Sotheby’s International Realty

17 November 2016

n the high desert and foothills of Santa Fe, a reverence for the area’s distinctive Pueblo-influenced architecture — with its adobe walls, rugged ceiling beams, and organically curved Kiva fireplaces — is generally de rigueur.

But when the Houston-based owners of this rolling 16.61-acre estate site set out to build a vacation compound for the family, they set aside convention and began to design a truly elegant Southwestern manor, regal in its proportions and decidedly Old World in inspiration.

Over time, fittings and fixtures both new and antique were carefully chosen and collected from across the country and Europe — from sconces and chandeliers to mirrors and doors with hand-painted accents.

Walnut, hickory, and mesquite woods were reclaimed. A third-generation German stonemason was enlisted to craft mantels for the home’s 13 fireplaces as well as sinks, range hoods, and exterior seating.

Slabs and tiles of cool Jerusalem stone made a long overseas journey to arrive, eventually, in the Sangre de Cristo foothills.

The home’s floor plan was designed to span a generous 14,000 square feet. Naturally, then, dimensions throughout are regal and grand, yet every space feels inviting and welcoming, stateliness and well-curated finery notwithstanding.

Magnificent living and dining rooms form the core of the formal entertaining spaces, but not far off is a convivial kitchen and family room with abundant counter and cabinet space, a fireplace, a breakfast area, a roomy covered patio, and an awe-inspiring uninterrupted view of the mountains.

Bedroom suites for owners and guests are secluded in private wings and include sitting areas and lavish baths. Storage is abundant, from the finished basement to the oversized garage.

Enveloping the residence is vibrant landscaping — mature aspens, numerous fruit trees, irises, roses, grasses, and a vegetable garden — that provides inspiring color for much of the year.

While the three-lot estate is securely gated and includes an array of relaxing outdoor living areas as well as a charming, very private two-bedroom guesthouse, the land offers additional building sites, affording the opportunity for expansions and additions. Horses are also welcome here.

$13,650,000 | 117 Tesuque Ridge, Santa Fe, NM 87506