Hawk Hill: Jeffersonville, NY

About The Property

When the current owners set eyes on what they now call Hawk Hill, it was love at first sight. The land, which is both sprawling and accessible, has different personalities and enchants at every turn. But then there was the rundown farmhouse, which was a goner, so they tore it down. But the incredibly sweet “Pig Shed” was quite another story. “1885” is engraved on a cornerstone and the laid-up stone and the gambrel roof became the focus of a complete makeover. The ultimate goal was to someday build a larger home on one of several sweeping meadows, but as these things go, they were so content with the lifestyle they’d created between the “Pig Shed”, the “Guest Shed”, which is an incredible spot for a nap, afternoon read or overnight, and the party option of the barn, that they realized they were already living the dream!

The long dirt driveway provides a dramatic lead up to the structures, with truly jaw-dropping distant hill views off to the west, which are also enjoyed, along with spectacular sunsets, from the house. And in the autumn the explosion of colorful, with the hills folding into one another, is quite a sight to behold. A fenced garden with raised beds has produced bountiful veggies, while the bluestone patio with the requisite string of lights is the outdoor hangout of choice (although the shaded hammock comes in a close second). The experience of bathing in the outdoor shower out back, is oddly fabulous.

With the efficiency of a well-designed yacht, the ground floor is laid out to offer comfortable lounging, a small but perfectly formed kitchen, and a delightful spot from which to enjoy said meal. There is a wood stove, which understandably can heat the entire house, but there is, of course, proper central heat, with radiant floor heat on the ground floor and radiators upstairs.

The space upstairs is completely open but for the full bathroom, and is currently laid out with a queen bed, a day bed, an area for a desk, and another comfy sitting chair. It would be easy to add a wall and door where the current curtain is, if you wanted to create a proper second enclosed bedroom. The bathroom features a clawfoot tub with a stunning view, as well as a pointed, stained glass window.

I’m always a fan of a good “party barn”, and this one definitely fits the bill. But don’t take my word for it. It was featured in Country Living magazine in 2008, where the owner’s incredible eye for styling is on full display. Fun to see how her style has evolved since then.

The property includes several meadows, separated by hedgerows or stone walls, each offering a new vantage point for these very special views. Have a farming neighbor hay them and enjoy an agricultural tax break, or just mow paths through the tall grass so you can explore the property year round. There is a former pond site where the dam washed away, but the feeder stream is still there. It’s a project, but very possible to resuscitate what had been a substantial water feature.

Hawk Hill is just 2.5 miles into Jeffersonville, and 20 minutes to Callicoon and Livingston Manor.

Listing Broker: Jennifer Grimes