Meticulously reimagined by former copywriter-turned-designer Tom Givone, the Floating Farmhouse — a circa 1820s manor home perched on the edge of a creek — is undoubtedly one of the most unique and inviting homes in the Catskills.
Set in the picturesque hamlet of Eldred, just two hours north of New York City, this dream property has earned quite a reputation as one of the area’s most charming rentals, winning tourists’ hearts with its mix of stunning modern architecture and old-world charm.
Now, a lucky new owner will get to enjoy it full-time, as the Floating Farmhouse was recently sold.
Listed for $2.35 million back in August 2023, the famed Catskills property only took a month to sell for full ask — which comes as little surprise seeing that it provides a substantial income stream to its future owner via its lucrative short-term rental popularity.
Agents Chelsea McGowan and Katy Porte with the Upstate Curious Team at Compass held the listing.
Originally built in the 1820s, the house was completely transformed by its designer owner
The original home was built in the 1820s and needed a massive overhaul when Tom Givone purchased it in 2007.
The designer — who has a knack for transforming rundown 19th-century structures into modern-day masterpieces — spent four years and about $1.75 million revamping the property, according to Mansion Global.
Givone’s renovation included additions like a glass-paned wall in the kitchen overlooking the property, polished flooring, and modern elements to enhance the original, period construction.
The self-taught designer retained the house’s original colonial revival touches, but overhauled the interiors and transformed the previously dilapidated building into a light-filled residence with generous kitchen, dining, and lounge spaces.
This wasn’t Givone’s first architectural undertaking, but quite possibly his most well-known.
Unsurprisingly, his work on the Floating Farmhouse has garnered attention from a range of prestigious architecture and design publications, with the property being featured on Dezeen, Dwell, Design Milk, Travel + Leisure, and many more.
The Floating Farmhouse
The gorgeous home’s namesake can be attributed to the custom veranda Givone added that projects out across the surface of the water. This unique touch creates a “floating” effect to the eye. One glance and you’ll think the home is floating on the pond.
A private creek and waterfall accentuate the grounds around the home.
The Floating Farmhouse is now an incredibly popular option for an overnight rental in the Catskills. During the high season, a one-night stay will run $1,800, while holidays may go as high as $2,100 a night.
The home is commonly rented for photo shoots and executive retreats but is also an ideal family home in a picturesque setting.
There is no shortage of space at the idyllic property.
The home boasts five bedrooms and two bathrooms. When entering the home, you are welcomed by an oversized great room, pine wainscotting, and majestic windows reaching to the tall ceiling. Two beautiful staircases lead the way upstairs.
The Floating Farmhouse is perfectly placed on almost 9 acres of lush green meadows and forest. The property also features a centuries-old barn, an herb garden, and a gravel driveway.
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