4 Crosstrees Hill Road, Essex, CT 06426

"Wow"! sums it up. As soon as you enter the graceful landscaped grounds through the circular crushed stone drive, you know you are in enchanted territory. Built in 1950 and refined over the years as an artist's retreat, this shingled home defies labels. It is fanciful, yet grounded by features such as a first floor bedroom suite, living room with parquet flooring and fireplace, a chef's kitchen with walk-in pantry, and cozy den with bookcases. The breakfast room is flooded by light. A "corn crib" addition with fireplace and soaring exposed beam ceiling, anchors the far end of a dramatic vaulted entry foyer filled with bookcases and wall space galore to feature art and treasures. A spacious bedroom suite with renovated full bath, including double sinks, marble countertop, heated flooring, and shower is found on the upper level. The terrace outside the kitchen provides a marvelous al fresco dining experience by the fish pond. It's not hard to envision you are dining in Provence or Tuscany. The outbuildings, gardens and frog pond add more layers of utility and panache to an already otherworldly tableau. The outbuilding closest to the main house provides a half bath, making this space suitable as an office, studio, or for use as a guest bedroom. Another office is attached to the cavernous heated and air conditioned garage. Additional outbuildings provide storage and studio space, and a detached one-car garage. Deeded water access. Come for a tour and fall under the spell!