263 Childs Rd, Basking Ridge, NJ 07920

An extraordinary setting in northeastern Basking Ridge includes and overlooks the extensively restored mill pond for the neighboring, historic Van Dorn mill. Its 17.2 acres wrap the vintage circa 1875 Colonial structure with water views, majestic specimen trees and abundant perennial gardens. Set on a rise well above the mill pond, the deep swimming pool was intelligently located at a discreet distance from the house, while a spa is nestled within the landscaping still in view of the five-acre pond. The homestead was once part of the Van Dorn property, built to accommodate an expanding family with seven children. With 5,600+ square feet of space, the conscientiously maintained and extensively updated 18 rooms have high ceilings, newer windows, six working fireplaces, many inlaid wood floors and richly plastered walls. The kitchen includes a wood-burning fireplace at its heart with an informal eating area and newly expanded sitting room that overlooks the pond and gardens. The laundry room and pantry with a home office center adjoins. A delightful parlor doubles on the first floor as an office or study while a front-to-back living room is a gracious spot for entertaining. A generous screened porch links to the dramatic dining room and kitchen. The second floor includes four bedrooms with baths ensuite and a comfortable study or office. On the third floor, two bedrooms flank a versatile office or hobby room and large hallway bath. The lower level has a delightful walkout study/office to the patio and landscaped garden area overlooking the pond. A wine cellar off the office, utility room, small exercise area and storage room complete the level. The house is heated with natural gas; has central air in all but the third floor; radiant heat in the kitchen; public water and a new 6-bedroom septic system. For hobbyists, a renovated stable is now a heated four-car garage with a custom-built workshop off the back that is ideal for woodworking, an art studio, or generous exercise room. Flanking this is an ample raised-bed garden area and a pampering heated dog house and run, all thoughtfully enclosed by fencing. The location is perfect for commuting or food shopping in nearby Bernardsville. A top-ranked public school system with Ridge High School in high demand adds to the very special value.