John Russell Pope’s historic oceanfront house in Watch Hill, Rhode Island, has been launched on the market with Christie’s Great Estates.
Set high above the ocean on a picturesque stretch of beach stands the eight-acre compound is arguably one of the grandest estates in the southwestern corner of Rhode Island. Built in 1917 and designed by celebrated architect John Russell Pope-who designed the Jefferson Memorial and the National Gallery of Art- the oceanfront estate is offered at US$19.5 million by Seaboard Properties, with international marketing services by Christie’s Great Estates.
Occupying an enviable position within easy walking distance of the Watch Hill village, the opulent 10,500-square-foot main residence evokes the dramatic feel of a castle with its wide-plank oak floors, wrought-iron chandeliers, archways, and light-filled, generously scaled rooms. The five-bedroom estate was styled after Tudor manor and enjoys panoramic ocean views,
Elegant French doors on the east side of the living room open to a delightful large covered verandah which features glorious views of the beach. At the far end of the verandah, an octagonal dining area is an inviting location for outdoor summer meals with its woodburning fireplace, wrought-iron chandelier, vaulted ceilings, and archways overlooking the ocean.
The estate is surrounded by more than eight acres of beautiful lawns and gardens-elaborate landscaping showcases specimen plantings, an apple orchard, a flagstone terrace, and broad rolling lawns that flow to the sea. A pool and two fully equipped and restored three-bedroom guest cottages are additional highlights of this exceptional offering.
‘This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to own an architecturally significant oceanfront estate which features the best of both worlds-privacy and seclusion within close proximity to several major cities,’ says Kathleen Coumou, Vice President of Christie’s Great Estates.
The estate recently underwent a $10 million restoration, reflecting John Russell Pope’s original vision for the home. The renovations included updates to the gourmet kitchen and adjoining pantry, which now feature top-of-the-line La Cornier and Sub-Zero appliances.
‘Located in the historic community of Watch Hill, this spectacular waterfront compound is set on a high knoll above the Atlantic Ocean overlooking 1,000 feet of glorious beachfront,’ says James
Michalove, of Seaboard Properties. ‘This very special property is the epitome of gracious seaside living.’
Situated halfway between New York and Boston, Watch Hill is a charming village filled with delightful shops, restaurants, winding streets lined with handsome century-old summer cottages, and a picturesque yacht-filled harbor. Watch Hill is widely acknowledged as one of Rhode Island’s most beautiful seaside hamlets and offers numerous recreational delights including swimming, sailing, golf, and beachside picnics.
Contact: Christie’s Great Estates Seaboard Properties
(+1 505 983 8733; +1 860 535 8364; lbessone@christiesge.com; seaboardproperties@yahoo.com)
