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    North of NYC North of NYC By Houlihan Lawrence By Houlihan Lawrence by

    November is National Novel Writing Month, so we thought, what better time to appreciate the lavish libraries, writer's nooks and other inspiring spaces for prolific wordsmithing (we'll call them "literariums"™) in our listings north of New York City?

    HARRISON | 184 Sunnyridge Road | $3,500,000
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    Track ladders are the Amex black cards of home libraries. This gilded reading room in a c.1920 Tudor carries a near perfect credit score, with its defining feature rolling right along on multiple walls—for decoration, practical purposes, and when nobody is watching, reenacting this scene from Beauty & The Beast. There's even a television to screen your favorite movie adaptation, but in the words of teachers everywhere, "the book is always better."  See more

    SOUTH SALEM | 44 Boway Road | $4,950,000
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    There's something inherently pensive about a towering stone fireplace, minimalist decorating and raw, hand-hewn antique beams. Sassafras Farm is an enchanting equestrian property in many respects—the 18th century main residence, rock pool, riding facilities and lighted tennis court offer no shortage of amenities—and this literal writer's workshop within a converted barn offers a peaceful place for deep concentration. With environs like these, all you need are your writing implement of choice, crackling flames, and a capacious cup of coffee. See more

    BRIARCLIFF MANOR | 710 Long Hill Road | $1,545,000
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    Jules Verne might nod in approval of this Briarcliff den, with steampunk appointments and an oversized porthole window reminiscent of Captain Nemo's on the Nautilus. Thankfully, you'll be spared any giant squid attacks on this hilltop home designed by noted urban architect Wallace K. Harrison (UN Plaza, Rockefeller Center and Lincoln Center), but if writer's block strikes one can simply stroll right outside to a quaint backyard "study booth." See more

    RIVERSIDE | 185 Riverside Avenue | $6,495,000
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    Simple elegance defines this Greenwich library, offset from the living room in a grand shingled residence masterfully restored by noted architect Peter Pennoyer in 2001. Despite the home's sizable footprint, the space effuses a cozy character making it—much like the world—feel far smaller than it is. If we didn't know better, we'd think it was Steinbeck's cottage in Sag Harbor. See more

    OLD GREENWICH | 186 Shore Road | $7,495,000
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    A surreal residence for readers and writers, and just about everyone.  Its seaside location, a stunning library and a secret lair-like escape housed in the home's back turret provide a perfect setting to read, write and relax. When you're not anchored beside the fireplace stringing words together, you can carry your MacBook Pro (or typewriter, or quill) down to the dreamy indoor/outdoor living room, which also boasts a fireplace of its own. See more

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