Welcome to Newport!
Jay Leno and his wife Mavis have bought Seafair from Rick Bready for $13.5 million. The purchase of the iconic Ocean Drive estate was made under the name of Mavis House LLC.
Since 1936 iconic Seafair has reigned over its gated oceanfront peninsula. Built to compliment the curve of the coast, the crescent shaped residence boasts expansive ocean views from every living space. Of sturdy rubble-stone construction with limestone quoins and a slate roof, Seafair has embraced every aspect of its dramatic oceanfront site for over seventy years.
A gated entrance to the long estate drive introduces the nine acre estate. In addition to the main house, the manicured grounds are home to an ocean-facing pool, a carriage house, expansive terraces, a walled garden, a tennis court, a six-car garage and a beach from which to swim or kayak.
On the first level, double steps to the formal entry hall welcome one to the thoughtfully preserved residence. Original features include a main salon and formal dining room with Louis XVI details, a grand staircase featuring Directoire-style wrought-iron railings, and French doors leading from the main salon to the enclosed seaside loggia. The home further benefits from an impeccable chef’s kitchen that is open to informal living space, a paneled library and a den with full bath. The upper levels are comprised of eight en suite bedrooms, a pool room and ample storage. The luxurious master suite amenities include a sitting room, his and her walk-in closets, an ocean front terrace, a marble bath, and a fireplace. Seafair is served by two elevators, central air conditioning, a service kitchen, and a full service, on demand generator.
History
The estate, originally known as Terre Mare, was designed by James Mackenzie, Jr. for Denver mining heir Verner Zevola Reed Jr. who became the vice-president of Chase Manhattan Bank and in 1981 was appointed Ambassador to Morocco by President Reagan. Mackenzie, a New York City – based architect noted for his residential designs, was also engaged for the 1949 improvement program for the Statue of Liberty.
In August 2014 Seafair played host to a DCCC fundraiser headlined by President Barack Obama.
