Overview
Introducing Van Rensselaer Lower Manor. Built c1685 onward, this historical home is situated on 62 acres of green lawns, fields and wooded terrain that offer Catskill Mountain views. The main house of the estate recently renovated to preserve past details while introducing modern amenities consists of over 5, 000 sq ft of living space with an additional 2, 000 sq ft separate studio building and a 2, 800 sq ft barn. Approach the home via a circular driveway and enter through a gracious wide hall flanked by the south and north wings of the house. The south wing features a cozy living room with a majestic hearth, leading to a dining room and summer kitchen adorned with French doors opening to a charming gravel patio offering endless nights of entertaining. A convenient powder room and an informal sitting room/office complete this wing. Meanwhile, in the North wing, one is greeted by the original kitchen hearth and bake oven. The wooden mantel has been stripped to lend a more contemporary feel. A second dining room and (winter) kitchen are found off this living space all complimented by a tastefully renovated full bathroom. Three separate stairways provide access to a sprawling second floor with a total of eight rooms, 5 currently set up as bedrooms. Three full baths, all elegantly renovated, complete the second level. Step outside to discover a c1825 post-and-beam barn at the edge of a 60-acre wooded expanse. Significant restoration has been done to maintain its integrity and provide striking views of the Catskill Mountains. Sited closer to the road stands the Flower Shop (zoned for retail), a fully renovated 1950s structure, currently utilized as an art studio. This space boasts 10’8 ceilings, a two-car garage, full bathroom, and large plate glass windows with soundproof inserts. These south facing windows create a soft glow and clean sensibility meant to inspire the pursuit of one’s entrepreneurial dreams. Every element of this estate from its 17th century Manor home to the more contemporary Art Studio has been thoughtfully restored to accentuate original details without sacrificing modern comforts. A sophisticated contemporary palette blends seamlessly with the enduring charm of hand-hewn wide board floors, forged hardware, original doors and countless other details to make this property timeless yet current. Wonderful for residential as well as a perfect site for a wedding/events venue, B&B and/or small retail in the art studio. Located in historic Claverack, the Lower Manor is 10 min to Hudson / Amtrak, 15 min to Hillsdale, 2 hours to NYC