Page 22 - Prospect Drive_1203

AN INTERVIEW WITH BRIAN & IRENE HARRIGAN
PROUD HOMEOWNERS OF 1203 PROSPECT DRIVE

WHAT MADE YOU FALL IN LOVE WITH 1203 PROSPECT DRIVE?
We looked at waterfront homes from Westport to Old Saybrook. Lots were small, houses were
packed tightly, often at sea level and at outrageously high price points. In Lordship, we found
Expansive, Panoramic Southwestern, views of Long Island Sound (the same view we had at the Madison
Beach Hotel) but with 150, feet of waterfront on a 3/4 acre, level lot with mature landscaping. It was hard
to find this much space directly on the water. Cape Cod "feel" four hours closer to NYC. Private and Quiet,
good separation between houses. Affordable waterfront in an undiscovered section of Fairfield County, CT.

PLEASE DESCRIBE THE RENOVATION PROCESS ...
The original house was designed and built in the late 70's with many small partitioned rooms, sunken living
room, galley kitchen, dated appliances, carpeted floors, a spiral staircase for second floor access. Kitchen
storage was limited, bathrooms were small. We wanted to upgrade the home to an "open concept" while
maximizing the year-round views of the water. The first floor was entirely gutted to open up the views from
the kitchen through the glass sliders to the water. The sunken living room was raised to provide for all floors
on one level. A new fireplace was added with a granite, ""Black Absolute"", surround along with custom
cabinets and bookcases. All carpeting was removed and replaced with premium, hardwood flooring. The
kitchen was upgraded with high end appliances and designed to allow the cook to see the water while
preparing every meal. All custom lighting was added along with new bathroom vanities and fixtures. 80
foot bluestone patio was added along with sitting wall, accent lighting, outdoor kitchen area and remote
controlled awnings. New front, bluestone steps lead to double patio door front entry.

DID YOU EVER CONSIDER PUTTING IN A POOL?
Yes, we have considered putting a pool in but liked the direct access to the water just down the
natural rock stairway. We enjoyed entertaining on the expansive waterside lawn without a pool
breaking up the landscape.

TELL ME ABOUT THE GROUNDS ...

The lot is large (3/4 acre) for waterfront and almost perfectly square. Plantings are mature with
some rare trees. Beautiful hydrangea and roses in season. Park like privacy in front yard, expansive
waterside lawn with room for badminton, croquet, volleyball and kite flying on a windy day. Lawn
and gardens are fed by automatic sprinkler system. Seawall apron designed for sitting at the
water's edge.

WHAT MAKES YOUR LOT SO SPECIAL?

The lot is configured such that the house has water views from end to end. The family room, living
room, dining room, kitchen, game room, master bath, master bedroom and 2 additional bedrooms
all enjoy views of the water. The lot is oriented such that the water views are to the Southwest
providing for beautiful sunsets over the water all year but most noticeably in the Summer. Feeling is like
vacationing year round.

IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE THAT YOU WOULD LIKE TO MENTION ABOUT YOUR HOME?

The elevator provides a nice addition to the home. We will miss the convenience and utility.