Dilapidated barns on Millbrook farm converted to a beautiful country retreat
Renowned Architect Paul Gleicher had his hands full when a longtime client bought a 40 acre dairy farm estate in Millbrook, NY. The breathtaking piece of land dating to 1839 was originally owned by composer Marvin Hamlisch and had 5 properties – an antique farmhouse and 4 substantial barns, all of which were in disrepair.
The client wanted all of the barns to be turned into livable, inviting spaces for guest suites and gathering spaces for their large group of family and friends. The result was astounding.
The main barn, measuring 66 feet long by 32 feet wide, was the first to be tackled. The roofing, siding, and foundation were completely unsalvageable however, its original hand-hewn oak timber framing was put to good use as a focal point that showcases the properties original character.
“The main barn would become a living area for guests to congregate, but we also wanted keep the historical look and feel of the original barns,” says Gleicher. The old barn was stripped of its rotting envelope, lifted, and set on a new fieldstone foundation.
As for the client: “We love going to the farm on the weekends — or whenever we can get away,” notes the owner who lost many colleagues during 9/11 . “The way I honor my friends who lost their lives on Sept. 11 is to live my life to the fullest every day.” And time spent with friends and family at Four Barns Farm is a big part of that.
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