Tucked discreetly behind an arched gate and approached by a half-mile avenue of trees

Nestled behind an elegant arched gate and down a beautiful avenue of trees, you will find this extraordinary 13.5-acre estate, embodying the timeless grandeur of French Chateau living. A collaboration between architect John Ike, designer Geoffrey Bradfield, and the renowned craftsmanship of Horizon Builders, this property commands a privileged position on a knoll, boasting unobstructed views of the Potomac River and protected parkland on either side.

Exuding sophistication and grace, the main house is enveloped in limestone and crowned with a slate Mansard roof, capturing the essence of the iconic French Chateau style. The facade, adorned with window boxes and decorative shutters, welcomes you through custom wrought iron doors into a 25,000 square foot interior where panoramic views seamlessly blend with the soul of the residence.

The entry vestibule leads to a magnificent reception hall, featuring dramatic coffered ceilings, a 24-foot limestone fireplace, and a grand staircase. Floor-to-ceiling windows and multiple doors open to covered terraces and balconies, embracing the surrounding natural beauty. The meticulous attention to detail is evident throughout, with lavish applications of glossy and honed marble, rich mahogany, intricate moldings, and imported stone. The elegant and understated palette creates the perfect backdrop for art and furnishings, spanning from antique to modern.

Spanning across four levels, the primary residence offers expansive entertainment-sized reception rooms, a commercial-grade chef’s kitchen, a main-level library, and an octagonal conservatory. The walk-out lower level is truly exceptional, featuring a clubroom with a magnificent bar, a theater, and an extraordinary wine cellar that rivals those found in the finest restaurants. An elevator provides access to every floor. The main house also includes intimate spaces for the comfort and enjoyment of its residents, such as an inviting breakfast room with water views, four luxuriously appointed upper-level bedroom suites, a custom playroom, and a heated pool and loggia.

The owner’s suite, with sweeping views of the Potomac, boasts two full baths, expansive automated dressing rooms, a built-in watch winder, and a personal grooming station. Adjacent to the primary suite is an executive-size home library, featuring a substantial marble fireplace and mahogany built-ins. In addition to the main house, the estate encompasses two additional buildings, meticulously designed with the same level of attention to detail.

A thoughtfully designed three-level guesthouse with eleven garage bays offers the ultimate flexibility for the new owner, providing a showroom-style space for automobiles that can effortlessly transform into an opulent setting for glamorous black-tie galas. The upper level of the guesthouse offers a spacious gathering room with a fireplace, two ensuite bedrooms, a kitchen, and a powder room. A 4,500 square foot staff house, located at the entry to the compound, provides living space, multiple offices for property management, and garages for grounds equipment.

Privacy, security, and luxury are paramount in this estate’s infrastructure. The property features walk-in refrigerators, reverse osmosis water systems, and even smoke-eaters for cigar aficionados. Generators ensure the protection of all three structures, and automated heating systems prevent snow and ice accumulation on the front steps and cobblestone garage court during winter weather.

Despite its secluded ambiance, this magnificent property is conveniently located near the nation’s capital, two airports, and less than 1.5 miles from Potomac Village. The transfer of the title of this exceptional property extends beyond its new owner, as the proceeds from the sale will directly benefit the research and work of The American Cancer Society. The Estate at River’s Edge is truly a one-of-a-kind masterpiece, offering an unparalleled living experience and making a meaningful impact on the world beyond its gates.

From Zillow