The 200-year-old Greek Revival House: A Phoenix Rises from the Ashes
A Perfect Country Life
Matthew Malin and Andrew Goetz, the founders of the modern apothecary brand Malin+Goetz, saw the potential for a perfect country life in the 200-year-old Greek Revival house in Chatham, N.Y. The house, surrounded by 187 acres of overgrown pasture, ancient trees, and a spring-fed pond, was in dire need of renovation. The couple began renovations in 2021, preserving the original structure, doors, floors, and antique handrail and newel post.
A Devastating Phone Call
Just three weeks before moving in, the couple received a devastating phone call. The restored house had been consumed by flames that lit up the night sky. The fire wrecked their dream, leaving them to deal with the emotional trauma of losing their home.
Rebuilding and Restoration
After 18 months of focused construction, a farmhouse phoenix has risen 500 feet away from the original structure. The new old house is nearly finished, with freshly painted white walls and new mahogany shutters. The great timbers inset in the foundation retain a heavy char, a chic shou sugi ban finish achieved entirely by accident. The basement is now a verdant sunken garden spiked with unruly elderberry bushes.
The Barn: A Temporary Home
The couple has been bunking in the old red barn with their pugs, also home to the only working toilet around. Visitors are encouraged to pee in the weeds anywhere they please on these 187 acres.
The Farmhouse Library and Dining Room
The farmhouse library walls, ceiling, and trim will be drenched in Van Courtland Blue, a Benjamin Moore Historical Collection paint that evokes stormy skies. The dining room will get a Dutch-style brass vintage chandelier from Frederick P. Victoria & Son over the space-age vintage Saarinen dining table currently waiting in the barn solarium.
The Kitchen Garden
The side door of the farmhouse leads to a manicured one-acre kitchen garden with dinosaur kale, Macoun apple trees, and 13-foot branching sunflowers, all laid out by Jamie Purinton, a local landscape architect the couple has employed for more than a dozen years.
Conclusion
The story of Matthew Malin and Andrew Goetz’s journey to rebuild their dream home is one of perseverance and dedication. Despite the setbacks and challenges, they have managed to create a stunning farmhouse that reflects their unique style and love for the countryside.
FAQs
Q: What was the original plan for the property?
A: The couple had planned to restore the original Greek Revival house, but the devastating fire forced them to rebuild and relocate the house across the pond.
Q: What inspired the design of the new farmhouse?
A: The couple worked closely with architect John Hulka to create a design that blended modern and traditional elements, incorporating salvaged materials and antique pieces.
Q: What are the plans for the property’s lifestyle brand?
A: The couple has plans to develop a lifestyle brand that incorporates their love of gardening, cooking, and relaxation.
