Discover a Classic 1890 Colonial in Connecticut With a Skylit Sunroom, Lush Garden Spaces and a Guest Cottage Studio

Written By

Mathew Abraham

Updated on

Mathew Abraham

Mathew Abraham, editor of Century Homes America, brings his passion for architectural history to explore the stories behind America’s most iconic homes.

Karla Murtaugh of Compass Connecticut, LLC

This beautifully renovated vintage Farmhouse Colonial blends historic charm with modern luxury. Located on a prime 1-acre parcel near downtown Ridgefield, this home offers elegant features including a new chef’s kitchen with a central island and butler’s pantry, a cozy living room with fireplace, and a luminous family room. The primary suite boasts a marble bath with radiant heated floors and a lounge area. A legal 1-bedroom guest cottage provides versatile space for guests or work. Listed at $2,400,000, this residence combines timeless architecture with contemporary design in a highly desirable, culturally rich town setting.

Front Porch Seating

Karla Murtaugh of Compass Connecticut, LLC

White wicker rocking chairs with mustard-yellow cushions flank a small matching side table on a classic wooden porch painted in muted gray tones. The porch is framed by fluted white columns and a white railing, contributing to a stately yet cozy ambiance. Two hanging baskets with lush green ferns bring a touch of natural elegance and vibrancy. A porch swing with a floral cushion in warm tones sits in the foreground, inviting relaxation and comfort. The background shows mature trees and a hint of neighborhood greenery, enhancing the serene, welcoming outdoor space.

Garden Seating Area

Karla Murtaugh of Compass Connecticut, LLC

A charming garden enclosed by a pale green picket fence and an arched trellis, partially adorned with slender vines, sets a peaceful tone. Gravel grounds create a clean, rustic surface beneath a central wrought iron table with four matching chairs, shaded by a vibrant green umbrella. Raised garden beds in a muted sage green frame the space, suggesting the area is used for both relaxation and gardening. Surrounding trees and shrubs, some still bare from seasonal change, offer a natural backdrop that blends cultivated order with organic growth, enhancing the quaint, historic ambiance.

Backyard Patio and Garden

Karla Murtaugh of Compass Connecticut, LLC

A spacious outdoor patio paved with large stone tiles extends from the house, bordered by neatly maintained garden beds with emerging plants. Several green umbrellas provide shade over a variety of seating, including a white wicker loveseat with striped cushions, wooden chairs, and a dining table with black chairs in the background. The area is surrounded by blooming trees with white flowers, adding a soft natural touch against the clear blue sky. An outdoor grill station with metal tables and potted plants sits adjacent to the white-painted wooden stairs leading to the home’s sunroom, creating a welcoming and functional outdoor living space.

Garden and Patio Area

Karla Murtaugh of Compass Connecticut, LLC

A beautifully arranged garden space with symmetrical, neatly trimmed green hedges forming square patterns surrounds two green benches facing a classic birdbath. Beyond this formal garden, a stone-paved patio features multiple seating areas shaded by bright teal umbrellas. The garden and patio are framed by blossoming white trees, adding a fresh, vibrant contrast against the green lawn and surrounding foliage. Adjacent to the patio lies a fenced vegetable or flower garden with orderly raised beds and archways, bordered by a traditional picket fence. A charming yellow house with a cupola and classic gabled roof anchors the background, completing the serene outdoor setting.

Historic House Exterior

Karla Murtaugh of Compass Connecticut, LLC

A classic American historic home painted in soft yellow siding with dark green shutters highlights the home’s timeless charm. The steep gable roof is covered in green shingles, complementing the verdant garden yard. White trim and a cozy porch with white railings add crisp contrast. The yard is adorned with neatly trimmed boxwood hedges forming a symmetrical garden, enclosing a seating area with green wooden benches and a central birdbath. A white picket fence surrounds the property, and mature trees with spring blossoms create a peaceful, idyllic setting, blending nature and historic architecture beautifully.

Front Entry Hallway

Karla Murtaugh of Compass Connecticut, LLC

White double doors with glass panels open into a narrow hallway, framed by classic white trim with rosette corner blocks. The hallway floor is warm-toned wood partially covered by a deep red and navy patterned runner rug. Soft natural light highlights the pale yellow exterior siding and an elegant black metal lantern on the left wall. Further inside, wooden furniture and a traditional wooden chair sit against crisp white walls, under a striking modern chandelier with delicate branch-like elements and warm glowing bulbs, blending vintage charm with contemporary touches.

Front Entry Hall

Karla Murtaugh of Compass Connecticut, LLC

The entry hall blends historic charm with modern touches. Soft gray walls complement the detailed white trim framing the doors and windows. The open front door reveals a welcoming porch and leafy exterior. A rich, dark red and blue patterned rug anchors the space atop warm hardwood flooring. A unique, sculptural light fixture hangs from the ceiling, its branches adorned with small bulb covers resembling buds. On the walls, two framed artworks add a classic gallery feel. Architectural details like the brass doorknob, stair riser, and radiator in the adjacent room evoke early American character.

Music Room with Grand Piano

Karla Murtaugh of Compass Connecticut, LLC

A spacious room centered around a black grand piano positioned on an ornately patterned Persian rug with rich tones of navy, gold, and burnt orange. The walls are painted a soft, calming gray with white crown molding and baseboards that enhance the home’s classic architectural details. A wooden side table with an antique-style lamp sits to the left, accented by framed paintings and prints arranged symmetrically on the walls. To the rear, a stairway with white risers and wooden handrails leads upstairs, framed by a simple doorway trim. A modern chandelier with leaf motifs adds subtle elegance to the otherwise traditional setting.

Living Room Seating Area

Karla Murtaugh of Compass Connecticut, LLC

A spacious living room with a classic yet inviting ambiance. A large, plush gray velvet sofa stretches along one side, adorned with patterned and embroidered throw pillows. Opposite the sofa sit two pairs of wooden armchairs with cane backs and navy blue cushions, and another pair of wooden chairs with floral embroidered cushions by the window. The floor is covered by an intricate, richly colored Persian rug dominated by deep reds and blues. A large ornate gold-framed mirror reflects light from the three wide windows, which allow natural light into the room. Walls are painted a soft beige, complemented by traditional moldings. A glass coffee table with a minimalist metal frame rests atop the rug, holding stacks of books. A black and white framed artwork hangs on one wall, enhancing the room’s blend of modern and historic character.

Living Room Fireplace Wall

Karla Murtaugh of Compass Connecticut, LLC

Warm hardwood floors lead to a classic white fireplace with a black tile hearth, topped by an oversized gold-framed mirror and symmetrical framed artwork, enhancing the historic charm. The walls are painted a soft, neutral color that complements the elegant crown molding and trim around the windows and doorways. Furnishings include two cane-back wooden chairs facing inward, a dark leather sofa with patterned pillows, and blue upholstery armchairs accented by glass side tables. A traditional Persian-style rug in red hues anchors the seating area, while tasteful table lamps and lush green plants bring softness and natural light into the space.

Music Room with Piano

Karla Murtaugh of Compass Connecticut, LLC

A polished black grand piano with matching bench sits prominently on an intricately patterned Persian rug in warm tones of navy, rust, and cream. The room features pale gray walls contrasted by bright white trim, crown molding, and classic sliding pocket doors with vintage keyhole hardware. Natural light floods through tall, multi-pane windows flanking a French door with glass panels, enhancing the airy and elegant atmosphere. A dark wood china cabinet filled with decorative items anchors one corner, while vintage lamps and framed artwork add character. The rich hardwood floors add warmth and historical charm to this elegant music space.

Butler’s Pantry Sink Area

Karla Murtaugh of Compass Connecticut, LLC

Gray cabinetry with brass knobs and pulls lines the base and built-in display cabinets above, creating a traditional butler’s pantry vibe. A white marble countertop with subtle veining stretches below a large window, allowing natural light to brighten the space. A modern stainless steel dishwasher is set beneath the counter next to a small, sleek single-basin sink with a high-arc faucet. The walls painted in medium gray complement the cabinetry and contrast with the white trim and door frames. Decorative fish wall hangings and framed prints add a whimsical, nautical charm. Black and white checkered flooring anchors the classic yet eclectic design.

Kitchen with Copper Pots

Karla Murtaugh of Compass Connecticut, LLC

The kitchen displays a striking black and white checkered floor that adds classic charm to the space. Soft gray cabinetry lines the room, complemented by brass hardware for an elegant, subtle contrast. A central island topped with rich wooden butcher block includes a high-arc faucet and cutting board, creating a functional work area. White marble countertops flank both sides, paired with stainless steel appliances including a professional-style range and a large refrigerator. On one wall, a pegboard holds an impressive collection of polished copper pots and pans, contributing warmth and historic character. Two round pendant lights brighten this airy, well-organized kitchen.

Kitchen Island and Details

Karla Murtaugh of Compass Connecticut, LLC

The kitchen is spacious with a large central island painted in soft gray, topped with a rich wooden butcher block countertop, perfect for prep work. Surrounding cabinetry is painted in a matching gray tone with polished brass cup pulls and glass-front upper cabinets showcasing white dishware. The flooring is a classic black and white diagonal checkerboard pattern, adding strong visual contrast and a vintage flair. Stainless steel appliances, including a large professional-style oven with exhaust hood, blend seamlessly. Copper pots hang elegantly on a perforated wall near the stovetop. Two round, globe pendant lights illuminate the space, emphasizing both style and functionality.

Sunroom Dining Area

Karla Murtaugh of Compass Connecticut, LLC

Bright sunroom with white walls and vaulted ceiling features two skylights that flood the space with natural light. The room is grounded by a large, vibrant area rug with red, blue, and orange geometric patterns, adding warmth and character. A round wooden dining table surrounded by modern dark gray chairs contrasts with classic wood-framed windows on the right. On the left, a cozy white armchair and loveseat provide casual seating beside a tall wooden bookcase filled with books. A wooden sideboard with twin lamps and a framed mirror adds traditional charm, blending modern and classic elements.

Dining Room and Adjoining Sitting Area

Karla Murtaugh of Compass Connecticut, LLC

Hardwood floors extend seamlessly throughout this light-filled dining room, anchored by a richly patterned Persian-style rug in warm red and blue tones. A sturdy, round wooden table with an ornate carved pedestal base sits centrally, surrounded by four simple wooden spindle-back chairs. Neutral off-white walls and crisp white trim frame the space, creating a classic and clean backdrop. The room opens into a cozy sitting area featuring large windows and comfortable seating, visible through wide doorways with decorative molding. To the right, a glimpse of a built-in cabinet with glass doors and brass hardware adds vintage charm and storage elegance.

Bright Dining Room

Karla Murtaugh of Compass Connecticut, LLC

Natural light floods the space through large wooden-framed windows and two skylights set into the ceiling. A round dining table surrounded by simple black chairs anchors the room atop a vibrant, patchwork-style rug featuring deep reds, blues, and earthy tones. The walls are clad in white horizontal shiplap, adding subtle texture and a classic farmhouse charm. A rich wood buffet sits against one wall, topped with matching lamps and a large framed mirror that reflects light and expands the sense of space. Lush green plants in ceramic pots add a fresh organic touch.

Bedroom Entrance and Stairway

Karla Murtaugh of Compass Connecticut, LLC

Soft, neutral gray walls and crisp white trim create a fresh and clean atmosphere. The partially open white paneled door reveals a cozy bedroom with a bed dressed in a white and light blue plaid comforter atop a textured white bed skirt. The blue patterned area rug adds warmth and complements the bedding. Classic double-hung windows with traditional white moldings allow natural light to fill the space. A wooden desk and vintage leather chair add subtle sophistication. Adjacent, the stairway features a wooden banister with white spindles and a large window framed by matching white trim, highlighting historic craftsmanship and bringing greenery views indoors.

Bathroom Interior

Karla Murtaugh of Compass Connecticut, LLC

The bathroom exhibits a clean and classic design with a monochromatic black-and-white color scheme. The floor features small black octagonal tiles set within white tiles, creating a timeless checkerboard effect. The walls are adorned with white subway tiles and accented with a decorative border of white tiles featuring small black diamond shapes bordered by solid black tiles. White beadboard paneling reaches halfway up the walls, complementing the white trim around a large window, which provides a natural view and ample daylight. Fixtures include a white pedestal sink with traditional silver faucets, a white toilet, and a glass-enclosed curved shower. A small white cabinet with glass-paneled doors adds subtle storage, while framed artwork punctuates the walls, and a wall sconce with a shade provides soft lighting.

Living Room Corner

Karla Murtaugh of Compass Connecticut, LLC

A cozy corner of the living room with a light blue sectional sofa accented by floral and butterfly-themed throw pillows, creating a soft, inviting touch. The floor is covered by a richly patterned red and blue traditional rug that contrasts with the sofa. Walls are painted a neutral light gray, adorned with framed art including a large red flower and a bookshelf print. White trim and crown molding frame the windows and doorways, enhancing the historical detail. A large, ornately carved gold-framed mirror reflects natural light from adjacent spaces. Two small lamps and wooden chest add warmth, while a white ceiling fan blends with the ceiling for functionality without distraction.

Bedroom with Ensuite View

Karla Murtaugh of Compass Connecticut, LLC

Walls painted in a soft, neutral gray complement the classic white trim with decorative rosette corner blocks, hinting at historic architectural details. A white ceiling fan of contemporary style balances the traditional elements. The bed is dressed in white linens topped with a floral patterned quilt in shades of green and pink, adding subtle color and texture. A narrow wooden console table against the wall holds two vintage-style lamps and framed artwork, enhancing the room’s charm. A black bench sits at the foot of the bed on a richly patterned rug with deep reds and blues. The open doorway reveals a black-and-white checkered tile floor and a white clawfoot bathtub, connecting the bedroom to an elegant adjacent bathroom.

Bathroom with Tub and Art

Karla Murtaugh of Compass Connecticut, LLC

Bright bathroom with a striking black and white checkerboard floor complements the clean white walls and cabinetry. Large windows allow natural light to flood the space, enhancing the airy feel. A vintage clawfoot bathtub rests on the patterned floor, paired with a wall adorned by a collection of framed artwork, mostly featuring Asian-inspired prints. White marble countertops with a subtle pattern sit atop sleek white vanities, accented with polished chrome fixtures. Wall-mounted globe lights and a green potted plant add warmth and character, blending modern and classic elements in this elegant, art-filled space.

Living Room Corner

Karla Murtaugh of Compass Connecticut, LLC

Bright living room corner with light gray walls and classic white trim around windows and doorways. Hardwood floors add warmth beneath a large patterned red and multicolored rug that anchors the seating area. A sizable light blue sectional sofa with floral print accent pillows faces a wall-mounted flat-screen TV accompanied by multiple black speakers and a sleek soundbar. Two windows with brown wooden blinds bring natural light, while simple framed black-and-white and color artwork decorate the walls. A white ceiling fan centers the space, blending modern comfort with traditional architectural molding along the ceiling edges.

Closet and Laundry Area

Karla Murtaugh of Compass Connecticut, LLC

The space combines a well-organized closet with a compact laundry area. Light gray walls and white storage racks with wooden shelves create a clean, modern look. Clothing is neatly hung, with jackets and dresses organized on separate rods. Several pair of shoes are displayed on tilted shelves. The floor transitions from warm-toned hardwood to pale tile near the laundry machines, which include a dryer and a front-loading washer tucked under a sloped ceiling. Recessed ceiling lights ensure bright illumination. A patterned red area rug at the closet entrance adds a touch of color and warmth to the otherwise neutral palette.

Child’s Bedroom and Play Area

Karla Murtaugh of Compass Connecticut, LLC

Bright golden yellow walls enliven this cozy child’s bedroom with a classic, nautical-inspired theme. A wooden twin bed with a navy blue bedding set featuring subtle star patterns is positioned beneath a window adorned with bold blue-and-white checkered curtains. A small wooden nightstand with a porcelain lamp rests adjacent to the bed. Opposite the bed, a sturdy wooden dresser and an open bookshelf display books and collectibles, while framed nautical prints, maps, and landscape paintings adorn the walls, creating a curated gallery atmosphere. The hardwood floor complements a long rectangular blue rug with colorful borders, adding warmth and charm to the space. Sloped ceiling and white trim keep the décor simple yet inviting.

Cozy Attic Lounge

Karla Murtaugh of Compass Connecticut, LLC

Sloped ceilings and soft gray walls define the attic space, creating an intimate and relaxed atmosphere. Polished hardwood floors add warmth and contrast with the dark leather sofas which anchor the seating area. The sofas are accented with colorful cushions featuring abstract and floral patterns, introducing vibrant pops of red, orange, and blue. A richly detailed Persian-style rug in deep reds and warm tones centers the seating arrangement. Natural light filters through double-pane windows, while a simple modern light fixture and a table lamp provide balanced illumination. Minimal decor and storage bags along the wall maintain an uncluttered, versatile space.

Bedroom with Antique Furnishings

Karla Murtaugh of Compass Connecticut, LLC

Soft pastel walls in blue and light green create a calming ambiance in this bedroom. The focal point is a rich, dark wood sleigh bed adorned with a simple white bedspread and a patterned orange quilt at the foot. The floors are warm-toned polished hardwood, complemented by a decorative red rug with intricate patterns near the bed. Vintage furniture pieces include a wooden chest of drawers, a dresser with a mirror, and a curved, ornate chest, all showcasing classic craftsmanship. Floral curtains frame an arched window, allowing natural light to fill the space. The overall aesthetic blends traditional charm with cozy comfort.

Home Office with Beams

Karla Murtaugh of Compass Connecticut, LLC

Sloped ceilings with exposed dark wooden beams create a rustic, historic atmosphere within the spacious home office. Polished wood floors complement the wood trim around windows and doorframes. Large multi-pane windows flood the room with natural light, showcasing serene outdoor greenery. Traditional Persian-style area rugs add vibrant warmth and pattern beneath wooden office furniture—a desk with ornate carvings and a smaller matching cabinet. Nautical decor elements include detailed sailboat models displayed by the window. The walls exhibit framed artwork in a tidy arrangement. Sleek modern office chairs and brass-accented table lamps blend classic and contemporary styles.

Loft Workspace

Karla Murtaugh of Compass Connecticut, LLC

Exposed heavy wooden beams create a rustic, architectural framework under a vaulted ceiling, emphasizing the loft’s open layout. The warm wooden floorboards are complemented by multiple richly patterned area rugs placed to define separate working zones. A mix of robust wooden desks and classic chairs lends a traditional feel, while artwork and a model sailboat on a pedestal add personal touches. Natural light filters through a large window with a distinctive circular pane above, bringing brightness to the cozy workspace infused with historic charm and a welcoming, lived-in atmosphere.

Kitchen Island and Appliances

Karla Murtaugh of Compass Connecticut, LLC

A bright kitchen with wooden plank flooring and a soft, muted color palette. White cabinetry with simple hardware wraps around the walls, complemented by light blue laminate countertops and a matching kitchen island centrally positioned. Stainless steel appliances, including a refrigerator and a modern stove with a vent hood, provide a contemporary contrast. Natural light flows in through multiple windows and a glass-paned door, offering scenic outdoor views. A distinctive vintage pendant light with a floral design hangs above the island, adding a touch of charm amidst the otherwise clean and functional layout. A clear acrylic chair and a rustic wooden table reinforce an eclectic, homey feel.

Living Room and Kitchen

Karla Murtaugh of Compass Connecticut, LLC

Bright, open living space with natural light streaming through multiple windows. Smooth white walls and ceiling soften the room’s appearance. The wooden floor, warm with natural tones, contrasts gently against the white stairway that has wooden treads and simple railing. A colorful, patterned rug adds a splash of warmth and interest near a stairway that leads upstairs. The kitchen area remains compact and efficient with white cabinetry, a small island with a rounded edge, stainless steel appliances, and simple hanging light fixtures, combining modern functionality within a classic, clean setting.

Bathroom with Tropical Wallpaper

Karla Murtaugh of Compass Connecticut, LLC

Small bathroom with a compact layout, featuring a white porcelain toilet and a white sink embedded in a vanity with storage below. The walls are half-covered with glossy white square tiles, while the upper walls are decorated with vibrant tropical green leaf wallpaper, creating a fresh, lively contrast. A large rectangular mirror with an ornate gold frame hangs above the sink, adding a touch of vintage elegance. The floor has neutral-toned linoleum tiles, complemented by a window with divided panes allowing natural light to brighten the space. A floral shower curtain peeks beside the door, enhancing the bathroom’s colorful, eclectic vibe.

Small Bedroom Nook

Karla Murtaugh of Compass Connecticut, LLC

Long, narrow room with warm polished hardwood floors reflecting natural light from three white-trimmed, multi-pane windows. Walls are painted a soft, neutral gray that complements the bright white baseboards and door frames. A pair of white paneled double doors with vintage brass handles anchor one end, hinting at a closet or storage space. A modern white wall-mounted air conditioning unit contrasts the classic detailing. Radiator covers run along one wall beneath the windows, blending with the trim. The small alcove window at the far end adds architectural charm and invites lush greenery views, creating a cozy, inviting atmosphere.

Listing Agent: Karla Murtaugh of Compass Connecticut, LLC via Zillow 

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