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A significant historic property on Connecticut’s prestigious Contentment Island has entered the market for the first time in over five decades, presenting a rare opportunity for luxury buyers. The waterfront estate, priced at $10.895 million, offers 180 feet of direct frontage on the Long Island Sound, setting it apart in a region with limited available shoreline. This article provides an objective overview of the property's history, features, and investment potential based on the official listing details.
What is the history and significance of this Darien property?
Located in the Tokeneke community of Darien, Connecticut, the residence is one of the oldest on Contentment Island. Part of the home dates back to 1918, with a substantial modern addition completed in 2004. The property served as the main residence of a larger estate and was owned for over half a century by Edward Goodnow, a co-founder of the Goodnow Investment Group, noted as an influential figure in the early hedge fund industry. The home's historic character is preserved through features like dark, heavy beams and high ceilings, unusual for a house of its age. Its strategic placement approximately 20 feet above sea level ensures panoramic southern exposure and natural cooling from southwestern breezes, a design that provided comfort before modern air conditioning.
What are the key features and layout of the mansion?
Spanning more than 7,000 square feet on 2.4 acres, the home's layout blends original charm with contemporary comforts. The main level includes a double-height entry with tiled floors and coffered ceilings. A formal living room with a fireplace opens to a terrace, opposite a dining room with similar outdoor access. The country kitchen features a farm sink and ample storage, adjacent to a sunroom with built-ins and a wall of windows overlooking the ocean. The modern wing, added in 2004, contains a family room with a granite fireplace and a standout feature: a double-height billiards room with 15-foot ceilings, hand-hewn oak beams, and a large granite fireplace. The property includes six bedrooms and five bathrooms. The primary suite boasts a waterfront balcony, while two additional bedrooms are on the second floor and three on the third. A recently built three-car garage includes a one-bedroom guest accommodation on its upper level.
What is the investment potential for a buyer?
According to the listing agent, the property is considered a "blank canvas." Its generous 2.4-acre lot provides ample space for significant enhancements, such as adding a pool or tennis court, while the solid core structure of the home allows for interior renovations. The limited supply of waterfront property in the desirable Tokeneke area has already generated substantial buyer interest. The combination of irreplaceable location, historic pedigree, and development potential makes this a unique investment in the Connecticut luxury market. Based on our experience assessment, the property’s value is underpinned by its稀缺性 (scarcity) and the flexibility it offers for customization.
This historic Darien estate represents a rare chance to acquire a piece of Connecticut shoreline history with modern amenities. The $10.895 million asking price reflects the property's unique attributes: direct Long Island Sound frontage, significant acreage, and a versatile layout. For a buyer seeking a primary residence with deep roots or a legacy property with clear potential for personalization, this offering is a noteworthy opportunity in a competitive luxury market.
