The Binnacle

The Binnacle is a spectacular and extremely private waterfront estate with 92± acres, 1,904± feet of bold ocean shorefront, and broad western views overlooking Penobscot Bay towards its many islands. The property includes an excellent historic home that has been renovated and expanded, a Japanese inspired dining room, known as The Pavilion, and requisite estate-style outbuildings suitable for a variety of uses. The landscape is indicative of Frederick Law Olmsted design philosophy, seamlessly integrating Deer Isle’s natural beauty - rolling meadows, an orchard, native ledge, pasture, moss, and water features - into a serene, park-like setting.

The Binnacle, a portion of the historic summer estate built in the early 20th century for Frederick Law Olmsted, has remained under the careful stewardship of the Olmsted family for generations. The main house was originally a modest farmhouse, built after the War of 1812 by Scottish farmers using timber salvaged from wartime ships. In the early 2000s, the current owners embarked on a thorough and sensitive restoration of the home and property, paying tribute to Olmsted throughout. 

• The original farmhouse has been well-preserved, and the seamlessly integrated expansion offers expert craftsmanship combined with modern comforts. 
• Every room has been enriched with authentically sourced architectural details, from a hand-carved London mantle and Delft tiles in the library, to first-growth repurposed oak floors in the newer wing. Original floors have been carefully restored or painted in traditional hues, and each fixture, including repurposed bathtubs, was thoughtfully selected.
• New and historic living spaces include two formal living rooms, a heated sunporch, a stunning library, and a music room.
• The farmhouse-style kitchen is cozy and practical, accented by exposed-wood beams crafted from those found in a New Hampshire barn. Professional appliances, an expansive counter, and an inviting dining area complete this appealing room.
• The spacious primary suite serves as a private retreat, featuring a bright and airy bedroom with a fireplace, a dedicated office with custom built-ins, generous walk-in closets, and a luxurious bath with a soaking tub and walk-in shower. 
• A main-floor guest bedroom with an en-suite bath offers comfort and privacy. Upstairs, three additional bedrooms share a bath and there is a versatile bonus room that could be used as an office or children’s space.
• The Pavilion offers a unique opportunity for entertaining family and guests. This Japanese-inspired dining room / tearoom, located near the water’s edge, features an authentic design based on a research trip to Japan. It includes a kitchen, half bath, and two rooms; the main space is centered around a fireplace and opens fully to the surrounding landscape. 
• Outbuildings include several barns and sheds, both new and historic, along with a rustic water’s edge cabin, that contributes to the versatility to the property. 
• A 16-feet deep swimming pond is framed by granite and natural vegetation that anchors it in its natural setting. The well house is a replica – at ½ scale - to outbuildings Olmsted designed for the Vanderbilt Mansion in Asheville, NC. 
• The outstanding landscape has been artfully molded to feel timeless and untouched. Ledge was thoughtfully cleared, pastures and meadows established, moss hand-weeded, and stonework meticulously crafted throughout. 
• Bold and varied ocean frontage includes Deer Isle’s famous granite ledge, attractive coves, and pocket sand and pebble beaches.