On Saturday, May 12th, architect and historian Anderson Kenny will lead a morning walking tour of Bronxville's Lawrence Park hilltop for a program called "Breakfast with Mr. Bates." Organized by Bronxville agents Susan Kelty Law, Rita Steinkamp and Megan McSherry, the event will center around the neighborhood's homes designed by William Augustus Bates, the creative right hand of developer (and Houlihan Lawrence founder) William Van Duzer Lawrence.

It couldn't be more timely as we celebrate our company's 130th anniversary. These very homes were our raison d'être: Houlihan Lawrence started as the sales and marketing arm for these marvelous homes, two of which are currently listed for sale:

7 Valley Road

To the common passerby, 7 Valley might simply be a textbook Shingle Style home, albeit an exceptionally beautiful one. But to true apostles of architecture, this 1902 residence epitomizes the adventurous creativity Bates was known for. Upon entering the home via Dutch door, one is immediately released into a grand two-story entrance hall. Surrounding this center hub are an octagonal paneled library, living room with music alcove and a stone-walled sun room. Arguably the most brilliant space of all is the dining room, occupying the full height of the home's turret. A curved bank of stained glass windows soar towards an ornate painted ceiling, with a minstrel's balcony and a chimney breast paneled in milled hardwood.

 16 Park Avenue

Completed in 1908, 16 Park sits at the edge of one of the hilltop's coveted remaining yellow brick roads (which Kenny was instrumental in restoring), which offers an easy cut-through to the Bronxville School field and, a short distance further, the village tennis courts. The home's large, arched windows and stone terrace beckon spectacular views of the village below. The upgrades to the home have been effortless. All the early-20th century elegance remains, augmented by a striking modern kitchen, Sonos sound system and lower level game room that's an entertainer's dream. A spacious landscaped backyard completes the package.

The tour will begin promptly at 7 Valley Road, Bronxville, at 10:00am. Park by 9:45am at our historic headquarters (4 Valley Road) to be escorted up the hill.