Experience Unrivaled Elegance: Hillandale Estate – A Sanctuary of Opulence

A Historical Legacy: The Origins of Hillandale Estate

The Hillandale Estate, a magnificent property situated on the border of New York and Connecticut, traces its roots back to the early 20th century. This expansive domain was originally commissioned by the esteemed Sulzberger family, renowned for their long-standing association with <em>The New York Times</em>. Their vision shaped the initial grandeur of the estate, laying the foundation for what would become a landmark of refined country living. The property's strategic location, just 50 miles from the bustling heart of Manhattan, offered a tranquil escape while maintaining proximity to urban conveniences.

Transformative Vision: The Haroche Family's Restoration and Expansion

In the 1990s, Charlene Haroche and her late husband, Gilbert Haroche, a visionary in the travel industry and co-founder of Liberty Travel, acquired the Hillandale Estate from the Sulzberger family. Recognizing its immense potential, the Haroches embarked on an ambitious restoration and expansion project. They invested over $30 million in enhancing the property, meticulously preserving its historical charm while integrating modern comforts. This significant undertaking effectively doubled the original home's size, breathing new life into the estate and elevating its status as a premier luxury residence.

Architectural Marvel: A Fusion of European Styles and Exquisite Detailing

The architectural design of Hillandale Estate is a masterful blend of European influences, showcasing a harmonious fusion of Italian, English, and French aesthetics. Characterized by its rustic stone masonry and elegant clay-tiled roof, the mansion exudes an aura of sophisticated charm. Inside, the nearly 16,000-square-foot residence is adorned with ornate period details, including intricate gilt-trimmed moldings and stunning stained glass. The use of premium natural materials such as imported marble, limestone, and onyx throughout the estate imbues it with a sense of enduring elegance and baronial splendor, reflecting a commitment to unparalleled craftsmanship and luxury.

Luxurious Interiors: Spaces Designed for Grand Living and Comfort

The interior of the Hillandale Estate is a showcase of refined living, featuring an array of opulent reception rooms designed for both grand entertaining and intimate gatherings. Upon entering, guests are greeted by a magnificent foyer that sets a tone of elegance. The living room, a centerpiece of the home, boasts an intricately carved stone fireplace—one of six throughout the estate—and offers a cozy yet sophisticated ambiance. Other notable spaces include a handsomely paneled dining room, a well-appointed club room complete with a seated wet bar, a private study, a state-of-the-art eat-in kitchen, and a charming breakfast room. Each area offers picturesque views of the surrounding forested landscape, and the inclusion of a mosaic-tiled indoor swimming pool further enhances the estate's luxurious appeal.

Private Retreats: Bedrooms, Bathrooms, and Expansive Amenities

The Hillandale Estate features eight sumptuously appointed bedrooms, ten full bathrooms, and an additional five powder rooms, ensuring ample space and privacy for residents and guests. The homeowner's retreat is a highlight, encompassing a ballroom-sized bedroom and lounge area, a lavish en-suite bathroom, and an expansive walk-in closet where garments and footwear are discreetly housed within custom built-in wardrobes. Beyond the main residence, a broad stone terrace and a vine-draped colonnade provide a scenic overlook to a private lake with its own dock. The estate's formal gardens are a marvel, featuring a classic hedge maze, while over 5.5 miles of private roads and wooded trails connect the main house to an outdoor swimming pool, a dedicated pool house, a tennis court, a greenhouse, and two equestrian barns. Two separate residences on the property offer ideal accommodations for guests or resident caretakers, adding to the estate's comprehensive amenities.

The Market Journey: A History of Listings and Current Offering

The Hillandale Estate has a notable history on the real estate market. In 2007, the Haroche family initially listed the property with an ambitious price tag of $95 million. Subsequent attempts to sell included a listing at $75 million in 2015 and a more recent offering at just under $50 million in 2020. Currently, the historic estate has re-entered the market at a price of $75 million, represented by Leslie McElwreath and Joseph Barbieri of Sotheby's International Realty. This latest listing invites discerning buyers to acquire a piece of history and unparalleled luxury.