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Community Spotlight: Unique Homes of Tuxedo Park, New York 

Community Spotlight: Unique Homes of Tuxedo Park, New York 

Once the home of tycoons, Tuxedo Park is recognized as the first gated community in the United States. Both J.P. Morgan and William Waldorf Astor had homes there, and the village gave its name to the revolutionary tuxedo that modernized formal wear by inspiring men to replace their traditional tailcoats with shorter dinner jackets. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the village was built in the 1880s by Pierre Lorillard, the tobacco heir, as a rustic hunting and fishing retreat for his affluent New York friends. Considered one of the nation’s finest examples of pre-World War I architecture, Tuxedo Park is home to some 300 historic residences nestled in a very private nature sanctuary of scenic valleys and stunning glacial lakes, several suitable for swimming and stocked with trout and bass for fishing. The 2,600-acre private compound also offers an abundance of hiking, biking and riding paths. The commute to New York Penn Station via New Jersey Transit rail service is just under 50 minutes.

House on hill with river in backyard

160 Continental Road, Tuxedo Park, New York

Much like the tuxedo itself, historic Tuxedo Park and its architecture never seem to go out of style. Available for the first time in 40 years, the circa 1891 Horace Waldo Cottage epitomizes the beauty of early Tuxedo Park architecture, with its natural materials, preserved details and timeless style. A walk through the Federal-style doorway with fanlight and leaded glass sidelights leads to the first level, which offers formal rooms and cozy gathering spaces. Eight fireplaces with early millwork grace the first floor. A light-filled, professional-grade chef’s kitchen beckons serious cooks and family gatherings. Enjoy dinners or morning coffee in the sun-soaked, enclosed porch accessible from three core living areas. The second and third levels have five bedrooms, including a master suite with sitting room. Recreation rooms on the lower level have radiant heat floors, a wood-burning stove and access to a covered patio. Set on 1.2 acres of rolling lawns and walking distance to key Tuxedo Park amenities, this beauty is ready to be called home.

Living Room of 14 Butternut Road

14 Butternut Road, Tuxedo Park, New York

Tuxedo Park has a rich history and surprisingly diverse inventory of homes, many designed by famous architects from the Gilded Age, but also converted stables and carriage houses as well as a sampling of contemporary homes. Nothing shows off distinct architecture quite like a juxtaposition of two styles, a hallmark of 14 Butternut Road, a three-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bath home that is one of the area’s first Gilded Age mansions. Designed in 1970 by artist Edgar Bertolucci, the elegant 6.8-acre, gated, international-style glass house known as The Gallery, is framed by dramatic stone foundations. The private and serene property features breathtaking, west-facing, panoramic views of Tuxedo Lake, 14-foot, floor-to-ceiling windows and exquisite grounds, featuring tall oaks, stone terraces, intricately built stone fountains, ponds and walking paths, all designed by Ferruccio Vitale, landscape architect for 19th century tycoons including Condé Nast, Mellon and Guggenheim.

122 Circuit Road, Tuxedo Park

122 Circuit Road, Tuxedo Park, New York

What is so compelling about Tuxedo Park? “It’s simply a magical place,” said Barbara du Pont, a veritable expert on the gated enclave’s real estate sales, trends and historic homes as well as a resident for nearly 25 years. “Homebuyers are captivated by the beauty of the scenery: the serenity of the community’s three lakes, hills and winding roads, vistas of private gardens and untamed natural surroundings,” she said. This magnificent historic estate at 122 Circuit Road originally was built as a summer cottage around 1890 for John H. Foster, with beautiful architectural details on a grand scale. The stone and cedar shingle home, renovated with modern amenities, sits on 2.2 acres and features majestic lawns and an elegant interior, with hand-painted murals, a 17th century English fireplace, oak-paneled living room, grand dining room and five en suite bedrooms.

23 West Lake Road, Tuxedo park

23 West Lake Road, Tuxedo Park, New York

If you feel inspired by majestic sunrise views and unique waterfront settings, The Old Fish Hatchery is a quaint cottage that checks off both boxes. Built in 1887 by the Tuxedo Club as a fish hatchery to stock the Tuxedo Lake with bass, salmon and rainbow trout, it was converted into a home in the early 1920s and renovated in 2008. This magical 1.7-acre retreat features a lively brook that flows from Tuxedo Lake to the smaller Wee Wah Lakes, stone walls and massive trees. A charming wood plank bridge leads to the home which features former hatchery beds that cascade down from shallow to deep where fish once were raised. With over 200 feet of lakefront to enjoy boating, fishing and swimming, you will feel like you have your own private park. The cottage has ceramic tile and hardwood floors throughout, chef’s kitchen with dining area, fireplace, master suite and sitting rooms looking out to the lakes and a recently added heated swimming pool. Although only 40 miles from midtown Manhattan, the surroundings feel like a world away.

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Spring Market: Moving to the Suburbs

With its rolling hills, majestic mountains, river views, rich culinary heritage and significant place in shaping American history, New York’s Lower Hudson Valley is dotted with scenic and historic towns that have long attracted city professionals and urban dwellers.

For many buyers, the high cost of New York City real estate often prompts a move to the suburbs. The prospect of more space for the money, a grassy yard and excellent school systems are key motivating factors. Markets including New York’s Rockland and Orange counties and their Hudson River towns continue to be favored by buyers who live in New York City, especially Manhattan and Brooklyn. From the quaint village of Nyack and secluded, celebrity-laden enclave of Snedens Landing to historic Tuxedo Park, there is a suburb for everyone to call home.

Grandview New York Real Estate

Perched above the banks of the Hudson River, Overledge is an exquisite representation of early 20th century architecture, with extraordinary views, four working fireplaces and endless charm. 159 River Road, Grandview, New York.

Nyack, New York

Just 20 miles from Manhattan, the eclectic and energetic village of Nyack is a creative hub for music, film, theater and art enthusiasts, complete with vibrant dining, entertainment and unique shops. Nyack’s proximity to the Hudson River and Hook Mountain also makes it an ideal recreational destination for boating, kayaking, fishing, cycling and hiking. Year-long events and activities, from farmers markets to street fairs, add to the charming old-style town appeal while

the sleek new Gov. Mario M. Cuomo Bridge, which replaced the Tappan Zee spanning the Hudson River between Rockland and Westchester counties, means improved commutes to and from the city for people on the west side of the river. Head-turning architecture, charming main streets and engaging culture and lifestyle are all part of the allure.

 

Tuxedo Park New York Real Estate

The lovely gardens and charm of this sun-filled, three-bedroom, three-bath 1939 cottage make it a desirable respite for city dwellers who crave solace in the country and the natural landscape that is hallmark to Tuxedo Park. 2 Stable Road, Tuxedo Park, New York.

Tuxedo Park, New York

Birthplace of the tuxedo and once the home of tycoons, Tuxedo Park is one of the oldest gated communities in the United States. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the village was built in the 1880s by Pierre Lorillard, the tobacco heir, as a hunting and fishing retreat for his affluent New York friends. Considered one of the nation’s finest examples of pre-World War I architecture, Tuxedo Park also offers an abundance of hiking, biking and riding paths within the private compound’s acres of bucolic parks. Several stunning lakes, suitable for swimming, also are stocked with trout and bass for fishing. The commute to New York Penn Station, via New Jersey Transit, takes under 50 minutes.

 

Henry Dobbs House Snedens Landing New York

The Henry Dobbs House, built and named for a Hudson River boat captain, is the quintessential Snedens Landing home, steeped in rich history and the arts, with easy access to New York City. The renovated 1812 stone-and-clapboard home features three wood-burning fireplaces, original wide-board pine floors, stone walls, beamed ceilings, garage with small studio and a terraced yard with double porches and views of the Hudson River. 63 Washington Springs Road, Snedens Landing.

Snedens Landing, New York

Nestled among the steep cliffs of the Palisades in Rockland County, just 12 miles north of the George Washington Bridge, Snedens Landing is a secluded enclave dating back to the 1700s offering a coveted lifestyle just a short hop from the city. With renovated turn-of-the-century homes, including 18th- and 19th-century cottages and farmhouses in historic districts, its sense of old-fashioned Americana makes it one of Rockland County’s most-sought-after markets. The rural hamlet has attracted widely known residents for decades. Angelina Jolie spent part of her childhood here as did Hayden Panettiere. Laurence Olivier, John Steinbeck, Katharine Hepburn, Mick Jagger, Al Pacino, Bjork, Bill Murray and Diane Sawyer are among those—to name a few—who have called Snedens Landing home at one point or another, while Scarlett Johansson is reportedly the area’s latest resident.

 

Hingle Estate Suffern New York Real Estate

The Hingle Estate, once part of the landmarked Cobblestone Farm and former home of character actor Pat Hingle, is a renovated gem complete with a separate four-room guest cottage, saltwater pool, tennis court and three-car garage. 41 Viola Road, Suffern, New York.

Suffern, New York

Suffern, a Rockland County village dating back to 1796, is steeped in history, with an urban vibe. Accessible by trains, buses and highways, Suffern is home to a thriving business district and array of diverse restaurants, shops and a growing arts, film and cultural activities center, most recently serving as the backdrop for the CBS television show, “Instinct.” Lafayette Avenue, Suffern’s main street, is named in honor of Revolutionary war hero Marquis de Lafayette. Other notable guests have included George Washington, who made camp in the village several times during the war, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, Aaron Burr and Alexander Hamilton. The scenic village, framed by the Ramapo Mountains and Ramapo River, offers numerous hiking, biking and running trails.

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A Home for the Holidays

As Perry Como famously sang, “There’s no place like home for the holidays.” The holiday season is a time to come together with loved ones to celebrate the season of joy and make lasting memories. It’s a time when a home is transformed into a gathering place for love, laughter and cheer. Explore our distinctive collection of lower Hudson Valley homes with holiday-inspired spaces because “for the holidays, you can’t beat home, sweet home.”

536 N. Broadway, Upper Nyack

A Sanctuary for Life and Work: 536 N. Broadway, Upper Nyack

Truly a unique find, this majestic, artful stone carriage house is a secluded sanctuary featuring a colossal, 9,000-square-foot open floor plan, 11-foot ceilings, polished concrete radiant-heated floors and Italian marble baths. The main level offers a cozy living room with fireplace, open kitchen, dining area and family room. A contemporary staircase leads to an upper-level platform library with built-in book cases and exposed-beam rafters, four bedrooms and two baths. The lower level, which features a separate entrance, is ideal for recreation, work or an artist’s space.

Wonder Falls, 503 N. Broadway, Upper Nyack

503 N. Broadway, Upper Nyack

Wonder Falls, 503 N. Broadway, Upper Nyack

Known as Wonder Falls, this whimsical and artistic property is situated on 3-plus acres and 325 feet of Hudson River shoreline. Featuring an 80-foot waterfall and five wading ponds, this home is reportedly the site where Henry Hudson anchored his ship, Half Moon, on his famous trip up the river. There are cantilevered decks, atriums, multiple levels and surprises at every turn. Created with stone, marble, jade, quartz, glass, stainless steel, mahogany and teak, this one-of-a-kind home features numerous patios, skylights and more. Just 50 minutes to New York City, this ultra-private home is a destination like no other.

Tuxedo Park

Patterson Brook Carriage House, Tuxedo Park

Dating to the 1800s, the gated, Gilded Age enclave of Tuxedo Park (best known as the place where the term “tuxedo” was coined for men’s formalwear) is known as a playground for New York’s affluent and home for those seeking a quiet respite, outdoor recreation and a tightly knit community surrounded by stunning woods, parks and private lakes. The Patterson Brook Carriage House, an original Wagstaff Carriage house circa 1896, is a masterpiece completely rebuilt in 2008, with attention to recrafting key elements of the original design and architectural details. Unique features include a converted former horse stable and two garages with radiant heat and 15-car capacity, providing exceptional spaces for showcasing a fine automobile collection. It also could be a studio for musicians and artists.

Hopewell Farm, Crawford, New York

Hopewell Farm, Crawford, New York

Now you can own a piece of history or, perhaps, a bed and breakfast just 90 minutes from Manhattan. Built in the mid-1780s, historic Hopewell Farm – also known as The John I. Crawford Farm – is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and considered to be one of the best-preserved farms from that era. It remains an iconic landmark in the town of Crawford, named for its founding family. Built by Crawford’s son, Jonathon, who served in the Revolutionary War, the charming five-bed, three-bath home features the unique architectural details of a smokehouse, carriage house and barn. It may be the oldest surviving barn in the United States.

Montgomery, New York

Montgomery, New York

Expansive retreat on 38 acres, Montgomery, New York

Paul Teutul Sr., star of the “Orange County Choppers” and “American Choppers” television series, is selling his expansive Orange County, New York, estate. Its massive garage and farm often were featured on the reality shows.  This one-of-a-kind retreat is nestled on 38-plus private acres with stunning vistas. The main three-bedroom, two-and-one-half bath, log cabin-style home features a floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace, wrap-around porch and custom in-ground pool. Multiple patios are equipped with Viking grills. They are surrounded by a koi pond, waterfalls and a one-acre, self-feeding pond stocked with fish. For car and biking enthusiasts, the master mechanic and custom fabricator’s home features a two-story showcase garage with two self-contained apartments for guests, plus another working garage suitable for the most discriminating car aficionado or hobbyist.

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Hudson Valley: A Treasure Trove of Architectural Styles

The Hudson Valley is a distinct and diverse architectural region with centuries-old buildings ranging from elaborate Hudson River mansions to one-of-a-kind farmhouses and carriage houses among its bucolic rural towns and villages. Long before its settlement by the Europeans, the fertile valley sustained many communities drawn to the bounty and beauty of the area. The region has since enjoyed continuous growth and prosperity, dotted by a mosaic of homes reflecting a diversity of architectural styles from the Federal period to the revivals of the late 19th and 20th centuries. Many of these homes are lovingly preserved to reflect their period conditions, offering Old World charm with modern amenities, while others reflect the artists and creatives that have helped put their own stamp on this unique area of the country.

Bennett-Deyrup House, Upper Nyack, New York

Bennett-Deyrup House, Upper Nyack, New York

The extraordinary circa 1887 Bennett-Deyrup House, located on the Hudson River in Upper Nyack, New York, is one of the best examples of Queen Anne-style Victorian architecture in the area. Originally built for J. A. Bennett, U.S. Consul to Bogota, it later was home to the Deyrup family for most of the 20th century. Alvin Johnson/Deyrup co-founded the New School of Social Research and established the “University in Exile” program. The mansion, which underwent a masterful $4 million renovation that preserved period architectural details, features a classic asymmetrical exterior design with balconies, turret, belvedere and more. Period features include: embossed Lincrusta ceilings and walls; stained and art glass windows; eight fireplaces, three with original raised Victorian tile work; and four decorative stone mantels.

The Sickles-Tallman House in Orangeburg, New York

The Sickles-Tallman House in Orangeburg, New York

The Sickles-Tallman House in Orangeburg, New York, which dates to the late 1700s, is part of Rockland County history. Nestled on 2.2 private acres, the restored red Dutch colonial estate is one of the few remaining sandstone Sickle family homes in the area once known as Sickletown. It was once owned by Zita Johann, an Austrian-American actress best known for her performance in the 1932 film, The Mummy, with Boris Karloff.  Lovingly restored with over $600,000 in upgrades, the home features Early American touches such as exposed-stone interior walls and intricately carved and tiled mantelpieces, coupled with modern conveniences including a family room with radiant heat, stunning Gunite salt water pool and master Savant system controlling all lighting, television, sound and security systems by phone app.

Clock House, Snedens Landing

Clock House, Snedens Landing

The historic, artistic community of Snedens Landing provides a rustic backdrop for the Clock House, a cottage retreat which gets its nickname from a focal point above the home’s entrance way: a European style clock that protrudes from the slate roof. Noted interior designer Ernest de la Torre, who has been featured in Elle Décor’s list of 25 Top Interior Designers and Architectural Digest for his work, transformed the home with extraordinary architectural design, full of curated experiences at every turn. The home features a dramatic double-height living room and details such as walls stamped in gilded leather from Paris, an 18th century fireplace mantel from London and wood ceiling beams from a 19th century barn in Pennsylvania.

201 Route 9W, Snedens Landing

201 Route 9W, Snedens Landing

The Big House, a manor-style, historic home also in Snedens Landing, is known as one of the oldest homes in Rockland County and, perhaps, the country. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Most significantly, George Washington and the Marquis de Lafayette met and dined here during the American Revolution as guests of owner Jonathan Lawrence Jr. It features many charming historic details, including wide-plank floors, 1700s wood paneling, cherry ceiling beams, five working fireplaces and 23-inch-thick walls. The kitchen features an old-style Dutch fireplace, with a large firebox open on both sides.

50 Woods Road, Snedens Landing

50 Woods Road, Snedens Landing

The homes in Snedens Landing are as varied as the people who built them. This pristine, renovated contemporary on a wooded oasis reached by a private road is one of the newer houses in the secluded hamlet, which dates to the 1600s. An extensive, architect-driven renovation transformed the existing contemporary into a 4, 200 square-foot modern house ready for entertaining, with five bedrooms, a large chef’s kitchen, mason-crafted stone deck, three wood burning fireplaces, unique arbors and gardens, complete with a rustic handmade chicken coop.

536 North Broadway, Upper Nyack

536 North Broadway, Upper Nyack

This majestic, artful stone carriage house features a magnificent open colossal floor plan of 9,000 square feet and 11-foot ceilings, polished concrete radiant heated floors and Italian marble baths. The lower level has separate entrance featuring an artist’s work space and recreation options. A contemporary staircase leads to an upper-level platform library with built-in book cases and exposed beam rafters, four bedrooms and two baths to complete a truly a unique home.

Patterson Brook Carriage House, Tuxedo Park

Patterson Brook Carriage House, Tuxedo Park

Dating back to the 1800s, the gated enclave of Tuxedo Park is known for being a playground for New York’s wealthy seeking a quiet respite, outdoor recreation and a tightly-knit community surrounded by stunning woods, parks and private lakes. The Patterson Brook Carriage House, an original Wagstaff Carriage house circa 1896, is a masterpiece completely rebuilt in 2008, with attention to recrafting key elements of the original design and architectural details. Unique features include a converted former horse stable and two garages with radiant heat and 15-car capacity, providing exceptional spaces for showcasing a fine automobile collection. It also could be a studio for musicians and artists.

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Summer Living in the Lower Hudson Valley

The Lower Hudson Valley has long been the summer playground for New Yorkers seeking an escape from urban life. However, in recent years the region has seen resurging popularity among vacationers and second-home buyers seeking an unmatched experience, rich lifestyle and close proximity to NYC.

According to The Wall Street Journal, “busy urban professionals in search of a bucolic retreat close to the city gravitate toward quaint villages in the lower Hudson Valley, home to both weekenders and commuters.”

With expansive parklands, numerous lakes, and of course, access to the Hudson River, summering in the Lower Hudson Valley offers the opportunity for numerous outdoor recreational activities including boating, kayaking, golfing and hiking. With an unpretentious sensibility and low-key luxury, the Lower Hudson Valley is the ideal destination to experience summer living at it’s finest.

316 West Lake Road, Tuxedo Park

Built in 1910 and completely renovated in 2005, this county pied-à-terre features nearly 250 feet of lakefront property on Tuxedo Lake. Tucked away off a quiet road, this dreamy cottage is the epitome of a country retreat.

497 Jersey Avenue, Warwick

Perched on a hillside overlooking glistening Greenwood Lake, this pristine Arts & Crafts-style home makes for an idyllic and magical retreat. Enjoy sunsets on your private dock, or a brisk evening with friends by the stone wood-burning fireplace. Located in the Town of Warwick, which has infinite recreational amenities including: rowing, skiing, hiking, water skiing, ice fishing, boating and golfing.

Wonder Falls: 503 North Broadway, Upper Nyack

Known as Wonder Falls, this whimsical and artistic property is situated on 3+ acres and 325 feet of Hudson River shoreline. Featuring an 80-foot waterfall and five wading ponds, this unique property is reportedly the site where Henry Hudson anchored his Half Moon ship on his famous trip up the river. This ultra private home is a destination like no other.

2 Smith Avenue, South Nyack

Palazzo Mare is a glamorous 7,200 sq. ft. villa modeled after a 15th century Venetian palace. Reminiscent of 1930’s Deco design, the iconic property is situated on the Hudson River with a sandy beach, stone pier, swimming pool and spa—making for a luxurious summer playground.

2 Washington Avenue, Nyack

Retreat to your own private sanctuary along the banks of the Hudson River in this newly renovated contemporary colonial. With sweeping views of the Hudson River and new Tappan Zee Bridge, this relaxing summer property features a 100-foot boat slip and a grand deck for indoor-outdoor living.

231 Sickletown Road, Orangeburg

Dating back to the early 1770s, the Sickles/Tallman House is an award-winning red stone Dutch Colonial home, which boasts modern convenience with early American touches. Beautifully nestled in 2.2 private lush acres, the property features a new 20×60 foot gunite saltwater pool, slate patio, bronze fountain, Jacuzzi spa and outdoor stone kitchen.

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Living in…Orange County, New York

Located roughly 50 miles north of Manhattan and along the Hudson River, New York State’s Orange County features bucolic surroundings and countless outdoor recreation activities. The county is dotted with historic villages and hamlets, including Cornwall, Tuxedo Park and Warwick.

Cornwall

6 Sengen Lane, Cornwall-on-Hudson

Affluent with a humble sensibility, the Town of Cornwall sits along the west bank of the Hudson River and offers scenic beauty and a close-knit community. Home to the world-renowned Storm King Art Center, a 500-acre outdoor sculpture garden as well as Strom King State Park and the historic Cromwell Manor Inn. Cornwall is noted for being the epitome of refined country living and for its proximity to West Point Military Academy.

Tuxedo Park

316 West Lake Road, Tuxedo Park

Nestled between Sterling Forest and Harriman State Parks, is the gated enclave of Tuxedo Park. Dating back to the 1800s, Tuxedo Park is known for being a playground for New York’s wealthy seeking a quite respite, outdoor recreation and a tight-knit community.

21 Lookout Road, Tuxedo Park

The centerpiece of the village is Tuxedo Lake, which offers an innumerable amount of outdoor activities including boating, hiking, kayaking and fishing and restricted access to the roughly 300 residents.

Warwick

Known as the “Queen Village,” Warwick is a charming hamlet on the western edge of the county. It boasts a friendly, laid-back atmosphere and a historic downtown that features boutiques, restaurants and bed-and-breakfasts.

212 Bellvale Lakes Road, Warwick

Local activities include boating on Greenwood Lake, skiing on Mt. Peter and a distinct park system that includes over 100 acres of active and passive parkland. The village is also home to five distinct wineries, including Warwick Valley Winery & Distillery and Applewood Winery.

 

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Buying Land in Tuxedo Park

Tuxedo Park is a historic village in New York that never seems to go out of style- very much like the tuxedo itself.  An exclusive 2,600-acre gated enclave – said to be the country’s first gated community, in fact, and yes, where the tuxedo was first worn- Tuxedo Park is 40 miles and some 45 minutes from Midtown Manhattan, making it an idyllic second home destination as well.  I was happy to sit down with our in-house Tuxedo Park expert Barbara du Pont to get her take on the current state of the market and the growing interest in land parcels for sale.

Lookout Stable Road is for sale and was just reduced to $350,000

Lookout Stable Road is for sale and was just reduced to $350,000

Richard Ellis: Can you tell us about the current inventory in Tuxedo Park available to prospective buyers?

Barbara du Pont: While we have seen a market recovery this year, which has caused a reduction in inventory, there is still a wide range of great properties for sale. But what I find interesting about the current market is a rise in buyer interest in land and an increase in land coming up for sale.

RE: What do you attribute this increase in interest to?

BdP: There is a rise in appreciation for how unusual the Village of Tuxedo Park is due to the historic preservation of its natural landscape and viewsheds.

This past October, the Race Track was dedicated as our community’s Nature Preserve. With the consent of the Board of Trustees and encouragement of the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), the 21-acre Race Track will be transformed into a Nature Preserve. This will be a multi-year community project funded entirely by private donations and government grants. The Race Track was the site of the Tuxedo Park Horse Show during the Gilded Age. Abandoned since the 1940s, nature has claimed it as a biodiverse sanctuary: more than 300 trees and plants have been identified by naturalist John Yrizarry, environmental consultant J.G. Barbour and Bowman Hill Wildflower Preserve. Some 200 species of bird nest there or use as a flyway, while countless mammals, reptiles, amphibians and butterflies call it home. This level of biodiversity is rare in the Lower Hudson Valley.

This private lakefront lot in Tuxedo Park is available for $800,000

This private lakefront lot in Tuxedo Park is available for $800,000

RE: What has the market been for land lately? 

BdP: This year we started to see a recovery in home sales which have been sluggish over the last 10 years and we are optimistic that land sales will follow.  We are seeing more interest in people looking for building lots. Until this year, the last sale was in 2013, and there were only five sales from 2009 to 2013.  However, interest is picking up and there have been two sales in 2016, including one parcel on Tuxedo Lake.

The land at Summit Road in Tuxedo Park is available for $980,000

The land at Summit Road in Tuxedo Park is available for $980,000

RE: Why is this a great opportunity for buyers? 

BdP: Currently there are eight lots for sale in Tuxedo Park and only two are lakefront.  Also keep in mind this is in the context of an inventory of homes that has decreased to the lowest point in a decade. There are very few homes listed that are in move-in condition, so some buyers really are more interested in building to their specifications, rather than doing extensive repairs and remodeling.  Buyers appreciate the natural beauty of Tuxedo Park and that choosing the right site, which can afford more privacy, wooded surroundings or sweeping views, is often most important.

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History and the Hudson Valley

It was more than 400 years ago that Henry Hudson first explored the Hudson Valley. I’m sure if he were to return now he would be pleasantly surprised at how much has changed- and also how much has stayed the same.  The beauty of our landscape- for one- is just as inspiring and breathtaking as it likely was then.

According to Travel Hudson Valley, we are “famous for being the first wine producing region in the country, while the bountiful farms have been here for centuries.”  It was the Hudson Valley landscape that inspired “the first arts movement in the U.S, the Hudson River School,” the site notes.  “These 1800s artists/naturalists-on-canvas would not be surprised to learn that 20th century residents were crusaders in saving the Hudson Valley landscape at Storm King Mountain where the country’s environmental movement was born.”

History is important to our region, where you can still see where George and Martha Washington lived.  “Touring homes of the Vanderbilts, Roosevelts and Rockefellers offers visitors an inside view of how the wealthy lived in style,” Travel Hudson Valley notes.  Today, my firm is lucky enough to represent some of the finest historic homes that have come to market in recent times.  They seem to tell a story of their own as soon as you set foot in the door.

Living in a historic home requires an appreciation for the past.  It is an art to maintain a home’s past while updating it for modern living.  Two homes we currently have listed manage to do just that: the Freneau House in Piermont and Almost Brook in Tuxedo Park.

Freneau House

211 Tweed Blvd, Piermont, New York

The Freneau House is one of Rockland County’s early Greek Revivals, overlooking the Hudson River at 4,000 square feet.  Circa 1810, it was renovated in 1999 and still features the original period staircase.  The property resides in the historic village of Piermont, which was developed as we today know it in the 1830s.  The Freneau House has been a witness to Piermont’s own inception and development.

Almost Brook in Tuxedo Park, also known as the John Foster Cottage, was built circa 1890, when the property was purchased by insurance executive John H. Foster. The second owners were Mr. and Mrs. Ernest Adee.  Ernest was the vice president of the Mercantile Trust Company, while Geraldine- his wife- was active in several women’s organizations.  They held their daughter’s wedding reception at the property in 1920.

The home originally was built as a summer cottage for Mr. Foster in the historic Village of Tuxedo Park. Sited on 2.2 acres, there were two major renovations, one in 2003 and another in 2013.  There are hand-painted murals, reminiscent of the Hudson Valley School, and a 17th century English fireplace.

Almost Brook

122 Circuit Road, Tuxedo Park, New York

Nestled in the Ramapo Mountains, Tuxedo Park features 100 year-old trees, three pristine lakes, an 18-hole golf championship course designed by Robert Trent Jones, Sr., and is considered one of the finest examples of pre-World War I architecture in the United States. While the Hudson Valley and tristate area offer a number of communities with beautiful historic homes and affluent owners, what makes Tuxedo Park stand alone is the designation of the entire village as a historic site, securing its listing on the National Register of Historic Places.  There are roughly 350 homes in the Park, 250 or so built before 1930, with lake and mountain views and minimal disturbance to the natural terrain.

Gypsy Rose Lee home

187 County Highway 105, Highland Mills, New York

Head to Highland Mills, and you will find a beautiful vintage masterpiece at 187 Country Highway 105.  Once a retreat for actors and artists, it was the former home of Gypsy Rose Lee.  The circa 1901 Colonial Revival style home is set on a private 6.8 acres with a long tree lined driveway. It was completely rebuilt in 2011 with the finest materials. There are restored period moldings, hardwood floors, period paneling and exposed brick walls and archways.

The natural beauty of the Hudson Valley has not changed dramatically over the generations, having been preserved and enhanced over the course of 400 years.  In fact, its beauty has been fodder and inspiration for poets, artists and ordinary people who just want to enjoy the area’s signature peace and quiet, going from everyday life to one that is rich and extraordinary.

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Tuxedo Park: Life Behind the Gilded Gates

Barbara-du-PontTuxedo Park, New York, a refined and private community less than an hour from New York City, dates back to the 1880s and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. In this blog, we will go on a virtual tour of the market with Barbara du Pont, a veritable expert on the gated enclave’s real estate sales, trends and historic homes. She is responsible for the two highest sales in Tuxedo Park since 2006.

 

 

What is so compelling about Tuxedo Park that residents often enter the market as secondary residents and then transition to full-time?

Tuxedo Park is simply a magical place. Descriptions and even pictures cannot do it justice. People who come to look at houses are captivated by the beauty of the scenery: the serenity of the three lakes, hills and winding roads, vistas of private gardens and untamed natural surroundings. “The Park” has a rich history and surprisingly diverse inventory of houses, many of them designed by famous architects from the Gilded Age, but also converted stables and carriage houses as well as a sampling of contemporary homes.

Luxury homes for sale in Tuxedo Park

4 Ridge Road, Tuxedo Park, New York

But it is not just about the landscape and homes. Tuxedo Park is a wonderful community to live in. It is small enough that you feel part of a community. You can, as many residents do, get involved in local government and institutions. While the residents are welcoming, they also respect one another’s privacy. Some start out with Tuxedo Park as a weekend and summer retreat and then decide that The Park is really their primary residence, possibly keeping a pied-à-terre in the city or just moving here full time. It is no accident that many residents have moved two, three and even four times within The Park, choosing to upsize, downsize, move for lake views or lake front. But they stay in the community throughout lifecycle changes.

How long have you been serving the market, and how have you seen it change over the years?

I have been a resident for almost 20 years and have been in the real estate business for the last decade. In that time there have been three significant changes, all for the better. First, while the residents span all ages, younger couples have moved here, adding to the vitality of the community. Second, some of the most beautiful historic houses saw a time of neglect over the years, and under new ownership there has been a resurgence of thoughtful, high-quality restorations, which is thrilling to see. Finally – and here is the best news for prospective buyers – prices have come down significantly in the last eight to 10 years, making Tuxedo Park not only affordable, but an outstanding value compared with other markets.

Why is now a good time to invest in Tuxedo Park real estate?

The timing now is really in favor of buyers. While prices in other markets around the New York metro area have already ratcheted up, Tuxedo Park is still a bargain. While sales fell off dramatically during the recession, prices were slower to come down and inventory surged. Now we see sellers cutting prices to record lows in order to move their houses, creating some amazing values for buyers, with a wide range of prices and styles, from small converted stables and carriage houses to large mansions and everything in between.

Take us on a tour of the market through your favorite listings.

18 Summit In a tour of Tuxedo Park, 18 Summit Road is our first stop. Perched on a hill, it offers breathtaking views of Tuxedo Lake. The home itself is exquisitely constructed, with an easy flow and spacious rooms for gracious entertaining.

 

 

57 Look out blogOur next stop is 57 Lookout Road, a striking contemporary built atop the stone foundation of Pierre Lorillard’s 1890 massive stable on a seven-acre, gently sloping hillside. Its winding drive ends at nine-foot stone walls, which are interspersed with graceful arches that enclose the courtyard, affording the ultimate in privacy.

 

 

21 Lookout blogNext is 21 Lookout Road, a beautifully renovated home on two acres, with a tennis court and room to play among majestic trees and gently sloping lawns. The home offers open space and an easy flow.

 

 

 

4 Ridge Road blogPerhaps the best example of historic, classic Tuxedo Park architecture is the next stop on our tour: 4 Ridge Road. Built in 1898 and lovingly preserved and maintained, it offers an air of elegance, from the marble foyer to the original hardwood floors. The ballroom was added in the early 1900s.

 

 

Ice House blogThe last stop on our tour is another great example of historic Tuxedo Park. The Ice House on 2.6 acres at 62 Circuit Road was once part of the legendary Henry S. Poor estate. It is anchored by the original stone ice house, built in 1899 and now a spacious living room.

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