Horticulturist Pratt Brown chose many of the plants and keeps the garden looking its best. "We concentrated on getting the bones right, and Pratt works to provide botanical interest -- the jewelry," says Page. "Under him, every season is handled in three dimensions, from flowering trees and shrubs to tiny early spring plants underfoot."

Throughout the grounds, the big gestures are complemented by more intimate spaces: a side garden with a fountain framed by the timbered porch, an alcove with a classical stone bench and an espaliered crab apple tree, and strategically placed beds bursting with seasonal plantings. Just outside the kitchen are an herb garden and a breakfast terrace that gets morning sun.

To the rear of the lot, just beyond the relocated guesthouse, is a lovely new destination. What was once a "honeysuckle nightmare" has been transformed into a woodland garden. "About 10,000 daffodils have been planted there," says Page. "It's like a big secret garden." Yet another surprise in this superb example of a well-planned estate with delights at every turn.