River Watch is quietly set back from the road and poised at the top of a hill. This purposefully chosen setting offers both Hudson River & Catskill Mountain views – sunsets are glorious. The hamlet is known as Young America and the residence, an 1890 Folk Victorian, reflects the artistry and design of a not so young American era. The rocking chair front porch, with its requisite turned posts and detailed brackets, sets the tone for the entire experience of serenity and charm. Enter through two sets of crafted double doors, via the vestibule, and into a sundrenched living room. Here we have built-in bookcases and cabinetry as well as double multi-light French doors which lead to the flower garden. The formal dining room, also imbued with magical light, easily provides space for vast farmers’ market-fare meals prepared in the country kitchen with its generous butcher-block island. Wide doors open onto a large deck for al fresco meals and where your potted herbs and flowers will adorn both taste and table. Entertaining made simple. In every season. Throughout the house we have a mix of wide and medium board floors as well as traditional cottage style plank doors with wrought iron handles. The second floor is reached via two separate interesting staircases. Upstairs we have two landings, three quite comfortable bedrooms, and two full baths; yes, one with a claw-foot tub.
The one-acre property is exquisitely dotted with old-growth trees and fenced flower as well as vegetable gardens. A silver maple on the east border might be the oldest tree in Germantown! Down the gravel driveway, along a laid stone wall, we reach a building. Within is a 2-car garage and fabulous 4-season studio ! Presently used for pottery, but clearly available for your own, long-delayed artistic expression – No matter the medium: Sculpture, paint, movement, writing. If you think of it, it can be done here. Mostly. The vehicular area is so large it can be divided to provide for other desired space – gym, workshop, greenhouse, home office, or perhaps pool house. The property beyond this structure is open and level offering the perfect situation for a pool. At the north border, we have a sheltered brook which is a tranquil gift, a place to listen to her melodic sounds. Less than a one mile walk into the village center of Germantown, yet a world apart.