Arbor Hill Epically proportioned masterpiece imbued with modern flair
BUILT ON A GRAND SCALE, ARBOR HILL is a triumph of design surrounded by 70 acres of picturesque landscape. One of the most prominent estates in the Philadelphia region, this 40,000-square-foot Contempo- rary residence is situated in the rolling countryside of Fort Washington. Remarkable in size and innovation, the home represents the creative vision of internationally acclaimed architect Rafael Viñoly—whose high-profile global commissions include the Tokyo International Forum and Philadelphia’s Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts. The monumental, visually striking main house is divided into three
elegant wings built around a magnificent stone courtyard. Interior and exterior elements converge via floor-to-ceiling windows in each of the rooms and corridors facing the courtyard, while the outer rooms sur- vey the verdant grounds. Aglow with contemporary qualities, the resplendent interior spaces present multifaceted living and entertaining options, whether for a serious art collection—with climate-controlled exhibition space—hosting large-scale events, or simply enjoying a casual lifestyle amid an ambience of sublime luxury. Limestone and oak floors, glazed Venetian plaster, and many forms of stone are among the definitive accents. The home’s lovely formal rooms are introduced by a grand entrance
hall soaring two-and-one-half stories. A two-level living room enhanced by a 30-foot ceiling and five sets of French doors leads to an inviting open terrace, while a smaller second living room is adorned with a tray ceiling and marble fireplace. The first of two dining rooms is perfect for intimate gatherings; the second is a banquet-like room that seats up to 40 guests. Serving these is a state-of-the-art custom kitchen. Heightening the fine appointments are a family room, a two-tiered theater, offices, three pantries, powder rooms, and a finished basement with a 4,000-bottle temperature-controlled wine cellar and a safe room. Arbor Hill’s secluded private quarters comprise a total of eight bed-
rooms. The master suite is a sanctuary with a sitting room, office, dressing rooms, and his and her baths—one with a tub carved from a solid block of marble. A flight of stairs ascends to a spectacular tower retreat that beholds 360-degree panoramas of the entire property. Enhancing the accommodations are a separate au pair suite, a guest wing, and two additional en suite bedrooms with balconies. The vast, beautifully landscaped acreage reveals a harmonious
balance of flora and fauna. A bank barn converted into a 20,000-square- foot “playhouse” offers the ultimate in indoor recreation with a clay Har-Tru tennis court, sport court, exercise room, changing rooms, and
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