78 Carter Rd, Becket, MA 01223 - Berkshire County

An heirloom timber-frame home with artisan barn. This property is as much a story as it is a homestead. Rooted in the 1820s Greek Revival farmhouse that once stood near the road, the home was reimagined in 2002 when the original hand-hewn Dutch-style timber frame was preserved and given new life. Set on a new foundation deeper into the land, and meticulously rebuilt over the past two decades by a renowned master builder, the result is a turnkey home that combines history with modern craftsmanship. Behind the residence stands an extraordinary 5,200-square-foot timber-frame barn, built by the same master builder as his own workshop. Designed with both beauty and utility in mind, it offers the scale and flexibility to serve as a studio, recreational retreat, or professional space. Together, the house and barn create a rare Berkshire offering: a character-filled home paired with flexible space on a grand scale.

The Home (~1,800 sq ft + finished lower level)

Inside, warmth comes not only from the wood but from the intent. Local 18-inch wide pine floors run seamlessly through the rooms. The kitchen is a showpiece, with custom cherry cabinetry (crafted on site), soapstone counters, Viking range, and a masonry heater hearth anchoring the space. The dining and sitting areas are framed by exposed beams and traditional lime plaster walls. Upstairs, character abounds with timber-frame ceilings, painted floors, and a cleverly designed book-lined hall. The full bath downstairs features radiant-heated tile--even in the shower--plus a pedestal soaking tub. A small half-bath upstairs provides added convenience. The partially finished lower level adds another approximately 400 square feet of finished walkout space (currently an office), with a separate entrance, plus about 700 square feet of unfinished area. With the addition of a bathroom, this level could become a private apartment, guest suite, or studio.

Mechanical systems were chosen for both efficiency and longevity:

- Custom Finnish-style masonry heater capable of heating the house with a single daily wood burn

- Alternative heating via propane direct-vent heater

- Mini-split in the lower level provides cooling and heating

- Tankless propane water heater

- Solar PV array powering house and barn, with utility rebates for overproduction

- Radiant floor heat in the bathroom

- Standing seam metal roof for durability

The Barn (~5,200 sq ft)

A true work of art and purpose, the barn was built around a 30×40 antique English timber frame, joined with massive 10×10 posts and double mortise-and-tenons, a rarity. Clear-span ash, cherry, and pine trusses soar overhead, while a super-insulated envelope keeps it efficient in every season. Currently outfitted as a fully functional woodworking shop, the barn offers:

- Solar covering all current electrical use

- 12" double stud walls and SIP roof for efficiency and sound control

- Radiant tubing in slab (ready for wood or propane boiler connection)

- 30-ft Gothic arched doors, handmade on strap hinges

- 100A subpanel off main house, with underground conduit in place for optional separate service, plus 3-phase via RPC

- Expansive natural light from oversized windows

Suited to a range of uses - from professional workshop to artist's studio, collector's garage, or wellness retreat - the barn is a rare opportunity in the Berkshires to pair living space with true large-scale creative or work space, while keeping utility costs minimal.

The Land and Gardens

The one-acre grounds balance cultivated gardens with a natural Berkshire setting. A Goshen stone walkway and a front porch of local black locust create a gracious entry, while perennial beds and large hydrangea provide seasonal color. A large rear deck of thermally-modified ash overlooks raised and fenced vegetable gardens, with woodland plantings tracing the original stone walls. Front and back lawns offer open space for play, and ample parking provides practicality.

A Singular Berkshire Offering

Few properties offer this level of craftsmanship, authentic materials, flexible space, and sustainability. Every choice--from continuous-length pine floors to a solar array that pays you back--shows clear intention. The barn serves as both a showpiece and a functional resource. For those who value heritage materials, self-reliance, and room to create, 78 Carter Road stands out as a singular Berkshire offering.

Located in Becket, the home enjoys a tranquil setting while remaining close to the Berkshires' most celebrated destinations. Within easy reach are Jacob's Pillow, Tanglewood, Shakespeare and Company, and Mass MoCA, as well as hiking, lakes, and the natural beauty of countless protected landscapes. Here, quiet living and world-class culture come together in one of New England's most storied regions.