Distinctive, character-rich, and thoughtfully updated, this extraordinary residence offers the rare opportunity to experience the warmth and architectural character of a historic barn with the comfort and sophistication of a modern home. Originally dating to the 1800s and extensively updated in 2015, the property blends reclaimed materials, exposed timber trusses, soaring ceilings, and beautifully curated finishes throughout more than 6,500 square feet of living space.
At the heart of the home is a spectacular great room featuring dramatic ceiling height, exposed beams, a two-sided fireplace, and a wall of windows overlooking the grounds. The open-concept design flows seamlessly into the dining area and custom kitchen, where an oversized soapstone island creates a natural gathering place for family and friends. A comfortable family room provides a separate space for movie nights, games, and everyday living.
The first floor also offers a private bedroom suite with ensuite bath, ideal for guests or extended family, along with a versatile collection of office and studio spaces with a private entrance—an excellent opportunity for a home-based business, creative studio, or professional workspace.
Upstairs, a striking loft overlooks the main living area and leads to the luxurious primary suite, complete with a fireplace, walk-through closets, private bath with clawfoot soaking tub, tiled shower and double vanity, plus a private sauna and laundry. Three additional bedrooms, including one with its own loft, and another full bath provide ample space for family and guests. Additional finished and unfinished areas on the third floor and walkout lower-level offer exceptional flexibility for recreation, hobbies, storage, or future expansion.
Practical features include an attached garage with parking for up to six vehicles, updated and energy-efficient systems, and an automatic generator. The beautifully landscaped 2.6-acre grounds have been further transformed with the addition of a spectacular custom freeform swimming pool and integrated spa, creating a private resort-like retreat just outside your door. Surrounded by extensive stone and paver hardscaping, mature landscaping, and multiple areas for lounging and entertaining, the pool area is designed for long summer days, gatherings with family and friends, and effortless outdoor living. A separate barn with water and electricity offers additional possibilities for gardening, animals, hobbies, or storage.
Ideally situated between Route 101 and downtown Exeter, with convenient access to Phillips Exeter Academy, SAU 16 schools, shopping, restaurants, and nearby walking trails, this one-of-a-kind property delivers a rare combination of history, design, versatility, and modern functionality—with the added luxury of a private outdoor retreat that feels worlds away from the everyday.
Few New England communities offer the combination of history, culture, natural beauty, and convenience found in Exeter, New Hampshire. Established in 1638 along the Squamscott River, Exeter has retained the character of a quintessential New England village while evolving into a sophisticated and highly livable Seacoast community.
At the center of town, historic architecture frames a lively downtown filled with independent shops, cafés, restaurants, galleries, and gathering places. Water Street and Front Street follow the Squamscott River, while Swasey Parkway offers a picturesque setting for walking, picnicking, community events, and seasonal farmers' markets.
Exeter's connection to Phillips Exeter Academy, founded in 1781, is woven into the fabric of the community. The Academy's historic village campus, distinguished architecture, arts and athletic facilities, and internationally recognized academic tradition contribute to the town's distinctive cultural character.
One of Exeter's greatest luxuries is its sense of place. Rather than relying on a traditional commercial district, the town center encourages residents to park the car and explore on foot. Historic storefronts, the riverfront, Town Hall, the public library, independent retailers, cafés, and restaurants create a downtown that feels both authentic and active.
The culinary scene has become an increasingly important part of Exeter's identity, with an impressive range of independent restaurants, from intimate dining and wine bars to casual cafés, breweries, international cuisine, and family-friendly favorites. The town's current dining scene includes establishments such as Vino e Vivo, Cornicello, Ambrose, The Exeter Inn & Epoch, and The Loaf & Ladle, among many others.
From Exeter, the broader Seacoast is remarkably accessible. Spend a morning exploring downtown Portsmouth, an afternoon at the beach, or an evening enjoying the region's restaurants, galleries, music, and waterfront. The area surrounding Exeter offers easy access to coastal destinations including Rye, Hampton, New Castle, and Portsmouth, as well as southern Maine communities just across the Piscataqua River.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the region provides an abundance of opportunities for walking, cycling, boating, kayaking, beach days, and exploring coastal landscapes. The Seacoast Science Center and Great Island Common are both within the surrounding coastal area, while Portsmouth provides additional dining, shopping, arts, and entertainment.
Despite its village atmosphere, Exeter is exceptionally well connected. Route 101 provides a direct connection to the Seacoast and the greater New Hampshire region, while I-95 provides convenient north-south access. The community is also served by the Amtrak Downeaster, with service connecting Exeter to Boston and Portland, Maine.
Boston Logan International Airport is approximately an hour from Phillips Exeter Academy, while Manchester-Boston Regional Airport is approximately 45 minutes away, making Exeter an appealing choice for those seeking the tranquility of New Hampshire without sacrificing regional accessibility.
Living in Exeter means having an exceptional collection of New England destinations within easy reach. Head east toward the Atlantic for beaches and coastal villages; south toward Massachusetts for the North Shore; north toward Portsmouth and southern Maine; or west toward the lakes, mountains, and countryside of New Hampshire.
Portsmouth offers a vibrant waterfront, historic architecture, independent boutiques, celebrated restaurants, galleries, theaters, and year-round cultural events. Rye and Hampton provide classic New Hampshire beach experiences, while New Castle offers harbor views and a distinctly coastal village atmosphere. Across the Piscataqua River, southern Maine opens the door to destinations including Kittery and the greater Portland area.
And when city life calls, Boston is close enough for a day trip, dinner, sporting event, or cultural outing—while Exeter allows you to return home to a quieter pace.
For this exceptional property, Exeter provides an especially fitting backdrop. Here, a historic residence with architectural character, expansive grounds, and a private resort-style setting can be enjoyed within a community that offers both New England authenticity and everyday convenience.
It is a place where mornings can begin with a walk along the river, afternoons can be spent poolside at home or at the coast, and evenings can transition effortlessly from a quiet dinner at home to an exceptional meal downtown.
Historic. Connected. Cultured. Coastal. And distinctly Exeter.
That is the lifestyle that awaits.
