This unique Gothic Revival estate, originally built in 1887 as a chapel by renowned architect Henry Vaughan, is located in Groton Center. The home holds significant historical value, once serving the prestigious Groton School attended by President FDR, who cherished his memories of the chapel. Converted into a multi-generational single-family residence, it features three kitchens with quartz counters, two fireplaces, and a large apartment above the four-car garage. Additional highlights include a circular driveway, fenced backyard with a covered paver patio, and low-maintenance grounds with specimen trees. Listed at $3,850,000, this remarkable property blends history with modern living.

Great Room Overview

Vaulted wooden ceilings with exposed beams draw the eye upward, accentuating the room’s expansive volume. A large, ornate wrought-iron chandelier serves as a central focal point, suspended above a warm living area furnished with rich leather seating, a woven round ottoman, and an area rug anchoring the social space. The walls are painted white, contrasting with natural wood floors and surrounding the tall, diamond-paned yellow stained glass windows that provide soft, ambient light. The open floor plan includes a distant view of a modern white kitchen, creating a harmonious blend of historic craftsmanship and contemporary comfort.

Aerial View of Property

A large, historic-style building occupies a triangular lot bordered by two streets, with a mix of classic and modern architectural elements. The building has steep gabled roofs covered with dark shingles and walls painted in a light color, likely white or cream, accented by numerous windows and an entrance canopy. A circular patio with seating and landscaping is enclosed by a low stone wall in the rear courtyard. The grounds are landscaped with shrubs and young trees, surrounded by paved walkways and blacktop parking areas, all framed by a white perimeter fence. Surrounding houses suggest a serene residential neighborhood setting.

House Exterior Detail

An ornate wrought iron sign displaying the address “279 Main Street” hangs from a sturdy black wooden post. The sign’s design is decorative and curved, with a vintage aesthetic matching the historic character of the home behind it. The background reveals a large white house with classic American architectural elements, including gabled roofs covered in gray shingles and white horizontal siding. The structure features multiple windows with divided panes, some of which are arched, and intricate wood trim accents around them. The property has greenery, with trimmed bushes and branches in the foreground enhancing the picturesque setting.

Kitchen with Cathedral Ceiling

The kitchen is characterized by a striking cathedral ceiling with exposed wooden beams and a grand wrought-iron chandelier. White cabinetry with detailed molding lines the perimeter, creating a bright, clean aesthetic contrasted by warm wood flooring. The large central island topped with white and gray marble offers ample counter space and seating with five modern black stools. Glass-front cabinets add a touch of elegance and display. Leaded glass windows on the upper walls enhance the historic charm, while classic sconces provide soft ambient lighting. The overall design balances historic character with modern functionality.

Kitchen Island and Stove

Spacious kitchen with a large central island topped with polished marble, offering ample drawer storage below. White cabinetry and subway tile backsplash create a bright, clean aesthetic. A professional-grade stainless steel stove with multiple burners is inset in the counter along one wall, accompanied by a vent hood. Warm wooden plank flooring contrasts charmingly with the white finishes. High vaulted ceilings with exposed wooden beams add rustic elegance, while tall, leaded glass windows flood the space with natural light. Classic wrought iron sconces on the walls enhance the historic charm, and subtle decorative touches provide a welcoming atmosphere.

Open Kitchen & Living Area

Soaring vaulted ceiling with exposed wooden beams creates a dramatic and spacious feel. The kitchen is outfitted in crisp white cabinetry with marble countertops, including a large central island with bar seating. The warm hardwood floors enhance the inviting ambiance. Leaded glass windows along the tall walls allow natural light to softly filter in, complementing the wrought iron chandeliers and sconces for gentle illumination. The open layout flows seamlessly into a comfortable living area, featuring rich leather chairs and cozy seating arranged around a fireplace. Ornate wrought iron balcony railing adds historic charm overlooking the space.

Great Room and Kitchen

The interior showcases a spacious great room with a vaulted wooden ceiling featuring exposed beams and multiple ornate chandeliers that evoke historic elegance. White walls frame tall, stained glass windows arranged symmetrically along both sides, allowing rich natural light to filter through softly. Rich brown leather sofas and woven armchairs cluster around a central coffee table on a patterned area rug, creating a cozy seating area. Opposite is a classic wooden church pew repurposed as seating. The far end opens into a white kitchen with bar stools at an island, maintaining a harmonious blend of rustic charm and refined design. French doors lead to an adjacent sunlit space with potted greenery, enhancing openness and flow.

Formal Dining Room

A long wooden dining table stretches across the center, surrounded by a mix of classic chairs, some with a curved backrest and others woven. The floor is striking with black and white checkered tiles that shine under natural light flowing through tall, multi-pane windows and glass doors lining the left wall. The high vaulted ceiling enhances spaciousness, and two large wrought-iron chandeliers with candle-like bulbs add a vintage touch. Plants are scattered throughout, bringing greenery into the airy, predominantly white room. An ornate gold-framed mirror and a leather armchair create warmth and character in this refined dining space.

Bedroom with Stained Glass

A vaulted wooden ceiling with white trim creates a warm contrast to the bright white walls, emphasizing the historic charm of this bedroom. The focal point is a large, arched stained glass window in soft yellows and greens that fills the room with colorful light. Flanking the window are smaller stained glass windows adding symmetry. The bed, with an elaborately carved headboard, sits against this backdrop, accompanied by matching bedside tables with lamps. At the foot of the bed is an elegant, cushioned loveseat in a neutral beige fabric. A distressed, ornate armoire stands to the side, and natural wood flooring adds warmth and ties together the traditional aesthetic with French doors and delicate curtains filtering natural light.

Bedroom with Stained Glass

Vaulted ceiling lined with warm wood contrasts against bright white walls, creating an airy and inviting atmosphere. The focal point is an arched, stained glass window above a cream-colored antique-style bed with intricate woodwork. Matching nightstands flank the bed, topped with plants adding a touch of nature. Soft lighting from wall sconces and an elegant chandelier enhance the room’s historic charm. French doors with white drapes lead to the outdoors, allowing natural light to flood the space. Hardwood floors bring warmth and texture, while a plush loveseat with neutral-toned pillows sits at the foot of the bed, blending comfort and elegance seamlessly.

Elegant Bathroom

A spacious bathroom with a luxurious freestanding white bathtub positioned beneath a large frosted window, allowing natural light to flood the space while ensuring privacy. Soft gray walls complement the polished white marble floor tiles with subtle veining. Ornate white double vanities with marble countertops occupy the right side, each topped with classic sconces and mirrors framed in white. In the background stands a vintage-style dresser with a decorative mirror and candles, evoking a touch of timeless charm. The design combines modern lighting and fixtures with traditional architectural details, creating a serene, elegant atmosphere.

Upper Loft Sitting Area

An airy loft space with rich, warm wood-paneled vaulted ceilings contrasted by crisp white walls and trim. The flooring consists of wide planks of natural oak, enhancing the rustic yet refined aesthetic. Wrought iron railings with elegant scrollwork border a staircase, adding a decorative, historic touch. A comfortable leather armchair with an ottoman sits tucked into a small niche beneath an arched window with leaded glass panes. Two ornate black iron chandeliers hang from the ceiling beams, casting a soft glow that highlights the intricate woodwork and architectural details throughout the space, evoking a classic yet inviting ambiance.

Living Room Loft View

Vaulted ceiling with warm wood paneling contrasts beautifully against crisp white walls and molding, creating an airy, elegant atmosphere. The standout centerpiece is a large, wrought iron chandelier with multiple candle-style lights, adding historic charm and intricate detail. Below, rich hardwood floors extend across the open space, leading to a cozy seating area with dark leather armchairs and matching ottomans, accented by a white side table holding a small plant. Arched doorways and windows with black frames contribute to the vintage aesthetic, while the decorative iron railing frames the stairwell, reinforcing the home’s classic American craftsmanship.

Attic Lounge Area

A narrow, triangular attic space with exposed wooden beams contrasts against white paneled walls, creating a cozy and rustic atmosphere. The floor is covered with soft, plush white sheepskin rugs, enhancing warmth and comfort. Furnished with two caramel-colored leather sofas, one is positioned flat on the floor while the other sits elevated with a white throw draped casually for added softness. A wicker coffee table sits in the center, topped with small decorative items and a plant. A gold-toned adjustable wall lamp provides focused lighting, complementing the natural wood tones and lending an inviting, intimate quality to the space.

Spacious Outdoor Deck

A broad outdoor deck with light gray wooden planks stretches alongside a white traditional house with tall multi-pane windows and a steep shingled roof crowned by a small tower with a weather vane. Black metal outdoor furniture, including a dining table surrounded by six chairs and a closed umbrella, occupies the deck center, emphasizing outdoor leisure. A covered hot tub area is situated near the house, sheltered by a metal frame canopy. The deck railings are white with square balusters, complementing the home’s bright exterior. Tall trees and neighboring houses are visible beyond the deck, under a partly cloudy sky.

Outdoor Deck Seating

Expansive outdoor deck with light gray wooden planks and white railing provides a clean, airy setting. A small round white table is complemented by two matching chairs with light green patterned cushions, offering a cozy seating arrangement. The deck overlooks a neighboring house with white siding and dark roofing. The surrounding leafless trees hint at a late autumn or early spring setting. The white-and-gray color palette creates a serene atmosphere, balancing natural tones and providing a space ideal for relaxation or casual outdoor dining while enjoying the view of the yard and nearby homes.

Kitchen and Dining Area

White cabinetry and walls provide a crisp, clean backdrop with a bright, airy feel. Natural wood tones on the floor and dining chairs add warmth and contrast. The kitchen island has a wooden countertop with white base cabinetry and includes built-in shelving. Stainless steel appliances, including a refrigerator and stove, bring modern functionality. Open wooden shelves with black metal supports provide display space above the stove. The dining area features a glass-top table with a wooden frame and matching rustic chairs. A large wooden-framed clock hangs on the wall, contributing a charming farmhouse accent.

Open Kitchen and Living Area

Long galley-style kitchen with white cabinetry and marble countertops extends into a spacious living area. Warm wood flooring runs throughout, contrasting the crisp white walls and ceiling with recessed lighting. Open shelving with rustic wooden boards holds glassware and decorative items, while a stainless steel stove and dishwasher add contemporary touches. A central island with detailed woodwork and two cushioned stools provides workspace and seating. At the far end, a dining table with wooden chairs sits near a comfy beige sectional facing a mounted flat-screen TV, combining modern comfort with clean, classic design.

Cozy Home Office

A compact workspace with clean white walls and a warm wooden floor creates a bright and inviting atmosphere. The small wooden desk, with turned legs, holds a black desk lamp, two small potted plants, and a glass terrarium, adding natural elements to the space. A modern ergonomic white office chair contrasts with the traditional style of the table. Two framed botanical prints hang above, complementing the greenery that climbs a trellis on the left wall. Above the desk, a crystal chandelier adds a touch of elegance while natural light filters in through a transom window, brightening the room.

Bedroom Corner

Soft white walls and ceiling create a bright and airy atmosphere. The wooden floor adds warmth and complements the beige tufted headboard of the large bed, which is dressed in pale blue bedding with a subtle floral pattern. A rustic wooden chair sits near the corner, adding a touch of vintage charm. A bedside table holds a lamp with a textured shade, casting a warm glow. The doorway reveals a glimpse into an adjoining space with a classic wall sconce and a window with blinds partially covered by a white curtain, enhancing the room’s cozy and inviting feel.

Cozy Bedroom Corner

A peaceful bedroom with a soft, neutral color palette dominated by whites and light grays, complemented by warm honey-toned hardwood floors. A textured wooden headboard anchors the bed, dressed in a simple patterned quilt and plush pillows, with a muted green throw adding a gentle pop of color. A cozy, round, brown leather ottoman sits at the foot of the bed. Natural light filters through a small window draped with sheer white curtains, beside which a potted trailing plant and framed botanical print add touches of nature. A classic wooden rocking chair and woven basket add rustic charm and warmth to the serene space.

Laundry Room Details

The space uses a clean white color palette with natural wood-look flooring adding warmth. A black wooden bench with a geometric-patterned pillow sits against one wall beneath a pegboard holding two straw hats and an umbrella. Opposite this is a pair of white laundry machines, washer and dryer, situated beside a large stainless steel utility sink with a modern faucet. Above the appliances, a small window with a curtain allows natural light to enter. The room combines practical elements with subtle homely touches, blending simplicity and function in a crisp, organized layout.

Open Loft Bedroom Area

A spacious open loft area combines living, dining, and sleeping spaces on warm wood laminate flooring. Natural light fills the room through a row of large windows with pale gray curtains. The sleeping area has a bed with a wicker headboard, simple white bedding, and a brown leather ottoman at the foot. A vintage-style green cabinet and matching green dresser add character. The living area includes a wicker sofa with neutral cushions and a dark coffee table resting on a traditional rug. Exposed brick walls contrast with bright white walls, blending rustic and modern elements. Ceiling fans and recessed lighting provide illumination and ventilation.

Open Concept Kitchen and Living

Vaulted ceilings with recessed lighting create an airy atmosphere, complemented by a grand wrought iron chandelier centered above the kitchen island. The kitchen layout features abundant white cabinetry and sleek white countertops, with a modern stainless steel sink positioned beneath a window. A large island topped with a marble-like surface includes seating for four with rustic white stools. The living area includes beige and gray tufted sofas on warm-toned wood flooring that extends throughout the space. Natural light floods in through multiple windows framed with sheer white curtains, while decorative touches include a round wood dining table and a large vintage mirror along one wall.

Kitchen and Dining Area

A spacious kitchen and dining area with vaulted ceilings and abundant natural light. The kitchen island, crafted from rich dark wood, contrasts with the white cabinetry and marble countertops, providing a central workspace with seating for four on white wooden barstools. Ornate pendant lights with brass detailing hang above the island, enhancing the historic charm. Flooring in warm wood tones complements the neutral palette. The dining area features a round wooden table surrounded by woven rattan chairs, positioned adjacent to large glass doors that lead to a patio, blending indoor and outdoor living.

Dining Area and Staircase

Round wooden dining table surrounded by six wicker chairs with a woven texture, placed on warm-toned wood flooring. The space is illuminated by natural light coming through large French doors framed with white curtains. A framed coastal landscape painting hangs on the white wall, adding color to the neutral palette. To the right, a wrought-iron spiral staircase with wooden steps leads to an upper level balcony lined with similarly ornate iron railings, contributing a historic and artistic touch. The hallway extends beyond, featuring hardwood floors and rustic light fixtures with a metal cage design, blending modern and classic elements.

Entry Doorway

The entrance showcases a grand arched doorway painted in a deep black with ornate gold trim detailing that adds historic elegance. The door itself incorporates decorative wrought-iron scrollwork over a translucent textured glass panel, allowing subtle colorful light to filter through. Flanking the doorway are two carved pilasters with complementary gold accents that emphasize the arch. Beyond the threshold, a long, light-toned hardwood floor runs through a bright hallway punctuated with white walls, classic moldings, and a visible spiral wrought iron staircase, blending historic charm with contemporary clean lines.

Spacious Master Bedroom

High vaulted ceilings enhance the openness of the bedroom, while two wrought iron chandeliers provide vintage charm. The flooring is a warm, medium-toned wood laminate that pairs well with white walls and trim, amplifying natural light from large windows draped with sheer white curtains. The centerpiece is a white wooden bed frame with intricate molding and a soft tufted headboard complemented by green bedding pillows. A bold black doorway with ornate gold detailing and wrought iron gate stands out dramatically, creating a striking contrast and historic architectural interest. A pair of rattan chairs provides a cozy seating area with a neutral-toned rug anchoring the space.

Bathroom with Freestanding Tub

The bathroom presents a soft palette of light blue walls combined with white trim and cabinetry, creating a calm and airy atmosphere. A sleek freestanding bathtub sits beneath a double-hung window with sheer white curtains, allowing natural light to fill the space. The floor is a warm wood-look material that complements the soft colors. A private water closet is discreetly located behind a door. Opposite the tub, a long white vanity with marble countertop and dual sinks is topped by two rectangular mirrors, each illuminated by vintage-style wall sconces with clear glass shades.

Listing Agent: Jeff Gordon of EXIT Assurance Realty via Zillow