La Reserve - A Legendary Gold Coast Estate of Rare Provenance
Perched atop one of the North Shore's most commanding elevations, at the end of a mile-long private drive overlooking the iconic Cleft Road Causeway, La Reserve serve stands among the most significant surviving estates of Long Island's storied Gold Coast. Originally commissioned in 1922 by Arthur Vining Davis - financier, industrialist, chairman of the Aluminum Company of America, and once ranked among the wealthiest men in the United States - this extraordinary residence embodies a level of craftsmanship, scale, and historical significance that is virtually impossible to replicate today.
Designed by renowned architect Guy Lowell in the Italian Renaissance style, the estate was originally conceived as a grand country retreat for one of America's most influential business titans. The interiors were executed by the celebrated design firm Wm. H. Baumgarten & Co., while the grounds were masterfully designed by legendary landscape architects Ellen Biddle Shipman and Ferruccio Vitale. Their collective vision created a rare synthesis of architecture and landscape that remains remarkably intact and continues to shape the character of the estate today.
The property boasts multiple auxiliary structures that provide exceptional flexibility for guests, staff, and extended family. A substantial four-bedroom guest residence offers luxurious accommodations complete with expansive entertaining rooms, a gourmet kitchen, and private wellness amenities. Above the home's five-car garage is a newly redesigned apartment, featuring a seamless open-concept living space with a large great room, two bedrooms, and two full bathrooms.
Set amidst nearly 18 acres of meticulously maintained grounds, the cream-colored stucco main residence is crowned by a classic red terracotta tile roof, its elegant proportions recalling the great villas of Northern Italy. Broad rear verandas overlook rolling lawns that descend gracefully toward seasonal water views of Mill Neck Creek and Beaver Lake, creating a serene backdrop of natural beauty and privacy.
Encompassing more than 10,000 square feet and comprehensively reimagined approximately 20 years ago, this exceptional residence unfolds across multiple levels of impeccably detailed living space. Rich millwork, marble flooring, intricate hardwood floors, hand-forged iron window details, marble fireplace mantels, Juliet balconies and numerous sets of French doors speak to the extraordinary level of craftsmanship throughout. The first floor features a grand formal living room, a distinguished library/study, and an elegant bar salon designed for refined entertaining.
A more recent renovation introduced a spectacular chef's kitchen centered around two massive marble-clad islands and outfitted with a suite of premium Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances, two oversized farmhouse sinks, and limestone tile flooring. The space flows seamlessly into a sunlit breakfast area and adjoining den. The main residence offers seven bedrooms, including private staff quarters, with most bedrooms featuring generous closets, wood-burning fireplaces, and en-suite baths.
Beneath the residence lies one of the estate's most remarkable features: a two-level walkout lower level originally created for the enjoyment of one of America's great industrial magnates. The first level includes a richly appointed mahogany bar, kitchenette, game room, screening room, spa facilities, barber shop, gym, map room, vault room and support spaces. Descending further reveals an astonishing private casino complete with its own discreet escape tunnel - a rare and captivating reminder of the estate's glamorous past.
The grounds are equally compelling. A gated entrance, extensive stone walls, formal gardens, fountains, comprehensive security systems, and whole-house generators ensure effortless modern living.
