St. Mary’s Island Retreat: A Geometric Masterpiece in the Thousands Islands
A Family’s Vision Realized
Forty years ago, Alexander Nicolas’s parents spotted a small fishing cabin on a speck of an island peeking out of the St. Lawrence River in Alexandria Bay, part of the Thousand Islands region in northern New York. The .3-acre islet, which lacked a road bridge, was sold to them, and over the next five years, it was transformed into a 2,964 square foot geometric custom home with 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, and plenty of cedar touches.
A Work of Art
The family, led by his mother, an abstract artist, and his father, a surgeon, designed the home themselves, incorporating natural wood elements throughout. The result was a unique and cozy retreat with massive loft spaces, a wraparound porch, and a light-filled interior with cedar planks on the ceiling, outside, and even the floors.
Innovative Design
To bring power to the island, the family brought in a military-style helicopter to install the power line, a feat unheard of at the time. This innovative approach allowed them to position the home on the water’s edge, creating a garden with unused land, and providing an unparalleled view.
A Gem for Sale
The home, now listed for the first time, stands as a testament to the family’s vision and creativity. The asking price is $1.5 million, making it an opportunity for a new owner to inherit the family’s wonderful taste. The residence is listed with Mike Fabbri and Joshua Garner of The Agency.
A Piece of History
The Thousand Islands region is steeped in history, with the iconic Boldt Castle, built between 1900 and 1904 by George Boldt, being a notable example. In the early 1900s, the Vanderbilt, Kellogg, Wrigley, Gould, Browning, and Trudeau families also built estates on the region’s 1,864 islands.
Thousand Islands: A Bygone Era
For many, the Hamptons are considered the ultimate chic destination, but the Thousand Islands were the original playground for the old money. The Thousand Island salad dressing, a creamy, tangy mix of mayonnaise, ketchup, and pickles, may have originated from a recipe created by Oscar Tschirki, a maître d’hôtel at the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel.
In Conclusion
The St. Mary’s Island retreat offers more than just a great design; it is a work of art that allows its inhabitants to connect with nature and appreciate the beauty of the world. For the new owner, it is an opportunity to inherit a piece of history and create their own memories.
FAQs
Q: What is the asking price for the St. Mary’s Island retreat?
A: $1.5 million
Q: How many bedrooms and bathrooms does the residence have?
A: 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms
Q: What is the square footage of the residence?
A: 2,964 square feet
Q: Is the property suitable for those who want to escape the city?
A: Yes, the island is a short boat ride away from the mainland marina, and you can arrive there by jet ski or boat if you prefer.
Q: Is the property listed with a reputable agency?
A: Yes, Mike Fabbri and Joshua Garner of The Agency have the listing.
