Nick Churton of the Houlahan Lawrence London office takes a look at a rare estate in highly popular Greenwich, Connecticut.
Property: 216 John Street Greenwich, CT
Broker: Houlihan Lawrence
Agent: BK Bates
It might well be the pretty, Colonial main house with nine bedrooms and wonderful reception rooms that attracts you to Bydale, the magnificent forty-three acre estate on the edge of Greenwich. And it really should because the 1735 built home is a glorious example of pre-revolutionary vernacular architecture in the reign of George II.
But my guess is that you will also be attracted by the fabulous features on this beautiful undulating estate.
Some will like the idea of a large family compound with separate and secluded accommodation including two guesthouses, a caretaker’s cottage and a barn with a three-bedroom apartment.
Creatives will like the fact that George Gershwin composed An American in Paris in one of the guesthouses – rather proving the inspirational properties of the estate.
Sporting types will enjoy the two pools, tennis court, river and lake fishing and the easy-to-re-establish equestrian facilities.
Personally I was enchanted by the small hexagonal stone building which looks like a French pigeonnier. It once provided water storage but now offers the possibility to create the most romantic little garden retreat.
But the more hard-headed buyer will not fail to be intrigued by the opportunities for the further careful development of Bydale. The forty-three precious Greenwich acres are an already-approved eight-lot subdivision. The estate provides the perfect setting for several imaginatively designed houses in a town that is a magnet for City buyers. Bydale could become a by-word for exciting, modern homes with a rural twist and a Greenwich address.
Whichever way you cut it this rare opportunity hasn’t just got something for everyone – it has everything for someone.
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