In Readington, New Jersey, we revitalized a historic farmstead, transforming it into a serene weekend retreat for a family seeking refuge from the bustle of city life. This picturesque property, with its blend of open fields, woodlands, an existing pond, and an outdated pool, presented a unique opportunity to merge rustic charm with modern design elements.
The project required careful integration of modern features-such as a new pool, pavilion, kitchen and updated landscaping-into the rural setting while honoring the property’s historic character. Anchoring the site were original barns, grain silos, and the farmhouse dating back to the 1800’s.
Our approach began with removing the outdated pool and selecting a new location to optimize both functionality and aesthetics. The reimagined design enhanced the pond’s visual prominence and introduced a rustic pavilion, which serves as a bride between the property’s historical roots and its modern transformation.
Thoughtfully positioned along the axis of the home’s rear French doors, the pavilion creates a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. An elegant allée of cherry trees flanks a central lawn panel, offering a graceful transition from the house to the pavilion. At the pavilion’s heart is a striking stone fireplace, a focal point visible from both the residence and the newly situated pool area.
The pool, carefully aligned with the pavilion’s centerline, offers unobstructed views of the pond, with a subtle elevation change between the pool area and pavilion to emphasize its importance within the landscape. On the pavilion’s opposite end, a cozy kitchen space ensures effortless entertaining. This well considered and curated design strikes a perfect balance between the property’s historic charm and modern luxury, creating an idyllic haven for relaxation and family gathering.
