Tucked away on Long Island’s North Shore, Kippen Hill is a lush and artfully designed garden sanctuary that spans an acre and a half. Over the past twelve years, its owners, Dean and Jonathan, have personally designed and shaped the landscape into five distinct garden rooms, each with its own character, rhythm, and story. At the center of the property, a formal English-style garden with traditional borders surrounds a central-axis bubbler fountain, offering a sense of calm and symmetry. Nearby, a variegated garden thrives with ‘Dragon’s Eye’ pine, Japanese forest grass, hosta, and acuba. The Asian-inspired garden features black bamboo, coltsfoot from the Humes Japanese Stroll Garden, and an elegant pagoda aviary that houses rare Asian-native egg-laying hens. A vegetable garden filled with heirloom tomatoes also displays a collection of 19th-century American gardening tools, reflecting the owners’ love of horticultural history. The expansive front lawn is designed with ornamental papyrus planted in paisley-shaped beds, bordered by English perennials and shrubs. Perhaps most striking of all is the century-old boulevard cedar, planted when the home was first built in 1910, which still stands tall as a living witness to the property’s past. One of the crown jewels of Kippen Hill is the beautifully restored Lord & Burnham greenhouse, dating back to 1925 and rescued from a nearby Gold Coast estate. Now home to bananas, orchids, and other tropicals, this structure doubles as a serene dining space used year-round. Guests can book time at Kippen Hill for a variety of experiences including private photo sessions, guided garden or house tours, plein air painting, small private events, and meditation or yoga in a peaceful, natural setting. Whether you're seeking inspiration, beauty, or quiet, Kippen Hill offers an unforgettable outdoor escape rooted in both creativity and care.

Property Access and Rules

Guests may park along the designated gravel strip located at the corner of Walnut Road and Highland Road, which accommodates up to 40 vehicles. Visitors are warmly welcomed to explore the garden, but we kindly ask that you remain on the paths and lawns and avoid stepping into planted beds to help preserve the landscape. Bagged food and non-alcoholic beverages are allowed on site. All trash and belongings should be taken with you when you leave. When you arrive, please check in with the Host by ringing the front doorbell.

Activity Details

Photo Sessions Kippen Hill offers a stunning range of natural backdrops, perfect for photographers and creatives. From formal English borders to an Asian-style garden featuring a wooden bridge and a pagoda aviary, each corner of the property provides a unique setting. Whether you're capturing engagement portraits, family photos, or fine art, the gardens shift beautifully with the seasons to complement your vision. Garden & House Tours Join Dean Yoder for a guided walk through the layered gardens and his fully restored Dutch Colonial home, artfully curated with a designer’s eye. As an interior designer, Dean has created a space filled with character and atmosphere, featuring a remarkable collection of 18th century antiquities gathered over three decades. Guests will encounter unique pieces such as a full suit of armor, a bust of Neptune, and other unexpected treasures thoughtfully arranged throughout the home. The tour also includes the story of the historic Lord and Burnham greenhouse, the design of each distinct garden room, and the architectural elements that give Kippen Hill its signature charm. The property was featured in an episode of Homeworthy. Tours are available for groups of four or more. Meditation Surround yourself with stillness and green space. Kippen Hill offers a serene setting for mindfulness, meditation, and yoga practice. Sessions can be held on the lawn, in the Asian garden, or beside the greenhouse, depending on weather and group size. Plein Air Painting Artists are invited to set up their easels and paint en plein air amidst the seasonal rhythms of the garden. From structured borders to soft woodland edges, Kippen Hill offers ever-changing light, textures, and perspectives ideal for both beginners and experienced painters. Private Events Kippen Hill is available to host small, private events, dinners, intimate gatherings, and weddings. The property’s unique mix of formal garden rooms, heritage architecture, and open space creates a memorable setting for meaningful occasions. With Dean Yoder’s background as an interior designer, guests can expect thoughtful details and stunning tabletop designs that elevate any celebration. Please contact the host for pricing and more information.