Incredible stonework
‘ The Castle’ was inspired by medieval architecture
Coming up the driveway of 1428 Monroe Turnpike in Monroe, you may think you may have stumbled upon medieval England. The iconic structure known as The Castle was custom built in 1936 for a New York City financier by Freemasons who painstakingly constructed the fortress and left their mark with Masonic symbols inlaid throughout the stonework that remain to this day. The Castle’s heyday continued throughout the 1940s when a famed opera singer purchased the home and hosted lavish galas that entertained the likes of Bette Davis, Humphrey Bogart and Manhattan aristocrats. From over- the- top to hallowed halls, the property was then sold to the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth who used it as their private chapel and headquarters until it became too much for them to maintain and fell into disrepair.
Inspired by European influence and medieval architecture, this old- world craftsmanship was reborn in 2013 with a massive renovation by the current owner, incorporating state- of- the- art technology and high efficiency systems throughout its 7,817 square feet. Nothing was spared in this venerable home set upon 7.21 sprawling acres complete with six working fireplaces, six bedrooms, formal and informal entertaining spaces, chef’s kitchen and wonderful terraces and patios.
“The medieval vibe is intriguing, yet the interior has been carefully remastered to fit today’s living,” says co- listing agent Floria Polverari. “The builder created an open concept, with modern amenities and materials and flexible space that is great for entertaining with phenomenal outdoor living space as well.”
“When we took on the project, we had no idea there would be so many amazing features,” said the owner.
Arched double doors into the grand foyer with its original curved stairwell and flooring makes an impressive entrance. The space where the owners spend the most time is the open kitchen and sitting area, which served as the Sisters’ private chapel. A beautiful fireplace constructed from locally mined rose quartz stone is a captivating focal point of the room. Cherry cabinetry, Wolf, Sub- Zero and Bosch appliances and slabs of granite are strategically placed to make the kitchen extremely functional for everyday living and entertaining. The original arched French doors open to the portico and covered balcony for outdoor enjoyment.
“Entertaining in this house is magnificent,” the owner added. “The sunrises from the rear of the house are beautiful with morning coffee, and the sunsets while sitting on the front veranda are spectacular.”
The dining room is also grand in scale and can easily accommodate holiday gatherings or elegant dinner parties. Another set of French doors lead to a Juliet balcony overlooking the deep front lawn. The warm and relaxing family room is finished in original floor to ceiling mahogany panels, stone fireplace and French doors to the back patio.
The formal living room is accented with decorative plaster trim, original herringbone- patterned oak flooring and Juliet balcony. This section of the home also features a private study, home gym, two bedrooms and full bath, suitable for guest, inlaw or au pair quarters.
The master suite boasts a fireplace, enormous walk- in closet, marble master bath, French doors to a Juliet balcony and access to the upper parapet roof deck which can be transformed into a private outdoor oasis.
On the lower level, the Freemasons true talent is evidenced among arched portals, thick decorative columns and beautifully constructed stone walls. Masonic symbols are most prevalent in the large gathering room, which history dictates was the local hub for Masonic meetings. Two more fireplaces are on this level, along with a stone clad half bath, and areas for either media room, wine cellar, entertaining or storage.