By Megan Montemarano
Deep within the constant hustle and bustle, the fast-paced days and overly scheduled nights in which we far too often become entrenched, lies the growing need for simplicity—a step back to our roots, where a minimalist approach to life is key. Sustainable homes, or properties that promote “living off the land,” are rapidly making their way to the top of many homebuyers’ wish lists this year. Inman News links this emerging trend to the market’s increased desire for integrated smart technology and “green home” features, claiming that “sustainable living is here to stay.”
From open fields, fruit trees and cattle to barns and even farm stands, these five self-sustaining residences offer ideal opportunities for planting roots.
70 Route 55 Road West—Sherman, Conn.
Strawberry Fields Farm certainly lives up to its name! Set on approximately 13 acres of beautiful land in Sherman, Conn. this antique farmhouse, built in 1775, encompasses a large barn, tractor barn, chicken coop, apiary for honey production, moveable hoop house for growing crops and stream-fed pond. Surrounded on three sides by the Appalachian Trail and land trusts, the property also offers extremely level topography, including four acres of lawns and fields, which are cultivated with a mixture of berries, vegetables and fruit trees. This self-sustaining sanctuary epitomizes the meaning of “living off the land,” and even runs a well-known local farm stand, offering fresh produce for the community to enjoy.
“There has definitely been a growing interest in small working farms,” comments listing agent Irit Granger, who personally supports this trend by going out of her way to purchase eggs and maple syrup all year-round from local farms. “Offering a sustainable lifestyle in addition to a farm stand, Strawberry Fields Farm provides a great way to help support a household. With farm-to-table restaurants cropping up everywhere in Litchfield County, this property has endless possibilities.”
For more information: Irit Granger, 203.803.3748, [email protected]
65 Hammertown Road—Salisbury, Conn.
On over 153 acres of land in Salisbury, Conn., rests the historic Grassland Farm. Comprised of largely open farmland complete with barns, outbuildings and five houses, this working facility has all that it takes and more to provide a successful self-sustaining lifestyle. The farm has shifted from dairy to beef cattle, and its fields are used for pasture, hay and corn. The option for potential building sites is also available, as the land has been subdivided into 17 approved lots.
For more information: John Harney, 860.921.7910, [email protected]
907 Norfolk Road—New Marlborough, Mass.
Adams Farm, a historically significant property circa 1760, is set on 52 pastoral acres of land in New Marlborough, Mass. The restored country estate encompasses its original farmhouse, a guest house, an additional building lot with mountain views, a horse barn, pond, orchards, as well as hiking and riding trails. Fragrant fruit orchards, mature plantings and lilacs grace the stunning property, which neighbors conserved land, ensuring that its natural beauty and tranquility remain forever.
For more information: Marc Bachman, 646.637.6304, [email protected]
199 Curtis Road—Bridgewater, Conn.
A Bridgewater, Conn. landmark, this property includes 138 acres of abundant land full of promise. Between its extensive two-story barn with plenty of storage space, two open-pole barns and four-car garage, future owners will be fully equipped when it comes to cultivation. To top it off, there is also a variety of fields and meadows, furthering the property’s agricultural offerings.
For more information: John Sniffen, 860.201.7159, [email protected]
85 Painter Ridge Road—Roxbury, Conn.
Set on over 45 pastoral acres of scenic land in Roxbury, Conn., this transformed residential barn features 20-foot ceilings, light-filled rooms and an overall sleek, contemporary atmosphere of sheer luxury amid a peaceful country setting. The one-of-a-kind residence, which embraces today’s demand for smart home technology, offering a full Lutron system controlled by one’s smart phone, also caters to the current sustainable living trend. In addition to open fields complete with orchards and views of the distant, rolling hills, the property has land suitable for animal pastures and other agricultural uses.
For more information: Mark Madonna, 860.800.3344, [email protected]; Jeffrey Phillips, 860.800.3344, 860.800.3344
