The Grace Estate, a unique blend of luxury and environmental conservation, boasts thirty-two exclusive homes spread across 623 acres of pristine beachfront, upland forest, and wetlands. This preserved coastal area, safeguarding Northwest Harbor—a vital breeding ground for shellfish and finfish along the Atlantic Seaboard—has become a sought-after destination. The spacious lots and dense woodlands offer unparalleled privacy, transforming each property into a personal sanctuary.
The Grace Estate community’s unwavering dedication to environmental protection is a testament to East Hampton Town’s 40-year commitment to preserving this natural treasure. Nestled in Northwest Woods and flanked by Gardiner’s Bay and Northwest Harbor, this expansive tract is a living testament to the town’s conservation efforts. The property encompasses diverse ecosystems such as white pine forests, wetlands, ponds, and scenic trails, inviting residents to embrace an environmentally responsible lifestyle.
The town acquired the land in 1985 for $6.3 million, following extensive public debate and a groundbreaking referendum. The Nature Conservancy contributed $500,000 to the purchase. Reflecting on the decision, former East Hampton Town Councilman Randall Parsons noted, “The town was at a crossroads. Subdivision applications were looming, but the community united to preserve this natural treasure.”
The Grace family owned the Grace Estate, a testament to the power of community and conservation, since 1910. In 1981, developer Ben Heller and his partners acquired the 623 tract of land with plans for hundreds of luxury homes. The town felt it posed a significant risk to the area’s ecological and cultural heritage. Therefore, grassroots movements like the East Hampton Town Baymen’s Association, Northwest Alliance, and the Committee to Save the Grace Estate rallied support for preservation. Despite legal battles, the town emerged victorious, securing the Grace Estate as a public resource. Over the past decades, the Grace Estate has evolved into a beacon of conservation and sustainable land management.
The Grace Estate enclave offers a unique mix of seclusion and accessibility. About one hundred acres were designated for homes, with strict limits on lot and structure sizes to preserve indigenous plants and wildlife. These stately homes blend seamlessly with their natural surroundings. Despite their seclusion, the homes are just a fifteen-minute drive from both East Hampton and Sag Harbor, providing a balance of peace and convenience.
Waterfront homes on smaller lots offer breathtaking sunset views over Northwest Harbor, while homes on two parallel streets to the water sit on four or more acres, featuring over six thousand square feet of interiors but limited to 9000 square feet within the enclave. These building restrictions have protected the local environment from strain for the past forty years, maintaining high water quality standards. Strict regulations on tree removal also protect the woodlands and its inhabitants.
Nature trails in the area offer excellent bird-watching opportunities, and common dolphins are often seen in Northwest Harbor. The historic Cedar Island Lighthouse, visible from many waterfront homes, adds to the area’s charm. All homes in the Grace Estate have easement rights from North Bay Lane to the beach on the harbor.
With most homes held for many years and little turnover, the Grace Estate remains a highly desirable and exclusive community, blending luxury living with environmental stewardship
Written in partnership with Tom White.
