Often praised by architectural enthusiasts as the American Versailles, the charming Darlington Estate is one of the most magnificent properties in the US, without any exaggeration. Found within 25 miles of New York City, this architectural masterpiece has been built back in 1907 and meticulously renovated over the last seven years to offer nothing but the best in terms of amenities, decor and quality of comfort.
The lavish three-story mansion before you offers around 50,000 square feet of incredible living space, with 58 rooms and more than 12 acres of spectacular grounds framed by the Ramapo Mountains. The dream of George Crocker, son of railroad magnate Charles Crocker, this majestic historic estate was modeled after an English castle and imagined by the renowned architect James Brite, who was also responsible for the American University and the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The seven-year renovation process was probably even more demanding than the construction of this mansion in the first place, as all its original architectural details and precious materials had to be preserved and restored to their former glory. In the same time, all mechanical systems have been updated to modern times, all bathrooms have been rebuilt and a new gorgeous living area, spreading over 12,000 square feet has been added to this home’s lavish offering.
An impressive team of architects, designers, craftsmen, local artists and talented Italian wood carvers worked together to bring this mansion into the 21st century, while keeping its original charm and elegance.
Of course, the Darlington Estate has numerous luxury amenities that will shock and awe everyone, and even though we can’t name them all, we should totally mention the mesmerizing great hall, with 30-foot high ceilings and a 1906 Aeolian Player Pipe Organ, the only one in the US, a library with a 15-foot painted ceiling, a gorgeous formal dining room and a formal tea room and the restaurant-style kitchen.
The lucky owners of this property will get an entire wing just for themselves, while the wine cellar and tasting room, the cigar room or the beauty salon will make their days here even better. There’s also a luxury spa with a lap pool and a steam and sauna room, a theatre, a game room with a bar, and outside you’ll find a tennis court, two fountains and two pergolas, a massive outdoor pool with a cabana and an eight car garage. Not bad for $48 million, right?
[Christie’s International Real Estate]
