Afton Estate

Set at the pinnacle of a wooded bluff, this home styled as a Colorado mountain lodge provides sweeping views of the St. Croix River Valley and St. Croix River . . . . the  Wisconsin bluffs are readily visible in the distance.  Surrounded by hundreds of acres of wildlife refuge owned by the Belwin Conservancy, seclusion and privacy is assured.

The home is accessed by a long drive that gracefully climbs from Stagecoach Trail through beautifully manicured acreage, past a quiet pond with waterfall and fully restored pre-civil war era barn to a full circular drive in front of the home guarded by a hand carved life sized bear.

Entering the home through a spacious foyer the great room concept that has been incorporated enables breathtaking views of the Valley.  A beautiful room dominated by vaults supported by huge beams, an immense stone wood burning fireplace and a spacious dining area set the tone for the superb spaces found throughout, all of which have been placed to capture the wonderful views.

The main living level is ideal for entertaining or for family gatherings.  The open kitchen and hearth room are intended to integrate with the great room enabling guests or family members to participate in the preparation and serving of food and beverages.  The efficient kitchen features cherry cabinetry and granite surfaces with slate backsplash.  Extensive cabinetry and pantry offer more than adequate storage and the center island a convenient prep area.

Adjacent to the kitchen is a spectacular screened porch paneled in clear cedar with vaulted ceiling.  A built-in grill with commercial vent is conveniently placed for ease of serving guests whether on the porch or in the dining area.  The porch is equipped with custom glass inserts enabling its use well into the cooler months as the grill provides heat for a comfortable dining or cocktail experience.

There are two office or den areas on the main level one of which is to the right of the foyer featuring built-in shelving.  This area can be closed off by glassed paneled pocket doors.  The desk has been placed to enable those jaw dropping views as one is conducting business on the phone or computer.

The second office area has been placed off the kitchen tucked into a smaller space.  More utilitarian, its focus is for personal business and menu planning.

A deluxe owner’s suite is steps from the primary living area.  A spacious adult retreat, this space could not be improved upon with beamed ceiling, three sided fireplace, seating area adjacent to a private deck overlooking the valley.  A private bath, with separate shower, whirlpool tub and walk-in closet define the ultimate in luxury.

The handsome powder room for guests is in keeping with the flavor of the home with stone sink placed upon a stout trunk of a tree that has been beautifully finished.  The sink and its support are the perfect accent for this home.

Further along the rear isle leading to the seven (7) car heated garage is a large laundry area, a separate “mud room” with extensive storage and individual “lockers”.  A large enclosed dog run is just outside the “mud room” positioning the pup for easy cleanup.

The entire area over the garage has been finished.  Accessed by a rear stair this large space has been divided by a pair of glass doors.  One half of the space is in use as a fitness or exercise area; the other, for sitting or relaxing . . . . .the space is flexible and is easily adapted to a new owner’s specific use.

The lower level is fully complete with three additional bedrooms, each with private bath and walk-in closet.  Each bedroom enjoys the beautiful views of the valley.  The family gathering area features a fourth fireplace, large screened television, fully complete bar with refrigerator, dishwasher, wine refrigerator and microwave.  A billiard table is available for an aggressive game of pool.  A “quiet” room is off to one side closed by pocket doors.  At present a music room there are a number of varying choices for its continued use.

The exterior of this home is as stunning as the interiors.  Finished in cedar and stone, the siding has been heavily oiled with Sikkens leaving a rich warm look.  Stone accents have been used for support columns and the garage doors are custom designed constructed of redwood.

Extensive use of exposed aggregate has been incorporated for the driveway turn around and patios.  The landscaping is beautiful with evergreens, perennial and rose gardens supported by an in-ground irrigation system as is the lawn surrounding the home.

Special areas have been created for outdoor enjoyment.  A fire pit with huge boulders acting as seating.  Covered wood storage is tucked into the side of the hill completely disguised from view and easily accessed for a continuous supply of firewood.

It is difficult to capture the many amenities the owners have thoughtfully included.  Suffice it to say that from the original decision to site the home to provide the ultimate in seclusion but also obtain one of the best views in the St. Croix Valley, no detail has been overlooked.

From the perfectly placed ironwood decks off of the den, screen porch and owner’s suite, to the whole home audio system provided by Elan (surround sound on both levels), the leading manufacturer and installer of integrated music and television systems, no decision was too small for careful consideration.

The final result is a magnificent country estate that can only be appreciated by a experiencing an onsite visit.

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