Estate Built for Steel Tycoon Heir Sells First Time in Nearly 100 Years
This iconic 1936 estate, built for steel tycoon heir Howard Phipps, is one of Long Island's most storied Gold Coast properties. This record-breaking transaction also marks the highest single-family sale ever recorded in Old Westbury, NY.
Erchless, a storied Long Island Gold Coast estate steeped in history and grandeur, has officially changed hands for the first time since its construction nearly a century ago.
One of several significant properties owned by the Phipps family in Old Westbury, this 1936 Georgian Colonial-style mansion was built for Howard Phipps, the son of Henry Phipps Jr., Andrew Carnegie's partner in the Carnegie Steel empire.
Designed by the architectural firm Adams and Prentice, the estate’s timeless design and meticulous craftsmanship have preserved its legacy as one of the last great intact estates of Long Island’s Gold Coast.
Named “Erchless” after a Scottish castle frequented by the Phipps family, the estate’s rich heritage is reflected in every detail. The brick for the mansion was imported from Williamsburg, Virginia—a nod to the birthplace of Howard Phipps’ wife, Mary. The property remained in the family for decades, passing from Howard Phipps Sr. to his son, Howard Phipps Jr., who maintained it until the recent sale.
Spanning a sprawling 92.7 acres, Erchless’ grandeur is unparalleled. The U-shaped mansion encompasses 16,000 square feet of living space, featuring 15 bedrooms, 10 full bathrooms, and 2 half-baths. Original architectural details such as a curved staircase and nine fireplaces add to its timeless allure.
Preserving the Grandeur of a Bygone Era
Visiting Erchless is like stepping back in time. The estate’s meticulously maintained grounds include sweeping meadows, an allee of towering beech trees, and award-winning gardens—notably an extraordinary rhododendron garden, which earned the elder Howard Phipps a bronze medal from the New York chapter of the American Rhododendron Society in 1978.
Beyond the main mansion, the property boasts an impressive array of secondary buildings: four greenhouses, a four-stall carriage barn with loft bedrooms, a superintendent’s house, and a chauffeur’s house. One of the barns even features a 400-year-old cellar, further underscoring the estate’s rich history.
A Record-Breaking Sale
The sale of Erchless is a milestone for Old Westbury, setting a new benchmark for residential real estate in the area. Marketed by Lois Kirschenbaum of Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty and represented by Maria Babaev of Douglas Elliman Real Estate, the property’s final asking price was $23 million.
End of an Era, Start of a New Chapter
“We don’t have properties like this anymore,” said listing agent Lois Kirschenbaum. “This is one of the last great homes of a bygone era that will pass hands.”
Congratulations to the new owners of this storied masterpiece, a home that continues to reflect the opulence and elegance of Long Island’s golden age.
All photos belong to the listing agencies.
Dreamy Neoclassical Chateau in Belgium— Yours for €3,000,000
Situated on 25 sprawling acres of English-style grounds—complete with ponds, wooded areas, and winding paths—the estate is often referred to as Den Engelsen Hof, meaning "The English Court."
Named after the family that owned it in the early 1900s, Ortegat Castle is a breathtaking neoclassical château built in 1814, with Palladian influences that add to its architectural charm.
Situated on 25 sprawling acres of English-style grounds—complete with ponds, wooded areas, and winding paths—the estate is also known as Den Engelsen Hof, meaning "The English Court."
The château boasts 10,300 sq. ft. of living space, including six bedrooms, multiple lounges, a formal dining room, and a kitchen. Standout features include original hardwood floors, marble fireplaces, and a stunning domed rotunda adorned with a trompe-l'œil skylight.
Additional highlights include a second floor with versatile spaces, a basement featuring a wine cellar and a service kitchen, and outbuildings such as a coach house, stables, and a 1970s swimming pool—perfect for a pool house or caretaker’s quarters.
Set within the Antwerp-Ghent-Brussels triangle, this estate is ideal for a private residence, business, or live-work setup. With its serene location in Waasmunster, East Flanders, Ortegat Castle offers a rare chance to own a piece of Belgian history and luxury.
All photos belong to the listing agency.
Neoclassical Castle with High-End Restoration Near Antwerp, Belgium
“It may be the oldest castle in the area, but the value of energy efficiency has become the same as that of a new-build home. Other castles are falling into disrepair, but Mishaegen Castle is truly ready for the future,” says the current owner, reflecting on its meticulous restoration.
Built in 1772 and meticulously restored to its original grandeur, this neoclassical estate bridges centuries of history with cutting-edge luxury. Nestled in the heart of Brasschaat, a picturesque suburb of Antwerp, Belgium, Castle Mishaegen is a rare masterpiece.
The origins of the estate trace back to 1436, but the castle as it stands today was commissioned in 1772 by Charles de Proli, a prominent Antwerp banker and businessman. With its U-shaped classicist design and pristine white façade, the castle has long been a symbol of elegance and prestige. Recently, it underwent a complete renovation to the highest standards, blending historic charm with modern convenience.
Technologically, Castle Mishaegen is unparalleled. A Bang & Olufsen central audio system fills the stately halls with rich sound, while the Basalte smart-home automation system allows seamless control of lighting, climate, and security via integrated iPads. The estate boasts nine biofuel fireplaces, triple-glazed windows, and geothermal underfloor heating powered by 12 boreholes reaching 100 meters deep. Even the sprawling 19-acre grounds are equipped with robotic lawnmowers and Wi-Fi coverage.
“It may be the oldest castle in the area, but the value of energy efficiency has become the same as that of a new-build home. Other castles are falling into disrepair, but Mishaegen Castle is truly ready for the future,” said the current owner.
The renovation, led by architect Stéphane Boens and interior designer Rebecca Verstraete, pays homage to the estate’s storied past while incorporating the finest modern materials. Highlights include handpicked marble with fossilized patterns dating back 400 million years and Delft blue tiles from 1760, a nod to the fusion of history and craftsmanship. Every detail, from antique woodwork to custom furnishings sourced from England and Italy, reflects an unwavering commitment to quality. The sale of the property includes these bespoke furnishings, ensuring a seamless transition for the next owner.
The castle’s expansive grounds enhance its fairy-tale allure. An ancient deciduous forest, serene parkland with three ponds, and a vegetable garden filled with apple, pear, and fig orchards create a bucolic setting. Ancillary structures, including a 19th-century orangery, a coach house with underfloor heating, and a fully equipped concierge’s residence, add further charm and functionality.
Castle Mishaegen is more than a home—it’s a living legacy. Offering unmatched luxury, historical significance, and advanced technology, this estate is ready for its next chapter.
With its proximity to Antwerp’s cultural and economic hubs, including Antwerp Airport and the Port of Antwerp, this property offers both serenity and convenience.
All exterior photos belong to the listing agency. Interior photos by designer Rebecca Verstraete.
Elizabethan-Style Historic Home in East Hampton Village
Built in 1916 by Francis Burrall Hoffman Jr. as a birthday gift for a 16-year-old heiress, the Woodhouse Playhouse features a 75-foot great hall that once hosted legends like John Barrymore. Explore the rich history of East Hampton’s last Woodhouse estate remnant, now a stunning residence.
The Woodhouse Playhouse, a stunning example of Elizabethan Revival architecture, was commissioned in 1916 by philanthropists Lorenzo and Mary Woodhouse as a birthday gift for their 16-year old daughter, Marjorie.
Designed by legendary architect Francis Burrall Hoffman Jr., the estate originally served as an artistic and social hub for the influential Woodhouse family and the Playhouse is the last surviving remnant of a 50-acre estate owned by Mary Woodhouse, a woman often called East Hampton’s "Medici" or "First Lady" for her extraordinary contributions to the town.
A Storied History
The Playhouse was commissioned in 1916 by philanthropists Lorenzo and Mary Woodhouse as a birthday gift for their daughter, Marjorie. Designed by legendary architect Francis Burrall Hoffman Jr., the estate originally served as an artistic and social hub for the influential Woodhouse family, whose contributions to East Hampton include funding the East Hampton Library, restoring Clinton Academy, and establishing Guild Hall.
The Woodhouse Playhouse, a stunning example of Elizabethan Revival architecture, stands as a tribute to East Hampton's Gilded Age splendor. Built in 1916 as a birthday present for Marjorie Woodhouse, the family’s 16-year-old daughter, this unique structure was never intended as a residence but as a space for creativity, gatherings, and whimsy. At the heart of the Playhouse is a 75-foot-long, half-timbered great hall. Anchored by a massive stone fireplace and adorned with a pipe organ and whimsical gargoyles playing cymbals and drums, it served as a stage for performances and parties. By day, leaded-glass windows flood the room with light, while sconces and candelabras create a magical ambiance after dark.
A Matriarch's Vision and Legacy
The Playhouse is the last surviving remnant of a 50-acre estate owned by Mary Woodhouse, a woman often called East Hampton’s "Medici" or "First Lady" for her extraordinary contributions to the town. Mary and her husband arrived in the Hamptons in 1895, riding a wave of wealth from banking and a partnership with Marshall Field’s. Their estate reflected their influence, with the Playhouse as one of several outbuildings complementing their main residence, The Fens, a 1903 shingled mansion.
Known for her philanthropy, Mary restored an 18th-century school, funded the East Hampton Library, and established Guild Hall, shaping East Hampton into the cultural hub it remains today. Often spotted wearing her signature hats and pearls, she embodied the elegance and grandeur of her era.
The Playhouse: A Space for Celebration
According to architectural historian Gary Lawrance, author of Houses of the Hamptons, 1880–1930, the Playhouse was a “fun room” built for gatherings and performances. Unlike the formal, compartmentalized mansions of the time, its open floor plan fostered a sense of freedom and casual grandeur. “These were rec rooms or fun rooms,” Lawrance explains. “It’s always fun to have a little pavilion in your backyard.”
The Playhouse, with its grand proportions and whimsical details, became the preferred venue for parties and artistic endeavors, perfectly embodying the opulence and creativity of its time.
The Woodhouse Playhouse stands as a monument to a bygone era, where whimsy, art, and grandeur intertwined seamlessly. Its survival and preservation offer a rare glimpse into the history and culture that shaped East Hampton’s identity.
“This property truly encompasses the grandness of the Hamptons,” says realtor Leslie Reingold. “It’s a testament to the area’s rich history and the visionaries who shaped it.”
At the heart of the 6,000-square-foot home is the Elizabethan-style salon, a 75-foot-long room with a 40-foot vaulted ceiling. Once equipped with a stage, the space hosted theatrical performances and cultural gatherings, earning the estate its name, "The Playhouse." Gargoyles, a massive stone fireplace, and intricate timber beams evoke the artistic grandeur of the Gilded Age.
“These great rooms were built for enjoyment, to be casual yet grand,” notes architectural historian Gary Lawrance, co-author of Houses of the Hamptons, 1880–1930. “The Playhouse’s scale and craftsmanship make it a rare gem.”
Over time, the Playhouse evolved from an artistic venue into a year-round residence, complete with renovations that respect its historical integrity. Its 2020 copper-clad conservatory addition even won an AIA design award, blending seamlessly with the home’s original design.
Property Highlights
Size: 6,000 sq. ft. interior on 2.8 meticulously landscaped acres
Bedrooms/Bathrooms: 5 bedrooms, 5 full baths
Features: Renovated kitchen, glass conservatory, vaulted great room, leaded-glass windows
Additional Spaces: A spiral staircase imported from Europe, a terrace for entertaining
The home has retained much of its charm, from the pipe organ and timber beams to its functional updates that support modern living.
The Grounds: A Private Oasis
The estate’s nearly three acres are a visual feast, featuring mature specimen trees, formal gardens, and a heated gunite pool. Its southern border abuts a nature preserve, offering privacy and tranquility. The grounds also include a fountain and expansive terrace, ideal for entertaining.
“This property’s variety of terrain, coupled with its proximity to nature trails and East Hampton Village, creates a truly unparalleled living experience,” adds Reingold.
Situated on Huntting Lane, the home offers easy access to Main Street’s shops and restaurants, as well as cultural institutions like Guild Hall. Just minutes away are Maidstone Club, one of the oldest golf courses in the world, and Atlantic Beach, ranked among the country’s finest.
Photo: Gavin Ziegler for Sotheby’s International Realty.
17th Century Fairytale Chateau on 111 Acres Southwest of Paris
The beautifully maintained French chateau and its award-winning romantic gardens are nestled in the heart of the historic Hurepoix region, just 35 kilometers from Paris.
Nestled in the heart of the historic Hurepoix region, just 35 kilometers from Paris, lies a stunning 17th-century French chateau that seamlessly blends aristocratic grandeur with timeless charm.
The chateau's origins date back to the 16th century when Gilles Lemaître, general counsel to François I, commissioned a manor house on these grounds.
It was later transformed into the spectacular chateau we see today by the Lamoignon family in the 17th century. Their efforts included the creation of a formal French-style park inspired by André Le Nôtre, renowned for designing the gardens of Versailles.
In 1755, the estate passed to Guillaume Joseph Dupleix de Bacquencourt and subsequently to the illustrious Arrighi de Casanova family.
Jean-Thomas Arrighi de Casanova, the Duke of Padua and a cousin of Napoleon Bonaparte, launched a remarkable restoration in the 19th century. With the help of the famed Bühler brothers and landscape architect Louis-Martin Berthault, they transformed the chateau's formal gardens into a romantic park, complete with an artificial lake and lush woodland scenery.
In the modern era, the gardens were further revived by the acclaimed landscape designer Timothy Vaughan, earning the prestigious “Jardin Remarquable” label in 2004. Today, the property is celebrated as one of the most romantic gardens in France.
The chateau itself is a masterpiece of classic French architecture, with its striking yellow sandstone and brick facade, imperial slate roof, and sculptures that enhance its regal presence. Upon entering, visitors are transported to a Venetian palace, with 6.5-meter-high ceilings, Versailles oak parquet floors, and a vestibule adorned with Medici vases.
Spanning 17,700 square feet across three floors, the chateau is rich in period detailing. The highlight is the "Napoleon III salon," a magnificent two-story drawing room featuring a trompe-l'œil balustrade and a painted ceiling depicting a serene spring sky. Throughout the residence, antique tapestries, panelled walls, marble fireplaces, and black-and-white cabochon floors evoke the elegance of the Second Empire.
The estate’s sprawling 111 acres are a haven of natural beauty. A botanical park and woodland surround the property, offering a serene retreat from the bustle of Paris. The centerpiece is the lake, designed in harmony with the romantic English garden style established by the Dukes of Padua. Additional features include historic stables, a chapel, greenhouses, and a walled park that frames the main courtyard, creating an idyllic setting.
The estate's proximity to a 100-hectare golf course adds to its appeal, making it an ideal retreat for those seeking luxury, privacy, and recreation.
Listed as a Historic Monument, this remarkable chateau represents the pinnacle of French heritage and elegance. With its rich history, architectural splendor, and breathtaking natural surroundings, it offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own a piece of France’s aristocratic past—all within a stone's throw of Paris.
All photos belong to the listing agency.
Private Island in CT: New England Estate Listed for $35,000,000
Discover Rogers Island, an exclusive private retreat on Long Island Sound, boasting a historic Tudor mansion, resort-style luxuries, and three private beaches—just minutes from the mainland.
Located in the exclusive Thimble Islands region of Connecticut, this private island spans 7.65 acres of meticulously landscaped grounds. Highlights include a resort-style swimming pool, sunken formal gardens, a Home Depot-sized greenhouse, three private beaches, a four-bedroom guest house, a full-size tennis court, and a private putting green with a driving range.
At the heart of Rogers Island is an 8,746-square-foot Tudor-style mansion, built in 1902 by Captain John Jay Phelps. A celebrated yachtsman and financier, Phelps designed this remarkable home as the ultimate summer escape.
Renowned as the first American to sail around the world, Phelps’s adventurous spirit is reflected in every detail of this breathtaking estate. Today, Rogers Island is celebrated as a historic and architectural landmark on Long Island Sound, offering unparalleled luxury and exclusivity, and has been recently renovated and updated.
With 10 bedrooms, six full baths, and two half baths, the home offers ocean-facing bedrooms, a fully customized kitchen, and spacious living areas adorned with large windows and fireplaces.
Complementing the main house is a 1,866-square-foot waterfront guest cottage. This charming retreat features four bedrooms, two full baths, and a wraparound porch—perfect for visitors seeking their own slice of paradise.
The property also includes staff quarters with two bedrooms and two baths, ensuring seamless hospitality for residents and guests alike.
Rogers Island is more than a home; it’s a private resort, with resort-style amenities, including:
Three private beaches: Enjoy the pristine shoreline and uninterrupted ocean views.
Tennis court and putting green: Ideal for recreation and leisure.
Pool and cabana: A tranquil poolside haven surrounded by lush landscaping and a gazebo perched above the water.
Formal gardens and koi pond: Stroll through meticulously landscaped grounds and serene natural beauty.
Greenhouse and trails: Explore meandering paths or tend to plants in the expansive greenhouse.
Artist’s studio: Create or display your masterpieces in this inspiring space.
Despite its secluded ambiance, Rogers Island is remarkably accessible.
This quintessential New England summer escape is just a five-minute boat ride from the mainland, and a mere 15 minutes from downtown Branford.
The island is also conveniently located within a two-hour drive of Manhattan, Boston, and the Hamptons, making it an ideal weekend getaway or full-time residence.
All photos belong to the listing agency.
Epic 78-Acre Estate in Big Sur California Asks $17,950,000
Bixby Creek Ranch rises majestically above the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge—a hallmark of California’s Highway One—secluded among ancient oaks and redwoods on a tranquil mountaintop, mere minutes from Carmel-by-the-Sea and Pebble Beach.
Nestled among ancient oaks and redwoods on a secluded mountain top, Bixby Creek Ranch offers an unrivaled vantage point above the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge—a celebrated symbol of California’s Highway One. Just a short drive from Carmel-by-the-Sea and Pebble Beach, this 78-acre estate delivers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, the rugged Big Sur coastline, and the rolling Santa Lucia Mountains.
Adjoining a 300-acre private preserve donated by the current owners for conservation efforts, the estate embodies both luxury and a deep respect for nature.
The Estate Features:
Main Residence: A stone, stucco, and glass masterpiece bathed in natural light, featuring vaulted ceilings with a skylight, a gourmet kitchen, and two spacious bedrooms with a shared luxury bathroom.
Guest Cottage: A cozy, private retreat with a compact kitchen, a stone fireplace, and stunning views.
Library/Studio Pavilion: A serene, wood-clad space with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, a kitchenette, and a half-bath.
Historic Barn Pavilion: Originally built in Ohio before the Civil War, the barn was painstakingly restored to serve as a modern entertainment hub, complete with an eat-in kitchen, a fitness room, and soaring windows framing extraordinary views.
Miles of trails wind through the property, leading to secluded vista points and plateaus ideal for unforgettable sunsets. The property also includes plans for two additional guesthouses, a garage, and an infinity pool overlooking the Bixby Bridge.
This architectural gem, designed by Mary Ann Schicketanz, blends Vedic principles with contemporary luxury, creating a harmonious flow of light and space across 8,500 square feet of living space.
There’s nothing more iconic than Big Sur, California—a place where dramatic cliffs meet the endless ocean, offering a lifestyle as unforgettable as its scenery.
All photos belong to the listing agency.
A Historic Château with Gardens by Andre Le Nôtre Has Sold
The Château de Cordès, a historic architectural jewel of Auvergne and a testament to a rich historical past, has been sold through Renaud Valentin of Mercure Forbes Global Properties.
Perched at the end of a basalt flow near the Sioulet Valley in France’s Massif Central, within the heart of the Parc des Volcans, the Château de Cordès stands as a masterpiece of French heritage and a testament to centuries of history.
A Rich Historical Legacy
The story of Château de Cordès begins in the 13th century, when it was owned by the Chalus family. In 1659, Emmanuel d'Allègre purchased the estate, and his son, Yves de Tourzel, the marquis d'Allegre, transformed it into a refined residence. In 1695, Yves commissioned André Le Nôtre, the celebrated gardener of Louis XIV, to design the château’s remarkable gardens, establishing a legacy of elegance that endures today.
In 1755, the property passed to Pierre Grangier, a lawyer from Riom, who enhanced its interiors with intricate plasterwork in the Blue Room, crafted by Italian artisans. Grangier’s family retained ownership for four generations.
By 1933, the château, chapel, and gardens were designated as Historic Monuments by the French Ministry of Culture, safeguarding their preservation. The château even served as a filming location for the 1985 movie The Bride, starring Sting.
The Gardens: A Masterpiece by André Le Nôtre
Recognized as one of the Remarkable Gardens of France, the Château de Cordès gardens are a showcase of André Le Nôtre’s visionary talent. Situated at an altitude of 900 meters (2,950 feet), the gardens thrive with hornbeam and beech hedges, unique for their elevation.
The meticulously planned layout includes:
Avenue of Hornbeams: A nearly 5-meter-tall (16-foot) hornbeam-lined path leading to a half-moon-shaped courtyard of honor, featuring lawns, clipped yews, and serene ponds bordered by retaining walls with blind arches.
Symmetrical Terraces: Two identical rectangular gardens flank a central avenue, with paths radiating from a central basin, bordered by double rows of clipped boxwood.
Oval Green Room: To the southeast, a labyrinth of hornbeam hedges surrounds an oval green space with a central basin.
Vegetable Garden: To the northwest, a historic kitchen garden features a circular central basin.
Inside the Château
Spanning 795 m² (8,560 ft²), the château boasts 16 rooms, including 12 bedrooms, with soaring ceilings, carved woodwork, Versailles parquet flooring, and period fireplaces. Each detail reflects the craftsmanship of its era, while discreet renovations ensure modern comfort.
The estate’s grounds extend over 9 hectares (22 acres), encompassing French gardens, woods, ponds, meadows, fountains, and a stream. Additional structures include a renovated farmhouse, stables, garages, and a barn, further enhancing the property’s versatility.
A Carefully Orchestrated Sale
The recent sale of this iconic property was expertly managed by Renaud Valentin, a specialist with Mercure Forbes Global Properties. Known for his expertise in prestigious and historic estates, Valentin had previously sold the château in 2008. His ability to highlight the property’s unique charm and navigate the complexities of historic estate transactions attracted international buyers.
This time, the new owners—a retired American architect couple living in France—plan to modernize the château’s comfort and focus on expanding its remarkable gardens. Their passion for historic preservation ensures the estate will continue to be a symbol of French artistry and heritage.
All photos belong to the listing agency.
Fairytale Neo-Gothic Chateau in Normandy, France
The bucolic 66+ acre estate is nestled in the heart of the Vexin Normand and Epte Valley area, just 45 miles from Paris.
The bucolic 66+ acre estate is nestled in the heart of the Vexin Normand and Epte Valley area, just 45 miles (72km) from Paris.
Enclosed in a 12 acre park with century-old trees, the magnificent 19th century chateau comes with luxury lifestyle amenities, including a swimming pool with pool house, tennis court, gardens, and several annexes which could be converted into additional accommodation.
The French chateau was built in 1870 by a student of the French Gothic Revival architect Viollet-le-Duc and features remarkable period details inside and out, although the property is not historically designated.
There are 30 rooms in the 3181 square foot chateau, with 13 bedrooms and several grand principal rooms featuring ornate detail seen in the frescoed ceilings, wood panelling, and spectacular fireplaces.
The Neo-Gothic chateau has been lovingly maintained by its current owners and presents beautifully as a stylish second home in the French countryside, with incredible potential as turnkey property for vacation rentals.
All photos belong to the listing agency.
Tuscan Wine Estate with Panoramic Views on the Maremma Coast, Italy
Set on 300 acres of rolling hills with vineyards, olive groves, and Mediterranean views, this property captures the timeless allure of Tuscany.
On the scenic Maremma Coast, this exceptional Tuscan wine estate combines panoramic beauty, rich history, and high-caliber wine production. Nestled on the rolling hills with sweeping views of vineyards, olive groves, and the Mediterranean sea, this property embodies the timeless allure of Tuscany.
Spanning approximately 300 acres, with around 30 acres of vineyards and 12 of olive groves, the estate is perfectly positioned for wine production in one of Italy's most iconic regions.
The heart of the property features a charming manor house, a modern cellar equipped with advanced technology, and a historic cellar tucked beneath the San Giovanni Battista Cathedral in the heart of a picturesque village.
Together, these cellars blend tradition with modernity, creating wines that have garnered acclaim over the years.
This unique estate offers an authentic glimpse into Tuscan history, with a chance to experience the enchanting landscape and deeply rooted traditions of the area.
From its rolling vineyards to its ancient cellars, this property is ideal for anyone who dreams of discovering Tuscany’s wines in a coveted estate near the Italian coast.
All photos belong to the listing agency.