Hillbrook Equestrian Center, located in Bantam, Connecticut, is a distinguished property offering 28+ acres of premium land ideal for horse enthusiasts. Though not a traditional century home, its architectural style reflects practical, modern equestrian facility design. Built with functionality in mind, it features three barns with 43 stalls, a spacious 20,000 sq ft indoor arena, and an outdoor arena with advanced footing and sprinkler systems. The property includes a 3-bedroom home and a 1-bedroom apartment, adding residential versatility. Priced at $2,750,000, this estate provides income potential with 19 leased stalls, multiple riding trails, a private pond, and close proximity to Bantam Lake and local amenities, blending rural charm with strategic convenience. Total acreage is split into residential (1.62 acres) and commercial parcels (26.56 acres).
Farm Entrance
A long paved driveway leads past a large bare tree, casting shadows on the ground, towards a large farm building painted gray with white trim. The building has multiple barn doors and a central entrance under a small pitched roof. To the right, a fenced paddock contains a dark horse standing by a metal gate. The fence is white and wooden, contrasting with the dark horse and earth tones of the ground. In the background, a wooded hillside meets a blue sky scattered with soft white clouds, evoking a peaceful rural setting.
Historic White Cottage Exterior
This historic American cottage sits quietly amid a large, open yard scattered with mature deciduous trees, currently leafless, suggesting late fall or early spring. The house is a single-story structure with white wooden siding and dark shutters framing symmetrical windows. The roof is steeply pitched with dark shingles, and two small dormer windows add architectural interest. Stone foundation supports a charming, covered porch on one side, accessible by small steps. The grounds are spacious with a mix of grass, fallen leaves, and natural rocks, bordered by a woodland area in the distance under a partly cloudy sky.
Waterfront Landscape
A serene landscape with a still body of water partially covered in thin ice or reflections, bordered by dry, golden-brown grasses and reeds. On the right, tall, leafless deciduous trees stretch upwards, indicating a late fall or early winter season. The left bank shows a mix of leafless trees and evergreen pines, with a clear, bright blue sky filled with sparse, soft white clouds. The horizon features gently rolling hills sparsely dotted with trees, creating a peaceful, natural setting. The scene evokes tranquility and rustic charm, characteristic of a quiet countryside water edge.
Barn and Pasture View
A large gray barn with white trim stands at the center of a cleared open space, surrounded by a white wooden fence. Multiple adjoining barn structures extend horizontally, suggesting ample storage or livestock facilities. The ground is a mix of green grass and patches of bare earth, with a prominent dirt road leading to the barn’s open entrance. Leafless trees frame the foreground, allowing an unobstructed view of rolling fields and dense tree lines in the background beneath a partly cloudy sky. The rustic, rural setting evokes a typical countryside farm ambiance.
Barn Exterior
A large barn with a classic gambrel roof design painted in a muted taupe color and contrasted with bright white trim dominates the scene. The barn doors feature distinctive white crossbuck patterns, supporting a traditional American rural aesthetic. The roof is covered with dark gray asphalt shingles, adding to its sturdy, utilitarian charm. Surrounding the barn is a gently sloping grassy area and a dirt driveway leading to the entrance, framed by leafless trees and a clear blue sky, evoking a serene rural environment. White wooden fencing partially encloses the background, enhancing the pastoral setting.
Stable Interior with Equipment
A long, narrow stable lined with a series of wooden stall doors on both sides, each painted in rustic reddish-brown with white X-shaped trim. The doors have black metal bars on the upper halves, allowing visibility and ventilation. The floor is covered with hay scattered across rubber matting, suggesting an environment actively used for housing animals. Above, exposed white-painted wooden beams run the length of the ceiling, showing signs of wear and age. In the center stands a red tractor with large, mud-speckled tires and an attached roller, indicating farm work functionality integrated within the stable space. The atmosphere is practical and utilitarian, reflecting a working agricultural setting.
Stable Exterior and Riding Arena
A large gray barn with white trim, featuring classic barn-style X-cross panel doors and multiple small windows for natural light. The barn has a gambrel roof with a small cupola topped by a weather vane, adding rustic charm and historic architectural detail. Adjacent is an expansive sandy riding arena, surrounded by well-crafted wooden fencing painted white, partially weathered from exposure. The landscape includes a gently sloping grassy area beside the fenced arena. Clear blue skies and leafless trees surrounding the property suggest a late fall or early spring setting, enhancing the peaceful, rural atmosphere.
Historic Home Exterior
A classic American farmhouse stands elevated on a sturdy stone foundation with a broad wraparound porch supported by white columns. The house exterior is painted crisp white, complementing the grey-shingled roof. Leafless trees around the property suggest late autumn or early winter, enhancing the rustic and serene countryside atmosphere. The expansive lawn, dotted with fallen leaves, offers ample open space. A wooden picnic table near the house hints at outdoor leisure. The backdrop of wooded hills adds depth and seclusion, reinforcing a connection to nature and the timeless charm of rural living.
Farm Pond and Barn
A tranquil farm pond with reflective water sits in the foreground, bordered by dry grass, scattered rocks, and bare patches of earth. Beyond the pond, a large, light-colored barn with multiple windows and a cupola stands surrounded by a neatly fenced pasture. The rustic fencing is constructed from wooden rails, creating an organized enclosure. Bare trees frame the scene under a bright blue sky speckled with wispy clouds, evoking a peaceful rural atmosphere. The landscape reflects late fall or early spring, with natural tones of brown, beige, and muted greens contrasting against the vivid sky.
Indoor Riding Arena
An expansive indoor riding arena with a spacious floor covered in soft dirt or sand, ideal for equestrian activities. The structure is supported by robust, rust-colored steel beams with a slightly aged patina, emphasizing durability and industrial strength. The ceiling is high, lined with cream-colored metal panels, showing some weathering. Bright, rectangular overhead lights evenly illuminate the space. The walls are a mix of white, corrugated metal with large windows or translucent panels near the top allowing natural light to filter in. Wooden railings line the perimeter, marked with letters suggesting dressage training or horse riding exercises.
Horse Stable Interior
Long, open aisleway flanked by horse stalls constructed with warm-toned wooden panels and sturdy black metal bars. Overhead, a steel roof with exposed beams adds industrial durability, while linear fluorescent lighting runs the length of the aisle, brightening the space. The concrete floor shows wear consistent with active use yet remains functional and easy to maintain. A bay horse leans over one stall door, adding life to the scene. Adjacent to the stalls, wooden walls with a white door break the stall sequence, hinting at additional enclosed rooms or storage areas. Overall, the stable combines practical, rustic textures with clean structural lines.
Horse Grooming Stall
Wood-paneled stalls and partitions create a rustic, functional space designed for horse grooming and care. The ceiling and structural beams are clad in warm-toned wood, contrasting with the white walls of the stalls. Various horse equipment, like lead ropes, harnesses, and grooming tools, hang neatly along the walls and beams, emphasizing the practical use of the area. The floor has rubber mats with visible wear and water stains, hinting at regular cleaning and washing. A narrow corridor lined with additional stalls extends down the length, illuminated by fluorescent lighting for visibility and utility.
Storage Room Details
The narrow rectangular space has plain white walls and a beige concrete floor, giving an unfinished, utilitarian feel. Metal shelving occupies the far wall, stocked with various containers and supplies. On either side of the room, large plastic and metal trash cans and bins sit elevated on wooden boards, suggesting organization to keep contents off the floor. A small, high window on the right wall allows minimal natural light. The brown wooden door with a round silver doorknob is open, revealing fluorescent overhead lighting that brightly illuminates the otherwise sparse environment, emphasizing practicality over decoration.
Storage Room
Wood-paneled walls and ceiling in a warm honey tone enclose this narrow storage space lined with built-in cabinets on both sides. The cabinets, made of varnished wood, have black metal handles and latches, evoking a vintage, handcrafted appearance. The floor is plain and utilitarian, suited for heavy use. Various plastic storage bins, toolboxes, and household items are arranged along the floor beneath the cabinets, reflecting practical use. A white door with a classic silver knob incorporates clear glass panes, adding a touch of light and access to the room, balancing the otherwise enclosed, rustic atmosphere.
Dining Area with Fireplace
Wood-paneled crown molding and a warm wood floor lay the foundation for this cozy dining area. A round, honey-toned wooden table is surrounded by plush beige chairs with black legs, positioned near a rustic stone fireplace framed by white built-in shelves holding decorative plates and pottery. The kitchen cabinetry is painted white with a smooth marble countertop, housing a stainless steel dishwasher and a single-basin sink under a minimalist pendant light. A patterned rug anchors the cleaning area, while a simple wall clock and natural wood trim add a subtle historic charm to the space.
Cozy Lounge Area
Warm wood paneling envelops the room, giving it a cabin-like ambiance. A large window allows natural light to brighten the space, complementing the recessed ceiling lights and a small antique-style chandelier. The seating includes a rust-colored leather sofa accompanied by a matching loveseat, and a vintage dog-ear tufted armchair in muted green. A wooden rocking chair and a small dark side table add rustic charm. A richly patterned Persian-style rug defines the central area, where a low wooden coffee table sits. The dominant feature is the wall of built-in wooden storage cabinets with metal latches, evoking historic storage design. A flat-screen TV is mounted on the wall, balanced by two framed prints, blending modern and traditional elements.
Entry Hallway
Warm honey-toned wood framing the doorways and ceiling trim contrasts softly with the crisp, off-white walls, creating a welcoming atmosphere. The terracotta tile flooring adds rustic charm and durability, highlighted by a richly patterned oriental rug that brings a splash of deep red and intricate design. A small reception desk in white with a dark wood top holds a ceramic lamp with blue floral motifs alongside a copper vase of purple flowers, adding a cozy, vintage touch. Artwork on the walls portrays equestrian scenes, reinforcing a classic, rural elegance. An open doorway reveals an adjoining room with rich wood-paneled walls and comfortable furnishings, enhancing the historic, inviting character of the home.
Entryway and Sitting Area
Natural wood tones dominate the space with a warm honey-colored wooden door and trim framing the entryway. Two steps lead up to the door which features divided glass panes allowing natural light to filter inside. The floor is laid with wide wooden planks enhancing the rustic charm. A plush blue-gray tufted armchair sits against a cream wall, adding a touch of elegance with its classic design and wooden legs. An area rug with intricate traditional patterns adds warmth and character. Beyond, a cozy room with built-in pine cabinetry and a red leather sofa offers a rich contrast and comfortable ambiance.
Horse Stable Interior
Long aisle flanked by wooden stalls with black metal bars, each stall equipped with brass-topped posts. Exposed wooden beams ceiling and natural wood-paneled walls create a rustic atmosphere. Floor is concrete with rubber matting to ensure stable footing. Saddles, bridles, and riding gear hang from hooks, and a red folding chair adds a casual touch on the right. A blue bucket and storage bins contribute to the practical, working environment. Bright fluorescent lights illuminate the space, blending functionality with a warm barn aesthetic in this well-kept equestrian facility.
Stable Tack Room
A practical space with light-colored wooden flooring and warm honey-toned wooden doors on one side. A wooden plank accent wall holds an organized display of horse tack, including bridles and saddle pads, emphasizing the room’s equestrian purpose. A small round wooden table with four mid-century modern chairs featuring patterned upholstery sits centrally, suggesting a casual gathering or workspace. To the right, a pale blue upholstered couch adds subtle contrast and comfort. The ceiling has a simple black chandelier with exposed bulbs, blending rustic and functional aesthetics. Beyond, a wrought iron horse stall is visible, reinforcing the room’s use within a stable environment.
Kitchen Counter Area
Light wood cabinetry with simple paneling lines the lower and upper sections of the counter area. A small black refrigerator is integrated under the counter, which is topped with a light marble-like surface. A single metal sink with a classic faucet is centered beneath a bare wall, with a small wicker basket decorative piece placed atop one of the upper cabinets. The floor is finished in a natural wood with visible grain and variation. To the right, three warm-toned wooden doors with distinct black handles lead to adjoining rooms or storage. Off-white walls and a small, intricate chandelier above soften the minimalist yet homey atmosphere.
Living Room and Kitchen View
A long, open-plan living room transitions smoothly into a compact kitchen, illuminated by recessed ceiling lights. The natural wood flooring and matching wooden furniture lend a warm, earthy tone to the space. On one side, a rich black leather sofa lined with understated pillows sits beneath a collection of framed artworks depicting pastoral scenes in muted, natural colors. A plush armchair and a wooden coffee table fill the center. Opposite the seating, a wooden media cabinet holds a large TV and books. The kitchen beyond features light wood cabinetry and stainless steel appliances, emphasizing simplicity and functionality in this cozy, inviting home environment.
Living Room and Workspace
Elongated living space with vaulted ceilings painted white, creating an airy and bright atmosphere. Warm wooden flooring complements the rich wooden furniture including a leather couch and multiple accent chairs. The far wall adorned with a gallery of framed art ranging from portraits to landscapes adds personality and a touch of nostalgia. A patterned area rug anchors the seating area. To the right, a cozy workspace with a wooden desk and a comfortable dark wicker chair is placed under windows that allow natural light to illuminate the desk surface. Decorative accents, including small sculptures and a textured lamp, contribute to a cultured, inviting aesthetic blending comfort with functional design.
Kitchen Island and Storage
The kitchen has a spacious layout with light wooden cabinetry and a smooth countertop along one side. A stainless steel sink and faucet sit under open shelves holding glassware in green and clear tones, adding subtle color contrast. A large stainless steel refrigerator is tucked between cabinets and a small hallway leading to another room. The island in the middle has a butcher block top and a metal frame with open shelving below storing bowls and plastic containers. Above the island is a suspended rack filled with pots and pans, highlighting practical storage. The flooring is warm-toned wood with a clean white wall backdrop, offering a bright, inviting atmosphere.
Breakfast Nook
A quaint breakfast nook bathed in natural light from two large multi-pane windows looks out onto a serene outdoor scene. The warm wood flooring complements a round dining table draped with a delicate patterned tablecloth and topped with a clear glass surface. Surrounding the table are four dark wooden chairs with curved backs, adding a touch of vintage charm. A pale green glass-front cabinet houses an array of delicate china and decorative items, topped with matching floral plates. Small potted plants on the windowsill and floor to the right bring a freshness and softness to the inviting, bright corner.
Bedroom Interior
A cozy bedroom painted in soft cream tones emphasizes simplicity and comfort. The metal bed frame, painted in a muted ivory, features a decorative row of bird figurines along the headboard, adding a whimsical touch. A light blue blanket covers the bed, complemented by crisp white bedding underneath. On each side of the bed, dark wooden nightstands contrast with the light walls, one topped with a vintage-style lamp and lace doily, the other with a modern globe lamp. Adjacent to the bed is an open closet with organized clothes and drawers, while a nearby door leads to a bathroom with white tile and wood floors, enhancing the space’s clean and classic aesthetic.
Bathroom Vanity and Tub Area
Clean and bright bathroom with white walls and natural wood flooring. A black vanity with a white countertop and sink contrasts against the light walls, topped by a matching black-framed mirrored medicine cabinet. Above the mirror, two classic light fixtures provide illumination. Several framed art pieces with botanical and butterfly motifs hang on the wall, complementing a mint green towel on a black ring holder underneath. Large window with white blinds allows natural light to fill the room. To the right, a white bathtub with a white shower curtain adds to the fresh, simple aesthetic.
Unfinished Loft Space
Extensive loft area with a high, vaulted ceiling featuring exposed natural wood beams and an unfinished plywood floor. The walls are partially finished, with drywall panels showing visible seams and joint compound, and some walls clad in rustic wooden planks. Large rectangular windows along one side flood the space with natural light, illuminating an eclectic mixture of furniture including rattan chairs with cushions, wicker seating, and various tables. The room functions as a casual storage and gathering spot, with items such as coats, bottled water, and household goods scattered throughout. The space has a raw, rustic ambiance awaiting completion.
Listing Agent: Holly M. Leibrock of Elyse Harney Real Estate via Zillow