952 Woodview Road (1998)

Set back from the road and set back in time is this stunning circa 1870 red brick farmhouse. Although it has not the ornamental scrollwork, its structure is Italianate, with substantial sandstone lintels above the windows. With stately oak trees gracing the front yard, the home exudes an aura of quiet and inviting distinction.

Once part of a 220-acre dairy farm, one has only to look at neighboring homes to know that the parcel of land has been kept intact for nearly a century. There are no intervening architectural styles between this and the surrounding post-World War II homes, and indeed, records indicate that the parcel was divided during the 1940s.

The kitchen, with a charming black and white floor, has an old farmhouse feel. Living room and dining room floors are made of oak and laid in a diagonal pattern. The original living room floor suffered damage from a leak and has been replaced to match the original flooring in the dining room. A small bathroom is nestled under the stairs. The second floor guest room includes a built-in closet, which is unusual in a house from this period.

The third floor was completely renovated by a previous owner. It is an open, modern style room, yet crafted with the detail characteristic of an older home. Serving as a master bedroom, sitting room and studio, it features several skylights with breathtaking views of surrounding 100-foot trees.

Created by the owners, the back gardens have a magical quality to them and bring to mind "The Secret Garden." Interesting plantings and interesting objects, such as sandstone pieces, have been incorporated into this setting. The garage, once a barn, fits well into the garden, adding a rustic element. The back driveway, which is gravel, truly transports one back in time as one hears the crunching underfoot.

All old houses have secrets, and this one yielded up a hidden collection of negatives, old letters and valentines to the current owners, a true sign that this house, and the owners who so appreciate it, were meant for each other.