Fashion designer Kenneth Cole is preparing to relist his historic Westchester County mansion, a property that recently hosted George Clooney during the actor’s Broadway run, adding a layer of celebrity allure to its already storied legacy. The estate, designed by renowned architect Stanford White, is set to return to the market after a period off, poised for its next chapter amid its rich history and architectural significance.
The mansion, located in Purchase, New York, spans 12,000 square feet across three levels and sits on a gated 14-acre lot. It features seven bedrooms, multiple office spaces, and is surrounded by extensive gardens, offering a rare blend of Gilded Age grandeur and contemporary restoration. Built in the early 1900s, the property is considered one of the most architecturally significant private residences in Westchester County, with insiders highlighting its unique combination of historical charm and modern amenities.
Adding to its cultural value, the mansion was featured in the 1969 film adaptation of Philip Roth’s ‘Goodbye, Columbus,’ starring Ali MacGraw and Richard Benjamin. This cinematic connection enhances its appeal, making it more than just a luxury home but a piece of American history. The property’s design and historical elements have been preserved, contributing to its status as a landmark in the region.
George Clooney rented the mansion earlier this year while starring in the Broadway production of ‘Good Night, and Good Luck,’ for which he received a Tony nomination. His stay has infused the property with Hollywood glamour, potentially increasing interest from buyers seeking celebrity-associated real estate. Clooney’s tenure there during his theatrical run adds a contemporary chapter to the home’s narrative, bridging its past with present-day fame.
Kenneth Cole initially listed the home for $22 million last year but later removed it from the market. He purchased the estate in 1991 for $2.8 million, and his decision to relist it now is driven by his children having grown up, reducing the need for such a large family residence. Cole’s successful fashion brand, valued at over $1 billion, underscores his broader career achievements beyond real estate investments.
The relisting process is being handled discreetly, with sources describing the home as ‘ready for its next chapter.’ Its features include a long meandering drive and gated entry, setting it apart as one of the largest parcels in lower Westchester and offering privacy and exclusivity. Previous brokers have pitched it as a magnificent Colonial property, emphasizing its rarity in the luxury market.
As the property returns to the market, it is expected to attract high-net-worth individuals and possibly other celebrities, drawn by its history, architecture, and the Clooney connection. The sale could influence luxury real estate trends in the region, highlighting the enduring appeal of historic homes with modern updates. This move may also reflect broader trends in celebrity real estate, where storied properties gain value through association with high-profile figures.
Looking ahead, the relisting could set a new benchmark for similar historic estates, with implications for how such properties are marketed and valued. Potential buyers will likely weigh the home’s architectural heritage against its modern comforts, while the Clooney rental may serve as a selling point for those interested in a touch of Hollywood history. The outcome of this sale will be closely watched in real estate circles, potentially shaping future transactions in the upscale Westchester market.
