Waterfront property, private beach, breathtaking views, pristine New England shingle-style architecture, and rare 1.37 acre setting with pool, spa and tennis court—you may think you have this estate figured out; but the interior delights with Japanese influences, a result of the owner’s many visits to Japan. The cherry floors are custom-designed with inlaid images of cherry blossoms and Koi. The family room’s custom-wood ceiling is reminiscent of a Japanese teahouse. The Japanese symbols for snow and beach are carved into the shutters (the home is affectionately called “First Snow on the Beach”).
The 10,000-square-foot home was meticulously renovated in 2008 to provide modern amenities while keeping the architectural details of the original 1908 Dutch Colonial; for example, the elegant main staircase and the living room’s coffered ceiling and dual-window seats. Restoring the house became a passion for the creative owner, who wanted a “real family home,” warm and welcoming. That includes a chef’s kitchen with natural stone floors, granite island, and state-of-the-art appliances and a stunning river-stone wood-burning pizza oven. Those who entertain at home will fall for the formal dining room—a perfect ellipse designed by a renowned Italian architect to achieve “perfection of sound,” allowing guests to hear both sides of the table’s dinner conversation.
Here is also peace and quiet. The Japanese-inspired guest suite has shoji doors and sauna and a mahogany Jacuzzi overlooks a heated pool and Long Island Sound. As if that weren’t enough, the master bedroom suite has cherry floors, a fireplace, luxurious bath and a romantic outdoor sleeping porch.