Edwards is listing the 6-bedroom, 7-bath property at 170 Shonnard Terrace for $4.9 million. The home was built in the 1882 and expanded twice in the early 20th century. It has been lovingly restored in the past decade and includes slightly less than one acre of property and is 17 miles to Manhattan.
“I’ve never seen a house like this in my real estate career,’’ Edwards said. “It’s almost like going to a fantasy world or museum. It’s a place you have to see. You can’t get a total appreciation for it through pictures.”
The home was previously owned by Michel Fokine, a well-known Russian choreographer and dancer. It has been featured in many videos and movies, including Mona Lisa Smile with Julia Roberts, Martin Scorsese’s Boardwalk Empire and Beyonce’s award-winning video, “Irreplaceable.”
“It’s a great property to live in, but it’s also a great investment and business property,’’ Edwards said.
The 20-room stone castle overlooks the Hudson. The house is comprised of imported 16-18th century European rooms and architectural elements. It includes 11 fireplaces, a ballroom, and panoramic river views across the Palisades.
The kitchen features Subzero, Miele and Garland appliances. It adjoins a breakfast room, and leads to a dining room fitted with hand-carved French Rococo panels and a 6-foot chandelier.
A marble entry hall opens into an oak-paneled living room with adjacent conservatory. Some of the other rooms include a morning room, billiard room and Turkish Room/Library.
The upstairs features the master suite with a marble terrace, split-level observatory and three additional bedrooms or flexible use rooms. A workshop, wine cellar, staff quarters, gardener’s room, laundry, three-car garage and even a private chapel comprise the lower level.
Recent upgrades include a new slate and copper roof, central air in the living quarters and boiler.
“I think a potential buyer will be impressed by all the little details,’’ Edwards said. “The size of the rooms, the gorgeous Hudson views, the views from the ballroom are things you can’t see in the pictures.”
With its history and updates, the house brilliantly marries the past and present. “The kitchen features modern appliances, but the center island is anchored by the base of an old piano. You could easily live there,’’ Edwards said. “Everything works and is updated. It’s not like living in an old castle. It’s very warm and cozy.”
Edwards, a native of Finland, has lived Riverdale for 29 years and has been selling real estate for nearly as long. “This is the first time I’ve ever sold a castle,’’ Edwards said. “It’s not like selling a regular house. This is for a certain type of buyer who falls in love with it and likes certain things.”
Click here for the website listing. For more information, contact Edwards at terhi.edwards@elliman.com or at 646-541-8072.
Click here to follow Daily Voice Mount Vernon and receive free news updates.