Just the name Wood Duck Pond conjures a storybook setting.
The topography of the borough of Far Hills in north central New Jersey is gently rolling. Swaths of deciduous trees drop their leaves each year for a brilliant fall display. In the spring, their green canopy creates a deep and restful shade.
Likewise, much about a gracious estate currently for sale there plays on the imagination. Ten acres of meadows and forest leave plenty of room for the mind to roam.
Mature pine trees mark the stone entrance of the brick driveway that arches around the front of the house. Lawns slope toward the pond, framed by a backdrop of woodland.
Underscoring the home’s French Country architectural inspiration and lending it a fairy-tale appearance are the steep slate roof and stone and brick siding. Graceful arched clerestories top double French windows. Terraces take in views of the pond and grounds.
Inside, a marble-floored foyer yields to a gallery hall that leads to the living room. A vaulted ceiling, fireplace with marble surround, wainscoting and herringbone pattern oak floors are among the details. French doors open to a bluestone terrace, which is also accessible from the equally ornate formal dining room.
Trompe-l’oeil wall treatments and murals add fanciful elements throughout the house.
Bay windows with built-in seating define the breakfast area in the kitchen, which features a center island and walk-in pantry.
A cherry-paneled library and the primary suite with dual closets and bathrooms complete the main level.
Mahogany stairs connect to the ground-level living spaces: a family room, two ensuite bedrooms, exercise room, laundry and storage.
Another bedroom suite is on the home’s partial second level for a total of four bedrooms, five full bathrooms, one powder room and about 9,000 square feet of interiors.
A low brick wall and bluestone deck surround the swimming pool. The heated garage has room for three vehicles plus storage space.
Ashley Christus of Turpin Realtors is the listing agent for 159 Lake Road in Far Hills. The asking price is US $2.295 million.
Family friendly Far Hills Borough, which has a train station for easy access to Manhattan, is a mix of serene estate homes, highly rated schools, natural open spaces and scenic farms. Newark Liberty International Airport is about 30 miles away from the property.