Newport's 'Ker Arvor' Listed for $12 Million

NEWPORT, RI— Newport's “Ker Arvor” is for sale. The Harrison Avenue property is described as an historic U-shaped Louis XV Revival House modeled after La Lanterne, Versailles. Its name means "seaside." The listing price is $12 million.

“Ker Arvor” is a significant Newport estate that has been restored by the present owner, according to the realtor Lila Delman Real Estate International. Designed by Russell and Clinton of New York, the estate was built between 1931-1933, It served as the summer residence of Snowden Andrews Fahnestock (1886-1962). “Ker Arvor,” meaning “littoral” or “seaside,” was named after the French village where the owner’s regiment was quartered during the war, and was inspired by the architecture of France of the period of Louis XV.

"The landscaped grounds of over 9 acres provide privacy with award-winning gardens featuring an 1840 fountain, a heated pool with an evening water feature and outdoor areas for entertaining,” said Kate Leonard, the sales associate.

Highlights include re-created hand painted Chinese wall coverings, hardware imported from France, and some of the original 18th century floors. It also has modern amenities, such as central air (8 zones), an elevator, 3-car attached garage, and pool house with a kitchen and separate men’s and women’s sections. The east wing serves as a guest suite/staff quarters. The property is listed on the National Register of Historic Places inventory.

“This property offers the buyer a sanctuary near the sea, a place to enjoy life with family and friends. This presents an extraordinary opportunity to acquire a piece of Newport’s history,” Leonard said.