Astor Courts, Rhinebeck was built by John Jacob Astor IV in 1902-1904 on part of the original 2800-acre holdings along the Hudson River. It was designed by Stanford White – McKim Mead & White in the Beaux Arts style, an architectural style originating in France in the late 19th century and characterized by classical forms, symmetry, rich ornamentation and a grand scale. Astor Courts, according to historians was inspired by the Grand Trianon at Versailles.

Located on 50 secluded, pastoral acres, this classical pavilion-style home offers panoramic views of the Catskill Mountains and 2000 feet of river frontage — and, it has a Letter of Patent from New York State guaranteeing access to the Hudson River in perpetuity.

The structure, also known as the Astor Casino or Ferncliff Casino, was originally built as a sporting pavilion with indoor tennis court, swimming pool, squash courts on the main level and a bowling alley on the lower level.

In 1941, the building was converted to a residence. The house evokes the grandeur of American aristocracy throughout but a single room — the Grand Salon: (35 by 60 feet) has 15' ceilings, a domed skylight, elaborate ornamental plasterwork, Ionic columns and French doors that open to an indoor clay tennis court. 

The main level of the house also includes a Middle Eastern-inspired swimming pool with turquoise vaulted ceiling and Corinthian columns.  The east wing includes a new master suite with a library (originally the squash courts). The west wing has a formal living room with restored faux bois molding and oak wainscoting. The room opens to a diamond-patterned balcony that looks out over the Hudson River . There is a renovated kitchen and a traditional dining room. In addition, there are four guest bedrooms. All of the main rooms have fireplaces. The lower level houses staff quarters and a second kitchen.

The current owners have completed a scrupulous renovation of the structure back to its original plans.

The property is convenient to Rhinebeck and Amtrak and less than 2 hours from Manhattan.

Offered at $8,900,000.

Click here to view a selection of larger format photos of the property or for further information email or call Hill Realty at 845-876-8888.