Luxury Homes

Listed: For $6.5 million, a Newport estate known as the Ivy Tower

Inside the preparatory school turned private residence.

Measuring 7,373 square feet, the 9-bed, 8-bath (6 full, 2 half) property, which is set on 1.2 acres behind gates, features a stunning stone facade. George Gray, Marial Maher, Connection Street Media

By Megan Johnson -- Globe correspondent

May 9, 2023

533 Bellevue Avenue was built in 1887-1888 for Harriet Pond by J.D. Johnston, one of the most prolific architectural professionals working in Newport, R.I., at the time. While it served as a preparatory school in the 1950s, it soon returned to being a private residence.

“You’re essentially buying a piece of history,” said Marlen Oliva of RE/MAX Professionals, who has the listing.

Measuring 7,373 square feet, the 9-bed, 8-bath (6 full, 2 half) property, which is set on 1.2 acres behind gates, features a stunning stone facade.

Step inside to the grand foyer, which features an elegant sitting area and one of 8 fireplaces in the home, as well as a grand staircase. To the right is the formal living room, while the sitting room, or library, is on the left.

The library has intricate ceiling moulding and orange walls, picture windows, and built-in bookshelves. — . – George Gray, Marial Maher, Connection Street Media

The kitchen features a breakfast nook and a comfortable dining area, as well as proximity to the formal dining room which is located through the bar and laundry room area. You’ll find high, intricate ceilings and another fireplace.

A solarium off the kitchen serves as the perfect spot to relax in the sunshine. A second staircase nearby leads up to the second floor, which is home to several bedrooms including the luxurious primary suite. There, you’ll find a fireplace, a primary bathroom, and an oversized closet with extensive storage and an additional fireplace.

The third floor, which is reachable by the back staircase, features 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and an additional sitting room that could function as an extra office.

Outdoor swimming pool and patio. — . – George Gray, Marial Maher, Connection Street Media

The property’s outdoor space is also a tremendous asset. There’s a large swimming pool with a patio that’s ideal for entertaining. A full-size tennis court is ready for playing and is incredibly private behind trees. An additional half-bathroom and changing room are easily accessible off the patio under the home, and there’s also a two-car garage beside the pool.

But with other pieces of Gilded Age history surrounding it, Ivy Tower’s legendary backstory creates a timeless allure.

“Not only is it a historic landmark, but it’s also surrounded by history landmarks,” Oliva said. “Your neighbors are famous mansions, like the Rosecliff and the Marble House.”