Romantic Architecture Sparks Love at First Sight

By B.L. Leiding

Basking Ridge, New Jersey is renowned for being an affluent community offering an abundance of luxury homes. Few are as ideally situated as the ones on Butternut Lane.

Located minutes from the charming shopping district of Bernardsville—just beyond the Olde Stone Mill in the picturesque Franklin Corners area—twenty notable residences comprise an enclave that blends high style in a lush, natural setting.

Secluded by mature woodland, each home is architectural distinctive from one another and plotted along the gentle curves and knolls of a circular road. Collectively, they harmonize beautifully and are buffered from one another by expansive lawns, tall trees and lavish gardens.

Halfway around the circle at number 45, a classic romantic design has the effect of being both stately and tranquil. The allure begins upon first sight of twin stone lamp posts that flank the sweeping driveway, leading through a well-manicured front lawn. There, a meandering brook lends a peaceful note to the property and signals guests that they are about to embark on a memorable visit.

The front walkway is laden with stonework that reflects the magnificent façade composed in a delightful symphony of stone and clapboard. Meticulous details are clearly apparent with touches of antique lighting fixtures, stone window ledges and graceful Palladian widow.

Inside, an expansive marble foyer separates the living room on the right from the formal dining room on the left, where an opulent chandelier is a fitting crown and wainscoting lines the walls. Directly ahead is a great room with a cathedral ceiling and a balcony overlooking from the upper level. 

Hardwood flooring and recessed lighting throughout the home extend to the richly paneled library on the first floor that opens to a generous stone patio in the rear yard. The continuous flow of both the hardwood and patio extends to the designer kitchen, which also features a granite-topped island with seating, high-end appliances, butler's pantry with built-in wine rack, and breakfast room.

All five bedrooms are located on the second level. A fabulous master retreat offers a private sitting area with a fireplace, spacious bathroom with a marble tub, and a dressing room with substantial shelving, center island, abundant natural light—and ample space for two to effortlessly share. Now, that's romantic.

Top-ranked schools, both public and private, are close by, along with access to major roadways, New York train and bus transportation, corporate centers, golf courses, and county and state parks.