The Westport Country Playhouse’s campaign to raise $2 million — and save the 92-year-old institution — has generated plenty of press.
Across town, a drive to save a different — but also noted — property has gotten far less notice.
Blau House & Gardens — a hidden but beautiful spot, high on a ridge at the end of a 1-lane road off Bayberry Lane — is in danger of being sold.
The gardens were developed over 50 years by the late advertising entrepreneur, Barry Blau. The intimate series of interlocking garden rooms, incorporating native plants interspersed with a blend of exotics — surround a mid-century modern house designed by celebrated theatrical designer, Ralph Alswang.
Since 2017, Emily Blau and Robert Cohen — the BH&G stewards — have opened their special garden for events like signings by bestselling authors, children’s book readings, scavenger hunts, garden tours, horticultural classes and more.
Last February they created a 501(c)3 organization as the first step to preserve the property, and expand it for public arts and cultural events, and an artist- and gardener-in-residency program.
Barry and Eileen Blau recently died. The estate plans to put the house on the market by the end of the month.
Blau House, designed by Ralph Alswang.
Blau House & Gardens seeks individual and business benefactors, and/or help from other non-profit organizations. The cost for the property is $1.5 million; securing a 1-acre easement for parking and restrooms offered by the next door neighbor is $700,000.
They ask anyone who can help to email r@blauhouseandgardens.org, or call 203-952-3335. To visit the Blau House & Gardens website, click here.
A small part of the vast gardens.
