In 1644, King Charles I gave a man named Edward Howell 40 acres near Southampton for the purposes of building a mill to grind grain. By the 1800s, that area had become known as the hamlet of Water Mill, today a community of beautiful beaches and pastoral estates popular with professionals and cultural luminaries. This 8,700-square-foot residence, on an elevated estate site surrounded by swaths of idyllic conservation land, pays homage to Water Mill and its history with classical style, impeccable attention to detail, and appreciation of the serene seaside surroundings.
Water Mill, New York | Dawn Bodenchak & Frank Bodenchak, Sotheby’s International Realty – Bridgehampton Brokerage
Perched at 240 feet above sea level, the custom-designed and thoughtfully renovated home benefits from rare 180-degree views across treetops toward farms, stables, and the ocean. At the end of a gated hydrangea-lined driveway, it begins with an impressive motor court and an inviting, light-filled foyer. Beyond are lovely spaces for living and entertaining, including a warm and welcoming den with a fireplace and a wet bar, a cantilevered dining room offering every diner a water view, a window-wrapped living room with 11-foot ceilings and a fireplace, and a second dining and sitting area with an oversized brick fireplace, rugged ceiling beams, and stone flooring. Fittingly for a home in the Hamptons, most public spaces open to the outdoors—an expansive terrace of handsome stone and a dining terrace with a grilling area and an outdoor fireplace. Tucked between the two dining areas, the cook’s kitchen features an island; two sinks; generous counter space; pairs of Sub-Zero refrigerator-freezers, dishwashers, and ovens; and a six-burner range. The walkout lower level is anchored by billiards and recreation rooms with French doors giving way to lush lawn and gardens. Also on this floor are a bedroom suite and an office with sunny windows and built-in bookshelves.
Of the home’s six bedrooms, the primary suite is a secluded upper-level oasis with windows and a balcony affording spectacular views, a walk-in closet, a dressing room, and a light-flooded bath with a shower and a tub. Two guest bedrooms are found on this floor as well, while two bedrooms and baths are located on the first level in a private wing that also offers a suite with a kitchenette and a storage area or recreation room.
The 4.2-acre estate is a veritable resort with glorious landscaping, alluring terraces, stone steps and pathways, flourishing specimen trees, a refreshing swimming pool and pool house, and a tennis court. The property also offers a freestanding oversized two-car garage and a loft-like gym and massage room.
Discover luxury homes for sale and rent around the world on sothebysrealty.com
