A longtime photographer recounts his 2018 visit to New Hampshire during a history-making blizzard.
Photographer Joseph Hilliard has photographed hundreds, perhaps thousands, of log, and timber frame homes over his 37-year career. This home in New Hampshire stands out for the fury of the winter storm that coincided with his shoot.
Joseph and his wife Jacquie prepared for their trip by purchasing new snow tires for their vehicle after hearing reports of an upcoming storm. “It was all over the news at the time, calling it a once in a 100-year bomb cyclone,” Joseph recalls. “Coventry Log Homes had asked me to photograph several log and timber homes during the holidays. We had shot two or three homes by the time we turned toward this home in Franconia on January 4th. We got to the Franconia home at noon, had lunch, and a quick tour and set up for interior photography. By 5 p.m. all roads on the mountain were closed, phone lines were down, and we couldn’t reach the historic Franconia Inn, which was a few miles away.”
The homeowners at that time demonstrated exceptional graciousness. “They took us upstairs where they had a large suite for friends and family to stay on ski trips. They made us a terrific dinner,” Joseph recalls. “He was in medical sales, and she was a wine broker. She was thrilled to have the company. She said, ‘My husband only drinks beer. We’ll open some wine for you two.’ And it was phenomenal wine. What a great place to get snowed in!”
The couple had moved to Franconia, in part, to help with their two teens skiing skills. Nearby Cannon Mountain ski area, and the Mittersill Race Venue has recently been named an official U.S. Ski Team Training site, the first of its kind on the East Coast.
Set on 2.3 acres, the home has 3,205 square feet with four bedrooms, and three baths. Joseph describes it as being cozy and delightful. “It’s human sized. So often homes become these McMansions, where the scale of the home is too large. I once photographed a home in Michigan where the ceiling in the great room was 38-feet high. It throws the whole perspective off in that size of space.”
This home, in contrast, is a masterpiece of rustic elegance and modern comfort. Built in 2016 by Coventry Log Homes, a family-run company with roots dating back to the 1960s, this 3,205-square-foot residence offers a perfect blend of mountain charm and high-end craftsmanship. With four bedrooms, three bathrooms, and a host of custom features, it’s an ideal haven for families, entertainers, and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
From the moment you approach, the home’s dramatic front entrance sets the tone. A sprawling porch, perfect for soaking in views of Powder Hill, invites you to pause and breathe in the crisp White Mountains air. Step inside, and you’re enveloped by the warmth of custom finishes: cathedral ceilings with exposed beams, a gas fireplace with ambient lighting, and rich wood accents that radiate coziness. The open concept living and dining area flows seamlessly into a gourmet kitchen, where high-end cabinetry, a Wolf gas range, and a Sub-Zero refrigerator cater to culinary enthusiasts. Specialty light fixtures and one-of-a-kind bathroom vanities add a touch of bespoke luxury throughout.
Designed for gatherings, the home boasts a first-floor master suite with an ensuite bathroom, ensuring privacy and convenience. Three additional bedrooms upstairs provide ample space for guests or family, while a finished walk-out lower level with radiant heat serves as a versatile recreational room or secondary living area. Thoughtful storage solutions, including a 350-bottle built-in wine rack, cater to practical needs and refined tastes. For skiers, a dedicated ski-tuning room with a custom table is a rare and delightful touch, reflecting the home’s deep connection to its mountain surroundings.
Modern technology enhances the home’s appeal. A Nest thermostat, Schlage entry system, Wi-Fi-enabled garage door, and whole-house generator ensure convenience and peace of mind, even in the heart of winter. Above the two-car garage, an unfinished space prepped with plumbing, heating, and electricity offers potential for additional living quarters or rental income, making this property as practical as it is picturesque.
Location is a key draw. Just 10 minutes from Cannon Mountain Ski Resort and Franconia Notch State Park, the home is a gateway to year-round adventure. Hike the Franconia Ridge, bike the area’s trails, or explore nearby Bridal Veil Falls. The vibrant Franconia village, with its brewery, market, and community events, is a short drive away, offering small-town charm without sacrificing accessibility. Interstate 93 is less than five minutes from the property, connecting you to the broader New England region.
While it’s not currently listed, its enduring appeal lies in its ability to balance seclusion with connectivity. Tucked within a log home subdivision, the property feels like a private mountain retreat yet remains close to neighbors and amenities. The 3.46-acre lot next door at 60 Coventry Ridge Road, sold for $650,000 in 2021, underscores the area’s desirability.
This home is more than a residence; it’s a lifestyle. Whether you’re sipping coffee on the porch, tuning skis for a day on the slopes, or hosting friends by the fireplace, 88 Coventry Ridge Road offers a rare opportunity to live immersed in nature without sacrificing luxury. For those dreaming of a White Mountains escape, this Coventry Log Home is a timeless retreat that delivers on every front.
- Log Home Producer: Coventry Log Homes
- Square footage: 3,205
- Bedrooms: 4
- Baths: 3