This Old House Farmhouse in Fairfield
— the 2020 Idea House

Jerry Effren of Greyrock Homes surveyed the site for this build, located on the banks of the grassy waters of Long Island Sound. He envisioned an old-fashioned farmhouse, renovated with a modern two-story addition. The 2020 Idea House brings that vision to life in spectacular form.

Jerry and his wife Sandy, an interior designer, approach every build as if they will live there themselves. But this time, they were so happy with the end result that they decided to make it their “forever home.”

The home combines the latest efficiency and “smart” technology with an elegant yet rustic aesthetic that only Baird Brothers Fine Hardwood’s products can achieve. 

The 968-square-foot great room is highlighted by Baird’s white oak box beams, which help to break up the height of the ceiling. The room is then divided into three sections by the layout of the furniture: a family room created with couches framed around a fireplace, a dining area formed with an extendable table that feeds up to 30 people, and the kitchen which is centered around a 5’x11’ island. (This kitchen’s placement allows multiple cooks while also being close to the activities in the rest of the space.)

A butler’s pantry (with a second sink, dishwasher, fridge, and beverage bar) is located just off the kitchen, giving more available resources to the chef.  

The three-car garage and main entry are on the side of the Farmhouse exterior, preserving the view of a neighboring golf course from the great room. This stunning view is thanks to a row of 8’ windows with a sliding door in the center.

The second wing of the house contains a first-floor master bedroom, master bathroom, mudroom/laundry, and a sitting room to create a privacy barrier between the busy hallway and the master bedroom.

Just outside, a plunge pool (with automated cover and hot tub capabilities), gas fire pit, covered outdoor kitchen (with shades to protect against bugs), and outdoor personal putting green round out the luxurious outdoor lounge space. 

Upstairs is a guest room with ensuite bath, a hall bath, sitting room, bunk room (where the grandkids love to sleepover), and a gym/office, all linked together by an outdoor deck overlooking the Sound.

For all of the luxury features designed and built into the home, what really pulls together the feel of the traditional yet modern farmhouse are the many Baird Brothers Fine Hardwoods products throughout – white oak flooring, white oak and poplar pocket doors, and poplar moulding and trim.

Incorporate these same products into your own home improvement plans!