OCTOBER 2017

There are homes that you live in and homes that you fall in love with. Ransacket is the latter. Named by the original owner, “Ransacket” is from the Old Norse meaning to seek a house. The first owner’s father was Secretary of Commerce and Labor under President Taft, and her mother’s brother was Justice Louis Brandeis. She built the home around 1930 as a summer retreat. At some point she also had another small summer home moved from the Greenwich waterfront to the east side of the parcel, which she eventually gave to a friend along with 2 acres of land. When she left the city and moved into Ransacket year-round, she added on to the home. The current owner is only the second resident of the house since it was built.

Sited on 1.62 acres, the home’s wonderful seclusion has provided rare sightings over the years, such as the secretive pileated woodpecker, blue morpho butterflies, and even an albino deer. The many windows provide a constant connection to the outdoors and seasonal changes. The French country style offers much old-world charm and character. There are many built-ins and fine details. The stone work, real beams, use of wood, and even a rock outcropping are reminiscent of the work of Frazier Peters. Guests love the ambiance of the dining room. Cooking in the updated kitchen, there is always something of interest to see outside. The greenhouse-type entry has a slate floor and plenty of space for plants. The large living room has built-ins, lovely fireplace, and high ceiling. A bedroom/library with full bath completes the first level. The second level has 9-inch wide antique floorboards, with three bedrooms and a full bath. The screened-in porch with vaulted beamed ceiling is great for entertaining, relaxing, or reading. Each room has its own unique character. The property is like a mini-estate with two outbuildings that have a total of three garages, one carport and one small studio/office. The circular driveway, stone walls, gardens, and beautiful landscaping completes this creative haven, all located on a private road whose homes did not even have numbers until the early 1990s.

$729,000. Contact Bill Tims of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices New England Propeties at (203) 856-3165 or via email at bhhsneproperties.com.