Colonial

Rocky Crest is off a private lane, down a winding driveway and behind an elegant wrought-iron gateway entry, this neoclassic estate built in 1906 for James S. Austin was designed by Bunting & Shrigley Architects. Classical in form, scale, proportion, and detail, its imposing, columned pedimented front fa ade makes it a grand dame residence of the Main Line. It is very privately situated on 9.47 +preserved acres (adjoins 5.5 preserved acres ). The Pew Family bought the estate in 1910, adding the pool and bathhouse in 1934 and altering the garage and stable. The Burch family purchased the property in the 1990 s and undertook a complete renovation. Its old-world features were seamlessly repaired/refreshed and modern amenities were added.You enter a grand reception foyer that runs front-to-back with French doors opening to a fabulous terrace and formal garden. Throughout the home, there are formal and intimate everyday spaces. French doors provide access to grand-scale terraces for relaxing and entertaining and, in certain bedrooms on the second floor, French doors open to small balconies with incredible views.Formal rooms are magnificent, with exquisite millwork and moldings, fireplaces, soaring ceilings and oversized sash windows as in the large elegant dining room and step-down living room/library. French doors and window surrounds provide access to another terrace and beautiful views. A beautiful paneled study is just off the living room. Its everyday spaces are remarkably inviting and comfortable. The updated, custom kitchen features top-of-the-line appliances, fixtures and finishes and includes an ample dining area and access to a cozier informal dining/family room with fireplace. The sunroom just beyond accesses a terrace for perfect al fresco dining. The private quarters are located on the second and third floors, accessible by a grand staircase, elevator or back staircase. One wing houses two-bedroom en suites, one with fireplace, and two bedrooms en suites with sitting rooms, as well as a laundry room for convenience. The larger wing of the home houses the main bedroom suite which is comprised of a bedroom/nursery/office en suite, large sitting room with fireplace, sleeping quarters, well-designed dressing rooms with custom built-ins, and his and her updated bathrooms. On the third floor, there are a plethora of rooms (now used as 5 bedrooms and one hall bathroom) that can be used at the owner s discretion, such as for weight/exercise rooms, playrooms, etc. Also, there is a generous amount of storage, including a walk-in cedar closet.The lower level is Rathskeller-like with huge fireplace and plenty of space for table games, a media room, etc. Access to this space is tucked away on the first floor through a hidden stairwell in the wet bar room.The property also boasts an Olympic-sized pool with pool house and a tennis court. A carriage house features a 4-car garage, 2 one-bedroom apartments, and, converted from stables, a wine tasting room complete with climate-controlled cellar able to hold 1,000 bottles.Its setting is breathtaking with its mix of formal gardens and extensive rolling terraced lawns and mature specimen trees. All was designed and created by the renowned 19th century landscape architect, Thomas W. Sears. This property offers perfect living for today s modern family. Add its access to the Bridlewild Trails, its proximity to some of the most highly regarded public and private schools in the country, countless near dining and shopping options, and access to major transportation modes and routes, Rocky Crest is a definite must-see!NOTE: Property has a possibility of being entered into the Agricultural #319 Act with an addition .6 acre. NOTE: Residence has a Generac partial-house electric back-up system. NOTE: House is being sold AS-IS. NOTE: This home has an Easement with the Natural Lands Trust.