A Sanctuary Reimagined: A Church House in Phillipsport

Tucked away in the quiet charm of Phillipsport, New York, along the scenic Hudson River, sits a home unlike any other. At first glance, it looks like what it once was: a 19th-century church, its tall steeple pointing skyward, its stately windows filling the space with sunlight that dances across the original wood floors. Step inside, and you realize this is no longer just a building — it’s a sanctuary reimagined, a home that invites you to slow down, breathe, and feel the calm of a space designed with heart.

History Meets Modern Design

Matthew Bremer, or Matt as he’s known locally, bought the church with a vision that was as ambitious as it was tender. He wanted to honor the history of the building — its decades of Sunday gatherings, weddings, and community events — while creating a home that could serve modern life. The result is a space where history and design exist in perfect balance: the soaring ceilings of the former sanctuary now frame a kitchen and living area that feel open and welcoming, while cozy nooks and lofted bedrooms invite quiet reflection.

Thoughtful Interiors and Curated Details

The design is deliberate but effortless. Sunlight streams through tall windows onto reclaimed wood floors, highlighting textures and colors that tell stories of the past. A suspended fire orb anchors the living area, offering warmth and a touch of whimsy, while the lofted spaces provide views across the house, the yard, and the Hudson River valley beyond. Every detail has been curated to honor the past while serving the present — from the lighting to the furnishings to the thoughtful balance between open communal spaces and intimate corners.

A Place to Arrive and Unwind

One of the most enchanting things about staying here is the sense of arrival. Guests don’t just check in — they settle into the rhythm of the house. Morning coffee by the window, an afternoon nap in the loft, evening meals around the large communal table — every corner feels designed for lingering, for connection, for moments of stillness and delight.

Explore Phillipsport and the Hudson Valley

While the Church House is a destination in itself, Phillipsport and its surroundings offer treasures for those who want to explore. Stroll along the Hudson River, wander nearby woodland trails, or explore charming small towns like Cold Spring and Beacon with their galleries, cafés, and artisan shops. For outdoor enthusiasts, kayaking, hiking, and cycling are just minutes away, offering a perfect complement to the peaceful retreat of the house. Evenings can be spent around the fire pit, sharing stories, or simply soaking in the quiet beauty of this unique corner of the Hudson Valley.

A Living Sanctuary

Every corner of the home tells a story. Sunlight catching the wooden beams recalls decades of community gatherings. Lofted bedrooms whisper of quiet reflections and dreams. And through it all, the house stands as a testament to what thoughtful design can do: it transforms a historic structure into a living, breathing sanctuary — one that welcomes new stories, new laughter, and new visitors ready to feel at home.

The Phillipsport Church House isn’t just a place to stay — it’s an experience. It’s a space that reminds you that history, design, and human connection can coexist beautifully, and that the best homes are the ones where every guest leaves a little inspired, a little lighter, and a little more connected to the world around them.

Featured in The New York Times, this extraordinary home is proof that the right design can turn history into sanctuary.

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