Recently, the Wall Street Journal reported that some family estates in the Hamptons have been turned into private summer camps for 2020. “Whether grouped with friends and neighbors or going it alone, these families have created activity schedules that will give their children structure, exercise and entertainment—and parents some downtime.” For some, that meant turning manicured lawns into soccer fields, adding yoga mats under shade trees and turning a guest wing into a fully equipped art studio. For those with true compounds — when multiple buildings share one piece of property, housing camp counselors onsite was a no-brainer.
We’ve said it before, COVID has changed the way we all look at our houses. We want private offices, in-law suites, craft rooms, home gyms — and truthfully, some separation and privacy. A home with outbuildings sounds pretty attractive to a family with multiple, simultaneous Zoom calls daily or those housing adult children seeking space outside of city living.
But creating a compound isn't always as easy as building a second house in your backyard, even if you have the acreage. Some communities limit the number of buildings that can be built on a residential parcel. Many will allow one house and one pool house, but require that the pool house lack a kitchen or bedroom.
So what’s one to do? Vanity Fair reports that a newer trend – “compounding” is happening in the Hamptons, where the wealthy are buying two or three homes on the same street to house the extended family. “In every price range: $750,000 to $10 million deals are ending in a bidding war and tears.”
We have a better solution. Forget the Hamptons — come see what Fairfield County, Connecticut has to offer! A long-time refuge for celebrities and artists, towns such as Westport and Weston offer sought-after privacy along with world-class schools and amazing amenities.
A perfect example of luxurious country living less than 60 miles from Manhattan is in Westport. Designed to fulfill the dreams of those young and old, this exclusive Westport compound was custom built for ultimate comfort, style and function. On seven and one-half luscious, professionally designed acres this property contains unparalleled outdoor and indoor spaces.
Beyond the impressive, inviting and captivating main residence, the compound includes a guest house, an executive office or private studio, basketball pavilion, ice cream parlor, movie theater, arcade, playground, resort-style pool with waterslide and spa, pool cabana, tennis court and more. While this property was sold by KMS’ Karen Scott, she is more than happy to help you in your search.
Another spectacular compound, set on 8.4 gorgeous acres with a stunning 36’ x 66’ pool, in Weston, CT was sold by KMS’ Susan Seath. The property included:
• 5-bedroom main house
• 3-bedroom guest cottage with stone terrace, basement and attached greenhouse
• 2-stall horse barn with loft and an attached studio apartment
• 3-car garage with a workshop
• Formal gardens and work sheds
This is just a sampling of some special opportunities in Fairfield County… please reach out, we’d love to discuss your confidential real estate goals.