A rare opportunity to own this private, 32-acre estate in the center of Alford. Built in 1875, the historic post-and-beam home was completely renovated by famed director Dick Schneider to create this spacious and comfortable country house perfect for relaxing with friends and family. The main part of the house features a light-filled, eat-in kitchen, which leads out to the deck overlooking nature. The living room has a wood-burning fireplace and an adjacent den with attached full bath. Upstairs are 3 bedrooms including a large master suite. The breezeway off the downstairs atrium leads to a 2-car garage above which are located the guest quarters with full bath and which is also ideal for use as an office or home gym. The grounds are simply gorgeous, with the Alford Brook running along the perimeter.
What’s the most compelling thing about this property?
The grounds surrounding the property are sublime. One enters down a long winding drive, with the Alford Creek running alongside. The park-like setting features mature specimen trees on groomed lawns. A trail leads off from the back of the house to the upper property where one can enjoy views of the local hills. Peace, privacy, and quiet prevail, although the property is in the center of Alford hamlet.
For whom is this house perfect?
This property would appeal to folks seeking a private retreat in the country, yet one that is close to all the Berkshire amenities. Great Barrington is just 10 minutes away. It would also be attractive to lovers of antique houses. The original house was built in 1875 and the current owner renovated back in the 1970’s. There is plenty of land to build a guesthouse on the upper land that would take advantage of the views.
What’s the most fun thing to do within five miles of this house?
Close by is Alford Springs Reserve, 899 acres of mostly forested ridgeline, with more than seven miles of trails for hikers, snowshoers, seasoned cross-country skiers, mountain bikers, hunters and berry-pickers. The reserve, named for feeder streams of Alford Brook and the Green River, offers vistas of Greylock and Tom Ball mountains and Alford Valley.
If this house could talk, what secret would it tell about its history?
The famed TV director Dick Schneider and talented artist Jim Maher saved the home from ruin back in the 1970’s and turned it into their dream weekend getaway from NYC. If the walls could talk they would remember many carefree weekends with friends and family filled with passionate conversations about art and culture.
