While this sprawling Virginia estate might look like it is fit for a president, tech entrepreneur and noted philanthropist Sandy Lerner, who co-founded Cisco Systems, is the seller. About an hour outside of Washington, D.C., “Ayrshire Farm” boasts a manor house, stables, and a whopping 571 acres of land, guaranteeing grandeur and privacy. Lerner bought the property in 1996 and has now listed it almost three decades later for $19.8 million.
When Lerner first arrived here, the stone manor house was riddled with burst pipes, a flooded basement, and decaying moldings, according to the Wall Street Journal. No one had lived there for over a decade. Lerner took on the project and beautifully restored the circa-1912 home, bringing it into the 21st-century while honoring its historic spirit. With 17,000-square-feet of interiors, it was certainly no easy task: 12 fireplaces restored, electricity re-wired, new plumbing, and the addition of a security system.
This painstaking work completely paid off and the residence is a vision of traditional splendor. Just imagine how this place comes alive when hosting holiday weekends with foliage at peak or with snow on the surrounding trees. Imperative for large-scale entertaining, it totals 11 bedrooms, nine full bathrooms, and four half-baths.
Other standout features include a covered brick porch and a conservatory designed by Glass Houses of England, which Lerner imported from across the pond. Many furnishings and decorative touches also came in from abroad: Trim selected from Portugal, rugs from France, and more.
Above all, however, the seller has devoted her time and money to create a sustainable farm here, producing locally and humanely-raised meats and produce. Ayrshire Farm was the first in Virginia to be Certified Humane and USDA Certified Organic status. The property has been home to thousands of cattle and chickens, as well as fields, orchards, and pastures. The grounds also include a gorgeous equestrian stable that Lerner restored.
Daniel Heider and Laura Farrell of Sotheby’s International Realty share this monumental, multi-faceted listing.