Conrad Black is joining the ranks of Baby Boomers who are choosing to downsize to smaller homes. The former media mogul is putting his 6.6 acre family estate up for auction in Toronto’s prestigious Bridle Path neighborhood.
The 23,000 square foot mansion features nine bedrooms, eleven full bathrooms and four powder rooms. Black purchased the home from his late father’s estate in 1989, and currently lives there with his wife, journalist Barbara Amiel. It has never before been on the market and has an estimated value of $21.8 million.
“It is a big house for two people. We will be abroad a good deal, and moving to a more manageable home will be a convenience to us now as our careers have evolved,” said Black in a statement released by Concierge Auctions, the New York-based real estate company behind the gavel. “Auction is the best way to achieve this end, as it sets the timeline on what will be, in physical terms, a large relocation.”
Located at 26 Park Lane Circle, the Georgian style mansion was designed by architect Thierry W. Despont. It was built in six phases and has been extensively renovated over the years. A winding driveway leads up to the home, which is surrounded by mature trees and shrubs. Inside, there is a three-story foyer with a grand staircase, detailed moulding and an ornate chandelier.
The formal dining room has played host to world leaders and celebrities alike, including Richard Nixon, Margaret Thatcher, Henry Kissinger and Sir Elton John. A two-story, two room library is replete with books, comfortable sitting areas and a fireplace. There’s also an indoor swimming pool, spa, chef’s kitchen, wine cellar, billiard room, media room, guest apartment, coach house and a chapel that has been consecrated by two Cardinals.
Real estate agent Barry Cohen of Re/Max Realtron Realty Inc. Brokerage will sell the estate in cooperation with Concierge Auctions on March 8th. Neither party has disclosed the reserve bid, but if you happen to be a paddle happy multi-millionaire, you can make an appointment with the auction house to tour the residence.
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