The Alternative Press

Four outstanding and diverse Westfield homes, the delightful hilltop home of Summit’s Mayor, and luncheon in the historic Beacon Hill Club in Summit are the Friends of Westfield Symphony Orchestra’s picks for their Tour of Notable Homes benefit next Saturday, June 2nd,  10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

“In Westfield people who join the tour will see an authentically restored Dutch Colonial-style home with many fabulous elements including a true gourmet kitchen equipped with state-of-the-art appliances ,” according to Joy Fickett, tour committee chairman.  “A newly constructed gracious Colonial located in the Indian Forest section of Westfield is not to be missed with its beautiful moldings, coffered ceilings and a one-of-a-kind basement-level family room with a fabulous wine cooler,” Ms. Fickett continues.

The guidebook for the tour states that a Colonial home close to the center of Westfield with an eclectic and interesting décor discloses its owner’s taste in furniture and artwork, much of which dates to the 1920s and 30s.  A notable home in the prestigious Wychwood section is rare for Westfield in that it is truly the best of the Art Deco period complete with glass block windows.  “There is plenty of detail in this home to appreciate,” according to Lee Corcoran, a member of the committee.

In Summit, Mrs. Corcoran says, the select home of the mayor is an expanded raised ranch with many interesting features to see inside including a fabulous solarium and an isolated swimming pool located in its own grotto.

The private, historic Beacon Hill Club will be serving lunch to those on the Friends’ tour who opt to purchase a special additional ticket. The elevated location of the club played an important role in the Revolutionary War signaling British troop movements to Washington’s Continental Army and  calling up the militia.  The clubhouse was once the home of Carroll P. Bassett, 1863-1952, founder of the Mountain Water Company, now NJ Power & Light.  The restoration of the club features carved moldings, stained glass and marble. Advance reservation is recommended with purchase of Tour ticket.

Each of the homes has special activities including musical entertainment, refreshments, plant sale and boutique raffle.

Pre-event tickets are $30 each and $35 on the day of the tour.  Tickets may be purchased on-line at www.westfielddsymphony.org  or at local outlets including Baron’s Pharmacy and Town Books  in Westfield; Christoffer’s in Mountainside; Norman’s Hallmark in Fanwood; Periwinkles in Cranford and Paperfolio and Keller Williams Realty in Summit.