A Look Inside Two Estates Designed By Shope Reno Wharton Architects
Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty
The iconic estates of New York and neighboring New England have long been famed for their elegance. Classical and contemporary palaces grace the glistening shorelines and adorn the pastoral woodlands. So how can such exalted properties, which have captured the popular imagination since ages past, be elevated even higher?
That is precisely the specialty of Connecticut-based architecture firm Shope Reno Wharton (SRW). Since 1981, this esteemed collective has been challenging the conventional divisions between “then” and “now” to fashion homes that are cutting-edge in form, function, and features, yet present timeless edifices that could have existed in harmony with their surroundings for centuries.
How do they accomplish this? Explore two of their signature estates to fully appreciate the essence of the SRW aesthetic, and the sense of serenity, comfort, and wonder they elicit in those lucky enough to live there.
Gardens Turn Into Outdoor Galleries
Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty
A notable quality of an SRW property is that it doesn’t just start at the front door. The grounds themselves are curated in an unfolding sequence of unique, picturesque spaces, as seen at this grand residence on the so-called “Gold Coast” of Long Island’s North Shore. Pools and private cabanas, greenhouses and conservatories of lavishly latticed glass, and stately, geometric gardens create an environment as intricate and captivating as the estate itself.
Silhouettes of Calculated Asymmetry
Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty
The home’s vertices and contours command an arresting vision as they emerge from the greenery to an approaching gaze. Separate wings have separate roofs—and while this allows the mansion to maintain a singular sense of majesty, it also demarcates the different areas on a more human scale. This is accentuated by turrets and chimneys, gables and dormers; they single out the many unique rooms and quarters within the property while still contributing to its unified splendor.
Natural Materials Meet Nautical Motifs
Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty
This fascinating interplay of contrasts—imperial yet intimate, harmonious yet intricate—is on display in the interiors as well, where towering archways of exposed beams endow a dramatic expansiveness, though the natural textures and neutral tones lend it a relaxed, welcoming ambience. The bleached wood also serves as a nice nod to nautical decor, which is well-suited to this Long Island residence.
Rooms Framed Like Works of Art
Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty
Another property on Long Island’s North Shore demonstrates the way SRW reimagines interior spaces as finely-crafted masterpieces, each as worthy of contemplation and admiration as any painting or sculpture.
Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty
In this exceptional waterfront estate, the custom furnishings embedded in each space attract the eye and inspire the mind—from the patterns of the hardwood floors, to the pillars and moldings that accentuate the panoramic windows, to the millwork and coffered ceilings found throughout.
Designed with Intention and Attention
Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty
In an SRW-designed home, every space is envisioned with charm, class, and character. From hand-laid mosaic tile in the ensuite to emerald marble flooring in the tea room, no detail has been spared. The primary suite is further complemented by magnificent dressing rooms, a peaceful sitting room, and a stone fireplace.
Making the Most of Maritime Living
Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty
SRW’s Long Island estates are deeply rooted within the surrounding landscape—but they also integrate water in interesting ways. The indoor pool in this property leads directly to an outdoor patio, and from there, the outdoor pool and spa-like sundeck are immediately accessible. Just beyond this, the scenic deepwater dock awaits, as does a secluded beach with its own bank of plush, imported sand.
Bringing a new standard of luxury living to one of the most palatial regions in the world is no small feat—but SRW accomplishes this by fastidiously considering every detail of their landmark estates.
This article was originally published in Sotheby’s International Realty Extraordinary Blog in Apr 2023.
