A Historic 18th-Century Residence in Connecticut Hits the Market for $3.85M

Built in 1799, the Essex Village home has since been updated by Scot Samuelson Architects, winning three architectural awards in the process.

Text by

Olivia Cohen

Presented by

Sotheby’s International Realty

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Listed in Norman Crampton’s second edition of The 100 Best Small Towns in America, Essex Village, Connecticut, is steeped with history. Incorporated in 1639, Essex boasts an active historical society, beloved town traditions, tree-lined streets, charming local shops, and accessible marinas. At the center of it all lies 32 Main Street: a historic home that, over the course of two years, saw a restoration led by Scot Samuelson Architects that returned the historical structure to prime condition while adding modern luxuries along the way.

The centrally located 32 Main Street is accessible via Main Street and a private entry via Parker Lane.

The 4,618-square-foot property comprises a primary dwelling and a carriage house surrounded by lush, verdant grounds. Between the two structures, there are four bedrooms, five bathrooms, and a newly added basement that offer a generous amount of space. Entering the main residence through the foyer reveals a slice of the home’s character; many of the home’s design details, including walnuts floors and fixtures, are custom.

32 Main Street’s foyer reveals custom walnut floors, which continue throughout the home.

The kitchen in the primary residence is anchored by a serene blue island that is perfect for gathering. Fixtures and faucets in the kitchen—and throughout the home—were flown in from England to achieve an authentic, heirloom feel. The home also includes a formal dining room with a fireplace, living room, office and library, and sunroom, which has the potential to be converted into a suite since a full bathroom is already in place.

The custom kitchen utilizes contemporary, top-of-the-line appliances.

The open kitchen flows into the living room, where coffered ceilings recall the structure’s history.

The formal dining room provides a central place to entertain family and friends.

The sunroom shows off the home’s new wood-framed Marvin windows.

The office features custom built-ins painted a soft shade of blue.

Upstairs, the primary suite includes striking arched moldings original to the structure. From the upstairs, one can see views of the water and gaze at boaters passing by. In both the primary dwelling and carriage house, every bedroom features an en suite bathroom.

Arched moldings and thick walnut doors make the primary suite unique.

The bathroom off the primary suite is complete with a spa-like tub, stall shower, and updated fixtures.

A separate bedroom and full bath in the carriage house allow for easy hosting and guest privacy. The space features a vaulted ceiling and wet bar, and spans the home’s three car parking structure.