Baz Luhrmann, the director of “Moulin Rouge,” faced a new challenge with “The Great Gatsby,” a movie adaptation of the novel by F. Scott Fitzgerald. The book is set in 1922, during the Roaring Twenties, a period known for economic prosperity and excess. For those who don’t remember ninth grade English, the narrator of the book, Nick Carraway, moves next door to Jay Gatsby, a mysterious millionaire who hosts extravagant parties at his Long Island mansion.
Recreating those parties has been a feat of imagination and research for Luhrmann. He told the Daily Mail that he toured homes in Long Island and reviewed thousands of photos from the era to ensure the movie feels authentic. The most recent trailer for the movie gives fans a glimpse at the stunning results, including an eye-popping party scene at Gatsby’s mansion.
When writing the novel, Fitzgerald drew inspiration from Oheka Castle, a hotel in Long Island that was once the second largest private estate in the United States, comprising 127 rooms and more than 109,000 square feet. Construction on the estate was finished in 1919 and cost $11 million dollars ($110 million dollars in today’s currency).
While there aren’t any Long Island homes on the market that are THAT extravagant, there are several mansions that may have inspired Luhrmann when he conducted research for the movie. Read on for more! If you don’t live in Long Island, check out the Redfin Collection called “Gatsbyesque Estates” to find similar homes in your area.
Midland, Muttontown, NY
List Price: $15,500,000
Beds: 6
Baths: 9
Listed by: Anna Alyskewycz, Douglas Elliman Real Estate
Built in 1923, this stately Muttontown estate embodies the elegance and grandeur of the Roaring Twenties. It was meticulously restored in 2004, which is evident in the ornate fireplaces, intricate ceilings, crown moldings, and antique furniture. Even the curtains and rugs embody the era. The main residence is more than 14,000 square feet, with six bedrooms and nine bathrooms; plenty of room for guests.
31 Fort Hill Dr, Lloyd Neck, NY
List Price: $11,700,000
Beds: 19
Baths: 12
Listed by: Maria Babaev, Laffey Fine Homes Intl
This majestic waterfront estate sits high on a bluff in Lloyd Neck. The property includes 1,800 feet of beach and a long wooden dock, similar to the home depicted in the movie. It was built in 1879 and retains many historical features and detailing, including leaded-glass windows, hand-painted murals, French doors, and marble fixtures and flooring. There’s a large formal ballroom for entertaining, and expansive English-style gardens on the property that add to the old-world feel.
Positano Pt, Sands Point, NY
List Price: $15,488,000
Beds: 6
Baths: 10.5
Listed by: Rita Varriale, Daniel Gale Real Estate
Although this Sands Point home was built in 2002, its custom detailing exudes old world luxury. It was built for lavish entertaining, with a grand dining room, wine cellar, and 20’s style bar. The 10,000 square foot home is right on the water, and includes a pool, putting green, and its own sandy beach. Its location on Sands Point offers views of Westchester and the north shore of Long Island.