Clarens Estate, a historic Colonial home built in 1803, is nestled in Alexandria, on nearly four acres with scenic Potomac River views. This storied estate played significant roles during the Civil War and hosted notable figures such as Robert E. Lee and Jefferson Davis. Once home to U.S. Senator James Murray Mason, Clarens has been lovingly restored, blending luxury with rich heritage. The expansive 10,000+ sq. ft. residence features seven bedrooms, elegant architectural details, and a resort-style pool with a modern guesthouse. Listed at $9,950,000, this timeless estate offers a tranquil yet accessible retreat just minutes from Old Town Alexandria and Washington, D.C.

Estate Grounds Overview

A sprawling, historic American estate is set amidst expansive, vibrant green lawns bordered by manicured shrubs and brick pathways. The main house is a stately white colonial with dormer windows, black shutters, and multiple chimneys, exuding classic elegance. Several smaller brick outbuildings with metal roofs are scattered throughout the property, suggesting functional spaces like guest houses or garden structures. Mature trees and lush foliage frame the grounds, enhancing privacy and natural beauty. The layout reveals a harmonious blend of formal landscaping and open space, reflecting timeless charm and careful preservation of historic architectural style.

Historic Estate Exterior

A sprawling historic estate with a vast, manicured green lawn leading to a grand white colonial mansion featuring multiple chimneys and dormer windows piercing the gray shingled roof. The home’s symmetrical facade is marked by classic black shutters framing tall, multi-paned windows, with neatly trimmed hedges and flowering trees accentuating the entrance. A stone pathway runs through the lush grass towards several smaller outbuildings constructed of red brick, one enclosing a swimming pool area with a wrought-iron fence, evoking a timeless blend of refined elegance and pastoral charm amidst mature trees and spring blossoms.

Driveway Entrance

A stately brick driveway leads past classic wrought iron gates mounted on tall red brick pillars topped with elegant lanterns. The driveway curves and is bordered by dense, manicured green hedges that soften the transition from entrance to the home. Mature trees with spring foliage frame the view, while in the distance, a large white colonial-style house with multiple chimneys and dormer windows appears, creating a grand and inviting first impression. Two white, detailed ceramic planters with green shrubs flank the entrance, adding a touch of formality and charm to the historic estate’s exterior.

Historic Front Yard

A grand colonial-style house stands prominently behind a lush, expansive lawn with vibrant green grass. Mature trees frame the scene, contributing to the serene, natural setting. The home features white clapboard siding with dark shutters and multiple chimneys. A circular driveway curves gracefully, bordered by classic brick railings with ornamental pillars, guiding visitors towards the stately entrance. The porch is supported by columns and topped with a balcony, adding architectural interest and historic charm. Soft blossoming trees and assorted shrubs add color and texture, enhancing the picturesque and timeless aesthetic of the property exterior.

Historic Brick Courtyard

A wide stone pathway leads through a lush green lawn toward a walled courtyard with an impressive two-story brick building at its center. Flanking the pathway are two smaller gable-roofed brick structures, maintaining the historic colonial style with white-trimmed windows and doors. The courtyard walls are constructed with matching brick, crowned by two prominent pillars topped with classic lanterns. Mature trees and dense shrubbery provide natural framing, while wall-mounted planters add a touch of verdant charm. The entire space evokes a timeless, well-preserved historic American estate ambiance, blending natural greenery with classic masonry architecture.

Poolside Patio

A spacious rectangular swimming pool is centered on a large stone patio, bordered by six turquoise cushioned lounge chairs with black wrought iron frames, evenly spaced on either side. The pool area is enclosed by a red brick wall with matching brick pillars topped with lanterns, complementing the two-story red brick building in the background. The building features a slate-gray hipped roof, three tall windows with curved tops on the upper floor, and French doors with rectangular panes on the lower floor. Green trees and shrubbery surround the enclosure, enhancing the serene, classic outdoor setting.

Outdoor Patio and Pool

A spacious outdoor patio centered around a rectangular in-ground swimming pool, bordered by stone tiles with brick accents. A curved brick fire pit with visible flames is surrounded by seating, including cushioned chairs with blue upholstery and black metal benches. The patio extends toward a two-story brick pool house with tall, multi-paned windows and a metal roof. Mature trees and flowering shrubs enclose the area, adding privacy and natural beauty. The serene sky enhances the calming ambiance of this elegant outdoor living space designed for relaxation and social gatherings.

Outdoor Pool Area

A rectangular swimming pool sits centrally within a spacious stone patio, bordered by well-manicured green grass. Classic brick walls enclose the pool area, contributing to a historic and rustic charm that complements the surrounding landscape. Several turquoise cushioned lounge chairs are evenly spaced around the pool, providing vibrant color contrast against the neutral tones of the stone flooring. Mature trees and flowering plants, including a blooming cherry blossom, add seasonal beauty and privacy. In the background, a stately colonial-style home with chimneys and dormers reflects timeless architectural elegance, creating an inviting and serene outdoor retreat.

Garden Cottage Exterior

A small, historic garden cottage stands amid a lush green lawn dotted with irregular stone stepping paths leading to the entrance. The exterior walls combine exposed red brick with an aged, textured stucco finish, giving a charming rustic look. White-framed multi-pane windows and a glass-paned door are encompassed by brick surrounds, crowned by a semi-circular white trim with a decorative keystone. Pots with plants line a brick walkway to the left, and flower boxes adorn several windows. Climbing vines and mature trees frame the cottage, enclosed by a tall brick wall, enhancing the quaint, serene garden atmosphere.

Garden Patio Area

White brick exterior walls with black shutters accentuate the historic charm of the house. A narrow brick patio runs along the wall, furnished with wooden benches. Classic black lantern-style light fixtures add timeless elegance beside multiple French doors with brass handles, enhancing indoor-outdoor flow. A curved stone pathway winds through bright green, manicured lawn, inviting a stroll toward a sunroom at the rear with large multi-pane windows, framed in white. A vibrant cherry blossom tree in full bloom bursts with pink flowers beside a red brick wall, adding a striking natural focal point and seasonal beauty to the serene garden ambiance.

Outdoor Pool Area

An expansive stone patio surrounds a rectangular swimming pool and a separate circular hot tub in the foreground, illuminated with soft underwater lighting. The area is enclosed by a tall brick wall, creating privacy and a classic aesthetic. Several lounge chairs are arranged around the pool, suggesting a space for relaxation and sunbathing. To the left, a seating arrangement with cushioned chairs and a fire pit adds cozy ambiance. A two-story brick building with multiple French doors and large windows overlooks the pool area, complementing the historic charm of the outdoor setting. Mature trees frame the scene, enhancing the serene evening atmosphere.

Front Porch Entrance

A stately front porch with classical architectural elements features four white columns supporting the roof, framing the entrance. The porch ceiling is painted a soft blue-green, adding a subtle pop of color. The floor showcases a black and white checkerboard tile pattern that enhances the historic charm. White wooden benches with light-colored cushions are built into either side of the porch, offering inviting seating. Black iron railings border the wide, light stone steps leading up to the porch. Decorative topiary plants and two stone dog statues flank the white front door, which is adorned with a white floral wreath and diamond-patterned glass sidelights. Black shutters on all windows provide striking contrast against the white clapboard siding, all set amidst neatly trimmed bushes and a red brick walkway.

Front Porch Entrance

The front porch is adorned with a classic black and white checkered tile floor that adds timeless elegance. Crisp white walls with black shutters frame the windows symmetrically, complementing the colonial style. A rounded transom window with diamond-shaped panes crowns the white front door, which is decorated with a lush white floral wreath. Two sculpted dog statues flank the entrance, adding charm and personality. Ornamental topiary plants in stone pots sit nearby, paired with a white wooden bench featuring a soft teal cushion. A vintage bronze lantern hangs from the pale blue ceiling, enhancing the inviting atmosphere.

Entry Hall and Living Areas

Wide pine plank flooring leads into an inviting entry hall framed by white, classical columns and arches. The ceiling is highlighted by an ornate crystal chandelier and a painted floral border in blue and gold. To the left, a cozy sitting area features a marble fireplace with a floral wingback chair and an area rug with elegant motifs. To the right, a second fireplace is surrounded by built-in shelves filled with books; a rich leather armchair sits on a Persian-style rug. Walls combine pale yellow paint and patterned wallpaper, blending historic charm with refined warmth.

Living Room Fireplace

Soft yellow walls frame a traditional living room centered around an intricately carved stone fireplace with a rich green marble hearth. Above the mantel hangs a classic floral still life painting, flanked by decorative vases filled with tulips. A crystal chandelier illuminates the room, complementing recessed ceiling lighting. The floor showcases warm-toned hardwood topped by a large ornate rug in pastel blues, reds, and yellows. Comfortable upholstered wingback chairs and a matching sofa with floral patterns add a cozy, vintage ambiance. A piano occupies the far corner, while French doors open to a sunlit adjacent space, enhancing the home’s elegant charm.

Dining Room Details

A grand dining room with a rich, traditional aesthetic. The room is anchored by a large wooden rectangular dining table surrounded by elegant wooden chairs with cushioned seats set on a striking deep blue rug. The walls are adorned with yellow wallpaper featuring intricate floral and bird motifs, adding a vibrant yet classic touch. Floor-length yellow drapes frame tall windows, allowing natural light to fill the space. A crystal chandelier hangs from a white ceiling with a blue border, complementing the white crown molding. A white fireplace with a detailed mantelpiece anchors one wall, while antique wooden cabinets display china and decorative pieces, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Home Office Seating Area

Soft cream walls and intricate carvings along the crown molding frame the room with elegance. A rich, deep red Persian rug with bold geometric designs anchors the space, contrasting with polished hardwood floors. Two well-worn, caramel leather armchairs invite comfort near a classic white fireplace, complete with brass andirons and a fire burning warmly. Built-in shelves on both sides of the room display handcrafted pottery and books, hinting at a curated collection. A vintage desk with graceful, carved legs sits adjacent to a mustard-gold upholstered chair with delicate wood trim. Ornamental objects and greenery add character, highlighting a blend of historic charm and refined coziness.

Historic Kitchen Dining

A classic kitchen with bright yellow floral wallpaper bordered by a darker floral trim adds a warm, vintage touch. White cabinetry stretches wall-to-wall providing ample storage, accented with subtle brass hardware. The centerpiece is a wooden dining table surrounded by mismatched chairs, contrasting the cabinetry with their natural wood tones. A deep red carpet adds richness and color depth to the wooden plank flooring beneath. The white stove features ornate brass detailing matching the oven hood above. Large framed windows flood the room with sunlight, while a fireplace with a floral planter beside it enhances the charm and comfort of this historic kitchen.

Kitchen Dining Area

Bright and spacious kitchen with a historic touch, featuring white cabinetry with brass hardware extending to the ceiling, integrating built-in appliances including a microwave and a panel-front refrigerator. The coffered ceiling adds architectural interest and elegance, illuminated by recessed lighting. Natural wood floors with distinct grain patterns create warmth underfoot, complementing a long wooden dining table with mismatched chairs that adds rustic charm. Large double-hung windows provide abundant natural light and views of the lush lawn outside. A traditional stove with intricate floral details anchors the kitchen wall, alongside a white vent hood and tiled backsplash. A fireplace with a brick hearth and floral ceramic pot adds character, while framed botanical prints line the wall near the adjacent stairway entrance.

Living Room Seating Area

Bright cobalt blue walls bring bold contrast to this traditionally styled living room, anchored by a patterned dark rug with red and orange accents. Two mustard-yellow sofas flank a wooden coffee table topped with a polished stone surface, softened by floral-patterned throw pillows. Two upholstered armchairs in a blue geometric fabric complement the wall color, facing a white mantel fireplace adorned with classic gilt sconces and a framed mirror. Large windows with cream-colored drapes allow natural light to flood the room, highlighting the combination of vibrant color, classic furnishings, and elegant architectural detailing.

Staircase Landing

Wooden staircase with white balusters and a natural wood handrail winds upward, bordered by wallpaper with vertical green leaf and ribbon patterns on a soft yellow background. The landing floor is covered with a dark carpet featuring subtle light-colored dots. An elegant brass chandelier with glass shades hangs overhead, adding a refined touch. A white-framed doorway leads into a cozy adjacent room with polished wooden floors, filled with bookshelves holding delicate white china and decor. A small curved table with a floral-patterned lamp sits beside the doorway, enhancing the classic, vintage charm.

Upstairs Landing

The space is an upstairs landing area marked by elegant, high ceilings with detailed crown molding and soft beige walls. The floor is covered with a light blue carpet that extends up and down the visible stairs. A vintage wooden writing desk with intricate floral designs and a matching chair are positioned against one wall, complemented by a white lamp and a small potted orchid. Doorways lead to adjoining rooms, including one that reveals a classic black vanity and a richly patterned tile floor. White trim and classic brass door handles enhance the refined, historic ambiance.

Master Bedroom Fireplace

A spacious bedroom painted in soft beige with elegant white crown molding along the ceiling edges, creating a refined atmosphere. The centerpiece is a regal four-poster bed draped in floral-patterned bedding with matching pillows and a bed skirt that harmonizes with the soft blue carpet underfoot. Two antique wooden nightstands with brass handles flank the bed, topped with classic lamps. A small beige bench sits at the foot of the bed. Opposite, a warm fireplace with ornate wooden mantel and a gold-framed mirror above casts a cozy glow. Cushioned armchairs in muted red fabric add comfort next to a console table with floral upholstery, rounding out the timeless, charming décor.

Bathroom Bathtub and Steam Shower

A large built-in bathtub with white and beige marble surround is accented by polished brass fixtures, including a hand shower and faucet. The walls are painted a soft beige, complementing the natural stone tile extending to the floor. Two symmetrical green topiary plants in matching pots flank a decorative pillar with a candle, adding a touch of greenery and elegance. Above the tub, classical framed artwork with ornate gold details injects historical charm. To the right, a glass door with brass hinges reveals a steam shower featuring a detailed mosaic wall depicting an urn with clouds, blending artistry with modern luxury.

Bedroom Window Corner

Two large, white-framed windows with multiple panes allow natural light to fill the room, each adorned with floral blue curtains and valances that add a touch of vintage charm. The walls are painted a soft cream, contrasting nicely with rich, warm hardwood floors. A wooden four-poster bed with a light cream quilt and blue accent pillow sits near the windows. Beside the bed, a classic side table holds a lamp and a rabbit figurine, while a wooden cabinet and a white built-in bookshelf filled with decorative plates, bunny figures, and books complete the space with quaint, homely furnishings that reflect classic American country aesthetics.

Cozy Bedroom Interior

Four-poster wooden bed with crisp white bedding accented by deep blue pillows anchors the room, set against pale yellow walls creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. Matching richly stained wooden dressers flank the bed, each topped with ornate table lamps featuring classic ceramic bases. Large windows framed by heavy blue drapes with valances let in ample natural light, complementing the blue carpet underfoot. A vintage rocking chair with plush toys adds charm and softness. Traditional artwork, including a framed fish print above the bed and equestrian-themed paintings, enhances the room’s historic and timeless aesthetic. A large wicker chest at the foot of the bed adds practical storage and texture.

Bedroom Fireplace and Window

White walls and ceiling create a bright, airy atmosphere in this bedroom, complemented by classic crown molding. A brick and brass-trimmed fireplace provides warmth and historic charm, adorned with candlesticks, floral accents, and a framed landscape painting above. The hardwood floor contrasts softly with a muted blue area rug. Rich red curtains drape elegantly over a window with white trim, adding a bold splash of color. Traditional wooden furniture includes a chest of drawers and a matching bedside table topped with a glass lamp and plants. A vintage upholstered chair with a floral pillow completes the cozy, timeless aesthetic. A chandelier with blue accents and crystal embellishments hangs centered in the room, lending a touch of sophistication.

Sunroom with Garden Views

A bright sunroom lined with large windows on three sides offers an expansive view of lush greenery outside. The room has polished hardwood floors and a soft, patterned area rug in muted blues and grays complementing the deep blue curtains framing the windows and French doors. Two vintage brown leather armchairs add a warm, rustic touch while a white storage unit hosts several potted plants, enhancing the natural vibe. The ceiling is white with recessed lighting, leading into an adjoining room through an open door, visible with a glimpse of a bedroom beyond.

Bedroom with Blue Bedding

This bedroom displays a balance of classic and cozy elements, with an iron bed frame dressed in richly patterned blue bedding and matching pillows. White walls and ceiling create a bright, airy atmosphere, complemented by natural light streaming through two windows dressed in deep blue curtains that echo the bedding color. A wooden dresser with brass hardware and a matching nightstand with a vintage-style lamp add warmth and traditional charm. Hardwood floors with an oriental-patterned rug continue the historic feel. A black leather chair near the adjoining room introduces a subtle modern touch, while the open doorway reveals more natural light and blue curtain accents beyond.

Master Bedroom Sitting Area

Sloped ceilings and dormer windows create a cozy yet spacious bedroom atmosphere. The walls are painted bright white, complementing the natural wood furniture, including a classic slatted bed frame and matching three-drawer nightstand, topped with a round, earthy lamp. Patterned textiles like the red, black, and beige geometric area rug and a small rug near the sitting nook add warmth and color. The sitting nook in the distance has a loveseat, side table, and floor lamps, creating a comfortable reading or relaxation zone. A tall green potted plant by the window adds a natural touch to the crisp, clean space.

Elevator Entrance

A white paneled elevator door with gold hardware is framed by a doorway with matching white molding. The adjacent wall is painted a rich cobalt blue, creating a vivid contrast to the white. An orange leather chair with wood armrests sits nearby, adding warmth and a mid-century vibe. Above the chair, a black and white photo framed in white complements the crispness of the white molding. The flooring is natural wood, enhancing the blend of classic and contemporary elements. Light switches and thermostat controls are mounted to the vibrant blue wall, balancing functionality and style.

Living Room Fireplace Area

Exposed wooden beams create a warm, rustic ceiling in this living room. A large stone fireplace dominates one wall, with a wooden mantel displaying seashells and greenery, complemented by a coastal painting above. The room includes a mix of furniture: a blue sofa, patterned armchairs with blue motifs, and a wooden armchair with caramel leather upholstery. A soft, muted area rug defines the seating space on large, cream-colored stone tiles. The walls are painted a light beige, with two windows dressed in natural woven shades, balancing natural light and texture. A cream island with wood countertop and wicker drawers adds functional charm.

Spacious Master Bedroom

Bright and airy room with soft yellow walls and white ceiling beams that add architectural interest. Large French doors with elegant mullions open to an outdoor pool area, allowing natural light to flood the space. A blue area rug ties together the seating and sleeping areas. The four-poster bed with a wooden frame is paired with bedding in pale blue and green tones. A seating arrangement includes a floral-patterned blue sofa and two light green armchairs adorned with coastal-themed pillows. A ceiling fan with woven blades adds a hint of tropical charm.

Listing Agent: Jaci Appel of Washington Fine Properties, LLC via Zillow