The stately Georgian Colonial residence of Phil and Beth Berra, nestled at the end of a private cul-de-sac in Town and Country, embodies a unique blend of architectural grandeur and heartfelt personal history. This custom-built dwelling, a testament to thoughtful design since its completion in 1994, transcends mere aesthetics, serving as a living canvas for cherished family memories and poignant tributes.
Designed with an emphasis on spaciousness and natural light, the home boasts expansive rooms featuring an abundance of windows and imposing 12-foot ceilings. The generous 6,200 square-foot layout encompasses five bedrooms and five bathrooms, creating an extraordinary sensation of openness that is both inviting and luxurious, enhancing the overall architectural design of the property.
A recent transformation saw a screened porch masterfully converted into a new family room adjacent to the kitchen, highlighting modern interior design sensibilities. Here, the strategic painting of window trim in a stark black hue against lighter walls creates a striking visual contrast, making the windows a prominent and elegant focal point within the living space.
The heart of the home, a magnificent kitchen, is anchored by a 12-foot white marble top counter island, providing ample seating and a central gathering point. This area showcases exceptional cabinetry and a coffered ceiling, an intricate architectural detail featuring recessed panels that form a grid-like pattern. Multiple layers of molding and trim further emphasize this sophisticated architectural element, adding depth and character.
While many residences feature traditional artwork, the Berra home’s wall spaces are dedicated to a more personal gallery: family photos and framed mementos. As Beth eloquently puts it, “My home is not about a decorator; it’s about family,” underscoring the deep personal connection woven into the very fabric of their living environment.
Particularly poignant are the mementos displayed in the living room, honoring their late son, Air Force Maj. Lee Berra, who tragically died in 2017. His Air Force flight helmet, boots, and an American flag encased with his 15 medals serve as powerful reminders of his legacy, embodying a profound sense of remembrance and familial pride within the living space.
Architectural nuances continue throughout the private quarters, with the first-floor primary bedroom featuring a sophisticated tray ceiling. This design choice adds a tiered dimension that not only enhances the room’s aesthetic appeal but also contributes to a feeling of amplified space and luxury.
Even the upstairs hallway becomes a historical gallery, preserving infant clothes of grandparents in glass cases, accompanied by photos depicting them worn over a century ago. This meticulous attention to displaying familial history extends to unexpected details, such as a low children’s table beneath the kitchen island, subtly indicating the joyful presence of grandchildren and reinforcing the home’s role as a multi-generational sanctuary. The thoughtful construction and design throughout the property truly make it a unique and personalized dwelling.
