Introduction to Rabbit Hill Estate
An estate fit for a president — albeit a fictional one — just hit the market in Westchester County. Rabbit Hill estate, set along the Hudson River in the village of Briarcliff Manor, hit the market for $15 million, the Wall Street Journal reported. The Georgian Revival-style home received significant airtime as the fictional abode of George Mullen, a beleaguered former president played by Robert De Niro in the Netflix miniseries “Zero Day,” which was released early this year.
The Estate’s Features
The red brick estate sits at the end of a long, gated driveway. Daniel Milstein Photography
The lush property spans roughly 22 acres. Daniel Milstein Photography
De Niro sits opposite Angela Bassett in “Zero Day.” JOJO WHILDEN/NETFLIX © 2024
The thriller’s first episode opens with scenes of De Niro living out his temporary retirement at the house, swimming laps in the 50-foot pool and playing with his dog on the neatly trimmed lawn.
History and Ownership
In reality, the 22-acre estate is owned by hedge-funder Doug Haynes and his wife, Laurice Haynes, the Journal reported. Rabbit Hill’s history dates back to 1929, when it was constructed by American architect Mott B. Schmidt for a Wall Street banker. Schmidt crafted homes for the likes of the Vanderbilts and the Astors, as well as 655 Park Ave. and a wing of Gracie Mansion.
The Property
The red brick house at Rabbit Hill — accessed via a gated, quarter-mile-long driveway — spans roughly 13,000 square feet. The first floor includes a marbled-checked foyer, a modern kitchen and a sunken family room overlooking the garden. A curved, floating staircase, positioned over a herringbone brick floor, leads up to the second floor and its seven bedrooms.
The handsome foyer. Daniel Milstein Photography
Vaulted ceilings pair with arched doorways. Daniel Milstein Photography
The kitchen received a modern upgrade but maintained its colonial style. Daniel Milstein Photography
The formal dining room. Daniel Milstein Photography
The curved, floating staircase. Daniel Milstein Photography
A wood-paneled office. Daniel Milstein Photography
The primary bedroom glimpses the Hudson River beyond. Daniel Milstein Photography
The 50-foot pool and large pool house. Daniel Milstein Photography
Market Value and Upgrades
Listing agent David Turner, of Compass, told the Journal that part of home’s value comes from the land itself, with its roughly 22 acres of lawns, gardens and woodlands overlooking the Hudson River. Rabbit Hill’s current owners bought the property in 2016 for $9 million and proceeded to undertake millions of dollars worth of upgrades and restorations, the Journal reported. A location scout for “Zero Day” approached the couple in 2023.
The historic property’s acreage and vistas make it one of the most expensive listings in Westchester County. Daniel Milstein Photography
The "Zero Day" Connection
What began as a six- to eight-week departure from their home turned into a year-long separation due to Hollywood strikes, and the owners bounced around a Palm Beach home and various rentals, according to the Journal. Netflix compensated the couple for their time away, according to the outlet, and gave the pair a cameo in a “Zero Day” party scene for their troubles. The home was a principal location throughout the miniseries, which premiered to mixed critical reviews. Rabbit Hill was previously featured in the long-running NBC series “The Blacklist,” as well.
Conclusion
The Rabbit Hill estate, with its rich history, stunning architecture, and beautiful landscapes, is a unique and valuable property. Its connection to the Netflix miniseries "Zero Day" and its feature in other TV shows only add to its appeal. Whether you’re a fan of Robert De Niro or just looking for a luxurious estate, Rabbit Hill is definitely worth considering.
FAQs
Q: How much is the Rabbit Hill estate listed for?
A: The Rabbit Hill estate is listed for $15 million.
Q: Who owns the Rabbit Hill estate?
A: The Rabbit Hill estate is owned by hedge-funder Doug Haynes and his wife, Laurice Haynes.
Q: How many acres does the Rabbit Hill estate span?
A: The Rabbit Hill estate spans roughly 22 acres.
Q: What TV shows has the Rabbit Hill estate been featured in?
A: The Rabbit Hill estate has been featured in the Netflix miniseries "Zero Day" and the long-running NBC series "The Blacklist".
Q: How much did the current owners pay for the property in 2016?
A: The current owners paid $9 million for the property in 2016.
