Argyll House

Escape to the Country

Two hours from New York City, this refined estate home is a Covid-era renovation project undertaken by a father-daughter team. It stands as a well-appointed heirloom residence with nods to fine European country estate living. Named for family ancestors, the home’s interiors have been lovingly curated by soon-to-be-architect daughter Deirdre McMullen, favoring a rich blend of antiques and modern furnishings. Deep gem-toned furnishings and richly patterned wallpapers complement the exposed stones, deeply stained timbers, and wood and slate floors.

The property’s timeless barn stands fairytale red and soaring, complementing the dashing estate that’s surrounded by lovingly manicured grounds, a vast saltwater swimming pool, and multiple outdoor patios and terraces.

This stately estate stands as a handsome haven for much sought-after down time—a place to relax in beautiful gardens, lounge around the sun-splashed saltwater swimming pool, work out along the on-site walking/jogging trails, or play a match on the tennis court across the street. With a bright, breezy kitchen, inviting library with plush seating, and sweetly serene bedrooms, the home was created for family lazing, cooking, reclining and reading—generally creating memories within the property’s well-appointed embrace.

Around

Harwinton itself offers small town living in a rural area of gentle hills, tall forests, lakes and ponds. The town is part of Litchfield County, a green oasis with nature preserves for hiking, charming cafes and antique shops, the latter a source for many of the home's treasures. The area’s architecture dates mostly from the 18th to the early 20th century, and Harwinton’s annual country fair is one of the region’s oldest, long appreciated for its agricultural background. Local farms in town offer apple and pumpkin picking, and there's a local dairy farm, Thorncrest Farm (20 minutes) that offers fresh milk and chocolates and even lets you pet the bovines. In addition to farming, local industry has produced supplies such as pitchforks, whetstones and barrels, as well as clocks, lumber, bricks, tinware and cutlery. A local cider mill, Hogan's, became an internet sensation recently and the town offers wonderfully curated antique shops as well. Another must visit local favorite is Arethusa, a fancy ice cream shop, cafe and restaurant.

There’s a local land trust of 170 acres, meaning lots of open space for hiking and wildlife observation. Foliage hunters love the area in autumn, and there are year-round recreation opportunities in nearby Black Rock State Park, including swimming, hiking and exploring the steeply wooded ledges covered in pine, hemlock and oak. Skiers can hit the slopes in wintertime at Sundown or Mohawk Mountain (both 20 to 30 minutes away), and daytrippers love to visit New Preston, a beautiful town near a waterfall with a strong "shop local" ethos of interesting boutiques. The property owners have created a list of their favorite destinations in the area.

Location

Nearest airports: Bradley (Hartford, 40 miles), NYC Airports (2 hours)

Best time to visit

May to February, with skiing nearby in season

Photography: Adrian WM Jones