Over the River and Through the Woods

A secluded and sublime sanctuary near old Dublin

Written by Amelia Jeffers / Photography by Jeff McCutcheon

Sometimes a piece of land is so special that it commands stewardship above and beyond typical uses. Minutes from old Dublin and nestled between a busy but scenic Dublin Road and the Scioto River sits a rare, protected parcel of ground worthy of special reverence. In a perfect world, a responsible, capable landowner comes along and respects the opportunity this kind of land represents. Fortunately, more than 30 years ago, that happened at 5000 Deer Run.

With a mind for a family compound that would provide a relaxing retreat for meaningful connection, the home is situated at the center of a seven-plus acre sprawling, wooded ravine. Passing through the gated entry and traveling over a bridge above a rambling creek, the tree-lined drive that leads to the home imparts an instant feeling of tranquility. Prominently positioned atop a stone cliff and overlooking a natural dam and private waterfall, the stone and wood residence, designed in the 80s by renowned, award-winning architecture duo Trott & Bean, makes use of stunning views, with walls of windows that blur the line between inside and out.

Recent updates by noted architect George Acock and acclaimed builder Ralph Fallon showcase the superior craftsmanship and attention to detail for which both are wellknown. Refined, but by no means restrained, the elegant interiors are show-stopping but stop short of being over-the-top. A glass conservatory-style entrance introduces the overarching theme of bringing the outdoors in. Anchored by recently honed marble floors and hardwoods newly stained gray, the interiors resemble something you might spy in a chic New York penthouse. Matte black trim and built-ins highlight and offset the cool greys and soft whites and helps to frame the stunning views.

The entry to 5000 Deer Run is comparable to a conservatory - stunning and dramatic.

Interiors of this spectacular residence are straight out of an architectural magazine.

Textures are emphasized as much as color in the beautifully neutral home, with natural fiber carpets and embossed leather and wool suiting used as luxe wallcoverings. Furnishings are thoughtfully placed and carefully selected to complement the heft of the architecture, which encompasses graciously proportioned rooms, ample wainscoting, coffered ceilings and 9’ doors. Dramatic lighting at night only maximizes the effect.

The grand living room anchors the home with enviable views of the picturesque surroundings.

Though there are grand gathering spaces (a dining room with 16’ ceilings overlooks the pool), more intimate retreats are scattered throughout the residence. A study is adjacent the nearly secret master bedroom, the door tucked into an unassuming corner so that you almost have to be looking for it. Positioned between the study and great room is a cozy sitting area designed for a nightcap or a quiet cup of morning coffee.

A formal but comfortable dining room overlooks the pool area.

The saltwater pool includes a pool house with party terrace above that wraps back around to the first floor of this spectacular residence.

A beverage nook is situated between the study and living room.

Architectural accoutrements aside, arguably this home’s most enviable attribute is providing a feeling of serenity in suburbia, knowing you are minutes from everything but feeling many miles away in your own private paradise.

The master is well-positioned for the utmost n privacy, while maximizing the sights and sounds of the stunning landscape.

The intimate study offers a buffered segue to the exceedingly private master suite beyond.

A lower level offers addtional options for entertainment and relaxation, including a wine cellar and access to terraced stone paths to the dam below.

The chef's kitchen is light, spacious, and full of artfully placed corners for storage and organization.

Though only one lucky buyer will have the chance to occupy 5000 Deer Run, a collaboration between the original owner of more than 20 surrounding acres and Lifestyle Communities means the new Deer Run community will open the door for the construction of custom luxury residences on exclusive 2-3 acre sites on a natural landscape that is hard to replicate in central Ohio.