Explore 5 Historic Mansions in Connecticut that Preserve the Past with Panache

Step back in time with these five breathtaking historic estates, each offering a perfect blend of timeless elegance and modern luxury. In Ridgefield, a beautifully restored 1900 estate boasts a guest house, pool, and tennis court for ultimate relaxation and entertainment. An enchanting 1820 farmhouse combines rustic charm with contemporary comforts, featuring a guest studio, pool house, and a heated pool. The Queen Anne estate in Washington has been thoughtfully updated while preserving its architectural splendor, complete with a stunning pool. Meanwhile, a grand 1907 Arts & Crafts Tudor in Farmington sits on nine picturesque acres, and an 1835 Federal-style colonial near downtown New Canaan offers a classic red barn, evoking the charm of New England’s past.

1. Restored 1900 Estate 

Listed for $4,695,000, this 8,128-square-foot country manor, built in 1900, has been fully restored and updated with a new gourmet kitchen, Crestron smart home technology, and a full-house generator. The estate features seven bedrooms, nine bathrooms, a sunroom with floor-to-ceiling windows, a wraparound porch, a guest house with its own driveway, and a gym. Set on over three acres, the property includes a pool house, a 45′ x 40′ pool, a Har-Tru tennis court, and a three-car garage, all located minutes from downtown Ridgefield.

Where is Ridgefield?

Ridgefield, CT, is a historic town in Fairfield County, located in southwestern Connecticut near the New York state border. It is approximately 16 miles north of Stamford and 60 miles northeast of New York City, offering a mix of rural charm and suburban convenience. Known for its top-rated schools, vibrant cultural scene, and preserved colonial-era architecture, Ridgefield features a scenic downtown with shops, restaurants, theaters, and access to parks, hiking trails, and outdoor recreation.

Foyer

A spacious foyer features a black and gold staircase with wooden steps leading to the upper level. A circular inlaid wood pattern highlights the center of the floor, where a decorative gold-accented table sits. Large mirrors, elegant moldings, and a chandelier enhance the formal aesthetic of the space.

Living Room

Deep blue walls with gold trim and a marble fireplace with ornate detailing. A chandelier hangs from a decorative ceiling medallion, complementing the gold-accented furniture. French doors lead to an outdoor space, allowing natural light to enhance the room’s luxurious ambiance.

Bedroom

A large bedroom has white paneled walls, a black fireplace with a marble surround, and a crystal chandelier. A tufted bed with dark and light bedding sits between two windows, with a bench at its foot. Chevron-patterned wood flooring extends into an adjoining space with arched doorways and natural light.

Bathroom

Double vanity with a marble backsplash and chrome legs is set against paneled gray walls. Wall-mounted sconces with fabric shades and a large mirror enhance the space. Marble flooring extends throughout, leading to a glass door that opens to an outdoor area.

Aerial View

Symmetrical estate sits on a manicured lawn with a stone pathway leading to a grand entrance. A rectangular swimming pool with ornate tile designs is surrounded by lounge chairs and umbrellas. Lush landscaping, hedges, and mature trees frame the property, creating a secluded setting.

Source: Coldwell Banker

2. Updated 1820 Farmhouse 

Listed for $1,750,000, this 4,495-square-foot mini compound sits on over two acres and features an updated 1820 farmhouse with four bedrooms and 1.5 baths, preserving original hardwood floors, exposed beams, and millwork. The property includes a 1,204-square-foot two-story studio built in 2000 with a full kitchen, dining area, sleeping spaces, and a private patio, as well as a 1,443-square-foot pool house built in 2007 with a loft, kitchenette, full bath, and large windows overlooking the yard. Outdoor amenities include a 40-foot heated pool, a sleeping cottage, an outdoor shower, and a meditation garden, offering versatile living and potential income opportunities.

Where is Redding?

Redding, CT, is a rural town in Fairfield County, located in southwestern Connecticut. It is approximately 15 miles north of Stamford and 60 miles northeast of New York City, offering a quiet, scenic environment with easy access to major cities. Known for its preserved open spaces, historic charm, and strong commitment to conservation, Redding features miles of hiking trails, state parks, and a small-town atmosphere with a focus on nature and community living.

Porch

A long, covered porch with a blue ceiling extends along the side of a white house. White Adirondack chairs and cushioned seating are arranged with colorful pillows. Lush greenery and a manicured garden surround the space, creating a secluded outdoor retreat.

Living Room

Exposed dark wood ceiling beams contrasting against white walls. Vibrant furniture, including a yellow armchair and green sofa with colorful pillows, is arranged on a patterned area rug. A decorative folding screen, unique sculptures, and a grand piano add character to the space.

Bedroom

Wooden four-poster bed is dressed in a white quilt with a colorful patchwork throw and accent pillows. Exposed ceiling beams contrast with white walls, while antique cabinets and a floral armchair add character. A braided rug and soft lighting contribute to the room’s warm atmosphere.

Kitchen

White shaker-style cabinets and beadboard walls contrast with dark slate flooring. A stainless steel refrigerator and minimalist lighting add modern touches. A vintage-style “EGGS” sign brings character to the space.

Source: Coldwell Banker

3. Queen Anne Estate Built in 1885

Listed for $6,250,000, Rock Gate is a 9,165-square-foot Queen Anne shingle-style estate built in 1885 by architect Ehrick Rossiter as a Gilded Age summer retreat. The home features five to six bedrooms, six bathrooms, ten fireplaces, original butternut wood paneling, walnut and fir floors, arched windows, porches, and turreted roofs, all restored and updated for modern living. Situated on scenic grounds with stone pathways and a private rear terrace, the property includes a heated gunite saltwater pool, a wine cave, a new one-bay detached garage, and a three-bay garage with a walk-up loft.

Where is Washington?

Washington, CT, is a historic town in Litchfield County, located in northwestern Connecticut. It is approximately 40 miles west of Hartford and 90 miles northeast of New York City, making it a popular retreat for those seeking a rural escape. Known for its preserved landscapes, rolling hills, and cultural attractions, Washington is home to the prestigious The Gunnery School, the Institute for American Indian Studies, and the scenic Steep Rock Preserve, offering hiking, outdoor recreation, and a strong appreciation for the arts and history.

Living Room

A red brick fireplace with a white mantel serves as the focal point. Built-in window seats with lattice-patterned windows provide additional seating. Wood flooring and wainscoted walls add to the traditional aesthetic.

Dining Room

Rectangular wooden dining table is surrounded by six chairs with upholstered seats. Multiple large windows allow natural light to brighten the space. A patterned area rug and hardwood flooring complement the neutral walls and classic furnishings.

Kitchen

Large central island with a dark granite countertop has an undermount sink and seating for three. Dark gray cabinets contrast with a white subway tile backsplash and a copper range hood. Natural light streams through multiple windows, highlighting the hardwood floors.

Bedroom

Wooden sleigh bed is positioned against a soft blue wall with framed artwork and wall-mounted lamps. A white fireplace with intricate molding sits across from a seating area near curved bay windows. Floor-length patterned curtains frame the windows, letting in natural light.

Pool

Swimming pool with a stone border is surrounded by a manicured lawn and lush greenery. Two wooden lounge chairs with a small table face the water, positioned for relaxation. The multi-story cedar-shingled house in the background has a wraparound porch, multiple chimneys, and dormer windows.

Source: Coldwell Banker

4. 1907 Arts & Crafts Tudor Estate on 9 Acres 

Listed for $2,895,000, this 11,062-square-foot Arts & Crafts Tudor estate, designed by Peabody and Stearns, sits on 9 landscaped acres with over 675 feet of golf course frontage. The home features five bedrooms, six full and two half bathrooms, a grand hall with butternut wood-paneled walls, spacious living and dining rooms, a sun porch with a fireplace, and a dining porch with radiant heat stone floors. Modern updates include new electrical and plumbing, a Beverly Ellsley kitchen with a caterer’s kitchen and butler’s pantry, and restored millwork throughout, combining historic craftsmanship with contemporary amenities.

Where is Farmington?

Farmington, CT, is a historic town in Hartford County, located in central Connecticut. It is approximately 10 miles west of Hartford and 100 miles northeast of New York City, offering a mix of suburban and rural landscapes. Known for its colonial-era homes, top-rated schools, and proximity to cultural and outdoor attractions, Farmington is home to Miss Porter’s School, the Hill-Stead Museum, and the scenic Farmington River, making it a desirable place for both history enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Living Room

Patterned area rug covers the hardwood floor beneath a mix of upholstered sofas and carved wooden chairs. Large open doorway leads to a dining room with wood-paneled walls and a chandelier. Built-in cabinets with glass doors display books and decorative items along the walls.

Dining Room

Long wooden dining table is surrounded by high-back chairs with intricate detailing. Crystal chandelier hangs from a coffered ceiling, adding elegance to the space. Adjacent wood-paneled room features a grand piano and additional chandelier lighting.

Bedroom

Large bed with a dark wooden frame is positioned between matching nightstands with table lamps. White fireplace with decorative molding is set against the wall, adding warmth to the room. Adjacent sitting area features large windows and upholstered seating with floral patterns.

Patio

Glass-top patio table with four metal-framed chairs is set on a stone terrace. Overhead pergola casts geometric shadows on the stucco exterior wall. Open French door leads into an interior space with wooden flooring and warm lighting.

Source: Coldwell Banker

5. 1835 Federal-Style Colonial 

Listed for $1,780,000, this 4,436-square-foot Federal-style Colonial, built in 1835, features seven bedrooms, six bathrooms (four full, two half), and a spacious floor plan designed for both everyday living and entertaining. The home includes a butler’s pantry, sunroom porch, den, family room, large entertainment deck/patio, and a mudroom with laundry on the main level. Additional features include a walkout basement with a two-car attached garage and workshop space, a classic red barn, and a convenient location just minutes from downtown New Canaan and the Merritt Parkway.

Where is New Canaan?

New Canaan, CT, is an affluent town in Fairfield County, located in southwestern Connecticut. It is approximately 48 miles northeast of New York City and 12 miles north of Stamford, offering a convenient commute via Metro-North Railroad. Known for its top-rated schools, vibrant downtown, and rich architectural history including mid-century modern homes like the Glass House by Philip Johnson New Canaan combines suburban charm with cultural and recreational amenities.

Kitchen

Large kitchen with light wood cabinetry, granite countertop island, and stainless steel appliances. Exposed wooden beam runs across the ceiling, complementing the hardwood floors. White tiled backsplash and multiple windows provide natural light and a bright atmosphere.

Laundry Room

Compact laundry space with a white washer and dryer set tucked into a recessed alcove. Wall-mounted wire shelves provide storage above the appliances. Black-and-white checkered flooring contrasts with light gray walls and a white utility sink.

Bathroom

Narrow bathroom with a white clawfoot bathtub and an overhead shower fixture. Wall-mounted sink with exposed plumbing sits beneath a mirrored medicine cabinet. Light-colored tile flooring and a simple white toilet complete the space.

Patio

Outdoor patio with large stone pavers and a wooden railing overlooking a green lawn. A covered grill sits against the railing, positioned for outdoor cooking. Surrounding trees provide a natural setting with a mix of autumn foliage and greenery.

Source: Coldwell Banker