Please click on image for further details

Nick Churton of Mayfair International Realty visits a home in Bedford Hills, New York which reminds us that a famly that swims together clings together.

Broker: Houlihan Lawrence

Agent: Angela Kessel

Let me tell you why I liked this home in Bedford Hills so much. Was it the 13 acres of beautifully landscaped and tended gardens? Yes, but. Was it the 6 bedrooms and 7 bathrooms? Yes, but. Was it the spacious, wood panelled drawing room? Yes, but. Was it the fabulous outdoor pool with superb pool house? Yes, but. Was it the tennis court and 7-car garage, Yes, but. Was it the easy access to the local town and train station to Grand Central in NYC only 44 miles away? Yes, but.

There is no doubt at all that I liked all those features very much indeed. But the bit that I really, really liked was the amazing arrangement of what can only be described as a glorious family area. This is a serious family house for a large family that likes being together. Sure there is plenty of space elsewhere in this home for essential privacy, quiet, concentration, homework and solitude, but what really works is this family area comprising an enormous and beautifully fitted and equipped kitchen with sitting and breakfast areas, games room and, best of all, an indoor pool.

Who makes an indoor pool virtually part of the kitchen? Well the owners of this house do and for good reason. It works. Mother, father and nanny/home-help can keep a careful eye on young children in the pool while doing kitchen things, Older children get to have a great time with two very important items in their lives close together – the pool and the fridge! All family members get to hang out with each other in a friendly, sophisticated, purpose-built area designed with three things in mind – comfort, efficiency and above all encouraging the people who reside under this roof to spend time together.

That is why I loved this house. If you have a large family or plan to have a large family, like a short walk to the station and a long walk round your garden then this beautiful home is for you.