The John Griswold Hillhouse homestead c. 1765 stands proudly atop Raymond Hill framed by five acres and centuries old stone walls. In 2019, the home received the Award of Excellence from the Connecticut Trust for Historic Preservation and the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Connecticut for the property restoration. Saunders Architects guided the process and build creating an historically accurate finish with a nod to modern convenience. The center chimney design is one of symmetry and balance. Equally proportioned rooms in the main body of the home feature six fireplaces paneled with original moldings including the dining room's original cooking fireplace and beehive oven. The kitchen renovation includes a leathered granite topped center island, gas cooking and a generous pantry. The formal living room and parlor are found at the front of the home. The ell contains a portion of the expanded kitchen and the first-floor bedroom with ensuite bath and laundry room. There is also an informal mudroom entry and powder room. Post and beam construction is found here with higher ceilings and incredible wide board floors on the first and second levels. Climb the front or rear staircase to find 3 bedrooms and 2 baths. The third floor hideaway recreation room and overflow guest/office space reveals a stunning fieldstone chimney with "witch's bend" and exposed beams. A highlight is the reveal of a chimney smoker. This is an additional approx. 1200 SF not included in the total.