The White House
The White House
Washington, Connecticut
An oasis in the woods, this Colonial compound was designed to provide a young family with a tranquil and self-sufficient retreat from the demands of daily life. Thoughtfully tailored to the family’s lifestyle, hobbies, and long-term plans, the property comprises a six-bedroom main house, a pool with a two-bedroom pool house, and a car barn designed to house an extensive luxury vehicle collection. Panoramic views of the Connecticut hills were a guiding principle in the master plan, shaping both the placement of the buildings and the organization of interior spaces. Future additions to the property include a three-part storage barn accommodating recreational vehicles, a workshop, and log cutting and storage facilities.
The compound is rooted in the regional architectural vernacular of Litchfield County, Connecticut. The main house, discreetly set behind an allée of trees, features a symmetrical primary volume connected to a substantial garage by a light-filled glass connector. A timeless exterior palette of slate shingle roofing, white clapboard siding, and deep blue shutters reinforces the home’s classical character. Understated details such as gabled porticos and cupolas ground the architecture in tradition while maintaining the simplicity preferred by the clients. Along the rear façade, a series of terraces and screened and covered porches provide varied opportunities for outdoor living, while broad lawns create generous spaces for play and frame uninterrupted views of the surrounding landscape.
The interior architecture was meticulously crafted to serve as a rich and enduring backdrop for the clients’ modern furnishings. Designed to feel established and timeworn in the best sense, the detailing throughout evokes the character of a well-kept historic home, offering a lasting canvas that will evolve gracefully with the family over time.
Photography: Peter Murdock, Neil Landino
Interiors: Anne Chessin
Featured In: Cottages & Gardens
Recognition: Athome A-List Winner, Cottages & Gardens IDA Winner, HOBI Winner
