Fouad Talout

CARTER HALL: This circa 1797 historic mansion is situated high on 87 acres of gently rolling open spaces and woodlands within Virginia's Shenandoah Valley, about 70 miles outside of Washington, D.C. The estate encompasses a 14,695-square-foot stone manor house, multiple guest houses and cabins, a 26,000 sq.ft. administrative building, a smaller office building (former stables), a greenhouse, two tennis courts and a workshop/maintenance building. Steeped in history and home to early Virginian notables and dignitaries, Carter Hall is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Most recently used as a conference center, the property has 24 guest rooms with 23 baths, and can host up to 42 overnight visitors. From the gated entry, nearly two miles of private roads within the property offer an impressive approach to the main manor house. The broad front veranda stretches the length of the home and evokes carefree Autumn days sipping hot cider while contemplating the tranquil mountain views. Vintage character is displayed throughout the interior and includes such details as wide-plank hardwood flooring, ornate dentil crown molding, deep windows with custom interior shutters, and marble fireplace mantles. Among the inviting living areas are the large receiving room highlighted by its graceful floating staircase, the stately dining room that can easily accommodate a table for 16, and the pine-clad library. The private bedrooms, one on the main level and four upstairs, are attractive and comfortable, each with its own unique fireplace and en suite bath. Food prep facilities include a commercial-grade kitchen on the lower level with staircase and dumb waiter access to the butler's pantry/serving kitchen on the home's main level. The lower level offers sizable rooms and generous storage spaces for myriad possible uses, incorporating charming period elements such as brick flooring and a stone fireplace. In addition to the commercial-grade kitchen, there is a wood-paneled recreation/dining room, a bistro area with wine cellar and bar imported from England, and multiple walk-up exits. Outside, the main residence is flanked by East and West 3-level guest houses, each with 2 full baths, living and kitchenette areas, as well as 2 and 3 bedrooms, respectfully. In the rear, another broad covered porch stretches the length of the home, overlooking tiered boxwood gardens with footpaths running through them, perfect for an afternoon stroll amid natural surroundings. The property also includes 3 small outbuildings that originally served as the dairy, wash house and smoke house; the original carriage house now serves as guest accommodations; and the original stables has been remodeled as office spaces. The administration building, built in 1978, has served as ample office space since, but can be transformed for any number of uses. Offering the utmost in privacy, space and flexibility, this gorgeous property presents existing structures for a number of possible uses, while retaining the comforts and timeless architecture of one of Virginia's finest residences.