A 19th-century stone mansion in New Jersey, linked to the Astor family and long occupied by fashion designer Marc Ecko and his family, is now available for $13.75 million. Erected in 1886, this Bernardsville residence spans over 32 acres and was crafted by architect George B. Post, as stated in the listing managed by Jill Turpin of Turpin Realtors. Its exterior boasts rugged stone cladding, a central tower offering unparalleled countryside vistas, bespoke wrought-iron balconies, and a wraparound porch. Turpin emphasized the home’s dual nature: “Despite its castle-like exterior, it offers a cozy family atmosphere, with a delightful charm that only reveals itself from within.”
The pool and pool house have a California vibe, according to listing agent Jill Turpin of Turpin Realtors.
Named Stronghold, the residence was commissioned for James Coleman Drayton and his wife, Charlotte Augusta Astor, daughter of Caroline Schermerhorn Astor and William Backhouse Astor Jr.
A pair of stone rhinoceroses outside the solarium.
Around eight years ago, Marc Ecko, 50, and his wife, Allison, spearheaded a meticulous restoration of the approximately 20,000-square-foot mansion. They aimed to preserve its historical elements while infusing modern comforts and a touch of whimsy, according to Turpin.
The bathroom of the primary suite has two showers and two vanities.
Original features such as bespoke millwork with ornate inlays, an intricately carved limestone fireplace, exposed beam ceilings, and stained glass windows, including one crafted by Tiffany, remain intact, as depicted in the listing photos. Throughout the space, wood and stone abound, complemented by a contemporary color scheme that includes a dusty purple dining room, a navy-paneled primary bedroom suite, and dark red cabinetry in the bar area reminiscent of a speakeasy.
There are seven bedrooms in total.
Ecko acquired the property in 2005 for $5.7 million through an LLC, as documented by PropertyShark records. Upon moving in with their three young 𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥ren, Ecko and his wife found that the home wasn’t conducive to family life, as Turpin pointed out. They took extensive measures, including relocating and reconstructing the grand main staircase “to facilitate communication with their 𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥ren upstairs,” Turpin remarked.
A bar in the mansion’s stone tower.
Initially bare except for a ladder, the tower now accommodates a wet bar, lounge area, and office, with access to an observation deck and an elevator, the agent disclosed. Furthermore, the family transformed the ballroom into a cozy parlor equipped with outdoor access and a concealed drop-down movie screen.
An office is also located in the tower.
It’s hardly surprising to find Ecko’s assortment of street art combined with high-end collectibles showcased throughout the residence, featuring pieces by Shepard Fairey.
