13301 MANOR STONE DR GERMANTOWN

Description

Upon approaching grand wrought iron gates guarded by bronze lions, one is immediately taken by unmistakable beauty. A collaboration between builder Patrick Cullinane and legendary architect Wilfrid Worland, Villa dei Leoni is the result of countless man-hours, the finest materials, and millions of dollars invested by the current owners to create a vision that completely alters the perception of what a home can be. Ascending the gradually inclined driveway, the tree line eventually gives way to a grand motor court anchored by a central Italianate fountain giving off a peaceful ambiance and properly introducing the estate. Striding across the wide front portico framed by Parthenon-esque columns through the arched, wrought iron main entrance, masterful craftsmanship welcomes you in the grand foyer. Cross-hatched marble flooring shine under the crystal chandelier overhead, and the multi-piece plaster moldings are an exact replica of those found in Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello. To the right, through three elegant archways, lies the formal dining room, a generously proportioned space whose focal point is an elegant marble fireplace topped by crystal sconces to match the chandelier and smoked mirror. The French-silk-lined formal living room is directly ahead of the grand foyer, with a curved window wall overlooking the rear lawn. A paneled library is a showcase of master millwork and harkens back to the first-class smoking rooms aboard sumptuous ocean liners during the golden age of travel. Perhaps the best example of old-world craftsmanship blended with modern conveniences is found in the chef’s kitchen, where bespoke, inlaid furniture-grade cabinetry and quartz countertops host Wolf, Miele, and Thermador appliances. Herringbone Chevron oak floors and a mudroom complete with an additional full-size Sub-Zero refrigerator/freezer complete the main level. Upstairs, the owner’s retreat boasts an intimate sitting room, a warm cherry oak marbleized fireplace, and lush views of the rear lawn via either the wall of windows or a private balcony ideal for morning cappuccinos. The marble-lined owner’s bath flows into a spectacular custom dressing room with built-ins and a center island of its own. The lower level is a central location for entertaining, with its restaurant-sized bar, sitting area with a marble fireplace, and a dedicated billiards room. The rear exterior is where the magic can truly be found, hosting a covered loggia, natural marble pavers running throughout, and a Lewis Aquatech designed lap pool with fountains and automatic cover. Separate pool and carriage houses provide additional accommodation. The main showstopper is a custom 200,000-gallon freshwater pond served by industrial-grade filtration and computer-controlled well systems running throughout the ten-acre property. Two additional custom ponds — one 12,000 gallons and the other 5,000 — establish a tranquil backdrop to the sprawling lawn. Not a penny has been spared in creating what must be one of the most over-engineered residences in existence — everything has been built to the highest of standards, such as the 58-zone wireless irrigation system and million-dollar fountain network. The 50-year slate roof, septic system, propane tanks, seven zone geothermal HVAC, and custom Lepage windows are all amongst the millions of dollars spent upgrading the property to its current world-class standards. A commercial-grade Crestron audio/visual system allows for a true smart home, controlling cameras, HVAC, irrigation, Lutron lighting, surround sound, and televisions throughout the home. The current owners left no stone unturned when making this property one-of-a-kind, ensuring every inch of its ten-acre expanse was finished to absolute perfection. Villa dei Leoni, like any collectible timepiece or fine work of art, is finite in quantity and irreplaceable in nature.