Nestled in South Bristol, Maine, Birch Island is a historic estate built over 80 years ago, designed by renowned architect Samuel R.T. Very for horticulturist Emily Means. This stunning property spans 11.42 acres and boasts 3,987± feet of picturesque shoreline, offering breathtaking views of Johns Bay and Pemaquid Point. The architectural style reflects early 20th-century elegance, with charming period details throughout. The estate includes the main house, a guest cabin, and versatile outbuildings, all interconnected by scenic paths through lush gardens. Recently offered at $3,780,000, this sanctuary provides a unique blend of natural beauty and rich history, ideal for enjoying Maine’s coastal charm.
Pathway Entrance
A rustic wooden bridge leads through dense greenery towards Birch Island, indicated by a weathered wooden sign. The bridge, edged with railings, showcases aged timber with natural graying, harmonizing with the vibrant foliage. Sunlight filters through the trees, creating a serene ambiance. Lush leaves in various shades of green frame the pathway, enhancing the natural aesthetic. The underfoot reveals wooden planks, slightly weathered yet sturdy, inviting exploration. Tall trees stand sentinel on either side, their trunks marked by time, while the overall scene evokes a sense of tranquility and connection to nature, perfect for peaceful retreats.
Coastal Home
A picturesque coastal home stands elegantly against a backdrop of lush greenery and rocky shoreline. The home features a classic white facade with large windows, which reflect the vibrant blue sky and calm waters. A charming peaked roof adds character, while the surrounding trees provide a natural privacy screen. The rocks beneath the home enhance the rugged coastal aesthetic, juxtaposed with the serene water below. Sunlight bathes the scene, highlighting the harmonious relationship between the structure and its natural environment, creating a tranquil retreat that celebrates coastal living.
Front Entrance
The front entrance features a vibrant green door complemented by a vintage-style lantern hanging above. A rustic bell is mounted beside the door, adding charm. The entryway opens to a view of polished wooden floors leading into a warmly lit interior, suggesting inviting spaces beyond. The neutral white walls contrast effectively with the green, creating a fresh aesthetic. A stone pathway lined with grass guides visitors to the entrance, enhancing the natural connection. Lush greenery and delicate flowers are visible near the door, contributing to the home’s historic and welcoming appeal.
Entryway Details
This entryway features lavender walls that create a welcoming and serene atmosphere. A rich wooden door opens to this space, complemented by a vintage wooden cabinet adorned with intricate carvings. Above the cabinet, a tall, modern vase filled with dark and light accents contrasts elegantly with the furniture. Natural light pours in through a window showcasing a decorative stained glass piece, adding a colorful focal point. Framed artworks line the walls, offering a glimpse into the home’s history. The staircase, with its polished wood handrail and white balusters, leads gracefully to the second floor, enhancing the room’s charm.
Staircase Entry
This inviting staircase entry features a blend of historic elegance and modern charm. The walls painted in a soft lavender hue add a lively touch, while the white wainscoting enhances the room’s spacious feel. A traditional wooden staircase with polished steps ascends gracefully, framed by detailed white spindles. A decorative stained-glass window brightens the space, showcasing intricate floral designs, complemented by a blue vase on the windowsill. Framed artwork adorns the walls, offering glimpses into the past, while a vintage chandelier hangs above, casting a warm glow and adding to the homey, inviting atmosphere.
Dining Room
This dining room features panoramic windows that offer stunning views of the water. The warm, beige walls complement the rich, dark wood of a round dining table, surrounded by four wooden chairs with simple, elegant design. A patterned area rug adds warmth beneath the table, enhancing the space’s cozy ambiance. Decorative wallpaper with floral motifs in deep red outlines the lower section of the walls, contrasting beautifully with the light upper walls. A chandelier overhead provides soft lighting, while double doors lead to an outdoor area, seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor living. A china cabinet stands against one wall.
Living Room
This cozy living room features a rich wooden floor, complemented by a patterned area rug that adds warmth. A classic brick fireplace stands as a focal point, framed by an elegant wooden mantel. Behind, built-in shelves are lined with books and family photos, enhancing the homely feel. The color palette includes earthy tones highlighted by a soft beige on the walls and bright natural light flowing in from large windows. Vintage seating, including a dark leather armchair and a light fabric sofa, invites relaxation. A dining area with wooden chairs contrasts beautifully with the inviting ambiance, merging functionality with cozy aesthetics.
Living Room
This cozy living room features rich wooden accents and classic furnishings, capturing a warm, inviting atmosphere. The wall showcases vertical wooden paneling, complemented by white wainscoting. A rustic brick fireplace serves as a focal point, adorned with a vintage mirror and decorative elements. The furniture includes a green, textured sofa facing a dark leather armchair, positioned on a patterned area rug that enhances the space’s elegance. An antique table holds books and a decorative piece, while framed art hangs above, adding character. Natural light floods in from large windows, offering scenic views and brightening the room.
Living Room
This living room features rich wooden paneling and a brick fireplace at its heart. The ceiling boasts exposed beams, enhancing its historic charm. A seating area includes a patterned green couch and a round wooden coffee table, adorned with a book. To one side, a classic writing desk with an intricate lamp complemented by vintage artwork attracts attention. Opposite, a tall ladder-back chair adds a rustic touch. The floor is covered with a decorative rug, introducing depth to the warm wood tones. Natural light floods from nearby windows, illuminating the inviting and cozy atmosphere characteristic of traditional American homes.
Living Room
This inviting living room features warm wooden walls and classic white beams overhead, creating a cozy atmosphere. A plush, cream-colored sofa and a deep blue leather armchair offer comfort, while a round wooden coffee table stands at the center. The space is enhanced with rich textures from an ornate area rug beneath. Bookshelves line one wall, filled with colorful books and décor, while large windows invite natural light and provide a view of the outside greenery. Framed artwork adorns the walls, complementing the rustic charm and offering a glimpse into the home’s history.
Living Room
This living room features an inviting layout with two floral-patterned sofas enhanced by rich wooden accents. The warm, textured walls are complemented by white coffered ceilings, creating an airy feel. A large window floods the space with natural light, framed by simple white trim. The room is adorned with a vintage area rug in deep blue and gold, providing contrast against the light oak flooring. A charming wooden coffee table sits centrally, surrounded by other antique side tables. Bookshelves line one wall, filled with books and decorative objects, creating an atmosphere of comfort and intellectual warmth.
Living Room
This cozy living room features a warm color scheme with rich wood accents on the walls and ceiling beams, complemented by light beige floral sofas that invite relaxation. A unique black side table with intricate details holds a decorative dish, adding a touch of elegance. The room is anchored by a lavish area rug with floral patterns that enhances the inviting atmosphere. A built-in bookshelf showcases a colorful array of books and decor, while large windows frame a scenic view of greenery, bathing the space in natural light. Doorways lead to adjacent rooms, enhancing connectivity.
Kitchen Space
This kitchen features rich cherry wood cabinetry that provides a warm, inviting atmosphere, accentuated by polished stainless steel appliances. The countertops are a clean, white tile that contrasts beautifully with the dark wooden cabinetry. Two windows allow natural light to flood the space, offering views of the outside. A sleek, modern stove is positioned alongside a dishwasher, enhancing functionality. Wood flooring adds a cozy touch while a braided area rug beneath the sink introduces texture. The overall layout is efficient, optimizing space for cooking and movement, making it both practical and aesthetically pleasing.
Entryway
The entryway features a charming open design with a sweeping view from the upper level balcony, showcasing a delicate white railing. The walls are painted a soft lavender, enhancing a warm ambiance. Natural light floods through large windows, illuminating wooden accents. A striking vintage lantern hangs from the ceiling, providing a focal point, while intricate wooden doors lend a rustic charm. A beautifully carved cabinet sits below the balcony, accompanied by a collection of vases on a polished surface, adding elegance. Framed artworks line the walls, enriching the visual narrative and blending historical allure with contemporary accents.
Bedroom
This cozy bedroom showcases a four-poster bed with intricately carved wooden posts, draped in a crisp, floral-patterned quilt. A nightstand beside the bed holds a traditional lamp, casting a warm glow. The room features light blue wallpaper adorned with delicate floral motifs, complementing the rich, warm tones of the hardwood flooring. Natural light pours in through large windows, framing views of lush greenery. An adjoining doorway leads to a sunny, yellow-hued room, enhancing the cheerful atmosphere. Decorative elements include an area rug with intricate designs, providing texture and warmth to the inviting space.
Hallway
This hallway features soft lavender walls that create a calming atmosphere, complemented by warm wooden flooring. Natural light streams through a large window, illuminating selected artwork framed elegantly on the walls. A decorative wall hanging adds a touch of culture, while a vintage mirror enhances visual depth. The rich red and cream rug spans the corridor, providing texture and warmth. Light fixtures cast a gentle glow, accentuating the architectural details of the trim and banister. The overall aesthetic harmonizes historical charm with modern comfort, inviting movement to various rooms of the home.
Living Room
This cozy living room features a floral-patterned couch, inviting with its deep cushions. Hardwood flooring adds warmth, complementing the soft beige walls. A classic fireplace with a brick surround acts as a focal point, framed by elegant white molding. Above the mantel, an antique artwork enhances the room’s vintage charm. To the side, a wooden bookshelf displays neatly arranged books, suggesting a love for reading. Large windows invite ample natural light, revealing lush greenery outside. An adjacent doorway suggests connectivity to other areas of the house, emphasizing an open and airy feel.
Cozy Living Room
This inviting living room features large windows offering a panoramic view of the sea, allowing natural light to flood the space. The walls are painted a soft, warm pink, enhancing the cozy ambiance. A floral-patterned couch provides comfortable seating, complemented by a round, textured area rug that adds warmth underfoot. A small round table, paired with wooden chairs, creates a nook perfect for enjoying morning coffee or reading. Wooden bookshelves showcase an assortment of books and decorative items. Framed artwork adorns the walls, reflecting a nautical theme, tying the room’s aesthetic to its scenic surroundings.
Bedroom
A warm yellow hue envelops this inviting bedroom, enhanced by abundant natural light streaming through large multi-pane windows. The space features a classic wooden bed adorned with a soft, blue floral bedspread. A plush, pastel pink bench sits at the foot of the bed, complementing rich wooden furniture, including a tall dresser and a small desk with a vintage chair. Two matching lamps with pleated shades illuminate the nightstands beside the bed. A patterned area rug adds warmth to the polished wooden floor, while framed artwork and a mirror provide a touch of personal charm to the cozy atmosphere.
Bedroom
This cozy bedroom features a soft yellow wall color that creates a warm atmosphere. The centerpiece is a neatly made bed with a white quilt and light blue bedding. Flanking the bed are two elegant lamps on small bedside tables. A plush, pink tufted bench at the foot of the bed adds a touch of comfort and style. Opposite the bed, a traditional wooden dresser and a chest of drawers showcase intricate craftsmanship. An antique mirror enhances the decor, while large windows invite natural light and offer views of greenery outside. A patterned area rug complements the wooden flooring, adding warmth.
Exterior View
This view showcases a two-story historic home situated along a serene waterside landscape. The exterior features a smooth, light-colored stucco finish with dark green window frames and doors, enhancing its classic charm. A unique archway leads to the entrance, inviting exploration. Surrounding the property are lush green lawns and trees, creating a natural buffer. The stone pathway extends from the house, offering a rustic touch that complements the overall aesthetic. The roof is adorned with dark shingles, contrasting nicely with the light facade, while the bright blue sky adds to the tranquility of the scene.
Exterior View
A tranquil lakeside view highlights the unique architectural features of this historic home. The exterior combines natural stone with a smooth, light-colored stucco, creating a harmonious blend with the surrounding greenery. Arched windows allow ample light and views of the serene water, while the dark, sloping roof adds a classic touch. A stone pathway leads to a charming entrance, flanked by lush trees and vibrant foliage. The garden extends towards the water’s edge, emphasizing the connection between the home and nature. This setting evokes a sense of peace, inviting dwellers to enjoy both the architecture and the landscape.
Entryway
This entryway features an elegant design with a rounded window providing natural light and an inviting view of greenery outside. The walls are painted white, enhancing the sense of space and brightness. A dark green door complements the soft color scheme, adorned with a round doorknob. To the side, a wooden console table adds warmth and practicality, showcasing beautiful wood grain. The ceiling is accented with black beams, introducing a touch of rustic charm. A stylish wall lantern illuminates the area, enhancing the cozy ambiance of this transitional space between indoor and outdoor.
Patio Space
A serene patio overlooking a tranquil body of water, showcasing a combination of earthy tones and natural elements. The textured brick floor contrasts with the smooth white stucco walls, which are adorned with green-trimmed windows and a door, adding a pop of color. Light green chairs surround a simple table, perfect for relaxing or dining outdoors. Tall trees provide shade, enhancing the peaceful atmosphere. The patio seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor living, inviting leisurely moments while enjoying scenic views. The setting is ideal for gatherings, surrounded by nature’s beauty.
Waterfront Pathway
A scenic pathway leads down from a light-toned, modern home towards the tranquil waterfront. The house exterior features smooth, white stucco complemented by vibrant green window frames, creating a striking contrast. A gentle slope transitions into a wide concrete platform that offers an unobstructed view of the shimmering water. Flanking the pathway are lush green grasses and patches of wild plants, enhancing the natural ambiance. Natural stone steps are interspersed throughout, providing easy access to the rocky shore. Shadowy silhouettes from the nearby trees dance across the pathway, adding warmth to the coastal atmosphere.
Dining Area
This cozy dining area features warm wooden paneling against a backdrop of a vaulted ceiling, showcasing exposed beams. A rectangular table with a blue fringed cloth is set for casual meals, accompanied by mismatched wooden chairs, one painted teal. Large windows adorned with stained glass panels allow natural light to flood in, offering views of the surrounding greenery. A rustic brick fireplace, central to the room, enhances the charm, complemented by a vintage mirror set above it. The adjacent kitchen area, equipped with modern appliances, contrasts beautifully with the historical aesthetics, creating a harmonious blend of old and new.
Outdoor Deck
A charming outdoor deck features a rustic wooden floor and green painted railings, seamlessly blending with the lush surroundings. The focal point includes a round table surrounded by matching wire mesh chairs, offering a cozy dining space. French doors, also green, open to connect the indoors with the outside, enhancing the flow of light. The siding showcases natural wood shingles, complementing the earthy tones. Sunlight filters through expansive trees, casting dappled shadows across the deck, creating a serene and inviting atmosphere. The overall design emphasizes harmony with nature, perfect for relaxation or social gatherings.
Bedroom
The room features warm wood paneling and a rustic ambiance, highlighted by pine wooden floors. A dark, ornate sleigh bed takes center stage, adorned with a floral patterned comforter in soft blues and whites. Nearby, a vintage green dresser with a matching mirror adds character to the space, complemented by a small side table hosting a classic lamp. Large windows frame views of greenery outside, allowing natural light to fill the room, accentuating the exposed wooden beams of the sloped ceiling. The overall aesthetic exudes a cozy, serene vibe, perfect for relaxation.
Exterior View
The image shows the exterior of a quaint, rustic cottage surrounded by lush greenery. Weathered wooden shingles form the exterior, lending a charming, rustic character. The cottage features a steeply pitched roof with a prominent chimney, suggesting original craftsmanship. Green trim accents the windows, which are paired with multiple small, decorative lanterns hanging from the exterior, adding a touch of whimsy. Natural light bathes the space, enhanced by the lush trees that provide a vibrant backdrop. A pathway made of wood chips leads towards the entrance, further blending the cottage with its natural surroundings.
Listing Agent: Property Owner of LandVest, Inc. via Zillow
