00 Private Lane

Falcon Crest Since the late 19th century when the Gilded Age brought wealthy families from New York City to the Somerset Hills enclaves of Bernardsville, Far Hills, Peapack and Gladstone for the country air and peaceful pace of life, the area has been known for its refined estates and glorious rolling green hills. The homes these transplanted Manhattanites built served first as retreats from the bustling city they could easily reach by rail, and then as family-held estates for the generations that followed. Today, the trend has repeated itself as urban residents seek more land for privacy, larger living spaces from which they can also work, and a sense of privacy and greater security in which to thrive. As one of the newest Great Homes, which is perfectly secluded on more than 32+ acres overlooking the westerly hillsides, Falcon Crest was created to endure. Distinguished for its meticulous detail and quality of construction, the estate was created over a five-year period that ended in 2003 by what was reported to be a team of 1,000 craftsmen. A silent underground generator runs the entire property. Classically designed by the Hillier Group, it was built using structural steel, reinforced concrete and masonry block. Its all-brick exterior and classical lines are reminiscent of a turn-of-the century Georgian manor. 25,444 square feet of living area includes the finished walkout lower level. Six bedrooms include a first floor wing with four en suite bedrooms; the second floor master wing with extensive closets, separate dressing areas plus significant security features; and an apartment wing for staff or visitors. Set apart from the home, a four-bedroom Tudor-style guest or staff house with 2 garage bays offers a variety of uses. Interior design was the at the hand of Percy Leach who envisioned a British manor home and chose deep, rich moldings that were milled on site, wooden interior shutters for each window, ornate imported fireplace mantels, and an exquisite two-story library with softly lighted dome that was impeccably designed and handcrafted from truckloads of eastern white pine just for this house. The kitchen offers a conservatory breakfast room that opens to the expansive blue stone terrace and gardens as well as a sizable catering pantry and serving area. Adjacent to this is a two-story ‘keeping room’ with imposing stone mantel and tall fireplace that combine with arched timbers for a heraldic family gathering space. Public rooms are generous and ideal for entertaining large groups, accented by irreplaceable antique pilasters from a socialite’s New York apartment, magnificent wood floors from an estate in upstate New York, an exquisite wrought iron metal staircase, and from every window an inspirational view of the grounds and the hillsides that stretch to eternity. The lower level is given over to recreation and relaxation, found in the beguiling spa and sauna; an exercise room; a game area with separate card room, media room/living area and billiard room; and a 16,355+ -bottle wine cellar. A separate portion is dedicated to a multi-room office suite with separate entry. This level also opens to a generous heated pool surrounded by blue stone terracing. This is a formidable home with grace and personality. Its classic design and equally majestic grounds will appeal to those who seek an estate that can enrich their lives like no other….and "will last for generations."