5 N Menantic Rd, Shelter Island, NY, 11964

About This Home

Set on 2.94 waterfront acres overlooking West Neck Creek, this 1860 Italianate stands with the quiet assurance of a home that has been well kept and thoughtfully expanded over time. Affectionately named "The Other Havens' House", it was built by the Havens family from wood brought by rail and barge from their lumberyard which was located on The East River in Manhattan, where the United Nations Building is today. From its slightly elevated position, lawns slope gently toward the water, framed by fruit trees and open sky. A long drive, marked by a traditional lantern, leads to the formal double-door entry. Inside, wide-plank pine floors speak to the home's early craftsmanship. The living room retains its original moldings, tall two-over-two windows, and a marble fireplace with summer cover. Beyond, the formal dining room mirrors these distinctive details and looks out toward the water. The kitchen is practical and well placed, with pantry storage and direct access to the outdoor entertaining areas. A first-floor parlor with full bathroom sits just off the foyer. Upstairs are four guest bedrooms, two of which have water views, a powder room, and a full hall bath. In the 1980's, a primary suite wing was seamlessly added, with careful attention to scale and proportion. Reached by a separate hallway with its own exterior entrance and independently heated, with access to lower level two car garage, the suite includes a sitting room with French doors to the grounds, a spacious bedroom, full bath, dressing area, walk-in closet, and office. Outdoors, a covered porch and deck with an electric awning overlook the 20 x 40 Gunite pool with bluestone surround/patio, positioned for captivating western sunsets, with outdoor shower close by. The 58 foot long, 4 foot wide fixed dock on protected West Neck Creek, with permits for two floating platforms, provides easy access to the harbor. A waterfront home of substance and history, shaped by time and oriented to the water.