126-year-old mansion that epitomizes Gilded Age opulence in the Berkshires for $8 million
A historic Gilded Age “cottage” designed as a gentleman’s escape during the height of Manhattan’s most opulent era has hit the market in Massachusetts for $7.97 million — more than 120 years after it was built.
Located in Lenox, the heart of the Berkshires, the eight-bedroom residence is much grander than ‘cottage’ suggests; the word was used as a common misnomer for the extravagant estates built in the area during the Gilded Age.
Unlike the small properties many associate with the word today, the sprawling home at 399 Under Mountain Road was built in 1900 as a gentlemen’s horse estate. Despite having undergone a recent and very extensive renovation, it still bears many of the most elegant features of its heyday.
“After years of careful renovation and thoughtful restoration, this remarkable property is now complete and is a testament to exquisite craftsmanship and timeless grandeur,” crows the listing.
The property is known as Highwick Farm Manor House and is listed Molly Thomas of Compass, is set on a lush 11.45 hectare plot, surrounded by gardens, orchards and sweeping countryside views that evoke a bygone era.
The property offers more than 9,300 square feet of living space with eight bedrooms and approximately six and a half bathrooms, providing plenty of room for hosting large gatherings.
A long driveway reveals the house’s romantic stone facade and multiple chimneys, hallmarks of the Tudor-inspired architecture often seen in Berkshire estates of the early 20th century.
Inside, the restoration highlights the original details of the house. Leaded glass windows offer views of rolling lawns and mature trees, while rich walnut paneling, intricate moldings and classic pocket doors add a level of warmth rarely found in modern construction.
There are ten fireplaces throughout the mansion, many with ornately carved mantelpieces.
“Every detail has been curated to embody warmth and sophistication, creating an inviting atmosphere that is both sophisticated and welcoming,” the description continues.
The size of the home is also reflected in the price tag of the home. After last changing hands in 2022 for $4.84 million, the home is now back on the market just over four years later, with a significant 65% increase from that price.
For those looking for a property that offers both a valued legacy And modern luxury, but the home can be worth all that – and more.
Furthermore, the property offers the perfect setup for those with a penchant for hosting.
Designed with entertaining in mind, the main level features large formal living and dining rooms and a stained glass library.
The meticulously restored interior also features several upgrades, including a renovated chef’s kitchen, modernized bathrooms, updated electrical and HVAC systems, and refinished floors.
Upstairs, generous bedroom suites offer privacy and views, many with their own fireplaces and en-suite bathrooms, as well as large windows overlooking the landscape.
Location is another defining feature of Highwick Farm Manor.
The estate is just minutes from downtown Lenox and attractions such as Tanglewood, the summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra. But on his private property, life unfolds at a slower pace.
A 6 by 15 meter swimming pool, framed by updated brickwork and terraces, provides a tranquil setting for summer afternoons, while rural views extend across the countryside, inviting the next owner to enjoy this Berkshire estate for decades to come.
