Time will tell whether the former home to the Hamiltons and the Pierpont Morgans will find new life as a luxury wellness destination. Having traded many hands over the years, the early 1900s gothic mansion, now known as the St. Mary’s Villa Retreat House, may soon find itself in the hands of W. Alex Glasscock, the hotelier behind the acclaimed The Ranch in Malibu.
Glasscock and his wife Sue said they intend to bring a similar experience to the 40,000-square foot mansion and adjoining 40-acre property as they did with the ranch. In addition, Glasscock has agreed to maintain many of the existing elements of the property, such as the on-site grotto and altar currently maintained by the Servants of Mary Immaculate, Inc.
In selling the property, the Servants of Mary Immaculate hope to be able to instead finance a 20,000-square-foot addition for the St. Joseph’s Adult Care Home, another property they own, as they can no longer upkeep the massive mansion with their current numbers.
The Perfect Spot for a Local Getaway
According to the commercial broker, Donna Licata, who helped make the sale, Glasscock was not the only hospitality vendor who had been interested in the site. In fact, many parcels throughout Rockland County are being bought in in varying bids to create local, luxury getaways.
The as-of-yet unnamed wellness destination will feature boutique hotel accommodations spread across the mansions 52 rooms with an onsite spa. Outdoor excursions featuring hiking, yoga and fitness offerings are also expected to be included as part of the amenities featured throughout.
While expansive views of the adjoining Shephard Pond add a sense of grandeur to the space, the prominent gothic architecture on display only compound upon that sensation. Massive, stonework fireplaces adorn every room, while features like a floating staircase, oak walls and floors build feelings of warmth.
Hand-carved elements are also seen throughout as part of the design in the onsite chapel and library, lending textural flair to the gathering spaces, courtesy of the current owners.
The sale, totaling $11 million, is still pending approval by the Rockland County Supreme Court, according to the Rockland County Business Journal.