The Cider Mill is a part of America’s rich heritage of living off the land. Cider Mills were powered hand, water power, or horse-power, and were used to grind apples in the first step of making apple cider. Today, apple cider has an enthusiastic following in the form of cider festivals and new recipes.
Architectural Review: Cider Mill
The front exterior of the Cider Mill presents a charming contemporary rustic cabin aesthetic. It features warm horizontal wood siding, a prominent gabled roof with dark shingles, and substantial stone accents at the foundation, porch columns, and chimney. The design balances traditional cabin warmth with clean modern lines—highlighted by the second-floor balcony, generous windows that capture natural light, and welcoming covered porches. Blending seamlessly into a lush, wooded landscape with flowering trees, the home feels both inviting and timeless.
Main Level
Entering through the spacious front porch (18×12), you step into an open, light-filled core anchored by the Living Room (12×12) with a cozy fireplace—ideal for gathering. Adjacent is the Kitchen (13×12), efficiently laid out for family meals and entertaining.
A second main-level bedroom (M.Br2, 11×13) offers flexibility as a guest room, home office, or multi-generational suite, complete with its own nearby bathroom and laundry area. Large windows and sliding doors connect the interior to the outdoors via a generous rear Deck (12×12) and additional porch space, creating seamless indoor-outdoor flow. The layout is compact yet highly functional, emphasizing natural light, wood tones, and easy circulation.
Upper Level
A staircase leads up to a more private retreat. The Master Bedroom (11×12) is tucked away with its own bathroom, providing a quiet sanctuary. What truly elevates this floor is the Loft area, which opens dramatically to the living space below—creating a sense of spaciousness and vertical drama in what is otherwise a modestly sized home. An attic space adds bonus storage. The upper level also connects to additional porch and balcony areas, offering elevated views of the surrounding landscape.
Fun Family Activities in This Home
This home is tailor-made for memorable family living. Kids (and adults) would love playing in the expansive, tree-dotted yard—perfect for backyard games, exploring nature, or picnics under the blooming trees. The porches and deck invite relaxed evenings: morning coffee with birdsong, afternoon reading, or evening stargazing and storytelling around the fire pit area.
Inside, the open living-kitchen zone is ideal for family game nights, baking sessions, or holiday celebrations by the fireplace. The loft serves as a perfect playroom, reading nook, or homework station with views down to the main living area—encouraging connection without sacrificing personal space. In warmer months, the upper balcony and porches become prime spots for watching sunsets or hosting casual BBQs.
Overall, the Cider Mill 2S masterfully combines rustic charm with practical, family-oriented design. It’s a warm, character-rich home that encourages both togetherness and peaceful retreat—perfect for creating lasting memories in a beautiful natural setting.
