Envision an 1820s farmhouse that is evolved into a sprawling country estate with a interesting mix of contemporary buildings, reclaimed materials, centuries-old antiques, vintage collectibles, modern accents, and an 80,000 gallon pool. That’s Green Bend Farm, a King family heirloom for five generations.
The original farmhouse got an impressive makeover in 1950 when it was transferred on a truck, gutted, restored and split into two segments which were then connected by means of an addition and greenhouse. In the years following, Green Bend Farm, situated northwest of Columbus, Ohio, transformed into the one-of-a-kind property it’s today. The title Green Bend comes from the title of the town close to the farmhouse.
The property’s fourth-generation operator, Joseph King, passed out in 2003. John, his son, now lives there with his wife Patricia. John and Patricia are my parents.
They enjoy hosting family and friends for the holidays, pool parties and other social gatherings. A longstanding tradition in Green Bend Farm is a festive Fourth of July party, which also features an impressive fireworks show.
Emily Winters
Around a quarter mile away from its original location, Green Bend Farm rests on a 20-acre wooded lot surrounded by areas. An additional 90 acres are leased for crop production, and 18 acres have been planted with native grasses as part of a conservation project.
at a Glance
Who lives here: John and Patricia King
Location: Northwest of Columbus, Ohio
Size: 135 complete acres, Green Bend Farm rests on a 20-acre wooded lot surrounded by open areas.
Emily Winters
Joseph and John, Green Bend Farm’s fourth- and fifth-generation owners, worked closely with each other to transform the house and property into the nation estate it’s today. “I am so proud to have the ability to continue the farm’s legacy and build upon its rich history,” says John (pictured at the far-right photograph ).
Emily Winters
The living space, part of the old farmhouse, includes detailed molding reminiscent of the Georgian architectural era where the home was constructed. The area now functions as both a dining and living area and is filled with antique collectibles and furniture. “Designing the area was a special challenge,” Patricia says. “I had an abundance of furniture and accessories which originally came from many distinct households and many distinct eras. But after creatively organizing everything, the space came together superbly.”
Emily Winters
One unique piece in the living area is an antique drop-leaf desk purchased at an auction many years ago. John recalls giving it the nickname”the Spanish desk” as a kid because he believed the guy painted it looked like a matador.
Emily Winters
The entryway boasts an antique library table and Victorian chairs set against a stunning backdrop of botanical background. Unique features of the room are its front and back doors for cross ventilation.
Emily Winters
An antique cranberry-glass pendant light adds visual interest to the small anteroom adjoining to the powder room.
Emily Winters
A favourite gathering space for generations would be the property’s den, which was originally the farmhouse’s kitchen. It features walnut flooring and paneling, which add warmth and coziness to the space. “Although it is no more the kitchen, it seems to be the favourite room in the house. A roaring fire in the fireplace only seems to lure people in,” says John.
Emily Winters
The farmhouse grew in size with the addition of a kitchen, upstairs bedroom/bathroom and greenhouse once it was transferred to its current location. This circa-1950 photograph pictures Green Bend Farm’s fourth-generation operator, Joseph, his uncle and a local farmer building also.
Emily Winters
In the summertime, life at Green Bend Farm centers around the house’s 80,000 gallon pool, which was constructed out of steel around 1950.
Emily Winters
Unique characteristics in the kitchen, which was assembled together with the addition, include a slate flooring, vintage stainless steel countertops and backsplash and ash cupboards hand-built from John’s great uncle.
Emily Winters
What’s now a free-standing building on the house was when the ice house at a nearby Christian camp. The building was saved from demolition, moved to Green Bend Farm in the early 1970s, and repurposed as an associate. “Today you hear much about sustainability; the materials from this building could have ended up at a landfill if Joseph hadn’t transferred into the house,” says Patricia. “He was very resourceful and had a special method of thinking because of his time.”
Emily Winters
Inside the building are hundreds of old books piled on cedar bookshelves which add a different scent to the space. Each step of the custom made spiral stairs comprises the name and arrival date of a family member.
Emily Winters
Part of the original farm was an old granary used to keep corn, wheat and oats. The building was transferred together with the farmhouse and restored with reclaimed cypress from an old water tower. “Joseph’s creative use of materials in the cabin is yet another illustration of his green soul,” says Patricia.
Emily Winters
Today the building serves as a pastoral and cozy cabin where antiques and family relics create unique decor. In addition, it includes one of the house’s four wood burning fireplaces.
The brand new spaces at Green Bend Farm is the house’s pool/guest house, constructed in 1996. The building includes a living area, two bedrooms, a full bathroom and billiards room.
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