111 Hacklebarney Rd, Chester Twp., NJ

About This Property

Tucked in a pristine hamlet in the historic section of Chester Township is “Hacklebarney Hollow.” Located above a winding dirt road that passes over a stone bridge and around an 18th century stone grist mill, it is a delight for the senses. Here, the only sounds are the rush of the Black River and the call of birds rising over the bubbling flow. Surrounded by thousands of acres of state and county parkland, the property provides endless trails to explore, a feast of flora and fauna to enjoy, and unparalleled peace and quiet. Yet it is only a five-minute drive to historic downtown Chester and access to Route 206 and Route 24.

This special offering consists of two separate lots, each with a home on it. The main house, comprised of a circa 1760 barn that was expanded and added onto in 2010, provides a masterwork of architectural storytelling. In addition, a charming 18th century rentable cottage located on the river provides an intriguing retreat for the writer, painter or visiting house guest. Both houses are situated to capture the surrounding river and valley views.

The main house, expanded in 2010, was purposefully designed to tuck naturally and unobtrusively into the landscape. Arranged to create a natural flow from the inside out and the outside in, the house was built using state-of-the-art building materials and the best products available. With an eye for organic living, the interior contains living bits of history from rediscovered architectural components that were imported from Europe as well as local artisan finds. As a result, a visceral sense of well-being abounds, lending peace and grounding to the environment.

Upon entering through a covered portico and an 18th century front door imported from France, the first floor is flooded with light from an open layout that incorporates custom-crafted French doors and leaded glass windows manufactured by Hope’s, the world’s preeminent manufacturer of custom steel windows. Reclaimed American chestnut floor boards cover the new portion of the house, while hand hewn beams and antique barn siding in the family room/kitchen area add coziness and architectural elegance. Two fieldstone, wood-burning fireplaces, one in the family room and another in the living room, and the original 18th century fireplace hearth in the addition, create cozy sitting spaces for guests and family members to congregate. The kitchen is a welcoming space with a British Aga range as the room’s centerpiece. A large custom granite center island with lots of storage space, Miele dishwasher and refrigerator complete this sunny part of the home. There are natural views of the garden and access to the outdoor terraces and pool from the kitchen.

On the second floor more architectural touches fill the senses and create tactile interest. Reclaimed farmhouse doors reveal four bedrooms tucked into the eaves and filled with light from French doors or double pane hinged windows. An antique marble mantle fireplace and a vintage eight-foot claw footed soaking tub are highlights in the master suite. Radiant heat prevails throughout the home, but is especially appreciated in the full baths which also have radiant heat in the outside walls and behind the shower tiles. A winter day is never met with a chill in the bathrooms. An additional bedroom and full bath, accessed from a separate staircase and loft above the renovated barn section of the house, provides a restful private place for a guest, adolescent or visiting family member. In addition there is an upstairs laundry room.

The renovated barn addition is incorporated seamlessly in to the rest of the house design. An 18th century fireplace hearth dominates the living space, while French doors provide views and open to the terraces and gardens outside. This house is designed for outdoor al fresco living with a summer/catering kitchen that accommodates cooking, serving or a bar set up.

The rentable cottage, an 18th century dwelling that was renovated over the years, is filled with charm and historic interest. Wide country floorboards, bead board and stone create endless charm in this two bedroom, two full bath house. Large windows flood the living room and the upstairs master bedroom with light and offer views of the river. An outdoor stone terrace enhances the living space and provides more river views.

A large two-story barn was built in 2010 for the riding enthusiast. Features include a porte cochere entrance, two stables, a tack room and a storage area which could also be used as a one-car garage. Upstairs, an office/music room is fully heated and air conditioned. The fenced pasture behind the barn is another thoughtful equestrian amenity.

This historic home is surrounded by over 1,000 acres of preserved parkland. The adjoining acreage sits on some of the east coast’s best fly fishing waters, hiking trails and rambling country roads, perfect for biking and long walks. Located 48 miles from New York City, this compound is the essence of country elegance.