Stockbridge is considering a significant modification to a special permit dating back to 2014 concerning the historic Elm Court estate. On December 4, 2023, the Stockbridge Select Board convened to discuss a proposal from a team of professionals seeking to amend the existing permit for the property, which is home to the notable 1886 Gilded Age mansion designed by Peabody & Stearns.
The Elm Court estate, located at 310 Old Stockbridge Road, has a storied past. Originally commissioned by Emily Thorn Vanderbilt and William Douglas Sloane, the 55,000-square-foot residence was significant in U.S. history, serving as a venue for discussions that contributed to the Treaty of Versailles and the establishment of the League of Nations. However, despite its grandeur, the property has faced challenges, with three previous attempts at restoration failing since its abandonment.
The proposed amendment from the Vanderbilt Berkshires Estate LLC (VBE), purchased by Linda Law and Dr. Richard Peiser in December 2022, seeks to transform Elm Court into a wellness resort, restaurant, spa, and residential community. The development plan would include the construction of freestanding single-family homes, 218 parking spaces, public walking trails, and restoration of historic landscape features. The proposal aims to dedicate 35 acres—40 percent of the 89-acre site—to conservation and recreation while potentially developing 25 acres, or 28 percent, for residential use.
Jonathan Silverstein, attorney for the developers, emphasized that the amendment aligns with Stockbridge’s Cottage Era Estates bylaw, which allows for the development of historic properties while ensuring their preservation. The updated project will reduce the number of guest rooms from 112, as outlined in the original permit, to 74, and will introduce 38 resort residences that were not part of the initial approval.
Steve Benson, CEO of VBE, highlighted the potential financial benefits for Stockbridge, projecting an increase in the town’s tax base by between $2.6 million and $3.7 million, the creation of 85 to 105 jobs, and an uptick in local spending of approximately $2.2 million to $2.3 million annually. Additionally, the project could contribute $1.7 million to the local affordable housing trust.
The traffic impact study conducted during the summer indicated a slight increase in vehicular traffic during weekday mornings, though overall vehicle trips during peak hours were expected to decrease due to the reduced number of hotel rooms. Project architect Pamela Sandler stressed the urgency of moving forward with the development to preserve the remaining structures of the estate.
The proposal is set to be reviewed by the Planning Board on December 16, 2023, at 18:30. Planning Board Chair Kate Fletcher noted the importance of addressing the details of a project of this magnitude. In a letter to the Select Board, Leslie Glenn Chesloff from William Pitt Sotheby’s International highlighted the proposal’s potential to increase tax revenue and support local businesses.
Despite the support, concerns have been raised regarding the appropriateness of amending the original special permit. Lenox resident Michael Lucia expressed skepticism, arguing that the inclusion of residential components represents a fundamentally different land use than originally approved. Others, including Old Stockbridge Road resident Steven Greene, suggested that a new permit application should be considered due to the significant changes proposed.
The Select Board’s discussion will continue on January 22, 2024, at 18:30. As the board weighs the potential benefits against concerns from the community, the future of Elm Court hangs in the balance.
