Photograph courtesy Sibcy Cline Photo Department
Address: 736 Elsinboro Dr., Mt. Lookout
Price: $2,799,000
The late American author Wilferd Arlan Peterson was well known for his inspirational wisdom (his poem, “The Art of Marriage,” is one of the most frequently recited wedding readings). His writing covered many facets of human experience. On the places we choose to call home, he said, “A home should be a stockade, a refuge from the flaming arrows of anxiety, tension and worry.”
Some houses never reach refuge levels; they merely fulfill the basic need of walls, a roof, and a soft place to lay our heads. Yet, every once in a while, a home comes along that goes above and beyond the basic requirements of shelter and instead serves as an oasis in the midst of life’s craziness. In Mt. Lookout, a rare property that exemplifies this sentiment is currently on the market.
736 Elsinboro Dr. was built in 1969 and has been lovingly cared for ever since. It has all the hallmarks of a luxurious custom home, but it is the backyard space that elicits a double take and a dreamy sigh. You may even find yourself musing, “Toto, I’ve a feeling we’re not in Kansas anymore.”
Photograph courtesy Sibcy Cline Photo Department
The property features a 1.76-acre lot, and not one inch of it is wasted. An expansive back porch serves as an extension of the home and can be accessed from several points. No matter where you step out on the porch, the view is breathtaking. Not only is the landscaping a work of art, but the natural scenery enjoys its sweeping, hilltop vista that overlooks rolling hills, canopies of forest, and blue skies as far as the eye can see.
Interest abounds with winding paths, several water features (including a large koi pond), and a beautifully layered collection of perennials and annuals. Small, glass-bottom bridges ensure uninterrupted enjoyment of the fish swimming below. One especially enticing feature is the artist’s studio/potting shed. It’s easy to imagine nurturing your craft and feeling the stress of the day melting away in a space as lovely as this. For those who don’t have artistic tendencies, there are plenty of possibilities, like a yoga studio or peaceful fitness area. It’s just far enough from the house to allow for a domestic disconnect, thus fostering greater creativity. And speaking of fostering, there’s even a separate, sizable green house for green thumbs (or those aspiring) to nurture their love of plants.
Photograph courtesy Sibcy Cline Photo Department
Although the backyard is positively enchanting, the house still holds its own with an array of enviable amenities. Over 6,800 square feet of living space stretches across two levels, with three large bedrooms, three full bathrooms, and three half-baths. While there are plenty of luxe touches—like an elevator—the layout is conducive to entertaining and enjoying get-togethers of all sizes. There are multiple living spaces, with each offering a slightly different mood.
Photograph courtesy Sibcy Cline Photo Department
The main living room/library is incredibly spacious and feels reminiscent of vintage Ralph Lauren. A wall of built-ins provides ample storage for books, board games, and knickknacks, while a cozy stone fireplace balances all the gleaming wood. The mezzanine acts as a mini library, with additional bookshelves and a darling rolling ladder. Just off the mezzanine, a more formal family room is smaller and lends itself to intimate gatherings.
On the lower level, the rec room channels laid back warmth. Its wormy cypress paneling wraps the room in textural interest, while also lending just the right amount of nostalgia. For smaller socializing, or if you’re looking for a lovely place to enjoy your morning coffee, look no further than the sunroom. It boasts gorgeous views, enough room to spread out, and that zing of energy that comes with a daily dose of vitamin D.
Photograph courtesy Sibcy Cline Photo Department
If ever a home was designed as a refuge against daily stresses and worries, it’s 736 Elsinboro Dr. All you have to do is step out into the secret garden and leave the cares of the world at the door.
