Camp Woods Estate is surrounded by rich American history. Located in Ambler, Pennsylvania, the estate took its name from the adjacent 36-acre Camp Woods Land Preserve where General George Washington and his troops spent the fall of 1777 during the Revolutionary War. And the birthplace of America in Philadelphia’s Center City is only 16 miles north. (more…)
This magnificent historic estate has an abundance of star power all its own. Not only did famed actor, director, and producer Mel Gibson call it his Connecticut home for 15 years, its more than 75 landscaped acres is deemed to be the largest and most opulent landholding in Greenwich.
From a nature perspective, the grounds are a breathtaking fusion of orchards, flower gardens, lush lawns, a boxwood maze, and miles of trails as well as a spring-fed lake and dock. The English Park setting is further enhanced by sprawling flagstone terraces leading to a sparkling 60-feet swimming pool, lighted tennis court, stone pavilion, and outdoor chess set.
One can only imagine how much musical history legendary composer Marvin Hamlisch made at this circa 1839 compound. But one thing is certain: the awe-inspiring 40-acre estate – bordered by lush meadows and wooded greenery – is ideally arranged for creativity.
From a visual standpoint, the reimagination of noted architect Paul Gleicher takes center stage. While his design scheme preserved the historic architecture of the 12,000-square-feet compound, interiors are a blend of 19th-century design elements and 21st-century luxury.
Since four old barns were the only reminders of the property’s farming heritage, Gleicher converted the structures into functional buildings to complement today’s lifestyle, and he made them the centerpiece of the estate. In keeping with the barn motif, each building contains a stunning mix of oak paneling, exposed beams, and wide board floors. (more…)
If this 19th century Antebellum farmhouse doesn’t capture your senses, wait until you see the log cabin inside that predates the Revolutionary War.
Located at 21276 Alvarado Drive in Abingdon, Virginia, this 4,410-square-feet home on 3.68 acres is a striking blend of two eras in American history. Despite modern restorations and amenities that recent owners meticulously added over the years, the sprawling interior with three bedrooms, four baths, and multiple living areas maintains its rustic appeal and circa 1830 Colonial style. (more…)
Historic properties like the Thoreau-Alcott House – as in legendary authors Henry David Thoreau and Louisa May Alcott – are rare finds. While owning a piece of American history is the beauty of purchasing any historic home or estate, the immaculately maintained Thoreau-Alcott House comes with multiple layers of history.
Built in 1815, the 5,807-square-feet, two-story home is a stunning example of original Federalist Colonial architecture and 21st-century livability. In addition to high ceilings, nine fireplaces, and newly refinished hardwood floors, the home includes six bedrooms, four-and-a-half baths, and several living areas. (more…)
Washington socialite Evalyn Walsh McLean obviously knew a treasure when she saw one. In addition to once owning this historic 7,715-square-feet gem, she was the last private owner of the Hope Diamond.
Located in Georgetown, Washington D.C., the totally reimagined mansion is a stunning mix of a 19th-century façade and a contemporary 21st-century interior designed by award-winning Shinberg Levinas Architects in 2006. Between an open and airy feel, marble flooring, and soaring ceilings in the gallery and living area, the home is ideal for entertaining dignitaries in the nation’s capitol city or a group of friends, family, or business associates.
Two-story double glass doors leading to the outdoor kitchen, sparkling pool area, lush courtyard, and sculpture garden also adds an alfresco component to any gathering or event.
Harry Warner, a founder and the first president of Warner Bros., was a bigger-than-life figure in the Golden Years of Hollywood. One can only surmise that his bigger-than-lifestyle mansion in the heart of Beverly Hills was a prime fit with the film mogul’s persona.
Built in 1923, the glamorous Warner Estate features three gated entries and cobblestone drive surrounded by old growth trees, manicured gardens, a guesthouse, and tennis court as well as a pool and spa grotto. The sprawling 12,220-square-feet Tudor, which blends timeless architecture with modern opulence, contains six-bedroom suites, formal living and dining areas, a screening room, gym, and billiard room as well as a chef’s country kitchen, butler’s pantry, and porte-cochere.
In addition to vaulted and cathedral ceilings, marble and hardwood flooring, and four fireplaces, other main house features are an artist studio, library, and wet bar along with a three-car garage and golf cart garage.
The 1.14-acre estate likewise includes a fully equipped guesthouse with a kitchen, living room, bedroom, two bathrooms, a detached office, and garage.
Since the late 1920s – movie stars, U.S. Presidents, and Heads of State from around the world visited the historic Warner estate. (more…)
The legendary Dunraven Lodge in Estes Park Valley has lived a lot of lives in 143 years. Built in 1876 by the Fourth Earl of Dunraven – who was officially known as Windham Wyndham-Quin – the 3,280-square-feet cabin is one of the oldest homes in Colorado.
The same year, the Earl commissioned artist Albert Bierstadt to transfer the beauty of Longs Peak and Estes Park to canvas, and the famous painting now hangs in the Denver Art Museum. (more…)
