Just 15 miles north of Manhattan, the idyllic village of Bronxville, New York is replete with designs by renowned architect Harry Leslie Walker — including the remarkable residence he once called home. Celebrated for his influence on Bronxville’s most prominent public buildings, Walker made his former private residence a home truly fit for an architect. A paragon of prewar architecture, the 1918 Tudor manor showcases the distinctive elements of early 20th century design while boasting all modern amenities from an exceptional renovation by John Downs in 1999. “It has all the old world charm associated with Walker, but still sits like a new construction home,” says Bronxville brokerage agent James Sutherland. In this premier location, residents enjoy the blend of lovely, bucolic surroundings paired with unparalleled proximity to New York City. “The home is in a beautiful estate section of the village – while it’s walkable to town and has a great neighborhood feel, it’s still only a 25-minute train ride into Manhattan,” says Sutherland.
This article originally appeared in the Summer 2014 edition of Luxury Showcase, the magazine of William Pitt and Julia B. Fee Sotheby’s International Realty.
Set on half an acre of meticulously landscaped grounds, the nearly 5,500 square-foot residence opens with a grand double-height foyer, which seamlessly flows to a series of regally scaled principal rooms. “To the right is your classic Harry Leslie Walker oak-paneled living room with custom plaster ceiling. It’s just a stunning formal entertaining space that expands to the enclosed summer porch overlooking the formal gardens,” says Sutherland.
Added by Mr. Walker in 1927, an ornate sunken dining room is perfectly suited for intimate gatherings, while commanding attention as a grand entertaining venue. The opulent yet comfortable space is canopied by a dramatic barrel ceiling that centers on an elegant wooden chandelier. “That ceiling takes your eye from the moment you walk in the door,” recalls Sutherland. “You can just imagine the dinner parties being hosted in this room.” The stunning period details are complemented by concealed wall speakers to accommodate state-of-the-art entertaining. With French doors to the property, the dining room streamlines entertaining between interior and outdoor spaces.
At the heart of the main level, a bright, spacious gourmet kitchen serves as an inviting focal point of the home. “It’s got every amenity you need,” says Sutherland. “This modern chef’s kitchen has a great design with two entrances leading to the family room. The entire home just has a logical, very appealing layout and flows easily from room to room.” Designed by David Devendorff, the sun-filled kitchen is highlighted by a tiered, semicircular mahogany island, resplendent marble countertops and professional appliances. The adjoining family room is beautifully appointed with a wood-burning fireplace, stunning coffered ceiling and built-ins, all framed by a wall of windows overlooking the property. The kitchen opens to a relaxing bluestone terrace with more of a “casual backyard barbecue feel,” notes Sutherland.
Upstairs, four bedrooms include a sumptuous master suite with double walk-in closets and a spa-like bath with Millbrook custom cherry-wood cabinetry. A second level office serves as an excellent retreat with a bay window overlooking the grounds, while a luxurious guest suite completes the third floor.
Sophisticated recreation spaces abound on the lower level, which encompasses nearly 1,200 additional square feet. In addition to a workshop and ample storage, a 900-bottle wine cellar, cutting-edge media room and roomy exercise area add to the ambiance of relaxed luxury. These expertly planned finishing touches complete one of Bronxville’s most noteworthy homes — a testament to the refined style of its legendary architect, as well as discerning owners to come.
30 Elm Rock Road in Bronxville, New York (Web ID: 4406678) is offered at $4,995,000 USD. For more information, please visit 30ElmRockRoad.com or contact Julia B. Fee Sotheby’s International Realty agent James Sutherland at +1 917 817 4258 or james.sutherland@juliabfee.com.