Vintage Living: 5 Century-Old Homes
Luxury Defined spotlights a grand collection of homes built in the early 1900s
The saying “they don’t make ‘em like they used to” is certainly true when it comes to houses. More than just superior craftsmanship and materials, an old house is imbued with a certain elegance, charm, and prestige. It is a living piece of history. In this Luxury Defined collection we showcase five homes that have stood through the past century and its extraordinary events. Whether it’s a grand Parisian apartment on Avenue Foch or an enchanting thatched cottage in the Dutch countryside, these vintage homes epitomize the grandeur of a bygone age.
Historic Bon Ton Mansion — 1906
Bozeman, Montana
This Queen Anne house is one of the finest properties in Bozeman, Montana’s Bon Ton Historic District. Built in 1906, the residence is distinguished by its handsome brick façade with oversized curved-pane windows and covered verandah. Beautiful interior details, such as tiger oak paneled walls, floors, and beamed ceilings; antique fireplaces; and marble columns have remained perfectly intact. The house has been updated for 21st-century living and includes a gourmet kitchen, large master suite with dressing room, and landscaped gardens.
Oceanwide — 1919
Westerly, Rhode Island
The aptly named Oceanwide is a 5,000-square foot shingle-style residence in the exclusive seven-home coastal enclave of Weekapaug, Rhode Island. Originally built in 1919, this rare oceanfront retreat was redesigned by iconic Manhattan interior designer Albert Hadley for relaxed, contemporary living with ample space for entertaining. The private quarters comprise six bedrooms, three and one half bathrooms, and a guest studio. The elegant appointments include a chef’s kitchen, living and dining rooms, each with their own fieldstone fireplace, and a wraparound bluestone terrace, designed by Hadley. The landscaped lawns lead down to 180 feet of beach frontage with spectacular views extending from Block Island to Montauk.
Aspinwall — 1917
Bremen, Maine
Aspinwall is set within 113 acres of wooded grounds with 5,500 feet of shorefront on the northern tip of Bremen Long Island, in the Gulf of Maine. Accessed by an all-tide dock, the centerpiece of the estate is the circa-1917 main residence, which has been carefully renovated and restored in recent years. The four-bedroom, four-bathroom house includes a master wing, a sun porch, and a great room with a massive fieldstone fireplace and oak trusses. This exceptional estate also features a classic New England barn with a four-season apartment and a two-bay garage/workshop and two cozy cabins.
Grand Residence on Avenue Foch — 1920
Paris, France
This elegant Parisian apartment is situated in a grand 1920s building in the heart of the Golden Triangle, with panoramic views of the Arc de Triomphe and the Eiffel Tower. The palatial two-story residence comprises more than 13,300 square feet of refined living spaces with 22 rooms. There are 10 bedrooms, including five luxurious suites; light-filled reception and living rooms with balconies; and formal dining rooms served by professionally equipped kitchens. The exceptional amenities include two garages with parking space for five cars and a staff apartment, which may be purchased separately.
Dennenborgh — 1916
Utrech, Netherlands
Built in 1916, Dennenborgh is an enchanting thatched cottage on nearly an acre of grounds in the peaceful Dutch village of Bilthoven, near Utrecht. A long gravel drive provides a grand introduction. Inside, an entrance hall leads to a living room with 10-foot-high ceilings and a hearth. The dining room opens to a kitchen with lovely views of the grounds and a conservatory which opens to a terrace. There are seven bedrooms, including a master suite and three guest rooms with private balconies. Other highlights include an office, wine cellar, attic, two garages, outbuildings, and a motor court.
