Wednesday, August 8, 2012

America's most beautiful mansions

The Biltmore Mansion in North Carolina

Americas Most Beautiful Mansions

Mansions: They’re wealthy. They’re huge. And their narrations are rife with social drama. No wonder they intrigue our curiosity.

The correct definition of the word “mansion” varies, but in U.S. real estate terms, it’s in general defined as a single-family dwelling of more than 8,000 square feet. The Merriam-Webster Dictionary just calls it “a large and daunting dwelling.” Either way, these generous dwellings are without a doubt some of the most good-looking and celebrated examples of housing architecture.

Lyndhurst, Tarrytown, N.Y.

Americas Most Beautiful Mansions

Sitting on a knoll with a lawn that stretches toward the powerful Hudson River, this Gothic Revival mansion was build in an early Gilded Age style. Designed in 1838 and long-drawn-out in 1865, its turrets and a four-story tower are a compliment to original designer Alexander Jackson Davis. Narrow hallways lead to rooms with vaulted ceilings and pointed domed windows.

Biltmore Mansion, Asheville, N.C.

Americas Most Beautiful Mansions

Constructed by George Washington Vanderbilt II in the style of a chateau, this house is considered one of the most exceptional examples of the Gilded Age. At 175,000 square feet, it is the major in confidence owned house in the United States.

Woolworth Mansion, New York City

Americas Most Beautiful Mansions

This fine neo-French Renaissance mansion was calculated by C.H.P. Gilbert and complete in 1916. Rife with gilding and carved stone, the home makes a alluring first impression. Once inside the entry foyer, visitors are treated to wonderfully rendered floor mosaics, a stained-glass skylight and grand staircase.

Vizcaya, Miami

Americas Most Beautiful Mansions

Bounded by 10 acres of European-inspired gardens and a confidential sculpture garden, this Miami mansion overlooks Biscayne Bay. Finished in 1916, the lavish residence features room after room of complex arches, traditional columns and decorative detail.

2901 Broadway, San Francisco

Americas Most Beautiful Mansions

No, this mansion isn’t in Italy. But suspended on a hilltop in Pacific Heights, the Renaissance-style residence was planned to look that way. Designed in the 1920s for manufacturer Milton S. Ray, the home features an immense leaded-glass window, a impressive welcome hall and a winding marble staircase.

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