A rare to market historical mansion is making waves in the real estate world for merging the past with the future in an authentic and meaningful way.
The Samuel Sloan Estate is a 16+ acre masterpiece that provides incredible views of the Catskills, West Point Academy, and the surrounding countryside along the Hudson River. While the breathtaking property has always been noted for its beauty and design, it is now also a real estate treasure with remarkable Silver LEED® certification. The ingenuity of the modernization is both poignant and dynamic for a homeowner looking for a planet healthy environment, in an energy efficient but luxurious setting.
The storied, fully renovated Philipstown estate is represented by Kenneth J. Moore, President of Classiques Modernes International Realty, who has listed it at $11.25 mil. “The first thing that hits you is its impressive scale. The original structure had baronial rooms that needed to be reimagined to complement today’s more intimate entertaining style. The volume remains¬–the soaring ceilings were kept–but the new residence now enjoys both formal and casual living spaces.”
In 2014, the façade was also changed from Italianate to Greek revival. It features a two-story portico with imposing columns serving as foreground to a full-width second floor loggia. The sprawling interior spans approximately 11,800 of livable square footage. Additionally, the full-sized cellar and attic offer 10,000 sq. ft. of supplementary amenity, storage, and utility spaces. Six bedrooms, six full and three half baths, and a full floor allocated to entertaining and recreation ensure plenty of room for sumptuous living. The 3500 sq. ft. carriage house may also be transformed into a three-story auxiliary house for guest and staff suites.
Even among best-in-class properties, the home’s innovative Silver LEED® approved upgrades make it a rare gem. “It’s a trailblazer,” observes lifestyle expert and Classiques Modernes co-founder, Loy Carlos. “The visual I often use is driving. There is a healthy balance of looking forward, of checking the rearview mirror, and of still being aware of the present. This house pays homage to its history, is equipped with the conveniences and luxuries of today, but keeps a keen eye towards the future. It promotes an evolutionary and principled lifestyle.”
Unlike most restored estates, new modifications have made operations both economical and practical. This includes maintenance free roofing that will last 100 years. In addition, an energy recovery ventilation system optimizes air quality, filters out particulates, and delivers fresh air throughout. A rainwater harvesting system captures water off the roof and retains it for landscape irrigation. Solar panels provide onsite renewable power. The house also has a ground barrier that protects it from radon.
Samuel Sloan Estate Garden ©Classiques Modernes
Originally known as Oulagisket, the railroad magnate’s house built in 1864 underwent notable transformations. In 1910 Samuel Sloane Jr. and his wife Katherine redesigned the home (renamed Lisburne Grange) from its original Carpenter Gothic to Italianate. At the same time Fletcher Steele, one of the 20th century's most glorified landscape architects, was commissioned to augment the surroundings with beautiful gardens and lookouts.
Famous among remaining exterior structures include “The Ruins,” a “Forum-inspired” area complete with columns and a weathered statue/fountain, which now overlook the newly built pool pavilion and the great lawn. But most unique of all is the 100-year old swimming pool waiting to be restored or repurposed. “The grotto reminds me of the Italian fountains and pools with water flowing from the dragon mouths at the top, down the edge over cupped hands, to the pool below,” says Moore. Adds Carlos, “Some say it reminds them of Hadrian’s pool in Tivoli. It’s not as large, but perhaps just as dramatic and breathtaking considering where we are. It’s unforgettable.”
From entertaining to weekends away from New York City just an hour away, this estate¬¬–a stone’s throw away from Bear Mountain, Cold Spring and many other destinations–simply offers so much for the nature-loving, environmentally-conscious homeowner. This historical mansion, modernized with LEED® Certified upgrades, is not just about improvement. It serves as a stepping stone to the future of real estate.
The Sloan Estate is co-listed with Richard Phan of Douglas Elliman.