In a state known for its architectural spectacle—from Manhattan’s glass pinnacles to Hudson Valley farmhouses—there’s a quieter category of estate that redefines what it means to live expansively. Just beyond the reach of city sirens and gridlocked avenues, in towns like North Salem, Laurel Hollow, and Nissequogue, a trio of properties sits in rare harmony with their surroundings. These are homes designed with intention—grand, yes, but grounded by their settings and enriched by their proximity to the coast, forest, and field.
What sets these estates apart isn’t distance from the city, but the experience they offer within reach of it. An English-inspired manor nestled in Westchester horse country, an early-20th-century waterfront retreat crafted from pink granite in Laurel Hollow, and a palatial bluffside estate overlooking the Long Island Sound in Nissequogue—all within 30 to 60 miles of Manhattan, each delivering its own distinct atmosphere of refinement, privacy, and permanence.
These are residences that carry a sense of continuity—where craftsmanship, landscape, and architectural vision align. They’re not about isolation but perspective: places where daily life opens onto gardens, meadows, and harbor views. In a state where design often leans vertical, these homes expand outward, into light and land.
Here are three remarkable properties that offer space, elegance, and serenity—without ever straying far from the cultural energy of New York City.
1. Iconic Darlington Hall Estate
Set on more than 83 pastoral acres in the heart of Westchester’s storied horse country, Darlington Hall is a 10,700-square-foot English-style manor with 10 bedrooms, 11 bathrooms, and a legacy of theatrical grandeur.
Built in 1995 as a homage to Sir Edwin Lutyens’ “Salutation” in Kent, this gated estate balances formality with rural splendor—a half-mile drive winding through hayfields and hardwoods opens onto a cinematic tableau of English gardens, lily ponds, stone terraces, and a manor that reads like an aristocratic fever dream. This is one of the largest privately held parcels in Westchester, just one mile from the world-class show jumping grounds of Old Salem Farm.
Inside, Darlington Hall delivers its drama immediately: a soaring 22-foot entry hall with twin wrought iron staircases, antique limestone floors, and views through more than 60 windows and French doors. The living and rear parlors glow with herringbone floors, carved fireplaces, and garden vistas.
A Boffi kitchen with Miele appliances and a two-sided fireplace spills into a sun-drenched family room, while the gilt-painted formal dining room and walnut-paneled library channel Gilded Age elegance. Upstairs, the primary suite boasts dual bathrooms and painted ceilings; seven themed guest bedrooms occupy the upper floors. The lower level features a sleek Bilotta kitchen, theater, gym, bar, and tunnel access to an orangerie-style indoor pool and spa.
Add to that an 11-stall horse barn, jumping field, fishing pond, carriage house with two apartments, and a four-bay garage—and you have a peerless country seat just 55 miles from Manhattan.
Where is North Salem, NY?
North Salem is a town in northeastern Westchester County, New York, near the Connecticut border. It is known for its rural setting and equestrian culture, with many horse farms and riding trails. The town includes the hamlets of Salem Center, Croton Falls, and Purdys. North Salem is also home to the Balanced Rock, a mysterious glacial erratic that draws local curiosity.
Living Room
Framed by tall windows and panel molding, the sitting area in the main living room features six wooden spindle armchairs arranged around a carved coffee table. Located at the center of the home, the room connects to an adjacent lounge through open French doors. A large neutral rug anchors the furniture on the herringbone floor pattern.
Kitchen
Suspended metal hoods hover above a long center island in the home’s kitchen, surrounded by bar stools with dark upholstery. Placed between two doorways, the space blends sleek stainless steel finishes with flat panel cabinetry and warm wood flooring. Built-in ovens and a reflective backsplash stretch across the back wall.
Media Lounge
Framed prints and a recessed fireplace line the far wall of the media lounge, where an oversized sectional and accent chairs surround a set of nesting glass tables. Centered in this entertainment space is a wall-mounted screen positioned for easy viewing from all seats. A glass door and multiple openings connect the room to a corridor and the outdoors.
Indoor Pool
Beneath a long pitched skylight, the indoor pool is bordered by tile flooring, tropical plants, and lounge chairs. Positioned near the house’s edge, this recreation space is lined with full-height windows and French doors allowing in natural light. A circular hot tub is built into the shallow end.
Aerial View
Surrounded by blooming trees and formal hedges, the main house sits at the center of the property with brick chimneys rising above a steep roof. In the foreground, a landscaped courtyard and reflecting pool mark the entrance, while a separate structure houses the indoor pool. Manicured gardens and open lawns spread out toward the horizon.
Listing agent: William T. Stuart of Berkshire Hathaway Hs Ne Prop, info provided by Coldwell Banker Realty
2. Historic Cannon Hill Waterfront Estate
Perched on eleven secluded acres in Laurel Hollow with 600 feet of private shoreline, Cannon Hill is a rare waterfront estate offering both provenance and privacy. Built in 1911 from the same pink granite used at the base of the Statue of Liberty, the 8,800-square-foot residence was reimagined in 2010 for modern living while preserving its architectural soul.
Designed by Nelson & Van Wagenen, the main house features 6 bedrooms, 8 full baths, and 2 half baths, with sweeping 180-degree views over Cold Spring Harbor. This is a legacy property just 30 miles from Manhattan.
The estate includes a heated pool, private deepwater dock with 5-foot draft at low tide, and a 4-bedroom guest cottage with its own 2-car garage—ideal for hosting or extended family. Surrounded by forested cliffs and still water, Cannon Hill is both an escape and a statement: refined, private, and rooted in New York history.
Where is Laurel Hollow, NY?
Laurel Hollow is a village located on the North Shore of Long Island in Nassau County, New York. It is part of the Town of Oyster Bay and lies along the coast of Cold Spring Harbor. The village is primarily residential and known for its wooded landscapes and waterfront properties. Notably, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, a historic scientific research center, is nearby.
Sunroom
Positioned along the shoreline, the sunroom includes cushioned seating and a round dining table under a wood-paneled ceiling with dual fans. Centered around large bay windows, this part of the house provides uninterrupted views of the water. Stone columns frame the space and complement the coastal-inspired furniture layout.
Library Lounge
Built-in shelving spans an entire wall in the library, filled with books, framed items, and decorative porcelain. Set near an arched doorway, the space includes floral upholstered seating around a glass-top coffee table. Crown molding and layered rugs add detail to the reading environment.
Kitchen
White cabinetry and an arched range hood frame the cooking area in the waterfront kitchen, where a light blue island stands beneath double pendant fixtures. Facing a large bay window, a round dining table sits to the side of the main workspace. Diamond-patterned wood floors contrast with the room’s soft color palette.
Bedroom
Glass-paneled doors in the main bedroom open to a covered balcony overlooking the bay. Situated against a patterned accent wall, the bed is surrounded by light blue decor, floral artwork, and matching textiles. A white lounge chair and side table sit near the windows to complete the corner retreat.
Pool Patio
Located outdoors above the waterline, the rectangular pool is bordered by slate pavers, a white trellis fence, and a manicured garden. Lounge chairs and a shaded seating set face out toward the bay, offering a clear view of the coastline. A row of potted plants and benches defines the terrace edge.
Listing agent: Christina F. Porter Gri Cbr, Peggy M. Moriarty Cbr of Daniel Gale Sothebys Intl Rlty, info provided by Coldwell Banker Realty
3. Somerset Estate on Long Island Sound
Set atop a commanding bluff with 700 feet of shoreline along the Long Island Sound, Somerset Estate is a grand architectural homage to America’s colonial past, inspired by the Governor’s Palace in Williamsburg. Built in 1935 and encompassing 9,000 square feet, this 7-bedroom, 6-bathroom brick manor sits on 10.6 meticulously landscaped acres across two parcels, just 60 miles from Manhattan. Somerset offers a rare combination of historic pedigree, waterfront seclusion, and timeless craftsmanship.
A sweeping, tree-lined drive leads to the stately residence, whose classical symmetry and floating staircase set the tone for an interior defined by high ceilings, rich hardwoods, and exquisite millwork. Grand-scale formal rooms, including banquet-sized dining and living areas, evoke an era of elegant entertaining. A paneled library with fireplace offers quiet retreat, while the sun porch, heated and slate-floored, opens to panoramic water views. Four fireplaces add warmth and texture throughout.
Outside, manicured specimen gardens roll toward the sea, framed by professionally engineered seawalls that protect the bluff and preserve the estate’s commanding perspective. A gunite pool, pool house, wine cellar, and multiple garages complete the picture, including a detached 1-car garage and 3-car attached. The result is a legacy estate with the privacy of a coastal sanctuary and the architectural gravitas of a historic landmark.
Minutes from Stony Brook University, beaches, and marinas, Somerset is more than a residence—it’s a preserved chapter of East Coast refinement, designed to endure with grace.
Where is Nissequogue, NY?
Nissequogue is a village in the Town of Smithtown, Suffolk County, on the North Shore of Long Island, New York. It borders the Nissequogue River and Long Island Sound, with large residential lots and strict zoning to preserve its natural environment. The area includes Short Beach and the David Weld Sanctuary. Nissequogue was incorporated in 1925 and maintains a strong focus on land conservation.
Entry Hall
Sweeping up from a central landing, the spiral staircase in the entry hall features a white runner, wood banister, and floral wallpaper that curves with the walls. Positioned under a chandelier, the space includes a compass design inlaid into the glossy black tile floor. Flanked by two arched doorways, the foyer is anchored by a grandfather clock and decorative bronze sculpture.
Sunroom
Arranged beneath a striped ceiling, the sunroom includes floral slipcovered furniture, a black chandelier, and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the water. Divided by a decorative screen, the room flows into a plant-filled extension with outdoor views. A black coffee table, potted greenery, and framed art give structure to the eclectic decor.
Kitchen
Lined with white upper cabinets and stainless steel appliances, the kitchen includes a central butcher block island under recessed lights. Fitted with floral trim along the ceiling and window valance, the room balances traditional details with industrial finishes. Storage lines nearly every wall, surrounding a large professional-grade range and hood.
Dining Room
Framed portraits and a crystal chandelier define the dining room, where a long wooden table is surrounded by ten chairs with red upholstered seats. Stretching across the floor, a large patterned rug complements the neutral walls and arched cabinetry filled with glassware. Draped windows and wall sconces provide layered lighting throughout the room.
Bedroom
Anchored by a four-post bed with a lace canopy, the primary bedroom features soft lighting, vintage furniture, and blush-toned wallpaper. Matching side chairs, a wood dresser, and a small writing desk sit in each corner of the space. Light filters through sheer drapes, illuminating the neutral carpet and warm wood accents.
Listing agent: Bonnie Glenn of Daniel Gale Sothebys Intl Rlty, info provided by Coldwell Banker Realty
