When it comes to homes, no one should doubt the timeless appeal of the classic New England colonial.
It is an architectural style that is just as beautiful and impressive today as it was when this nation was founded. For proof, look no further than the Wilcox House. This classic colonial on East Street in Middletown predates the U.S. Constitution.
As noted by Sacha Armstrong-Crockett, the William Pitt Sotheby’s International Realty agent handling the sale, “This extraordinary home has a rich history.”
Dating to 1786, it has served as a farmer’s house, an exceptional and historic Air BNB destination, and even done duty as a Christmas movie set. More recently, it has been home for a master gardener and wedding florist.
Beautiful fenced-in gardens with numerous perennials, impressive landscaping, and a field of wild flowers on this nearly three acre lot bear witness to just some of the efforts that the current owners have expended on the grounds in caring for and improving this home. As for the home itself, they have managed updates that deliver contemporary levels of comfort and efficiency while retaining this home’s colonial charm and character.
As was common for center chimney colonials from the late 18th century, this home has a central front entry. Upon stepping inside, guests will immediately be impressed by the wide wood flooring, the six-panel doors, and the millwork. A glance to the left reveals the formal living room with beautiful raised panel wall treatments below a chair rail, and a large fireplace, one of six in the home. Above the chair rail this living room features lovely William Morris wall coverings, which are used throughout the home. This living room can comfortably accommodate larger parties, yet it also suits more intimate gatherings. To the right of the central entry, which has one of two stairways to the second floor, is a first floor bedroom.
Beyond the living room is a large open family room and dining area. The focal point here is another large fireplace, while the flooring, consisting of wide king’s wood planks, also commands attention. In addition, this area accesses a full bath with ample room for a washer and dryer, and the back stairs to the second floor.
To the rear, in the home’s ell, is the eat-in kitchen, a bonus room, a full bath, and access to a screened-in porch. The kitchen is a standout. The work area has a brick floor in a herringbone pattern with wide king’s wood flooring in the rest of the kitchen. Ample counter space is augmented by an island while new stainless steel appliances, including a Zline range, make meal preparation a pleasure.
The bonus room has yet another fireplace with a wood burning stove and exposed posts and ceiling beams. On one side the bonus room accesses the driveway and, on the other side, the three-season screened-in porch with its slate floor and beautiful views of the manicured gardens and surrounding property. A second first-floor full bath completes this area.
The four bedrooms on the second floor, two with fireplaces, are served by the home’s third full bath. These rooms are roomy and feature exceptional views of the property from large windows.
“The current owners have invested more than $200,000 in recent improvements, including interior and exterior painting, bathroom remodeling, and a newer heating and air conditioning system,” Sacha Armstrong-Crockett said. That upgrade included switching the heating system fuel from oil to gas.
Outside, the driveway includes parking for up to eight cars and a separate three car garage combined with a spacious artist’s workshop. This garage and workshop-studio combination also has a walk-in cooler room.
Beyond the house are beautifully landscaped grounds. Outdoor amenities include a gunite in-ground pool and spa surrounded by a large patio, and a separate gathering area with seating for eight surrounding a fire pit on a pea stone surface. It is fenced off and surrounded by plantings. A barn located at the rear of the yard is perfect for holding events or for additional work space.
In addition to the fresh paint, the house features 40-year red cedar roof shingles, copper gutters, and soundproof Indow windows, which are noted for their ability to help keep a home warm in winter, cool in summer, and quiet throughout the year.
This home’s location can be considered ideal. While it is on a suburban street, its large lot and mature trees gives it a country feel. Yet it is close to Routes 9 and I-91, a wide variety of services, exceptional restaurants, cultural and recreational opportunities, and Wesleyan University. Its location also makes for an easy commute to Hartford or New Haven, and it is just two hours from New York City.
“This is more than just a home. It’s a lifestyle and a sanctuary,” said Armstrong-Crockett. “The home captures the essence of the “cottagecore” movement, in which folks from out of state moved here during the pandemic in pursuit of a simpler life.
“It’s a home perfect for those craving a connection to nature, an escape from the hustle, while still remaining close to a thriving and colorful downtown as well as the art and culture Wesleyan University offers the community. This home is for a broad list of buyers; it’s great for multi generational living with great space for a chef, an artist, an event planner, or gardener!”
Info:
Built: 1786
Price: $910,000
Style: Center Chimney Colonial
Rooms: 9
Bedrooms: 5
Baths: 3
Square footage: 3,010
Acreage: 2.87
Mill rate: 30.1
Best Feature: This home has been thoughtfully updated in a way that has respected its rich history without limiting its ability to deliver all the modern comforts.
Contact: Sacha Armstrong-Crockett
William Pitt Sotheby’s International Realty
860-538-7778
sacrockett@wpsir.com
https://455eaststreet.com
