Ahmet Ertegun, known for his influential work with music legends like Ray Charles and the Rolling Stones, constructed his sprawling approximately 11,000-square-foot Hamptons home designed in the style of a Russian dacha.
The Hamptons home belonging to the late Ahmet Ertegun, esteemed co-founder of Atlantic Records and renowned as one of the most influential figures in American music history, was meticulously designed to facilitate entertaining on a lavish scale. This description suggests that the property was not only a private retreat but also served as a venue for hosting large gatherings and events, reflecting Ertegun's penchant for hospitality and his stature within the entertainment industry.
The Southampton residence, commissioned by Ahmet Ertegun and his wife Mica Ertegun, was designed in the style of a Russian dacha, reflecting their cultural backgrounds and personal tastes. Originally conceived as a luxurious retreat, the property was later expanded to include a living room spacious enough to accommodate an orchestra, exemplifying the couple's penchant for hosting grand events and gatherings.
Following Ahmet's passing in 2006 and Mica's in December 2023, the expansive waterfront estate, spanning approximately 5.5 acres, has been listed for sale at $52 million.
With no children, the Erteguns' remarkable home now enters the market, offering a glimpse into their extraordinary lifestyle and legacy in the world of music and society.
Boatman House, as it's known, boasts a private dock nestled along a creek leading to Shinnecock Bay, offering serene waterfront views, with glimpses of the ocean visible from its upper floors. Designed by the late architect Jaquelin T. Robertson circa 1990, this distinguished residence spans approximately 11,000 square feet and comprises ten bedrooms. Reflecting Palladian architectural influences, the home showcases classical columns and other elegant features characteristic of the style.
The heart of the residence, its living room, is a stunning two-story cube adorned with a pyramidal vault ceiling, creating a sense of grandeur and spaciousness. Adorning the walls are large-scale Turkish portraits, adding a touch of cultural richness and sophistication to the interior. Throughout the home, antique furniture graces the rooms, further enhancing its timeless charm and character. Notably, the sale does not include the furniture, allowing the next owner the opportunity to personalize the space according to their tastes and preferences. Despite its age, the property is meticulously maintained and remains in excellent condition, offering a seamless blend of classic elegance and modern comfort.
In addition to its luxurious interiors, Boatman House offers enticing outdoor amenities, including a sprawling approximately 75-foot-long outdoor pool, perfect for leisurely swims or relaxation under the sun. Surrounding the property are meticulously landscaped gardens adorned with cherry and pear trees, adding to the property's idyllic charm and providing a serene backdrop for outdoor gatherings or quiet moments of contemplation.
The concept of the dacha, or country house, was inspired by the property's serene natural surroundings, as detailed in the 2002 book "Beach Houses." Mica Ertegun was captivated by the property's evocation of the tranquil landscapes depicted in the works of Russian literary greats such as Chekhov and Pushkin. The design elements, including the copper roof and yellow ocher wood siding, were chosen to evoke the rustic elegance and timeless allure of traditional Russian country estates. The color palette and architectural details pay homage to Russian culture, creating a harmonious blend of sophistication and natural beauty reminiscent of the dachas that inspired it.
Ahmet Ertegun, renowned for his groundbreaking work in the music industry with acts like Ray Charles and the Rolling Stones, made a significant impact with the sale of Atlantic Records to Warner Bros in 1967, although he continued to serve as chairman. His wife, Mica Ertegun, an accomplished interior designer, counted prominent figures like Leon Black and Alice Walton among her clients.
The Erteguns enjoyed residences across the globe, reflecting their cosmopolitan lifestyle. Their diverse portfolio of properties included a prestigious five-story townhouse in Manhattan, a picturesque summer retreat in Bodrum, Turkey, and an elegant apartment in Paris, as chronicled in the book "The Last Sultan: The Life and Times of Ahmet Ertegun." For Ahmet, the epitome of success was symbolized by the absence of keys; upon arriving at any of their homes, there was always an assistant on hand to welcome him, reflecting their esteemed status and luxury lifestyle.
Davis is collaborating with Erica Grossman of Douglas Elliman to list the property.
In the Hamptons real estate market, there has been a recent resurgence after a period of sluggishness. According to a fourth-quarter 2023 report by the Corcoran Group, which noted the first growth in sales activity in eight quarters, signs of life are beginning to emerge. The fourth quarter saw two deals exceeding $50 million, a notable increase from none during the same period in 2022.
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