Sitting pretty at the end of a long, circular driveway, the original 18th-century farmhouse has been expanded and modernized to meet the needs of a 21st-century family.
The original fieldstone fireplace, its imposing antique mantel adorned with an array of candles and greens, is the focal point of the cozy living room. Plush plaid pillows and toasty throws invite lounging in front of the fire.
The Oster family Christmas tree is decorated in simple but classic style with burlap ribbons and clusters of red berries.
Homeowner and designer Susan Oster and Dakota, the family’s chocolate lab, take a spin on Wardwell Pond.
The original hardware on a closet door inspired reproductions throughout the house.
A white vase filled with pepperberries sits atop a pine table in the kitchen.
A bust, wooden eggs and antique silver pieces filled with holiday blooms make a pleasing still life.
A red wreath and linen-covered club chair brighten the sunroom.
A late-18th century oil painting hangs above an antique wing chair.
Even the master bath, with its curvaceous copper spa tub, gets dressed for the holidays.
The entry hall features the home’s original pine paneling and oak banister. A Matisse drawing above the pine demilune table adds a refined touch.
The artfully draped brass and iron baker’s rack and collection of copper pots are from a Los Angeles antiques store.
This article appears in the December 2011 issue of CTC&G (Connecticut Cottages & Gardens).