In the design world, Mark McDonald has been given the nickname “Mr. Modernism” and it’s quite appropriate. McDonald is a scholar, collector, and gallerist who has spent four decades helping to define the American “midcentury modern” style. It’s no shock that as well as advising on midcentury pieces and furniture for museums and private persons, McDonald chooses to live within a midcentury masterpiece as well. His circa-1967 home in Hillsdale, New York is an eclectic, artful sight to behold and just listed for $3.35 million.
While the 4,000-square-foot residence set on 40 acres exudes tranquility and organic minimalism, in keeping with midcentury modern architecture, it also holds vibrant decor elements. You can’t help but smile seeing the colorful, gumdrop light fixture above the dining table or the eye-like wall art above the primary suite tub. It’s these pops that give the home its delicious quirkiness, while other features like the living room’s stone fireplace and wood-paneled ceiling pour in warmth.
As well as the four-bedroom main house, there’s a detached artist studio with a sauna and a large craftsman-style barn that was constructed by a local artisan. All perched on one of the highest points in Columbia County, these structures provide gorgeous Hudson Valley views, including of the property’s own swimming pond and gorgeous grounds. Native plantings and exotic trees mingle, surrounding lovely stonework and sculptures.
But, the property’s most prestigious detail? Ironically, the front gate you may pass mindlessly on the way in. It was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright.
Marina T. Schindler of Compass represents Mr. Modernism’s Hudson Valley home.
