La Fetra Mansion (New Jersey)

La Fetra Mansion located in Summit, New Jersey, United States is an architectural gem designed and built for industrialist H. A. LaFetra of the Royal Baking Powder Company by Henry Bacon (November 28, 1866 – February 17, 1924), architect of the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, DC. This Grand Mansion has been the home of industry leaders since 1899.

The home, with convert|7600|sqft|m2 of living space on the first two floors, was featured in the September 1901 issue of the Architecture Magazine, has been one of the premier properties in this area for over a century.

Upon entering the perfectly proportioned entry foyer, one sees four fluted Corinthian Columns framing the elegant space, which was the first of many Henry Bacon signitures that continue subtly throughout the residence. A unique, elegant, stunning, yet simple and tranquil wall of "stained glass windows" casts gentle rainbowed lights on the expanse of vertical white wall surfaces of the grand-stairs landing, exemplifies the balance of design, style, quality of materials and great attention to detail that were used in the construction of this extraordinary home.

The Mansion was meticulously renovated and tastefully updated from 1991 through 2002, with utmost priority in maintaining its integrity, quiet beauty, divine presence, and old world grandeur. A pair of elaborately carved solid oak doors on the south side leads to an expansive entry foyer over two floors in height at the rear, with marble floors and a large hanging chandelier. . To the north of the entry foyer is a large portico that overlooks beautifully landscaped grounds with mature specimen trees.

The "main staircase and hallways" are very wide creating a wonderful appreciation of space as you walk through this marvelous home.

The first floor has volume ceiling, antique tile work, wood scrolling and unique moldings. The grand, over-sized formal living and dining rooms offer splendid fireplaces with carved mantles, black chestnut paneling and coffered high ceilings in the living room, unusual detailed moldings and ornate leaded glass windows. Highlighted by extensive use of granite and custom furniture-style cabinetry, the modern but befitting kitchen also offers a large separate family seating area and entertainment center

References

*The American Institute of Architects
*The American Academy of Arts & Letters
*The Sotheby's
*Thomas,Christopher, the Lincoln Memorial and its Architect
*Thomas, Christopher, The Lincoln Memorial and American Life, 2002
*The Olin Library, Wesleyan University

Pictures From

*The Sotheby's
*The present owners, the Hendel family, 26 Ridge Road., Summit, New Jersey
*The Architectvre Magazine1901

Henry Bacon_Summit, NJ 1901_Front Entrance

Henry Bacon_Summit, NJ 1901_Back Entrance

Henry Bacon_Summit, NJ 1901_Main Staircase

Henry Bacon_Summit, NJ 1901_First & Second story plans

Architectvre Magazine 1901