Classic Coastal Luxury: $9.999M Long Island Sound Estate Built in 1935 with Unrivaled Panoramic Vistas
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A rare confluence of history, elegance, and coastal prestige, the Somerset Estate at 2 Wallis Lane is a singular offering in the world of New York real estate. Perched atop a 700-foot shoreline along the Long Island Sound in Nissequogue, this 1935 Colonial-style estate blends historic architectural craftsmanship with resort-level living. Priced at $9,999,880, this legacy home offers nearly 9,000 square feet of living space on more than 10 manicured acres—a true crown jewel of Nissequogue real estate.
Built in the image of the Governor’s Palace in Williamsburg, Virginia, Somerset exudes timeless design with its all-brick façade, custom millwork, floating staircase, and opulent marble flooring. As visitors arrive through a winding, tree-lined drive, they are met with a stately presence that sets the tone for the grandeur within. Inside, banquet-sized living and dining rooms, a wood-paneled library, and sun-drenched halls overlook sweeping water views from nearly every window.
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“There’s nothing like Somerset on Long Island,” said Bonnie Glenn, the listing agent with Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty. “It’s not just a residence—it’s a statement of legacy, and the craftsmanship rivals anything you’d find along the Gold Coast.”
The estate’s legacy is steeped in American industrial history. According to archival reports, Somerset was once owned by members of the Lauder Greenway family—descendants of George Lauder, co-founder of U.S. Steel alongside Andrew Carnegie. The property’s grandeur reflects this storied past, reminiscent of the opulent estates of the Gilded Age.
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Originally listed in 2020 for $14.6 million, the estate has since been reintroduced to the market with a refined price, representing a remarkable opportunity for those seeking a waterfront escape with historical significance. The current owners have meticulously maintained the home, preserving its architectural authenticity while updating key systems to meet modern standards.
Inside, the Somerset Estate offers seven bedrooms and six bathrooms, including a primary suite complete with its own fireplace, spa-style bathroom, and panoramic views. Four working fireplaces enhance the home’s warmth and old-world charm. On the lower level, an authentic wine cellar and fur vault reflect the refined lifestyle the home was built to accommodate.
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“The current owner spared no effort in maintaining the home’s architectural purity,” Glenn shared with Luxury Houses Magazine. “They’ve enhanced its elegance while keeping its spirit untouched. This is not renovation—it’s preservation.”
Outdoors, a heated gunite pool with an adjacent pool house, lush gardens, and tiered stone patios invite moments of relaxation and high-end entertaining. The property features two professional seawalls and dual-parcel development, offering both protection and future flexibility. The home’s panoramic setting offers front-row views of dramatic sunsets across the Sound—making it a truly irreplaceable setting.
Located in one of Long Island’s most discreet and affluent enclaves, 2 Wallis Lane offers seclusion without sacrificing convenience. The village of Nissequogue is just 60 miles from Manhattan, offering quick access via the Long Island Rail Road or nearby highways. The estate is minutes from Stony Brook University and its nationally ranked hospital, as well as scenic beaches, nature preserves, and yacht marinas.
Dining, shopping, and culture thrive in nearby villages such as St. James and Port Jefferson. Residents enjoy access to top-rated schools, including Smithtown High School East, making this not only a premier estate but also a practical home for families seeking prestige and proximity.
“This home offers the privacy of a coastal retreat with access to everything the North Shore has to offer,” said Glenn. “You’re in your own world, yet Manhattan is just over an hour away. It’s a rare blend of seclusion and connection.”
A Legacy Property for the Next Generation
2 Wallis Lane is more than a home—it’s a living artifact of New York real estate history, now poised for its next chapter. With its unmatched craftsmanship, stunning waterfront vistas, and dignified presence, Somerset is an extraordinary opportunity for the discerning buyer seeking permanence in a world of fleeting trends.
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As Bonnie Glenn told Luxury Houses, “This estate speaks to a time when homes were built to last for generations. Owning Somerset means inheriting a piece of history—and securing a future of timeless elegance.”