Tour a Picturesque 1880 Traditional Retreat in Texas Featuring a Resort-Style Pool and a 2,500 Sq Ft Barndominium

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.

David Atkins of Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty

Located in Brenham, Texas, at the gateway to Texas Hill Country, this exquisite century property spans 20 breathtaking acres featuring mature Live Oaks and vibrant rose bushes. The historic home, surrounded by meticulously cared-for gardens developed over 24 years, offers a charming 2,400+ sq.ft. main residence with 3 bedrooms. Additional accommodations include a cozy 1,600+ sq.ft. guest cottage and a spacious 2,500+ sq.ft. barndominium with multiple bedrooms, accommodating up to 16 guests. Recent modern upgrades include 49 solar panels, county water, and an irrigation well. Priced at $2,575,000, this estate balances heritage and sustainability just 7 miles south of Lake Somerville and 20 minutes from Round Top.

Front Yard and Garden

David Atkins of Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty

A spacious front yard is lush with well-maintained green grass and a variety of mature trees and shrubs. The house has a charming classic design with a metal roof and a dormer window. A covered porch with white pillars spans the front, lending a welcoming feel. The garden beds along the front are densely planted with flowering plants in pink and white hues, enhancing the cottage-like appeal of the home. The sky is painted with soft pastel colors from the setting sun, adding warmth and serenity to the peaceful rural landscape.

Front Entrance Garden

David Atkins of Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty

A long gravel driveway leads to a solid wooden gate flanked by stone pillars, marking the grand entrance to the property. The driveway is bordered by well-manicured flower beds bursting with vibrant red and white blossoms, adding striking pops of color against the greenery. White wooden fences enclose a large grassy field dotted with mature trees, including several evergreen and deciduous varieties that provide a mix of textures and shades of green. The overall landscape is lush and expansive, suggesting both privacy and a serene countryside atmosphere with a neatly maintained, inviting aesthetic.

Country Estate Overview

David Atkins of Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty

Expansive rural landscape with lush greenery dominates this wide aerial view. The property is characterized by a mix of mature trees and well-maintained open fields, providing a serene, natural environment. A white picket fence lines a gravel road that leads to quaint buildings nestled among the foliage. Several gardens and orchards hint at purposeful cultivation, while vehicles indicate accessibility. The horizon fades into distant woods under a clear sky, reflecting a peaceful country setting. The layout highlights seclusion paired with organized agricultural and residential spaces, emphasizing a harmonious balance between nature and human habitation.

Front Porch and Garden

David Atkins of Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty

White wooden fence encloses a vibrant, lush garden overflowing with a variety of colorful flowers including reds, purples, pinks, and whites. A gravel path runs alongside the garden, leading to a charming arbor draped in flowering vines. The cozy front porch of the house is adorned with string lights and climbing vines, adding a soft glow. Wooden rocking chairs and a simple bench invite relaxation under the covered porch roof. The house has light beige siding, with delicate scalloped detail in the gable, contributing to its quaint, historic charm. Mature trees provide shade and frame the idyllic scene beautifully.

Backyard with Pool

David Atkins of Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty

An expansive backyard featuring a rectangular swimming pool bordered by stone tiles sits prominently in the center of a lush green lawn. Mature oak trees with thick trunks and spreading branches provide natural shade, creating a serene outdoor environment. The house’s rear facade, painted a soft beige with white trim, stretches horizontally, with several doors and windows allowing direct access from the indoor living space to the outdoors. A wooden deck area near the house offers a cozy spot for relaxation, blending harmoniously with the calm, natural ambiance under a pastel evening sky.

Garden Entrance

David Atkins of Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty

A charming garden pathway leads through a white picket fence gate under an archway covered in vibrant pink climbing roses. On either side of the gravel path, raised garden beds contain lush greenery and flowering plants, supported by wire trellises. In the background, a quaint yellow garden shed with a metal roof and a small white gate adds rustic character. The abundant blooms and varied foliage create a colorful, inviting outdoor space bursting with natural beauty, reflecting a classic, well-maintained, historic American garden aesthetic.

Garden Maze Aerial

David Atkins of Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty

A meticulously maintained garden maze lies at the center of a lush green lawn, surrounded by mature trees and shrubs. Stone pathways weave through the raised garden beds and the maze’s geometric pattern contrasts with the organic shapes of the surrounding vegetation. Two white-roofed buildings flank the maze, connected by a winding gravel driveway lined with greenery. A small covered structure near the top of the maze offers a quiet seating area, blending functionality with the tranquil, verdant landscape. This outdoor space combines formal garden design with rustic charm, creating an inviting and picturesque environment.

Country Driveway

David Atkins of Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty

A winding dirt and gravel driveway bordered by closely planted mature trees, casting dappled shade over the path. An old black bicycle leans against a large tree trunk, adding a nostalgic rural touch. To the right, a white wooden fence lines a field of tall grass and flowering bushes, creating a charming pastoral boundary. The sky overhead is bright blue with soft white clouds, enhancing the tranquil countryside ambiance. The green grass alongside the driveway contrasts with the earthy tones of the road, embodying a peaceful, idyllic farm or estate entrance.

Historic Cottage Front

David Atkins of Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty

A charming historic cottage with a soft yellow exterior contrasts beautifully against the cool gray metal roof. The facade is symmetrically balanced with a central set of light lavender double doors featuring glass panes. Two dormer windows peek out from the roof, adding architectural interest and extra light inside. Flanking either side of the entrance are large white-trimmed windows with cream curtains, while lush greenery and vibrant flower beds of purples, pinks, and whites soften the gravel driveway. Mature trees frame the home, enhancing its quaint, inviting, and serene garden aesthetic at dusk.

Backyard Pool Area

David Atkins of Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty

The lush backyard features a rectangular swimming pool bordered with natural stone, blending seamlessly with vibrant green grass and a variety of mature trees. The tall tree canopy provides a natural privacy screen and a sense of tranquility. A small garden area with flowering plants adds a touch of color, while a single chicken roams freely on the expansive lawn. The space balances open grassy areas with dense foliage, evoking a peaceful, country-style outdoor retreat ideal for relaxation and enjoying nature.

Backyard Pool Area

David Atkins of Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty

A spacious rectangular swimming pool with a stone deck border sits prominently in a lush, well-maintained green lawn. The backyard is shaded by large, mature oak trees with thick, sprawling branches that create a natural canopy. The house in the background is a single-story structure painted in soft yellow with contrasting lavender-framed windows and doors, giving a cheerful, rustic vibe. A wooden deck with railings and steps leads to the backyard, accented with potted plants. The yard is expansive, bordered by a white picket fence, contributing to the peaceful, inviting atmosphere of this outdoor living space.

House Exterior Garden

David Atkins of Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty

A charming single-story house with a steep metal roof and a small dormer window with open top-hinged windows sits behind a lush, well-maintained garden. The front porch is screened in with light purple-framed doors and panels, complementing the subtle yellow siding above it. A stone pathway breaks through an abundance of flowering bushes featuring multiple shades of pink and white blooms. The garden is bordered by small shrubs and tall greenery, blending vibrantly with the expansive green lawn under a bright blue sky. A black and white dog sits happily in front of the house, adding warmth to the scene.

Screened Porch Seating

David Atkins of Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty

The screened porch extends along the house with a soft green beadboard ceiling and white trim columns framing the open screen panels. Ceiling fans hang evenly spaced overhead, providing coolness on warm days. The wood floor is painted muted gray-blue, complementing the pale yellow exterior siding walls. Bright pops of color come from the red rocking chairs and a red console table adorned with potted plants. A natural wood table sits near the screen door with green wicker chairs, some with patterned cushions, creating a charming space for recreation or relaxation with views of a lush garden and gravel pathway.

Screened Porch with Game

David Atkins of Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty

A cozy screened porch facing a lush, green landscape filled with mature trees and flowering shrubs. A wooden table holds a classic Scrabble board game, with letter tiles spelling “PEACEFUL” prominently displayed. Comfortable wicker chairs with patterned cushions invite relaxation and leisure in this outdoor living space. The white wooden framing of the porch, complete with decorative columns and railing, emphasizes a traditional architectural aesthetic. Beyond, a gravel driveway meanders through manicured grass, evoking a serene and inviting atmosphere perfect for quiet enjoyment and connection with nature.

Screened Porch Seating

David Atkins of Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty

Serene corner of a screened porch overlooking lush garden greenery and mature trees beyond. Two woven rattan armchairs frame a round glass-topped table, with binoculars and a book resting on the surface, inviting leisurely outdoor moments. The porch’s ceiling is painted soft green with beadboard paneling, complementing the white-painted wood framing and French doors. A blue-and-white patterned rug adds comfort and a touch of classic charm underfoot. The wide screened openings provide unobstructed views while sheltering from insects, blending cozy indoor comfort with natural outdoor beauty.

Garden Pathway

David Atkins of Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty

A charming garden pathway constructed from natural stone slabs set amongst small dark gravel winds through lush green plantings and vibrant flower beds. The garden is rich with various white and pink blooms, surrounded by an abundance of leafy shrubs and tall ornamental grasses. Beyond the garden, an expansive, neatly manicured lawn extends into the distance, dotted intermittently with young trees and mature, broad-canopied trees. The scene is framed on the right by a tall, slender evergreen, providing varied textures and height contrast. A calm, serene atmosphere is enhanced by the clear blue sky above.

Screened Porch Exterior

David Atkins of Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty

A charming screened-in porch attached to a beige, gable-roofed house, surrounded by lush garden beds filled with vibrant flowering plants in reds, pinks, and purples. White pillars and framing support the porch’s transparent screens, allowing an inviting view into the warmly lit interior. The porch sits atop a stone foundation with stone steps leading to the entrance. Mature trees and dense greenery frame the area, offering a serene and private atmosphere. The soft pastel colors of the sunset sky enhance the warm and welcoming aesthetic of this tranquil outdoor space.

Front Porch Seating

David Atkins of Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty

A spacious front porch painted in soft pastel tones with a light gray floor and pale yellow wooden walls accented by white window and door trim. Three white ceiling fans with lights hang from the muted green ceiling, enhancing comfort. Vibrant red rocking chairs with floral cushions create a lively contrast alongside a green wicker chair and a small light blue side table holding a white pitcher. A red wicker console table with potted plants adds charm. A cozy, friendly dog lies near the entrance, lending warmth and a homely, inviting atmosphere to this classic American porch space.

Living Room Seating Area

David Atkins of Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty

A spacious living room with soft blue-gray walls and light hardwood floors creates an airy and calm atmosphere. A large light gray sectional sofa anchors the room, accented by black and beige throw pillows for a subtle contrast. The center features a round rustic wooden coffee table with a simple woven basket, adding warmth and texture. Double French doors open to a lush green outdoor space, bringing in natural light and scenic views. The ceiling fan and classic crown molding add to the comfort and refined charm of the setting. A small desk area with a computer in the corner suggests a multi-functional living space.

Kitchen Island and Cabinets

David Atkins of Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty

A spacious kitchen with soft blue cabinetry contrasts against a warm mustard-yellow ceiling, creating a charming vintage ambiance. The centerpiece is a large wooden butcher block island with open shelving holding appliances and kitchenware. The cabinetry includes glass-front upper shelves displaying blue and white china, colorful mugs, and various glassware, while large pantry cabinets provide ample storage. White subway tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances, and a farmhouse sink with a yellow gingham curtain beneath contribute to the classic American country style. A blue patterned runner sits on the slate tile floor, enhancing the cozy, inviting atmosphere.

Kitchen Island and Storage Wall

David Atkins of Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty

The kitchen displays a spacious island with a natural wood countertop and a built-in wine rack on the end. Four wooden chairs with blue and white patterned cushions line one side, inviting casual dining or gathering. The far wall features a large built-in cabinetry unit painted white with shaker-style doors, accented by three black industrial-style wall sconces above. The flooring is slate tile in varying dark shades, complementing the neutral tones. Pendant lights hang above the island providing additional illumination. A row of windows over the sink offers views of lush greenery, enhancing the airy, light-filled atmosphere. A woven rug adds warmth and texture underfoot.

Kitchen Sink View

David Atkins of Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty

White marble countertop with subtle gray veining surrounds a deep white sink, equipped with a brushed nickel faucet and spray nozzle. The large window above the sink offers a scenic view of a vibrant backyard dotted with mature trees, lush green lawn, and a rectangular swimming pool in the distance. The window frame is crisp white, complementing the marble and brightening the kitchen space. Several potted plants on both sides of the sink add freshness and a touch of natural décor, blending indoor greenery with the verdant outdoor landscape.

Kitchen Island and Entry

David Atkins of Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty

A spacious kitchen with a central island painted soft yellow, topped with a butcher block countertop. Open shelving built into the island holds books and kitchenware, adding a practical yet decorative touch. The main counters are marble with a white subway tile backsplash, complementing the muted blue-grey walls. Stainless steel appliances, including a modern stove with an industrial-style vent hood, bring a contemporary element. Dark slate tile flooring contrasts with the lighter cabinetry. Exposed wooden beams and a rustic sliding barn door add warmth and historic charm. White ceiling fans and pendant lights brighten the room, balancing farmhouse and modern styles.

Dining Room Long Table

David Atkins of Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty

A long wooden dining table stretches down the length of the room, surrounded by an eclectic mix of wooden chairs including one upholstered in blue patterned fabric. The warm honey-toned floors complement the table and contrast softly with light yellow walls. Windows framed by blue and white checkered curtains allow natural light to flood the space, enhancing the warm, inviting atmosphere. Ceiling fans and pendant lights provide a balance of rustic and practical lighting. Vintage furnishings, such as a small sideboard and a lamp-lit corner, add historic charm to this elongated dining area leading to a blue door opening to the outside.

Living Room View

David Atkins of Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty

Spacious living area with light gray walls and natural wood flooring, creating a bright and airy atmosphere. A large off-white sectional sofa anchors the room, facing a sizable flat-screen TV set on a vintage-style whitewashed cabinet. French doors with glass panes open to a lush green garden, enhancing indoor-outdoor flow and inviting natural light. A modern office chair and desk occupy one corner, blending work and relaxation spaces seamlessly. Wall art, a potted plant, and subtle ceiling fixtures add personality without overwhelming the clean, contemporary aesthetic anchored in comfort and functionality.

Master Bedroom Oasis

David Atkins of Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty

The room is spacious with a soothing pastel blue wall color contrasting with the light wood flooring, creating a cool and calming atmosphere. A large ornate area rug with floral motifs anchors the space, offering a touch of vintage charm. The black wrought iron bed frame has a simplistic yet classic design, paired with neutral bedding. Adjacent to the bed, wooden bedside tables hold modern lamps and decorative elements including a vase with dried pampas grass. A cozy armchair with striped boost pillows invites relaxation. A tall lean mirror with nailhead trim stands against the wall near a sliding glass door that opens to a lush green garden patio, bringing natural light and an outdoor connection inside. The ceiling fan is a practical addition, while a rattan peacock chair adds a brand of rustic elegance. Overall, the design blends comfort, timeless style, and indoor-outdoor harmony.

Bedroom Interior Details

David Atkins of Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty

The room conveys a calming, cozy atmosphere with soft blue-gray walls complemented by white trim and crown molding. Light filters through two sash windows dressed with sheer, white curtains, creating an airy feel. The bed is dressed in muted, sage green linens with a textured cream pillow and a patterned quilt at the foot. An elegant vintage wooden wardrobe with mirrored panels contrasts warmly against the cooler wall tones. Decor includes vibrant artwork on opposite walls, a yellow table lamp atop a rustic wooden stool, and small accents like flowers and framed pictures, blending traditional and eclectic styles.

Bathroom Details

David Atkins of Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty

Soft light blue walls contrast with white trim and traditional black-and-white hexagonal floor tiles, lending a vintage charm. A classic white freestanding tub with chrome fixtures sits beneath a window adorned with delicate sheer curtains and small potted plants on the sill. Opposite, a marble-topped vanity with a golden framed mirror and silver faucet adds timeless elegance. A small pastel green side table holds toiletries. The toilet is positioned between the vanity and wall. A colorful woven rug adds warmth near the tub. Framed sepia-toned architectural sketches and dried floral arrangements enhance the cozy, historic ambiance.

Cozy Bedroom Corner

David Atkins of Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty

Soft pastel blue walls frame a tranquil bedroom with a plush beige carpet underfoot. A large bed with off-white textured bedding and patterned pillows rests against a wall adorned with a delicate green leaf garland and a feathered wall hanging, enhancing the natural, bohemian vibe. To the left, a white nightstand holds a vase of flowers and small lamps, while a clothing rack with neatly hung garments sits beside a wide window that lets in bright daylight. A vintage floral chair accompanies a small desk with personal items and a basket filled with cozy blankets, creating a warm, inviting ambiance.

Dining Area and Staircase

David Atkins of Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty

A spacious combined dining and living area with a vaulted ceiling painted in a soft white shade enhances brightness. The dining space has an oval wooden table surrounded by ladder-back chairs with cushioned seats, sitting on a large, intricately patterned rug in muted earth tones. A set of tall windows with sheer curtains brings in natural light. The open stairway has polished wooden steps and white risers with a matching handrail. The living room beyond features beige upholstered seating, a small wooden TV stand, and a glass door leading to an outdoor area. Framed artworks add subtle color to the light gray walls.

Bedroom Loft Space

David Atkins of Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty

A cozy bedroom located in an attic loft with sloped ceilings painted white, creating an intimate atmosphere. Soft gray walls complement the warm honey-toned wooden floors that add richness and texture. The bed is covered in white linens with subtle blue accents, flanked by antique wooden nightstands with classic lamps emitting warm light. A ceiling fan hangs centrally overhead for circulation. Windows bring in natural light and offer views of greenery outside. Traditional furniture pieces, including a small side table and a plaid armchair, provide charm and a blend of rustic and vintage aesthetics. The railing and staircase detail show clean white and natural wood finishes that highlight craftsmanship.

Listing Agent: David Atkins of Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty via Zillow 

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