Historic Elegance

A luxurious Indian Hill Estate Home

Photos Courtesy of Sibcy Cline

Set on 23 sprawling acres in Indian Hill, this Colonial Revival home stands out with its beauty and historical significance. Designated as an Indian Hill Historical Society landmark property, the nine-bedroom residence with seven en-suite baths was designed by architect Guy C. Burroughs in 1928 for Bernard Kroger, founder of The Kroger Company. Part of the original Kroger Farm, the gracious and private estate was constructed for Bernard’s daughter Helen Kroger and her husband, Rudolf Homan.

While rooms originally intended as chauffeurs’ and maids’ quarters are now passé, the present owners have made updates that preserve the home’s story by maintaining original textured wall finishes and door hardware. A long, tree-lined driveway with white-board fencing leads to the main home. Crossing the threshold and into the grand foyer, one is quick to note gleaming quarter-sawn hardwood floor and custom sconces, and a chandelier made by Ted Gantz. A large, wide-side staircase leads to the second level.

Head back into the home to reach the formal dining room where a Waterford crystal chandelier, beautiful moldings, and Dutch-style doors lead to a stone patio with a scenic view of the rear acreage. The expansive great room is located off the main hall and boasts an original beamed wood ceiling, detailed wood finishes, and seating within a bay window. The wood-burning fireplace is the perfect place to gather during colder months. The gracious light-filled living room is notable for its quarter sawn hardwood floors, a fireplace with marble surround, and a white beamed ceiling and paneled wall.

Kimball Derrick designed the updated kitchen to meet today’s needs while retaining elements of Old World charm. The handcrafted vent hood features a tiled, patterned motif, while the inlaid backsplash wall below has old-style tiled images of food and flowers. Scores of built-in features and top-grade appliances from brands including Sub-Zero, Dacor, and Asko, make this room a chef’s dream. There are two warming ovens, a six-burner gas cooktop, and two dishwashers and microwaves. An expanse of windows fills the breakfast room with light. Nearby, a cozy family room incorporates custom built-in shelving.

The library’s exquisite solid wood craftsmanship displayed in its paneling, built-ins, and fireplace surround hearken to a past era. A Dutch door leads out to a covered veranda whose well-thoughtout layout and airflow provide a peaceful and comfortable space for enjoying the outdoors.

In the second-floor owner’s suite, French doors lead to a private balcony with sweeping views, while a separate sitting area with a gas fireplace adds to the opulence. The owner’s bath has an oversized, tiled shower, a double marble sink, and heated marble flooring. A “closet room” makes dressing a joy with a built-in vanity and mirrored closet doors.

Outside are two large patios and an intimate portico to enjoy. A pathway leads down to the “playhouse,” as reflected in the 1929 blueprints, as well as a heated 30x60 pool. The playhouse has a newly remodeled full kitchen and his and her changing rooms with showers to meet today’s living needs. A 36x38 great room with a tall, woodbeamed ceiling and slate floor is ideal for entertaining. The playhouse is heated and air-conditioned, and when temperatures begin to dip, there are two large fireplaces to enjoy.

A 41x24 four-car heated garage with a tool and workshop room is an appreciated detail for this estate. Offering peace of mind, the property has a full-property natural gas generator. Gardeners will appreciate a landscape dotted with meticulous gardens and stately trees, while equestrians enjoy a host of enviable amenities, including direct access to the Indian Hill riding trails. A 12-stall barn presents a trio of tack rooms, a walker area, and a riding arena with convenient pasture turnout to several acres. Nine rolling acres of pasture at the front of the estate offer an additional turnout option. A pair of 12x48 bays at the front of the stables can accommodate tractor, boat, or carriage storage. A cool-down area, two walking arenas, and two open stage areas round out the equestrian amenities.

Provenance and privacy are hallmarks of an estate that offers the one-of-a-kind appeal presented by a historic home combined with thoughtful updates that make it conducive to modern family life.