Luxurious 1979 Hilltop Estate in Wilmington, Delaware with Exquisite Stonework, a Grand Foyer, and 36.8 Acres of Serene Nature
Set on a sprawling 36.8 acres in Wilmington, DE, this exquisite home, originally built in 1975, showcases a blend of historical significance and modern elegance, particularly after its renovation by John Milner Architects in 2011. The property features stunning stonework, a grand entrance, and a circular driveway, enveloped by serene views of the Brandywine River and bordering nature preserves. Spanning over 4,700 square feet, it boasts five bedrooms, each with en-suite bathrooms, and abundant spaces for entertaining, including a family room and an outdoor deck. Priced at $10,000,000, this residence, including two adjacent parcels, offers unparalleled privacy and a luxurious lifestyle amidst nature.
Entryway
The entryway features a blend of stone and modern design. Stone pillars support a roof overhang, adding both charm and stability. A flagstone pathway, with a unique circular design, leads to the entrance. The color palette consists of earthy tones from the stone, complemented by sleek dark framing around the windows and doors. An arched window invites natural light, enhancing the warm ambiance. Potted plants flank the doorway, introducing greenery and life to the setting. The juxtaposition of rustic stone and contemporary materials creates an inviting transition into the home, perfect for welcoming guests.
Entryway
This entryway features a rustic stone façade, creating an inviting atmosphere. The curved archway leads to an elegant double door, framed by sleek dark wood. A welcome mat sits on smooth stone flooring, which has a layered arrangement of large slabs, complemented by smaller stones. Plants in dark planters flank the doorway, adding color with red berries and textured bark elements. Light fixtures above provide a warm glow, enhancing the natural materials. The rich earth tones of the stones harmonize beautifully with the deep brown hues of the doors, showcasing a blend of natural and refined aesthetics.
Front Entryway
This front entryway features a grand, rustic wooden door, characterized by a chevron pattern and elegant iron hardware. The door, framed by rich, textured wood, contrasts beautifully with the rough stone wall on its left. Natural light pours in from the outside, highlighting the smooth, polished wooden floor that extends across the space. A classic painting hangs on the wall, adding an artistic touch. To the right, a small ceramic duck subtly enhances the home’s rustic charm. The overall aesthetic blends natural materials with timeless design, welcoming visitors with warmth and character.
Entryway
The entryway features a blend of rustic and elegant design elements. A smooth wooden floor complements the warm tones of the natural wood detailing in the doors and adjacent furniture. A prominent stone wall brings texture to the space, contrasting with the clean white ceiling. A round table, adorned with a delicate plant, stands in the center, creating a welcoming focal point. Soft wall sconces illuminate the area, enhancing the inviting atmosphere. An ornate mirror reflects light and adds depth, while the wooden doorway hints at the character of the home. This space seamlessly connects to other areas, fostering flow.
Entryway
This entryway features a gracefully curved staircase transitioning from warm wooden steps to a sleek black railing, creating an inviting focal point. The wall colors are soft neutrals, enhancing the natural light flooding the space. A wooden chest of drawers stands against the wall, adorned with decorative books and an elegant mirror framed in gold. Two wall sconces emit a soft glow, adding warmth. A potted plant in a black pot brings vitality to the setting, while hardwood flooring runs seamlessly, emphasizing the openness of the area. The layout promotes a welcoming atmosphere for guests.
Entryway
The entryway features a spacious layout with warm hardwood flooring, inviting natural light. A striking, large wooden door with diagonal paneling provides both character and security, complemented by wrought iron accents. A circular table sits centrally, adorned with a simple vase and decorative elements, enhancing the welcoming atmosphere. The neutral wall tones contrast with the textured stone feature wall on the left, adding depth and visual interest. Open doorways lead to adjacent rooms, showcasing glimpses of cozy seating areas. Overall, the design combines rustic charm with contemporary elements, creating an appealing first impression in this historic home.
Living Room
This spacious living room features a vibrant yellow wall that enhances its warmth. A plush navy blue tufted sofa, adorned with colorful cushions, anchors the seating area. Opposite, a light beige armchair complements a sleek brown accent chair. A natural wood floor adds richness, and a large area rug softens the space. Sunlight floods in through expansive windows with bamboo shades, illuminating a grand piano positioned to the side. Decorative artwork is elegantly framed on the walls, enhancing the room’s aesthetic. A vintage fireplace offers charm, while the layout promotes an inviting atmosphere for social gatherings.
Living Room
This living room features a spacious layout with a warm color palette of beige and soft yellow walls, complemented by rich wooden flooring. A large, deep blue couch with tufted detailing anchors the space, along with two elegant, dark armchairs providing cozy seating. A light, neutral rug enhances comfort while a rustic wooden coffee table and cabinetry display books and decor items. Decorative table lamps with amber shades add warmth, while a flat-screen TV is mounted above the ornate fireplace, adding a modern touch. Wall art and framed photographs create a personalized, inviting atmosphere.
Music Nook
This corner space features large bay windows allowing ample natural light to flood in, highlighting the warm yellow walls. The polished wooden floor contrasts elegantly with the dark tones of a grand piano, which serves as the focal point. Coordinated with the piano, minimalistic decor is complemented by a potted plant on the floor. Natural bamboo shades on the windows soften the sunlight while a cozy, patterned chair adds comfort and color. The architecture showcases tall ceilings, enhancing the room’s spacious feel, while the serene view of the garden outside invites a tranquil atmosphere.
Living Room
A cozy living room features a rich blue color scheme accentuated by warm wooden trim. Large windows allow natural light to filter in, framing views of the outdoors. The seating consists of a modern, light gray sectional sofa adorned with patterned throw pillows, complemented by two armchairs. A round, white coffee table sits atop a striped area rug, enhancing the space’s texture. The floor boasts polished wood, adding warmth. A low, woven pouf offers extra seating, while a sleek floor lamp provides ambient lighting. Built-in shelves display books and decor, with a rustic fireplace adding charm to the room.
Kitchen Space
An airy kitchen space with a contemporary design boasts large windows offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The light green walls contrast beautifully with the rich, polished wooden flooring. A central island with a warm wooden countertop serves as a functional workspace. Surrounding the island, vibrant blue stools add a playful pop of color. Elegant globe pendant lights hang above the dining table, enhancing the modern aesthetic. Cabinets are sleek and white, contributing to a clean, spacious feel. The layout encourages an open flow between cooking and dining areas, perfect for social gatherings.
Kitchen
This kitchen features a spacious, U-shaped layout with modern design elements. White cabinetry contrasts beautifully against light green walls, creating a fresh ambiance. A large wooden island dominates the center, offering both prep space and a casual dining area. Pendant lights with glass globes hang gracefully above, enhancing the contemporary feel. Stainless steel appliances, including a sleek fridge and built-in oven, provide functionality. The warm wooden flooring adds richness, harmonizing with the natural tones of the decor. Large windows invite ample natural light, brightening the space and connecting it with the outdoors, perfect for social cooking.
Kitchen
This kitchen features a modern layout with clean lines and a seamless flow. Crisp white cabinetry contrasts against a warm wooden countertop, adding warmth to the sleek space. A large stainless-steel refrigerator gleams alongside minimalist appliances. Two pendant lights hang elegantly over the island, while the soft green walls provide a calming backdrop. Blue metal stools surround a long dining table, inviting casual gatherings. A wall of windows allows natural light to flood in, highlighting the serene outdoor views. The combination of materials and colors creates a contemporary yet inviting atmosphere, perfect for both cooking and entertaining.
Breakfast Nook
This bright breakfast nook features a spacious wooden table centered beneath a unique floral pendant light. The walls are painted a soft green, harmonizing with the natural view outside, visible through expansive windows. Sleek, blue metal stools surround the table, providing a pop of color against the warm wooden tones of the flooring. Rich hardwood floors enhance the cozy atmosphere, while Roman shades on the windows allow control over natural light. The overall design balances modern elements with a casual feel, inviting relaxation and conversation in a serene setting that seamlessly connects with the surrounding landscape.
Dining Room
This dining room features a warm, inviting atmosphere with a blend of traditional and modern elements. The walls are a soft peach, complemented by white wainscoting. A large wooden dining table, surrounded by blue chairs, draws attention to the space. A rustic sideboard sits against one wall, while built-in display cases adds architectural interest. Natural light floods in from elegant arched doors that lead to the outdoors, enhancing the open feel. Decorative sconces provide ambient lighting, and a patterned area rug adds a touch of color beneath the table, contributing to the inviting and stylish ambiance.
Bathroom
A vibrant bathroom showcasing a striking blue and white floral patterned wallpaper that envelops all walls, creating a lively atmosphere. The compact layout features a crisp white pedestal sink with a sleek chrome faucet, positioned against the wallpaper. To the right, a modern toilet complements the room’s clean lines. The warm, rich brown flooring contrasts beautifully against the cool tones of the wall, enhancing the space’s inviting feel. A large, angular mirror above the sink reflects light, adding brightness and a sense of openness. Functional yet stylish, the bathroom balances aesthetic appeal with practicality.
Bedroom
A spacious bedroom featuring a cozy gray upholstered bed positioned against a soft gray wall. Plump white bedding creates a comfortable aesthetic, complemented by colorful patterned pillows. Natural light floods through multiple large windows, providing a serene view of the outdoors. A contemporary mirror leans against the wall, adding a modern touch. Across the room, two stylish rattan chairs invite relaxation, positioned strategically to enjoy the light. A rustic wooden nightstand holds a stack of books, enhancing the room’s inviting atmosphere, while a woven area rug adds texture and warmth to the rich hardwood floor.
Bedroom
A spacious bedroom with light grey walls and hardwood flooring radiates warmth. At the center, a plush gray bed adorned with white and patterned pillows invites relaxation. Beside the bed, sleek black lamps on small tables provide ambient lighting. Two stylish armchairs in a vibrant orange houndstooth pattern are placed to the side, adding a touch of retro charm. A patterned rug anchors the space beneath the bed, creating a cozy atmosphere. Natural light streams in through multiple windows, highlighting a vintage dresser across the room and an opening leading to a well-decorated bathroom area.
Walk-In Closet
This spacious walk-in closet features a neutral color palette with light grey walls and beige carpet, creating a serene atmosphere. On one side, a wire rack displays a variety of neatly hung clothing, including dress shirts and casual wear, while the opposite wall showcases multiple shelves filled with neatly organized footwear. A rustic wooden bench provides a place to sit, enhancing functionality. A large window at the back allows natural light to illuminate the space, highlighting the organized arrangement. Additional storage solutions include a basket and a sports bag, contributing to an overall tidy and practical design.
Guest Bedroom
This guest bedroom features a warm, inviting layout with two plush twin beds adorned in crisp white linens and decorative pillows in pastel shades. The soft gray walls provide a neutral backdrop, enhancing the cozy feel. A vintage wooden dresser with a polished finish stands prominently against one wall, complemented by a round mirror above it. Nearby, a small desk area appears practical yet stylish, decorated with a vibrant art piece and functional seating. The hardwood floors are partially covered by a textured natural fiber rug, adding warmth and depth to the space, inviting guests to retreat and relax.
Bedroom
This spacious bedroom features two black metal twin beds adorned with white bedding and decorative pillows showcasing vibrant floral patterns. The walls are painted a soft gray, creating a calm ambiance. Natural light floods the room through large windows, revealing scenic views of lush trees outside. A cozy area rug lies beneath the beds, enhancing warmth and comfort. A light wooden dresser adds a touch of rustic charm, complementing the sleek furniture. Alongside the window, a cushioned chair with colorful upholstery invites relaxation. The overall aesthetic balances modern minimalism with playful accents, making it both inviting and stylish.
Bathroom Details
This bathroom features a bright and cheerful design enhanced by floral wallpaper in pastel tones of pink and blue, which adds a vintage charm. A sleek white vanity with a vibrant blue countertop hosts a double sink, complementing the whimsical aesthetic. The wall-mounted mirror reflects the overhead light fixture, providing bright illumination. To the left, a modern toilet is strategically placed, with a woven basket nearby holding toiletries. The tiled floor is practical yet stylish, and a crisp white shower curtain neatly conceals the bathtub area, harmonizing with the clean color palette throughout the space.
Bedroom
This bedroom features warm, wooden flooring that complements the serene gray walls. A large window adorned with flowing white curtains allows natural light to fill the room, enhancing the inviting atmosphere. The centerpiece, a low-profile bed with a textured, woven headboard, showcases plush gray bedding and decorative pillows. Adjacent, a minimalist, black swivel chair contrasts nicely with a simple desk, while rustic shelves display charming decor, including small trophies and an artistic figure. Two taxidermy deer heads mounted on the walls add a touch of outdoor elegance, further enhancing the room’s character.
Bathroom Details
The bathroom showcases a vibrant, retro aesthetic with floral wallpaper featuring small blue and yellow flowers against a white background. A bright yellow countertop contrasts harmoniously with the sleek white cabinetry below. The space includes a modern vanity mirror that reflects natural light, enhancing the coziness. To one side, a shower curtain in a subtle blue wavy pattern adds a touch of texture. A small green plant sits atop the countertop, bringing a hint of nature indoors. Architectural elements like the chrome light fixtures and the circular ceiling vent contribute to a clean, timeless feel in this cheerful bathing space.
Kids’ Playroom
The space features ample natural light from large windows with views of greenery outside. A cozy atmosphere is created by warm wooden flooring, highlighted by a striped area rug that adds texture. Centered is a charming black playhouse that doubles as a fun play structure and a whimsical design element. A vintage chest in the corner adds character, complemented by playful bean bags. The wall showcases framed art with vibrant colors, enhancing the lively ambiance. Simple furnishings, like a lamp and a side table, provide functionality without overcrowding, making this a delightful area for creativity and play.
Home Office
This home office features a contemporary design with a light gray color scheme that creates a serene atmosphere. A rattan-framed loveseat, adorned with white and striped cushions, adds a cozy touch. Adjacent is a sleek white desk equipped with dual monitors and contemporary office accessories, reflecting a modern work environment. The room is illuminated by natural light streaming through expansive windows that overlook a wooded area. A light-colored area rug with a subtle checkered pattern complements the hardwood floors, enhancing the room’s warmth. Wall-mounted cabinets contribute to an organized space, while minimalistic art pieces add character.
Patio Area
A serene outdoor patio surrounded by nature, featuring a curved stone seating wall and cozy wicker chairs. The natural stone texture of the wall adds rustic charm. A large, leafless tree provides a focal point, while a dry, well-maintained lawn enhances the calm ambiance. The home’s facade, with large glass windows, reflects sunlight, creating a bright atmosphere. Bright green shrubbery peeks from the settled areas, offering contrast against the earthy tones of the stone. The overall aesthetic blends modern design with natural elements, ideal for relaxation or gatherings in peaceful surroundings.
Exterior View
The exterior of a historic American home showcases a multi-level design with a mix of stone and wood siding. The roof features multiple gables and a blend of shingles, adding visual interest. A spacious driveway leads up to the main entrance, bordered by manicured green areas and subtle landscaping. Large windows framed in dark wood interrupt the facade, reflecting the surrounding trees. The stone accents provide a rustic contrast against the neutral color palette of the wood siding. Shadows from the nearby trees enhance the textures and contours, creating a serene ambiance that harmonizes with the natural landscape.
Patio
This outdoor patio features a blend of natural stone flooring and elegant wicker furniture. Four armchairs and two loungers, accented with dark cushions, provide a cozy seating area around a central coffee table. Above, a majestic tree casts dappled sunlight, complementing the serene landscape. The home in the background showcases a contemporary design with large windows, wooden accents, and a combination of siding hues. Surrounding greenery and hints of bare branches in winter create a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for relaxation or social gatherings, emphasizing a harmonious connection between the home and nature.
Exterior View
The exterior of a spacious home features a combination of stone and horizontal siding, exhibiting a blend of traditional and contemporary styles. Rooflines vary, with gabled sections creating visual interest. The inviting entrance is highlighted by a stone archway, leading to a well-defined driveway adorned with circular paving stones. Surrounding the home, mature trees provide natural shade, while a large rock outcropping in the foreground adds rugged charm. A concrete approach curves gracefully toward the garage, while expansive windows reflect the sunlight, enhancing the warm and inviting atmosphere of this well-designed residence in a serene setting.
Exterior View
A scenic exterior view of a multi-level home nestled in a lush landscape. The house features a blend of modern and traditional architectural elements, with a beige exterior complemented by dark trim around the windows. A prominent central balcony enhances the structure, inviting outdoor relaxation. Surrounding the home are sprawling green lawns and a mature tree casting a gentle shadow. Stone walls provide a rustic charm alongside modern seating arrangements. The rooflines vary from angled to flat, creating visual interest. In the background, a wooded area adds tranquility, showcasing nature’s beauty blending seamlessly with the residence.
Outdoor Patio
This image showcases an elegant outdoor patio area adjacent to a spacious home. A large stone patio features a circular arrangement of black outdoor furniture, including a round dining table surrounded by matching chairs. The house’s design is modern with multiple levels and angled roofs, blending seamlessly with the natural surroundings. Large windows reflect sunlight, enhancing the inviting atmosphere. A gentle slope leads down to a well-kept lawn, dotted with patches of green and small trees, while surrounding terrain adds depth and tranquility to the space. The overall aesthetic is a harmonious blend of contemporary architecture and nature.
Listing Agent: Chris Patterson of Patterson-Schwartz – Greenville via Zillow
