For Architectural Digest, by Jennifer Tzeses.
The home sits behind an expansive motor court with a fountain.
Photo: Courtesy of Douglas Elliman
This exquisite 18th-century French château is not located in a quaint village in the Loire Valley. In fact, it's nowhere near Europe at all, but in Long Branch, on the Jersey Shore. The oceanfront home, known as Belle Mer, is a complete re-creation, with all of its material imported from France. It was built over the course of four and a half years by Anthony Ingrao beginning in 1993, and the home received a face-lift in 2007. A gated drive leads the way to the limestone residence, which sits behind a motor court centered on a fountain. Inside, there's a grand foyer with a central staircase, a wall of windows in varying shapes, and a ceiling mural. Highlights include a formal living room with French doors that open onto an expansive terrace overlooking the ocean, a card room with a marble-clad bar, a formal dining room, a breakfast room with beach views, a window-lined sunroom, and a billiard room with vaulted ceilings. The two-acre property features manicured lawns, a swimming pool and cabana, and two garage cottages. Listed for $40 million, this 14,000-square-foot home has 9 bedrooms, 6 baths, and 2 half baths. Contact: Douglas Elliman, 212-891-7259; elliman.com
The ornate foyer features a grand staircase.
Photo: Courtesy of Douglas Elliman
French doors line the formal living room.
Photo: Courtesy of Douglas Elliman
The billiards room has arched ceilings.
Photo: Courtesy of Douglas Elliman
There's a large marble bar in the card room.
Photo: Courtesy of Douglas Elliman
Guests can lounge in the sunroom for beautiful ocean views.
Photo: Courtesy of Douglas Elliman
The formal dining room is exquisitely detailed.
Photo: Courtesy of Douglas Elliman
Floor-to-ceiling windows surround the breakfast room.
Photo: Courtesy of Douglas Elliman
The large pool area looks out over the water.
Photo: Courtesy of Douglas Elliman
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