Former President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama made headlines when they purchased an expansive 29.3-acre estate in Martha’s Vineyard in December 2019. Situated on the picturesque Edgartown Great Pond, this property reflects the Obamas’ appreciation for serenity, nature, and luxurious comfort. Valued at $11.75 million, this home is a private escape located on one of the most exclusive and affluent islands in the United States.
A Look at the Mansion’s Lavish Features
This 6,892-square-foot home was designed by the renowned Taylor Lombardo Architects from San Francisco and built in 2001 by John Early, a well-known local contractor. The estate features seven bedrooms, eight-and-a-half bathrooms, and several stone fireplaces that add a rustic yet elegant touch to the interiors.
The house is designed for both family life and entertaining, offering large, open spaces that blend comfort with style. The living room, with its vaulted ceilings and galleried layout, opens up to breathtaking views of the pond and ocean beyond. Its neutral-hued decor, enhanced by natural sunlight streaming through the floor-to-ceiling windows, creates an airy, inviting atmosphere. The family room is similarly spacious, offering plenty of room to relax or host guests, while the expansive kitchen and dining area make the home ideal for both intimate family dinners and larger gatherings
The master suite offers a private sun deck and water views, providing the perfect retreat for the Obamas to relax after a busy day. The home also boasts two guest wings, ensuring plenty of privacy for visiting friends and family.
Outdoor Amenities That Reflect Nature’s Beauty
One of the highlights of the property is its extensive outdoor amenities. A spacious sun deck and screened porch with a fireplace offer panoramic views of the estate’s natural surroundings. The property also includes a large pool, a Jacuzzi off the second-floor balcony, a boat house, and private beach access with deeded rights, allowing the Obamas to enjoy their own secluded section of the shoreline.
Beyond the home’s immediate surroundings, the estate is rich in natural beauty. The land is populated with lush greenery, tranquil walking trails, and a private pond. The seclusion of the property ensures the utmost privacy for the family, with views of a barrier beach and the Atlantic Ocean adding to the sense of peaceful isolation.
Martha’s Vineyard: The Ultimate Retreat for Celebrities and Politicians
The Obamas’ decision to settle on Martha’s Vineyard is no surprise. The island has long been a summer haven for the elite, including past U.S. Presidents like Bill Clinton and John F. Kennedy. The island is renowned for its beautiful beaches, rolling landscapes, and exclusive atmosphere. The Obamas themselves had been frequent visitors to Martha’s Vineyard for many years, renting homes during the summer months before making the decision to purchase their own.
The property’s location, between Slough Cove and Turkeyland Cove, offers both historical significance and a sense of serenity. The land around Edgartown Great Pond has a rich history, with Native Americans having once lived in the area thousands of years ago. Artifacts like arrowheads and shell middens still occasionally appear along the shores.
The Purchase and History of the Estate
The estate was sold by Wycliffe Grousbeck, the owner of the Boston Celtics, and his wife, Corinne Basler Grousbeck. The Grousbecks purchased the land in 1998 for $3.1 million and built the house in 2001. Originally listed for $22.5 million in 2015, the property went through several price reductions over the years, eventually selling for $11.75 million.
Rumors about the Obamas’ interest in the property began circulating in the summer of 2019, when the family rented the house for several weeks before finalizing the purchase later in the year.
A Reflection of the Obamas’ Lifestyle
For the Obamas, this estate represents more than just a luxury purchase—it’s a place for family bonding, relaxation, and recharging after years in the political spotlight. Known for their love of nature and the outdoors, the property’s blend of seclusion and beauty offers them a private retreat where they can escape from the demands of public life.
The Obamas have hosted friends and family at their new home, continuing their tradition of gathering in beautiful locations like Martha’s Vineyard. The estate provides the perfect backdrop for these intimate gatherings, while its peaceful surroundings offer a much-needed respite for the former President and his family.
Conclusion
Barack and Michelle Obama’s Martha’s Vineyard estate is a testament to their refined taste and appreciation for privacy and natural beauty. With its luxurious features, historical location, and secluded atmosphere, the estate is truly a remarkable addition to the Obamas’ legacy. As they continue to spend time on this breathtaking island, the property will no doubt serve as a haven of relaxation, family memories, and cherished moments.