Georgica Gentry
The separations between long established estate areas and what used to be less expensive and less prestigious areas have blurred significantly. Geographically and sociologically, those borders have widened. But for some, the appeal and stature of living in a pedigreed neighborhood, at the top of the pecking order, will never be lost.
Architecture: It’s a house that might have gone to prep school. Historically correct, buttoned down style with simple lines and accurate detailing. Shingles, dormers, fine stonework all contribute to a carriage trade sensibility.
Site: Just two houses south of the highway in East Hampton, but you can confidently say you live in Georgica. Highly landscaped small lot with centuries old copper beech and oaks, free form pool, garage and pool house.
The inside word: A recent ready-to-move-in renovation brought style, light and convenience (including two master suites) but maintained the grace and old money feel. It may seem a bit modest for Georgica—more a small gem than a big statement. An abutting property just sold for over $3 million, so for someone who values a top-drawer neighborhood, it is gently priced at $1.475 million.
Outside the Box
Can the eighties have come full circle? Already? We’re used to barely retro looks on fashion runways with revivals lasting ten minutes—but architecture is a more serious business. This house proves how exciting—and risky—it can be thinking outside of the shingled box.
Architecture: The antithesis of current fashions in homebuilding in the Hamptons—and all the more remarkable for demonstrating how unimaginative and formulaic much of our new construction has become. It’s a dynamic and innovative composition that remains spirited.
Site: Further Lane, the top tier in East Hampton real estate, where contemporary architecture is still in the closet.
The inside word: Brokers shouldn’t even waste their time showing this to buyers with their hearts set on rambling traditional homes. They will most likely perceive the structure as a sliced and diced doughnut. It’s takes a more adventurous and unconventional taste to appreciate this large, vital and effervescent residence. It also takes $5.7 million.
Taste of Entitlement
During and after French revolution it was quite incorrect to look aristocratic. Titled men could end up decapitated for having pineapples embroidered on their jackets. For certain aristos, it was worth dying for. We sometimes detect the same sense of privilege in Hamptons real estate.
Architecture: The rooflines, courtyard and window details suggest something French. Other parts are Continental. It’s a sophisticated European Union of a house, and quite pleasant to look at.
Site: Great location on Egypt Lane in East Hampton, backing on to a finger of Hook Pond, with views over the Maidstone Club golf course.
The inside word: If you prefer the Plaza Athenee to the Mercer or W, you’ll like this house. It is unmistakably establishment, and it isn’t shy about parading its refinement. Aristocratic credentials notwithstanding, many people would be happy to keep their heads but part with $6.5 million for this property.
Good Breeding
We recently came across this rara avis: a big ranch house that is actually set on a ranch. And it’s the kind of ranch house you don’t dare make fun of. Yes, it’s one story with a low-pitched roof, so it is correct in that definition, but more than that, it is inherently right for the setting.
Architecture: Long, low, simple lines and rather pretty. It gracefully and skillfully defers to the site, the views and the horse farm surrounding it.
Site: A very special 20 acres, including several extra building lots, with extraordinary views of the ocean, Lake Montauk and Long Island Sound.
The inside word: Once a thoroughbred breeding farm with a deep and rich history, and now a private estate, this property contains a 15 stall barn, a riding arena, and quick access to miles of trails. Although you might never want to ride out and leave the stunning vistas almost everywhere you look from this place. Don’t expect the unrestrained luxury we see all over. This is a different and genuine kind of property. The price might remind you that you’re in the Hamptons, but the value is there. Offered at $15 million.