Hidden among 1.48 acres of established gardens and mature specimen trees in the historic waterfront enclave of Belle Terre, 6 Arbutus Path is a magnificent 1906 Country Georgian estate, rich in architectural character and distinguished by more than a century of remarkable ownership. Once the weekend retreat of New York fashion icon Eleanor Lambert, the residence is a celebration of early American craftsmanship, classical design and an enduring appreciation for the arts. A home where history is not simply remembered, but beautifully preserved within its walls. Original columns introduce a grand entrance foyer with nearly 11-foot soaring ceilings, porcelain floors and a hand-painted mural, while a graceful circular staircase adorned with leaded glass evokes the elegance of another era. Beyond, an extraordinary collection of living spaces unfolds, where original Douglas fir flooring, intricate period detailing and expansive windows create a compelling dialogue between the home’s historic architecture and its natural surroundings. The great room is an architectural centerpiece, distinguished by a dramatic 20-foot bay window, original leaded glass and a magnificent 9-foot antique pier mirror. An adjoining mirrored wall reflects the ever-changing scenery of Port Jefferson Harbor, passing ferries, wooded landscapes and brilliant evening sunsets. Two working fireplaces anchor the home’s gathering spaces, while a richly appointed library lined with custom built-ins provides an intimate retreat. Designed for gracious entertaining, the substantial country kitchen features dark cherry cabinetry, granite countertops, a generous center island, 48-inch Sub-Zero refrigeration and a professional 60-inch Dynasty six-burner range with double ovens. French doors open toward the freshwater pond, inviting the tranquility of the gardens into the heart of the home. Three private en-suite bedrooms offer a wonderful balance of comfort and individuality, including a principal suite with an architect-designed marble bath, circular Jacuzzi, open shower and an extraordinary 15-foot expanse of windows overlooking the harbor. A newly constructed, architect-designed 700-square-foot loft brings the main residence to approximately 4,800 square feet, introducing a serene sanctuary with a bathroom finished in Jerusalem Gold marble and red cedar, with skylights and picturesque pond views. Beyond the main residence, a separate guest cottage offers two bedrooms, a full bath, living room and complete kitchen above a heated two-car garage with room for an additional third vehicle storage and a dedicated landscaper’s bath. The grounds are equally captivating: an original covered veranda, expansive wraparound deck, century-old fluted columns framing a slate terrace, a Roman garden, original stone barbecue and a freshwater pond create a series of intimate outdoor destinations. An integrated indoor/outdoor sound system and walk-ability to both Harbor and Sound beaches further complement the estate’s coastal lifestyle. The property’s remarkable lineage includes shipping-line figure Emmett J. McCormick; Eleanor Lambert, whose influence helped shape the modern American fashion industry; H. Lee Dennison, Suffolk County’s first elected County Executive; and Diane Pirozzi, editor and publisher of the Three Village Herald. An enduring testament to the artistry and ambition of Belle Terre’s earliest estates, 6 Arbutus Path is more than a residence. It is a living piece of North Shore history, where architecture, landscape and legacy have converged for generations.
