr_nqh8opaWfu1tdir62o1_540.jpg" style="width: 540px; height: 360px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Games that the Whole Family will Enjoy!</p> <p>The doors to a gigantic tag sale open an hour earlier at 9 am. Here you will find vintage linens, hard to find board games, china and glassware as well as clothing and decorative onjects. The silent auction items has been generously donated by local residents and businesses and include hotel stays, restaurant and local merchant gift certificates and gift baskets, golf clubs and bag, landscaping services, fly fishing lessons and more... The thrilling live auction starts at 12:30 pm with guest auctioneer Bill Faribairn.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/tumblr_nqrhl79pzV1tdir62o2_540.jpg" style="width: 540px; height: 540px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Exquisite sculpture donated by Paul Doherty and David Behnke will be in the Live Auction</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">If you need some great summer reads for the beach or by the lake, the book sale at the meeting house has fiction, gardening, cooking and a large selection of children's titles to choose and fill a box or bag.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/tumblr_nr595kVowx1tdir62o1_1280.jpg" style="width: 580px; height: 387px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Aisles and Aisles of Books!</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/tumblr_n8lv21KREj1tdir62o5_1280.jpg" style="width: 580px; height: 387px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Delicious Baked Goods of all Varieties.</p> <p>For lunch there is an open-pit BBQ and pig roast as well as hot dogs, hamburgers, pork sandwiches, egg sandwiches, and more! The Green Fair will have wonderful activities and games for children including a bouncy house, dunk tank, face painting and hay rides. It is a perfect day to enjoy with the whole family.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/tumblr_n8lxswpddC1tdir62o1_1280.jpg" style="width: 560px; height: 747px;"></p> <p>For your interest, take a walk around the Washington Green Historic District which consists of a group of 18th-, 19th-, and 20th-century buildings on and near the Green in the Town of Washington, Connecticut. This includes the Gunnery School, which is next to the Green. The houses are made of wood, painted white, giving the district an overall Colonial/Colonial Revivial look. This Saturday, July 11th make the Green Fair and this historic area your family fun destination.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p> <p> </p>

Charming Antique Country Retreat in New Preston

tech <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/TtmdVVywMB-JWRVDc77e8nGiwnxqI2Pw9LPQbj0MSd8%2ChFroJ3iDNK1e6PvBDHN9nbBllsldQauqCIpZYKrEiAY.jpg" style="width: 524px; height: 350px;" class="featured"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">A lovely antique country retreat in New Preston, CT.</p> <p>New Preston is a rural village in the northwestern corner of the town of Washington in Litchfield County. In the early 19th century, there were several mills and factories along the Aspetuck River which flows from Lake Waramaug into the village center. More recently, there was a retail renaissance on the main street starting in the 1980's with the opening of distinctive antique stores, garden shops, home and gift emporiums that include <a href="http://www.jseitz.com/home.html">J.Seitz & Co</a>, <a href="http://www.pergolahome.com/about.html">Pergola</a>, <a href="http://privethouse.com/">Privet House</a>, <a href="http://dawnhillantiques.com/">Dawn Hill Antiques</a> and <a href="http://www.newprestonct.com/dkschulman.html">DK Schulman Design</a>.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/350px-Newpreston03.jpg" style="width: 350px; height: 233px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">The New Preston Village Center</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/rMsq9WLu7v_unZdlcsO97EglHgROSrhnaEu5BVm5crE%2CZfoq1FpaX1heHi13wglXEle-JeqZahTAFjeTKTqQrXA.jpg" style="width: 524px; height: 350px;"></p> <p>This exquiste antique home in New Preston was once a Quaker meeting house and retains many original details. Above is a side view of the house and patio.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/kGonSqBGiYaCMRTh1LWdsfbi-wwl6a7VR6firkCJDx4.jpg" style="width: 524px; height: 350px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">There are exposed beams and vaulted ceilings throughtout the two bedroom/ two bathroom home.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/A6y-SSfmnapxbLt0OnbsfjkVU0i7GDAb4z2SBG_5slY.jpg" style="width: 524px; height: 350px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Both bedrooms have a rustic and elegant charm.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/0opIuvxOLhKamkbGg7y8WzYSCB0w5iBfpYmu8Uxn4Zc.jpg" style="width: 524px; height: 350px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">The kitchen opens to a stone terrace and professionally landscaped gardens.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/mz12_tbn4j3d83IbLIENrzWp5q76ixpzOgw23tqrQvY%2ChNpNlBOVvC-GbuO_EGEGzBkd0853p5-k2LvIgT3f-h0.jpg" style="width: 524px; height: 350px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">There is a hideaway gunite pool area with a tiered terrace and gardens.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/MIOmjRjRbYfFwxZaKWellnz8n2MmishPsnr5OdCxa0k%2CuW4OmdhgiyAzWuSzyQZZ4DXZyAFFCsWBaZsSgw1MQ4A.jpg" style="width: 524px; height: 350px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">A one car garage has an attached studio.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/i9NDfgFIQ_1331-opt5evBIrJEjHd9-yD1zlXAeOxHs%2CRkj7EC4cW17IDGsup40cB1lo06HN97E4KGM6AC6Ww1I.jpg" style="width: 524px; height: 350px;"></p> <p>New Preston is nestled next to Lake Waramaug, a pristine scenic water body perfect for water sports, sunset picnics, hiking and biking.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/22347048_18.jpg" style="width: 540px; height: 405px;"></p> <p>This is a perfect house and village for a weekend getaway in Litchfield County. The house is under ten minutes to the restaurants of Washington and Bantam including <a href="http://communitytablect.com/">Community Table Restaurant</a>, <a href="http://www.gwtavern.com/">GW Tavern</a> and <a href="http://www.arethusaaltavolo.com/">Al Tavolo</a> well as the many distinctive shops. All of this is an easy drive from New York City in just ninety minutes.</p>

Luxurious Landscapes and Gardens in Bridgewater

tech <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/Hut%20Hill%202.jpg" style="width: 524px; height: 350px;" class="featured"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Beauty surrounds us, but usually we need to be walking in a garden to know it.</p> <p style="text-align: center;">Rumi</p> <p>Bridgewater is nestled in the hills just to the south of New Milford and is one of the smallest and least developed communities in Litchfield County. It boasts a charming small town green with important historic architecture. The Burnham Library, featured below, was built is 1925 and has been supported in the past by such literary luminaries as Pearl Buck and Archibald MacLeish.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/800px-Burnham_Library_030.JPG" style="width: 500px; height: 375px;"></p> <p>The Bridgewater Village Store is famous for its Bridgewater Chocolates, homemade breads and pastries, gourmet food items, soups and salads, specialty sandwiches, and gifts. True to its Yankee roots, it is also well known for being the last remaining dry town in Connecticut. Farm stands abound in the area and add to the buccolic beauty of the countryside.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/10599339_488828024588100_8460738225563382077_n.jpg" style="width: 540px; height: 960px;"></p> <p>There are special properties in this quintessential New England town that will appeal to thouse who love the outdoors. They are true delights with beautiful landscapes and gardens.</p> <p> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/Curtis%205.jpg" style="width: 540px; height: 405px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">A house on Curtis Road with a lovely, lush garden corner with a large urn and a variety of greenery.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/Curtis%206.jpg" style="width: 540px; height: 405px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">The Vegetable Garden</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/Curtis%208.jpg" style="width: 540px; height: 405px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">A border by a brick wall.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/Curtis%203.jpg" style="width: 650px; height: 488px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">A close up in an enclosed garden spot.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/House%20Curtis%20Road.jpg" style="width: 540px; height: 405px;"></p> <p>This exquisite  1940's colonial has four renovated bedrooms and a 1990 addition that has a newly built guest house/barn/studio. There is a glamorous sun room with heated bluestone floors and floor to ceiling windows. It is a spectacular property with a brick walled garden and elaborate perennial plantings, some of which are featured above. For more information, please click <a href="/listing/L10045151/20-curtis-bridgewater-ct-06752/">here</a>.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 0.7em; line-height: 1.3;"> <img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/Hut%20Hill%202.jpg" style="width: 524px; height: 350px;" class="featured"></span></p> <p>This is another property in Bridgewater that has a stunning outdoor setting. The ivy covered brick federal home makes for the perfect country destination with an ideal combination of antique country charm and recent renovations. There is a gorgeous brook, stone walls, english boxwood garden, mature trees and a heated gunite pool. A further bonus is that the property abuts the Bridgewater land trust.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/Hut%20Hill%203.jpg" style="width: 524px; height: 350px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">The pool is in a beautifully landscaped area.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/Hut%20Hill%204.jpg" style="width: 524px; height: 350px;"></p> <p>The sweeping drive is private with a peek at the stylish, chic landscaping.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/Sanford%202.jpg" style="width: 540px; height: 405px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Here is another beatuiful house on Sanford Road in Bridgewater with a wide vista from the lawn.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/Sanford%204.jpg" style="width: 540px; height: 405px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">A charming archway and plantings.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/Sanford%203.jpg" style="width: 540px; height: 405px;"></p> <p>This renovated antique has all original details: wide board floors, large hearth fireplaces and exposed beams. There is a gourmet open kitchen with a butler's pantry and a new gunite pool. Located on a quiet country road and just 1 hr from New York City.</p> <p>We hope you enjoyed this glimpse into the buccolic, beautiful town of Bridgewater.</p> <p><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/1013275_322737764530461_997397047_n.jpg" style="width: 565px; height: 816px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p>

Horse Heaven in Litchfield County

tech <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/IMG_3579.JPG" style="width: 424px; height: 318px;" class="featured"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Photo Courtesy of Ann Leary</p> <p style="text-align: center;">The essential joy of being with horses is that it brings us in contact with the rare elements of grace, beauty, spirit, and fire.</p> <p style="text-align: center;">~Sharon Ralls Lemon</p> <p>Equestrians love the beautiful countryside in Litchfield County, the trails in Steep Rock Preserve and the world-class centers for instruction and horse shows. Here we highlight two stunning properties with every amenity for horse and rider as well as two of the area centers.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/1878545_1.jpg" style="width: 440px; height: 330px;"></p> <p>This magnificent equestrian property in Washington, CT has every amenity for horse and rider to enjoy country life. There is a 8, 800+/- sq. ft main house with 7 bedrooms and 6 full/ 3-1/2 baths. The chef's kitchen opens to a family room and breakfast nook which look out to the pool. Multiple outbuildings include: barn-style pool house/game room with baths and changing rooms, guest house, studio with several offices and 16 stall horse barn with large paddock areas. All this is set behind stone walls and mature landscaping on 20+/- acres directly adjacent to steep rock land trust. You can ride horses directly from the property along the Shepaug river and through thousands of acres of conserved land.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"> <img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/1878545_20.jpg" style="width: 440px; height: 330px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">A charming red rustic barn beautifully situated on an open field among the paddocks.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/new300.jpg" style="width: 480px; height: 360px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Plenty of room for grazing and turn out.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/Kirsten%20on%20Horse.jpg" style="width: 388px; height: 480px;"></p> <p>The <a href="http://www.steeprockassoc.org/explore/steep-rock-preserve/">Steep Rock Preserve</a> offers many miles of trails that are perfect for hacking out with your horse. Here is our friend Kisten Feldman, founder of <a href="http://steeprockhoney.org/content/">Steep Rock Honey</a>, who we featured in an earlier blog post. There are many easy access points where you can park your horse trailer and venture out with friends.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/Frank%20Madden%20Clinic.jpg" style="width: 400px; height: 225px;"></p> <p>There are some wonderful opportunities for instruction in the area with top trainers. Here is clinic at the <a href="http://www.washingtonequestrian.com/">Washington Equestrian Center</a> with renowned professional Frank Madden. This facility has a spacious indoor for winter exercise.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/faber-mystic_w%20Katya%20Eilers.jpg" style="width: 400px; height: 273px;"></p> <p>Another area riding center, <a href="http://www.whitebridgefarmllc.com/">White Bridge Farm,</a> has exceptional instructors like Katja Eilers who is a successful dressage competitor and trainer. This equestrian center is based in Litchfield, CT.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/1936330_1.jpg" style="width: 440px; height: 330px;"></p> <p>Close to this trainig center is an another superb esquestrian estate in Goshen, CT. There is 100+/- acres with a 7 stall heated Morton barn, outdoor rings and open spaces to ride your horse. The home is in immaculate condition with a gourmet kitchen, breakfast nook and a main floor master suite. The family room opens to the enclosed pool area and looks over acres of open fields and a large pond.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/DSC_019101.JPG" style="width: 380px; height: 285px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">The Heated Barn is in a lovely setting surrounded by trees.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/barn600.jpg" style="width: 380px; height: 285px;"></p> <p> </p> <p style="text-align: center;">Spacious Areas around the stable make a relaxing environment for horse and rider.</p> <p style="text-align: center;">HAPPY TRAILS!</p>

Designer of the Month: Susan Bednar Long

Susan Bednar Long

Our 'Designer of the Month' is Susan Bednar Long, Principal of S.B. Long Interiors. If you are planning a project, please check out her top quality work showcased in this post and on her website. Sue has been a great friend for over ten years and has one of the best design senses of anyone I know. I also really respect her ability to multi-task, nothing slips through the cracks with Sue in charge! In addition, I relish her blog posts, they always have great design ideas so everyone should subscribe to her blog!

Bedroom Design

Susan Bednar Long honed her distinctive style during her tenure with two renowned luxury brands including Ralph Lauren where she oversaw the decoration of their flagship retail stores. She was a creative dynamo when at Coach where she spearheaded the launch of their new store prototype and furniture line. Her take away from these projects was clear. "My experiences taught me to layer all of the elements - wallpaper, artwork, furniture, fabrics, accessories, and lighting. Without layering, rooms aren't done."

Master Bedroom Suite Design

Sue also spent over ten years running Tocar Interior Design in New York City. Her time, traveling for business and pleasure, became the muse and design inspiration on many projects. I love this quote from her website, "You never know when you'll see something special - from a row of cabanas on an Italian beach to a lobby of a small inn in the Alps - that can provide a novel inspiration."

The first three images in this post feature a chic weekend getaway that appeared in CT Cottages and Gardens.

Dining Area Design

I had the chance to catch up with Sue and chat with her about design, her style and her recent coverage in Connecticut Cottages and Gardens. 

Living Area with Fireplace

What inspires you in your designs?


I love the graphic quality of stripes and often like to incorporate them in my designs in both classic and modern ways. I also like to mix modern and traditional elements in each room.


What past interior designer do you most admire?


I am a huge fan of Bill Blass and all his interiors. His classical and masculine interiors are lovely. I love the mix of dark wood
antique pieces set in a light, neutral setting - the contrast is beautiful.


What do you take into consideration when designing a country home or a city apartment or house?

With a country house I like to know how the clients want to feel in the space and who they will entertain and make sure
the materials are durable and conducive to the season or all year round use. In the city its important to maximize space
and light.

What three words would sum up your style of interior design?

Tailored, modern, traditional.

Bedroom with Fireplace

Tell me a little about your project that was in CT Cottages and Gardens.

The client wanted colorful spaces to contrast their all grey Tribeca apartment. It was fun to consider the colors and how
they ran from one room to the next. I also loved mixing in more modern furniture elements in the classic shingle-style home.
The house was used all year round, so we wanted it to feel inviting in any season. The client wanted a house that was
very kid friendly too - so we used a lot of durable materials.

       Master Bath

What is your dream client or project?

Someone who lets me design whatever I want!

S.B. Long Interior's projects have been featured in design publications including Architectural Digest, House Beautiful, Luxe Magazine, CT Cottage and Gardens among many others. The firm has a diverse portfolio that includes distinctive residential apartments and townhouses in New York City, country estates in Fairfield and Litchfield County, Connecticut, luxury residences in Highland Park, Texas, resort homes in The Hamptons & Rocky Mountains, personal luxury yachts & cruise ships and prestigious corporate & hospitality properties.

Mudroom

 

To learn more about Susan Bednar Long and S.B. Long Interiors, click here.

 

Find deign ideas and inspirations on Sue's blog here.                                                       

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