In Mount Kisco, NY, the magnificent homes on Sarles Street are enveloped by the surrounding woods to ensure complete privacy. Glencliff is no different: When approaching the $23 million estate via its long, winding, uphill drive, the rest of the world is left behind. The home’s grounds, exterior and front courtyard, with its cobbled surface and ornate fountain, align to create a “country estate” feel.
Glencliff began as a Georgian brick estate built in the 1930s. The current owners transformed the interior to fit a modern palate while keeping the classic facade; however, they also took action to preserve certain elements of the home. This included exposing some of the original brickwork, maintaining the original crown molding in the grand living room and master bedroom, and keeping the incredible living room fireplace topped with its original mantelpiece.
Two staircases link the home’s four levels. Upon entering the open, airy entrance hall, all eyes are drawn to the main, sweeping stair. Perfectly cantilevered from the exposed brick walls of a turret-like alcove, the staircase is flanked on either side by corridors extending along the back of the house. Facing the yard and the swimming pool, these corridors feature the home’s original leaded glass windows and are therefore filled with light, even on overcast days; more light comes in through windows that travel upward with the staircase. The twisting white support structure and the richly colored brick turn this staircase into a work of art.
The kitchen melds with a large breakfast nook, lit by an overhead color-shifting light, and flows into a cozy seating area, making it a wonderful place for family and friends to gather.
Between the kitchen and the family room/den sits the other staircase (not shown) with a distinctly different style. The risers, rails and sides of the stair are made of weathered steel, while the steps are made of natural wood, which enhances the staircase’s more angular design. A column of light spills down from a large skylight above and is magnified by a reflective metal panel on the floor of the lowest level.
Even where details of the home have been changed, the feel of a grand country estate remains. The updated spaces achieve a fine balance between enjoyable, livable comfort and modern sophistication.
For more information on this home on the market, visit the official listing here.
Photography by Renwick/Sotheby’s International Realty
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