A Timeless, Welcoming Sight
The view you see above was a welcomed sight for travelers making their way between New York and Danbury during the early part of the 19th century. As a tavern and stagecoach stop, it was a symbol of much-needed comfort, food, and rest after a long day of bumping along in a dusty coach.
Today it is an equally welcomed sight, and for similar reasons.
Making the Gideon Reynolds Brick House a Home
In 2006, after the birth of their fourth child, the Prusko family was on the hunt for a home that provided more space. During their search they discovered this historic, brick gem standing proudly on 5 acres. Intrigued by its long history and all it had survived over the past centuries, including numerous repurposing and a major flood in 1908, the Pruskos purchased the home.
There was a substantial restoration adventure ahead of them, but the effort was well worth it.
Living Alongside History
The Pruskos, along with their architect, designer, and builder, seamlessly blended 21st century updates with the history of the property. As you can see above, Mr. Prusko’s office sits next to an original fireplace, complete with carved out nooks where fresh bread would have been left to cool.
Modern wallpaper with a classic feel creates a cohesive, timeless vibe in this inviting bedroom. The gleaming, original wood floors and fireplace adds an extra layer of authenticity, reminding you of just how old this home really is.
The original and the updated meet again in this bathroom, connecting timeless elements like the white soaker tub with more modern design touches and artwork.
The traditional living room seems at first glance like a simple, inviting space, but after a closer inspection you notice details like the fine millwork and the marble framing the fireplace.
Gorgeous, functional built-ins add character to this dining space. Peeking through the doorway you can see the fireplace in the living room.
The kitchen is another space where old and new come together to create a timeless style. A modern stove and hood, plenty of cabinet space, and island seating feel contemporary, but the farmers sink, warm wood island, open shelving, and color choices help you to feel grounded in its history. This is a kitchen that would turn any designer’s head, but where you also can sip coffee with a friend while a pie finishes in the oven.
An Out Building Turned Wine-Lover’s Paradise
Tucked away in the surrounding orchard is a small building that the Pruskos guess may have been an ice house. With a creative vision and the help of their designer and Gerety Building & Restoration, they transformed the small space into a beautiful wine house.
Gerety installed barn siding downstairs, refinished the floors, and added a state-of-the-art lock system. Another striking feature are the hand-plastered walls, completed by Italian artisans invited to the job for this specific purpose. The wine house is now an ideal spot for enjoying wine and cheese, relaxing with friends, and soaking in the history of the unique building.
Gerety Building & Restoration is a full-service general contractor that offers kitchen & bathroom remodeling, masonry, flooring, custom wine cellars, roofing, residential painting and more.