THIS MAJESTIC SADDLE RIVER MANOR IS A MARVEL OF TIMELESS BEAUTY AND MODERN CHARISMA

BY AMANDA McCOY

Dotted with expansive lots, deluxe mansions, and affluent residents, the small hamlet of Saddle River in Bergen County harbors one of New Jersey’s most exclusive ZIP codes. Many C suite executives, entrepreneurs, and a handful of celebrities find comfort in the verdant landscapes and idyllic surroundings of the small borough, only 30 miles from New York City. And at the end of a long, winding driveway through a stunning outcropping of manicured trees lies a palatial estate that perfectly encapsulates the grandeur of the enclave. Welcome to 1 Alford Drive, where a treasure trove of exquisite details and delightful surprises awaits.

“This magnificent property spared no expense,” noted listing agent Joshua Baris with Coldwell Banker Realty and the proprietor of NJLux.com. “It truly has to be seen to be believed, from the solarium to the gourmet chef ’s dream kitchen to the beautifully landscaped grounds. It feels like your very own palace.” No detail was too small in the building of this nearly 20,000 square foot mansion. Spanning six bedrooms, eight full bath rooms, and three powder rooms, the larger than life home manifests as a five star resort with a sprawling rec room (replete with a fireplace and wet bar,) state of the art fitness room, massive old world wine cellar, lush gardens, poolside cabanas, and more.

The spacious stone entryway is flanked by an army of stately white columns, and the dark wooden double front doors open to a two story grand foyer. Rich, regal colors and plush textures are contrasted by light floors and large windows. There is an abundance of cozy living spaces, each boasting its own fireplace and a distinct panache; a great room, for instance, features large bay windows, a piano, and vintage décor while the wood paneled library harbors deep brown leather couches and equestrian accents. The formal living room is anchored in an imperial fireplace of juxtaposing wood and black marbled finishes.

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The gourmet kitchen is both a visual and culinary treat, comprising a tapestry of different colors and materials and finished with ornate detailing. Rustic wooden rafters hang from the ceiling illuminated by metal chandeliers, and a sea of contrasting hues add depth, from the black, ivory, and stainless steel oven and stove to the olive tinted refrigerator. Luxurious black marbled countertops sit above classic wooden cabinetry.

At mealtimes, there are options aplenty; enjoy a casual meal at the eat in island or opt for the adjacent breakfast room, the latter flooded with natural light from floor to ceiling windows and French doors leading outside. Here, opulent white moulding beautifully balances the hunter green paint and light wooden floors.

For more formal affairs, retreat to the elegant dining room, with a crystal chandelier sparkling over an eight person table. Additional French doors lead to the grounds, thus a breath of fresh air is never more than a quick turn of the knob away.

A sun soaked greenhouse provides a picturesque backdrop for getting lost in an afternoon novel or laughing over apéritifs. Made almost entirely of windows (the roof included) for wild natural ambiance, the cheerful oasis is then decorated with leafy plants and comfortable lounge furniture.

The first floor also houses the master suite, including a gilded master bath that’s the size of most starter homes. The connecting corridor opens to two massive walk in closets, a dressing area, his and her sinks separated over two walls with golden accents, a deep soaking tub beneath an arched window, and shower.

The main stairwell leads to a lofted sitting area open to below plus four bedroom suites with walk in closets and full baths, the laundry room, and a large family game room with an additional full bath.

And down two levels, the finished basement is a magnificent marriage of old world glamour and modern luxury. The brick and stone sitting area and immense wine cellar radiate a medieval castle aesthetic while the marbled bathroom, home theater, and fully equipped exercise room bring us back into the 21st century. There’s also an expansive rec room with a fireplace and full bar, providing all the ingredients needed for the summit of family game nights.

Back up on the ground floor, almost every room offers a door to the outside, and one step onto the grounds shows exactly why this area was meant to be savored. There are ample covered areas to sit and bask in the pastoral air or enjoy an al fresco meal, and when the weather warms, the large in ground pool and multiple cabanas beckon.

As with the mansion itself, attention was paid to every last inch of the 4.24 acre grounds, from the flourishing gardens to a charming pond decorated with lily pads and aged bronze waterfowl statues. Thick swaths of trees surround the resort like grounds, providing total privacy as its inhabitants, sip, laugh, and play.

This home is listed for $9,888,888.
Joshua Baris / Coldwell Banker Realty
Global Luxury Division 375 Park Avenue,
Suite 21 / Fort Lee 201.741.4999 (c) / NJLux.com