196 Route 202, Far Hills, NJ 07931

Exquisitely Restored Overleigh Estate Located in Far Hills, Overleigh is among the grandest of the Somerset Hills estate properties. This spectacular Shingle-style residence began life as a simple 19th century farmhouse and was transformed into a magnificent mansion around the turn of the last century by noted author and attorney, John M. Dillon. Over the course of about ten years, Dillon added three gracious wings and expanded the central portion of the home, replete with elaborately-mantled fireplaces, stained glass windows and exquisitely handcrafted woodwork. In a sad turn of events, Dillon’s grandson, Milton S. Dillon, tore down several wings of the home in keeping with the demands and styles of the post-WWII era. Happily, Overleigh's story does not end there. In the 1990s with the help of old photographs, oral history from the Dillon family, and an astute architect, the current owner meticulously recreated two of the three original wings, thus restoring the mansion to its earlier glory. In recognition of his fine work, the owner of Overleigh received an historic preservation award from the Cultural and Heritage Commission of Somerset County. Fast forward to the present day and it’s clear that Overleigh has retained all the splendor of an earlier era, with a flowing floor plan of six bedrooms, six full baths and two powder rooms. The residence is centered on ten gloriously landscaped acres accessed by a long, paved drive that winds past a dramatic reflecting pool. A side portico connects to the attached three-car garage. Extra thought was put into impressive design features such as richly-toned wood-paneled walls, deep crown moldings, lustrous hardwood floors, hand-carved staircase details, colorful stained and leaded glass windows, majestic fireplace mantles, handsome built-ins, unique lighting and access to open and covered verandas. The central portion of the mansion is arranged on three levels, and the top floor has a fully-equipped five-room apartment. Indeed, the stately architecture recaptures its Gilded Age grandeur while incorporating 21st century amenities throughout. A special variance has been granted by the town allowing a portion of the building to be used commercially; that variance transfers to the next owners. As such, the left wing is currently used as office space with a small kitchen. Renderings are available for a future chef’s kitchen should the next buyer choose to install one. Thanks to the present owner’s expansive restoration and expert eye for historic detailing, Overleigh and its surrounding acreage once again exudes the grandeur of a bygone era, though it behaves very much like a modern-built home.