Explore a Majestic 1880 Victorian Estate in New York With Cathedral Ceilings and Sweeping Protected Pastoral Views

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.

Melissa Carlton of Houlihan Lawrence Inc.

“The Birches,” located in Garrison is a remarkable Gothic Revival home designed by Ralph Adams Cram and built in 1882. This historic property has been meticulously restored to preserve its soaring cathedral ceilings, slate roof, and period details while integrating modern comforts. Set on a private plot with sweeping, protected pastoral views, it offers a serene retreat in the Hudson Valley, just 55 minutes from New York City and near Metro North. Priced at $2,990,000, this architectural gem beautifully blends heritage and contemporary living, making it a rare opportunity to own a piece of New York’s history in a peaceful, scenic setting.

Aerial View of Estate

Melissa Carlton of Houlihan Lawrence Inc.

Expansive natural landscape with dense green trees surrounds a historic estate nestled at the center. A river winds gracefully through the backdrop, framed by rolling hills and mountains under a light blue sky with scattered clouds. The property includes a charming house with tall chimneys topped with red brick, nestled among mature trees and open grassy areas. A small rectangular swimming pool can be seen near the house, alongside a manicured garden. Curving roads and pathways integrate the estate into the pastoral setting, evoking a serene and timeless rural ambiance.

Backyard and Pool

Melissa Carlton of Houlihan Lawrence Inc.

A classic stone home with a steeply pitched, gray slate roof stands against a bright blue sky dotted with fluffy clouds. Two tall, prominent chimneys with red brick add historic elegance, while dormer windows and a balcony provide charming architectural detail. The backyard showcases a rectangular swimming pool with clear, inviting water bordered by stone tiles. Lush green grass surrounds the pool area, accented by manicured small trees and bushes. Mature evergreens and dense foliage create a private, serene atmosphere, blending natural beauty with refined historic design elements.

Outdoor Patio Seating

Melissa Carlton of Houlihan Lawrence Inc.

Stone flooring with natural irregular patterns covers the spacious outdoor patio beneath a wooden lattice pergola painted muted beige. A hanging lantern-style light adds subtle charm. Comfortable brown wicker chairs and a matching chaise lounge surround a small side table, creating a cozy seating area. An oval table with matching wicker chairs offers dining space adjacent to a modern stainless steel gas grill. Low stone walls topped with black iron fencing border the patio, opening to a lush garden with various green shrubs and dated trees, framed by distant rolling hills under a clear blue sky.

Entryway Hall

Melissa Carlton of Houlihan Lawrence Inc.

The entryway combines classic and vintage elements with a striking color contrast. Walls are painted turquoise above white wainscoting, enhancing the spacious feel. A large, dark wood double front door with glass panels and a curved transom window lets in natural light and adds elegance. The polished hardwood floor reflects a traditional Persian-style rug with deep reds and blues at the center. Antique sconces with warm lighting flank the walls. An intricately carved dark wood hall tree with a mirror and small marble-top shelf is positioned against the wall. Visible through an open white door, an adjoining room introduces a bold purple accent wall, adding further character.

Entry Hallway and Staircase

Melissa Carlton of Houlihan Lawrence Inc.

The hallway centers around a white wooden staircase with dark stained handrails and newel posts. Walls are painted a vibrant teal, complemented by white wainscoting that adds historic charm. Warm wood flooring supports layered Persian rugs enhancing the space with rich textures and color. Antique brass sconces with delicately patterned shades flank the walls, casting warm light and drawing attention to vintage framed paintings. An ornate wrought iron table topped with a vintage lamp and a large gold-framed mirror add decorative elegance. The doorway opens into a room with a vivid red wall, offering a bold visual contrast.

Home Office

Melissa Carlton of Houlihan Lawrence Inc.

Deep red walls with white wainscoting and trim create a rich and elegant backdrop. Large bay windows with sheer white curtains flood the room with natural light and overlook lush greenery. A dark wood executive desk with brass handles anchors one side, paired with a tufted leather chair and a matching leather armchair. An ornately patterned red rug covers the hardwood floors, adding warmth and texture. A round pedestal table stands centrally, surrounded by upholstered seating, while antique framed artwork and a glass-front cabinet contribute historic charm. A classic chandelier and wall sconces provide soft lighting.

Dining Room Interior

Melissa Carlton of Houlihan Lawrence Inc.

Rich purple walls contrast with white wainscoting and trim, highlighting the historic character of this dining space. A large, dark wood dining table with ornately carved chairs sits atop a soft, muted Persian-style rug covering the dark hardwood floor. Elegant light fixtures hang from a pale blue ceiling, casting warm illumination. Floral-patterned valances adorn the windows that allow natural light to flood the room and provide views of lush greenery outside. A harp and a glass-front china cabinet add traditional charm, while classical artwork and a sideboard with a decorative lamp enhance the sophisticated ambience.

Formal Dining Room

Melissa Carlton of Houlihan Lawrence Inc.

A spacious formal dining room with rich, dark wood flooring is accented by a large, ornately patterned rug that anchors the polished wood dining table and matching carved chairs. The walls are painted a bold, deep purple above wainscoting finished in a light cream, creating a striking contrast. A fireplace with decorative tiles and a large framed mirror above adds warmth and historic charm. The wide, multi-paned window with a decorative valance bathes the room in natural light. Classic lighting fixtures, including a central chandelier with multiple glass shades and wall sconces, complement the traditional, elegant aesthetic.

Classic Kitchen Details

Melissa Carlton of Houlihan Lawrence Inc.

The kitchen centers around a vintage farmhouse sink beneath a large window adorned with sheer white curtains. Light gray cabinetry with brass hardware, accented by textured glass panels near the ceiling, lines the walls providing ample storage. A marble backsplash and countertops add elegance, complementing the warm tones of the polished hardwood floor. A black rolling island with a matching marble countertop serves as a versatile workspace and storage. An arched stove alcove with decorative blue and white tile detailing and a mantelpiece above, holding art and a rooster figurine, enhances the room’s historic charm. Soft recessed lights and a hanging pendant lamp finalize the serene atmosphere.

Bathroom Details

Melissa Carlton of Houlihan Lawrence Inc.

White porcelain pedestal sink and toilet contrast with rustic wood beadboard wainscoting that covers half the walls, topped by aged, textured wallpaper above. A golden-framed mirror hangs above the sink, flanked by two traditional wall sconces with frosted glass shades emitting warm light. A shelf with decorative towels and a ceramic vase holding dried flowers adds a quaint, vintage charm. The ceiling slopes at an angle, emphasizing the room’s cozy, classic character. The overall palette blends natural wood tones with soft neutrals, creating a warm, inviting, and subtly antique ambiance.

Living Room Details

Melissa Carlton of Houlihan Lawrence Inc.

Soft blue walls meet white wainscoting in a cozy living room warmed by a dark wooden fireplace mantel with decorative tile accents framing a glowing fire. Above the mantel, a flat-screen TV is wall-mounted, blending modern convenience with classic elements. A pair of floral-patterned sofas with vintage charm faces a simple wooden coffee table, while a cushioned armchair with a white slipcover adds relaxed comfort. Natural light filters through a white-trimmed window dressed with sheer curtains. Hardwood floors extend throughout, anchored by a natural fiber rug. Subtle built-in shelves and warm lighting, including a brass floor lamp and table lamp, complete the tranquil ambiance.

Bedroom Interior

Melissa Carlton of Houlihan Lawrence Inc.

Soft yellow walls and matching curtains illuminate this cozy bedroom, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. A wooden bed with a floral-patterned yellow quilt sits centered between two large windows, allowing abundant natural light to fill the space. The bed is flanked by traditional white lamps on simple nightstands, emphasizing the room’s classic aesthetic. Rich wooden floors contrast elegantly with the soft wall tones. A ceiling fan with a light fixture adds functionality while maintaining subtle decor. A small gallery of framed pictures above the headboard and a framed artwork on the side wall add personal and artistic touches.

Bedroom Comfort

Melissa Carlton of Houlihan Lawrence Inc.

Soft blue walls create a soothing atmosphere in this bedroom with high, vaulted ceilings and white-trimmed windows bringing in ample natural light. The floor is warm, dark hardwood, complementing the room’s muted color palette. A cushioned armchair sits near the double windows, which are dressed with textured beige Roman shades, matching the window treatment on the opposite wall. The bed is elegantly dressed in cream and beige floral linens, paired with a cushioned headboard that echoes the bedspread pattern. Beside the bed, dark wood nightstands display vintage-inspired lamps and charming decorative details. A tall chest of drawers in rich wood tones adds contrast to the calm blue walls.

Cozy Reading Nook

Melissa Carlton of Houlihan Lawrence Inc.

Soft aqua walls create a calming atmosphere, complemented by dark hardwood floors that add warmth and contrast. Two large windows clad in delicate, patterned Roman shades let in filtered natural light, softly illuminating the space. An old-fashioned cast iron radiator runs beneath the windows, adding a historic charm to the room. A plush, vintage-inspired beige armchair with a small velvet pillow invites relaxation. A framed landscape artwork hangs on the wall, contributing subtle color and interest. A white door and tall wooden dresser with a worn finish complete the scene, blending simplicity with timeless elegance.

Bathroom Details

Melissa Carlton of Houlihan Lawrence Inc.

Small bathroom with vintage charm highlighted by white hexagonal tile covering both walls and floor, creating a unified and classic look. The traditional white pedestal sink with sculpted legs adds an elegant, historic feel complemented by polished chrome fixtures. A black radiator with visible piping contrasts subtly against the light tiles. Burgundy towels and accents bring a warm pop of color, while a single window framed by white trim allows natural light in. The shower space includes a sleek glass divider with built-in corner shelves and satin-finished hardware that balances modern convenience with classic design.

Bathroom Sink Area

Melissa Carlton of Houlihan Lawrence Inc.

Small bathroom corner with a vintage white porcelain pedestal sink featuring rounded edges and a built-in backsplash. Hexagonal white tiles with light grey grout cover the walls up to a chair rail height, topped by a glossy white border tile with a subtle curved detail. A white framed medicine cabinet with a mirrored door hangs above the sink, flanked by an elegant classic wall sconce with a warm beige shade. A small window above allows natural light, framed in crisp white wood trim. Rust-colored towels add a bold contrast against the predominantly white and neutral color palette.

Bedroom Fireplace Corner

Melissa Carlton of Houlihan Lawrence Inc.

Soft blue walls slope upward to a vaulted ceiling, creating a cozy atmosphere accented by a ceiling fan and vintage light fixture. A large wooden armoire with a rich mahogany finish contrasts with the pastel palette. The bed is dressed in a floral quilt with matching pillows, evoking a quaint, country charm. Two windows with simple beige roman shades provide natural light and frame views of greenery outside. A cream-colored, intricately carved fireplace with a glowing fire adds warmth and a historic touch to the room’s elegant yet inviting design.

Upstairs Landing Details

Melissa Carlton of Houlihan Lawrence Inc.

The upstairs landing is adorned with rich teal walls above crisp white wainscoting, creating a sophisticated contrast. Dark hardwood flooring is complemented by intricate, patterned area rugs that add warmth and texture. The stair railing combines white spindles with darker wood handrails, evoking a classic historic charm. An ornate gold-framed oval mirror hangs on the far wall, adding a touch of elegance. Four framed animal paintings, mainly cats and a dog, bring a whimsical and personal touch. A chandelier with round bulbs and crystal accents illuminates the space, enhancing its refined yet cozy atmosphere.

Kitchen Sink Area

Melissa Carlton of Houlihan Lawrence Inc.

The space centers around a farmhouse-style white porcelain sink with intricate detailing on its front apron, set into a smooth, white marble countertop that extends to a matching marble backsplash. The cabinetry is painted a soft gray with vintage dark metal knobs and ornate cup pulls, providing an antique charm. Above the sink, a pendant light with a stained-glass design casts a warm glow. Sheer white curtains frame the window behind the sink, letting in natural light. The adjacent room’s purple wall and wooden harp add depth, while the hardwood floors and patterned rug enhance the historic, cozy atmosphere.

Bathroom Shower Corner

Melissa Carlton of Houlihan Lawrence Inc.

White hexagonal mosaic tiles cover the floor and partially extend halfway up the walls, creating a clean and cohesive look. The glass-enclosed corner shower features matching hexagonal tile walls, a silver shower fixture, and a sleek modern handle. A white pedestal sink with vintage-inspired polished chrome fixtures stands beneath a large rectangular medicine cabinet mirror framed in white. Warm gold wall sconces with white shades provide elegant ambient lighting, contrasting the cool tile tones. A classic white toilet with a gold lever completes the space, which is topped by a clean, soft beige paint on the upper walls and ceiling.

Bedroom with Sloped Ceilings

Melissa Carlton of Houlihan Lawrence Inc.

Soft lavender-blue walls complement an angled ceiling and dormer window, creating a cozy atmosphere. A large bed is dressed in a pastel patchwork quilt with floral and striped patterns, accompanied by light blue pillows and a decorative accent pillow. Two traditional wooden side tables with classic lamps flank the bed, adding warmth. Across from the bed, a dark wooden dresser holds a vintage brass lamp and is topped with an ornate oval gold-framed mirror, reflecting light and space. The adjacent room visible through the white trim doorway has large windows framing green hills, enhancing the home’s historical charm.

Guest Bedroom Details

Melissa Carlton of Houlihan Lawrence Inc.

Two single white wooden beds sit opposite each other in a cozy room with sloped ceilings characteristic of attic or upper-floor spaces. The walls are painted a warm beige, contrasted by a soft blue ceiling that adds an unexpected pop of color. Both beds are dressed with matching patchwork quilts and pillows that incorporate various colors, echoing the plaid curtains framing two separate windows. An antique-style cast iron radiator runs beneath the window on the larger wall, adding a touch of historic charm. Natural light floods in, highlighting the woven natural fiber rug covering the dark hardwood floor.

Bathroom and Shower Area

Melissa Carlton of Houlihan Lawrence Inc.

The bathroom has a classic look with hexagonal mosaic tiles covering the floor, lower walls, and shower enclosure. The shower features glass panels with black hinges and hardware, blending traditional mosaic tile work with a modern glass structure. Above the tiled walls, floral wallpaper in subtle beige tones climbs the angled ceiling, adding vintage charm and warmth. A white porcelain toilet and bidet are positioned near a large window that invites natural light and offers a view of lush greenery. Adjacent steps lead to an adjacent room, featuring wood floors and a patterned wallpaper, enhancing the historic character.

Bathroom Vanity and View

Melissa Carlton of Houlihan Lawrence Inc.

Two under-mount sinks are set in an elegant curved white marble countertop supported by polished metal legs, paired with classic silver faucets. Hexagonal mosaic tiles cover the lower walls and floor in soft gray tones, complementing a floral wallpaper pattern in muted beige and ivory that adorns the upper walls and ceiling slope. Twin dark-framed rectangular mirrors hang above each sink, flanked by vintage-style brass sconces with shaped glass shades. A traditional white porcelain toilet sits near a large sash window offering a scenic forested mountain view, while a black cast iron radiator adds historic charm.

Master Bedroom Sitting Area

Melissa Carlton of Houlihan Lawrence Inc.

Spacious master bedroom with adjacent sitting area displaying elegant vintage charm. Walls are adorned with detailed toile wallpaper in soft beige and brown tones, creating a historic and refined atmosphere. The ceiling is painted a calming pale blue, complementing the elaborate ceiling fan with wooden blades. Two plush green velvet armchairs flank a small carved wooden table, positioned on a large, understated beige area rug atop gleaming dark hardwood floors. French doors with sheer white curtains allow ample natural light. Ornate dark wood headboard stands out behind the white bedding in the recessed sleeping alcove.

Cozy Sitting Area

Melissa Carlton of Houlihan Lawrence Inc.

Two vintage green velvet armchairs face a small wooden side table and a classic white fireplace, providing an inviting seating arrangement. Walls are covered in historic-style toile wallpaper in neutral tones, depicting pastoral and equestrian scenes that add a timeless charm. The dark hardwood floor contrasts elegantly with the light beige area rug under the chairs, defining the space. Ornate wooden furniture, such as a tall chest of drawers and a side cabinet, enhance the traditional ambiance. A rustic ceiling fan and softly glowing sconces beside the fireplace contribute to a warm, comfortable atmosphere in this intimate nook.

Balcony Doorway

Melissa Carlton of Houlihan Lawrence Inc.

Glass-paned French doors open to reveal a balcony framed by a black wooden railing, inviting views of lush greenery and a distant mountain under a clear sky. The interior walls are covered with a vintage toile wallpaper depicting pastoral and equestrian scenes in soft sepia tones, enhancing the historic ambiance. Rich dark hardwood floors add warmth to the space. A classic wooden dresser on elegant cabriole legs stands beside a simple white panel door, while sheer white curtains gently filter the natural light, contributing to the airy and timeless feel of this charming area.

Listing Agent: Melissa Carlton of Houlihan Lawrence Inc. via Zillow 

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