Calvin klein's east hampton estate seeks $165 million, challenging a record
The Hamptons real estate market just received a jolt of adrenaline. Calvin Klein’s sprawling estate, long shrouded in private ownership, has quietly surfaced for sale with a staggering $165 million asking price, directly challenging the decade-old record set by hedge fund titan Barry Rosenstein. This isn't just about square footage; it's a statement about exclusivity and coastal luxury.
A legacy of design and refinement
The property’s history is as rich as its amenities. Originally acquired by Klein and his then-wife Kelly Rector in 1987 for a modest $3.6 million from the estate of Pan American World Airways president Juan Trippe, the eight-acre compound underwent a transformative renovation under the watchful eye of architect Thierry Despont. He’s known for his work with discerning clients, and that pedigree is evident in every detail.
What makes this estate particularly unique is the presence of the only working boathouse on Georgica Pond, a feature that immediately sets it apart from other high-end properties in the area. The original Shingle Style house, designed in the 1890s by Joseph Greenleaf Thorp—the same architect behind the infamous Grey Gardens—offers a harmonious blend of historical charm and modern innovation. Think beamed ceilings and wide-plank floors juxtaposed with a mirrored catwalk and a striking two-story fireplace.
The current owners haven’t been shy about upgrading the estate further, incorporating impact-resistant windows and doors, energy-efficient systems, cutting-edge smart-home technology, and a robust security system. The result is a residence that feels both timeless and utterly contemporary. The listing details reveal a red-clay tennis court, expansive outdoor entertaining spaces, and the coveted 500 feet of pristine ocean frontage—a stretch of sand that alone would command a considerable price tag.
But the potential doesn’t stop there. The property is cleverly divided into two parcels, allowing for the construction of a separate residence on one of the lots. This dual-parcel designation adds an additional layer of value and flexibility for a prospective buyer, hinting at possibilities for a compound or multigenerational living.
James Petrie of Compass holds the listing, and the competition for this slice of East Hampton paradise is expected to be fierce. The sale price, should it reach the asking amount, would solidify the estate's place as the most expensive residential property ever sold in the area, a testament to the enduring appeal of Hamptons luxury and the legacy of its former owner.