New Found Farm

Rustic charm and comfort

Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Washington, Maine, “New Found Farm” stands as a testament to dedication and vision. Conceived over two decades by Knickerbocker Group’s design operations leader and architect Sue Mendleson and engineer Todd Bennett, this remarkable home merges the rustic charm of a barn with modern comforts, all on land inherited by Mendleson’s family.

The idea sprouted simply from a shared admiration for barns. Drawing from Mendleson’s early career experience in post-and-beam construction, the couple embarked on a meticulous planning phase. They pored over coffee-table books, took countryside drives for inspiration, and settled on an English barn design with distinctive features like weathered shingles, a cupola, and sliding doors—a nod to a an inspirational Union, Maine barn they discovered.

Everywhere, wood abounds

Progress was gradual, driven by their financial prudence. Each summer brought incremental advances, from laying roads and utilities to constructing what they affectionately refer to as the “dog wing”—initially their living quarters, now a haven for their award-winning Newfoundland dogs.

The interior layout, true to its barn origins, spans vertically with living, dining, and kitchen areas seamlessly connected beneath soaring rafters. Two haylofts, linked by a bridge and adorned with personal touches like an antique pool table and Newfoundland-themed decor, add a unique loftiness.

Attention to detail defines every aspect of “New Found Farm.” Exposed metal-case conduits house wiring, reflecting a barn’s pragmatic ethos. Hemlock and ash ladders lead to the catwalk and cupola, offering panoramic views. Reclaimed barn boards and whitewashed pine envelop the exterior, complemented by custom-made door hardware echoing ancestral designs.

A home with collaborative spirit

Outside, meticulous landscaping echoes the property’s historical aura. Blueberry Stone and local granite form retaining walls and terraces that blend seamlessly with the natural terrain. The integration of a stone ramp and foundation for a dog kennel enhances both functionality and aesthetic continuity.

Throughout, collaborative spirit was pivotal. From kitchen design by Elaine Murdoch to cabinet craftsmanship by Ray Menard, each contributor imbued “New Found Farm” with craftsmanship. Mendleson fondly remarks, “They’re all family now, whether they like it or not.”

Built upon Maine’s rural heritage

“New Found Farm” isn’t just a home; it’s a cherished legacy, a new homestead built upon enduring passion and respect for Maine’s rural heritage. As Mendleson aptly notes, it’s more than a pun on their beloved dog breed—it’s a testament to forging a new, cherished chapter in a homegrown story.