Prominently sited on 3.2 glorious acres, the Richter Estate is a masterclass of design, dimension, and harmony. Originally designed as the home to historic vitner, Ferdinand Richter, in 1923 by esteemed architectural firm, Smith & Bassette. Significantly renovated by Kronenberger & Sons in 2014, the residence blends key elements of classic form with unmatched modernization and quality. Impeccably outfitted for the sophisticated owner, this enchanting country manor is a serenely private retreat, while just a short drive to charming South Glastonbury and Main Street in Middletown. 

A circular driveway, with european-inspired central courtyard, welcomes with stately splendor. Lush, vibrant grounds delight in all directions. Verdant lawns and shade trees meet terraced masonry walls, dotted with pedestal planting urns, and edged in the rich texture of flourishing hydrangeas. Savor in refined living, entertaining, and recreation with over 2,000sf of sprawling outdoor living spaces. Extensive flagstone patios envelop an al-fresco dining area and open-air seating space with large stone fireplace. Fresh breezes billow through a spectacular 50-foot long brick-floored portico overlooking the idyllic setting. Float the day away in the 50'x20' saltwater gunite pool that is seemlessly immersed within is perfectly manicured surroundings. Wander past a .5 acre pond, home to fish and exotic turtles, and down a groomed 25-foot wide path to your own direct Connecticut river frontage with deep water dock potential. The side yard is a whimsical garden escape with a cottage shed and fenced growing beds primed for vegetable and flower harvests in seasons to come. 

Neoclassical interiors marvelously unfold over 6,142sf of effortless elegance and sophisticated design. Themes of precision, symmetry, and scale are interwoven throughout both formal and casual spaces. Refined, yet unpretentious, luxury is celebrated in every fit and finish. While original call bells, a telephone room, and ornate hidden wall safe are tokens of a nostalgic era gone by, the home is imbued with the latest artisanal and technological innovation. 

The main reception hall, with primary staircase, welcomes and invites one to stay awhile. Pass through an arched doorway into a gracious formal living room adorned with elaborate paneled walls, hardwood floors, the first of 9 fireplaces, and 3 french doors opening out to the covered veranda just beyond. Working from home will become a favorite pastime in a stunning 450sf library detailed with gorgeous millwork, floor-to-ceiling built-in bookcases, window seats, gas fireplace, and geometric nero and bianco tumbled marble floor. The elegant formal dining room is perfectly prepped to host festive dinner parties or romatic meals. French doors bring the outdoors in while another fireplace creates an intriguing ambiance. Rays of sunshine steam through a pair of arched glass doors into a delightful informal breakfast room just off the most show-stopping curated kitchen. Handcrafted in Florence, the Officine Gullo cooking suite is a chef's dream with stainless steel and brass 8-burner range, two 30" ovens, incredible hood with brass rear panel, and a pair of sinks and matching cabinets flanking each end. Custom cabinets seamlessly encompass a 36" SubZero refrigerator, 36" SubZero freezer, and 2 Bosch dishwashers. The breakfront fine wood and marble topped freestanding island and and matching console table is a beautiful blend of form and function. Follow the 2-inch thick antique dark limestone tile floor into an incredible butler's pantry with bespoke wood cabinetry, antique glass front displays, hidden refrigeration and storage, and carrera marble countertops. 

Imagine summer winds passing through 8 palandian glass french doors into a well-scaled family room with barreled ceiling, wood-like radiant heated tile floor, and centrally-focused fireplace. In either direction, spill out to sky-crowned living rooms. A fanciful French courtyard is what fairytales are made of. The fence-enclosed brick patio meets a central quadrofoil stone fountain surrounded by benches, topiaries, and edged by the most magical ivy-blanketed arbor walkway. Step down from the family room into a sun-drenched solarium/aviary. Walls of windows, radiant heated floor with drain, and french doors leading out to back patio expanse make for a most versatile space for a secondary office, tea room, garden room, or simply for personal reflection. 

The mudroom, with entry from an enclosed porch and from side courtyard, is outfitted with a full bathroom with walk-in glass shower, coat closet, secondary staircase to second floor, and extra-wide stairway leading to interior basement access. The main level is complete with entryway cedar-lined closet and powder room made sumptuous with marble tile and carved carrera marble sink. 

The utmost discernment in attention to detail was paid to every inch throughout the property's comprehensive restoration. Stylish design details continue to be mirrored throughout the extensive upper level. Wood-paneled walls soar up to an open hall leading to 5 restful retreats. The eye is first drawn through one of several sets of french doors opening out to a 50-foot long screened sleeping porch. The most incredible 3-season room is an inviting gathering spot for morning coffee or evening refreshments overlooking the serene backyard vista. Spend cool nights cuddled up with Mother Nature's music as your playlist. 

The primary suite is its own ultra-luxe sanctuary. The spacious bedroom is sumptuously appointed with rich hardwood floors, graceful mouldings, double closets, gas fireplace, and dual french doors giving access to the elevated lanais. The lavishly appointed ensuite bathroom likens those found in the world's most ritzy hotels. A timeless jewel completely trimmed in marble with double sink vanity, walk-in shower, standalone Victoria & Albert soaking tub, private loo, and a wall of floor-to-ceiling custom european wardrobe closets. 

Just down a domed ceiling hall, the center guest suite delights with original paneled walls, gas fireplace, french doors to sleeping porch, closet and ensuite carrera marble bathroom with vintage sink and tub. The north bedroom wing could easily be imagined as its own pied-a-terre for guests and family alike. A well-scaled living room is made cozy with a fireplace and doors provide privacy to a separate bedroom. Another carrera marble full bathroom is just steps away. The conveniently located upper level laundry room makes for cheery chores with built-in linen cabinets and work area. The 4th and 5th bedrooms, also accessible by their private staircase, are further serviced by an additional turnkey full bathroom. A walk-up attic offers abundant storage and has potential for extended living area. 

The basement is a blend of more finished space, storage, and utility rooms. An office, wine cellar, toilet area, and second laundry room could be enhanced if further elaboration of the home is needed. 

The enviable oversized 3-car garage is a well integrated piece of the landscape. Transom doors, deep bays, and additional storage and workspace make for high functionality. A massive upper bonus room has tremendous potential to finish as an accessory apartment for multi-generational living, au-pair, or guest house. Fitness routines are effortless with an attached heated and cooled home gym with utility sink, floor drain, and french doors leading to private patio with outdoor shower. 

Additional notable features include 2015 new central HVAC system with 4 units and zones for individual room temperature controls, entire house generator system with two 20-kw Kohler units, 2014 installed all-new 1,500-gallon septic tank and system, two newer 1,000 gallon propane tanks, 2014 installed synthetic shingle roof, copper gutters, irrigation system, invisible pet fence, extensive professional landscape lighting, Rohle bathroom fixtures, high-designer lighting fixtures, and so much more to love. 

Truly an exceptional home sure to appeal to a buyer with affection for excellence. Absolutely must be experienced to appreciate the artisanship and grounds. An unprecedented opportunity awaits.