Architecture Wednesday: Back to Nature Compound

This is Church House in Germantown, New York, a private 60-acre oasis at the end of a winding drive through the forest to reveal a complex of wood-clad structures sited along a gentle ridge line with Catskills views.

The buildings, nested in vegetable and flower gardens, include a main house, guest studio, artist studio and gardening workshop, entertaining pergola and barn-garage, all oriented west across extensive lawns, laid-stone walls, meadows and mature trees.

Since 2018, the owners creatively transformed this once-rough hunting property into a secluded sanctuary with a diverse native habitat, including walking trails and a 1/2 acre swim pond with dock and gazebo.

The 2000 square foot primary residence, with 3 bedrooms and 2 full baths, emphasizes simplicity and function while maximizing communal space and storage. There are two central living spaces—each with polished concrete floors—that invite gathering while the separate bedroom areas offer independence and privacy. Both the chef's kitchen—with banquette dining—and the living room-library have floor to ceiling windows that access a courtyard framed by a rock formation studded with succulents.

Additional features include radiant floors, energy efficient mini-splits, a large exterior shower and a fire-pit ledge. Wander past a wildflower meadow and hammocks and find the guest studio, a charming artistic retreat. The pergola and outdoor kitchen and dining areas surrounded by lush hydrangea beds can host large dinners. The workshop-potting shed offers both studio space and entertaining amenities.

The property was conceived to accommodate future expansion, the current septic is large enough to support a 5-bedroom home, allowing for an addition or a separate structure, supported by the supplementary 200-amp service.

Privately sited and yet centrally located in the heart of the Hudson Valley between Rhinebeck and Hudson, minutes from Germantown and Tivoli, with special restaurants, shops and culture just outside your door. Truly a unique and personal estate.

Dwell