Own a dream house in Rhode Island
The Emirates Business 24/7 by Reena Amos Dyes, Staff Writer
This Italinate mansion boasts a history
as dazzling as its oceanfront setting
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If you want to own a property in the most famous playground for the rich and famous in northeastern United States, then a piece of America's gilded age is up for sale in Rhode Island's fabled Bellevue Avenue.
Encompassing approximately five acres of land, 19,000 square feet of built-up area, with 15 bedrooms, this Italianate mansion boasts a history as dazzling as its dramatic oceanfront setting. Priced a little over Dh 55 million, Beechwood Mansion features richly appointed formal rooms as well as more intimate gathering areas. It served as the setting for countless extravagant gatherings and still exudes aristocratic glamour.
In 1851, architect Calvert Vaux and landscape designer Andrew Jackson Downing created the original dwelling for a New York merchant which was later brought by William Backhouse Astor, grandson John Jacob Astor, America's first multi-millionaire.
Melanie Delman, President, Lila Delman Real Estate told EMIRATES Business: "Once the residence of William and Caroline Astor, Beechwood Mansion is one of the most prominent estates in American social history.
"It was from this magnificent Victorian mansion that Caroline Astor, the undisputed "Queen of American Society" reigned. In fact, "The Mrs Astor" as she liked to be called, was the creator of America's first exclusive social register,"The 400." Caroline Astor retired from social life in 1906 an and lived quietly until her death in 1908.
"In 1911, her son John Jacob Astor IV was wed in the ballroom at Beechwood. During his honeymoon John Jacob Astor became the wealthiest passenger to perish in the sinking of the Titanic."
"Today this unique expression of artistry and grandeur enjoys residential as well as museum status and use, presenting an amazing opportunity for the art enthusiast to show case his collection."
Soon after buying the mansion, Caroline Astor brought in architect Richard Morris Hunt to add a magnificent ballroom, which was to become the centre of American society and play host to Caroline Astor's famous annual Summer Ball.
Melanie Delman said: "Caroline Astor hired famous architect Richard Morris Hunt to turn the mansion into a place worthy of America's highest society. Hunt, who designed the Beaux Arts facade of New York's Metropolitan Museum of Art, created a stunningly gilded ballroom with mirrored walls, water-drop crystal chandeliers, 800 panes of glass, ornate brass sconces, bas-relief's depicting Poseidon and Aphrodite, and French doors that open to expansive lawns and the shimmering sea beyond."
However, it is always the location and accessibility of the property that adds to its value and in terms of accessibility, Newport itself is a very manageable 90 minutes from Boston and 3 1/2 hours from New York City. This is quite a convenient location as far as second homes go.
As far as recreation goes this seaside resort that has long been considered the "Jewel" of the northeastern United States has enough of it to keep you occupied during your vacations. In fact, Beechwood Mansion, enjoys private gated access to Cliff Walk, a world famous 3.5-mile coastal pathway along the eastern shore of Newport. Within walking distance, on Bellevue Avenue, is the International Tennis Hall of Fame, site of the first US National Championships in 1881, which offers grass court play and the opportunity to view a variety of professional tournaments.
Delman summed it up: "World class yachting, outstanding beaches, golf, polo, and international music and film festivals are all found in Newport, an exclusive playground appealing to those with an appreciation for historic charm, sophisticated culture and spectacular coastal scenery."
EMIRATES Business 24/7, September 30, 2008
Reena Amos Dyes
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