Mark Megahan
The Castle at Smith Lake certainly has “character.” It’s already been reduced in price because the “surreal” house is “undeniably one of the weirdest residences in America, if not the world.” Perched on the edge of a hilltop ledge overlooking Alabama’s Lewis Smith Lake, it appears as an unpretentious cottage from the drive. The full effect can only be appreciated from the lake. Imposing walls of glass reciprocate by providing the homeowner with spectacular views from everywhere in the estate.
Modern lake-shore castle
“The modern castle was built in the 1980s from masonry and steel” so “there’s no denying it’s a real feat of engineering,” even if it is “one of America’s ugliest homes.” Some critics are calling the exterior “eclectic.”
They point out the “spine-like central column” supporting “sloping walls” and “random pockets of glass.” Then they grudgingly admit that it’s well engineered and rather cozy once you get used to it.
The roomy 4,974-square-foot property is arranged over four floors. No castle would be complete without “medieval-style design details throughout.”
All the furnishings are included in the price. Every bit of the custom tile work and “kooky built-in cabinetry” can be yours for the low, low price of only $4.9 million, through ARC Realty Mountain Brook.
It was recently reduced in price from the $5.2m they were asking when it went on the market in 2019. One thing is certain, the home comes with a major cardio workout at no extra charge. One trip from the boat house to the attic should burn off a steak dinner, with sour cream on the baked potato, worth of calories.
There are only four bedrooms but more bathrooms than necessary, including one built-in tub in the master suite “that has the appearance of a coiled snake.” There’s also a lofty “two-storey solarium with lake views.”
The Realtor notes the “iconic lakeside residence” embodies “luxury and exclusivity.” It’s also got a gate. From inside, the home “offers unparalleled 180′ views and a sense of privacy that only The Castle can provide.”
Custom architectural details
The design of a modern castle practically required creative shapes and angles. The main floor features an open kitchen and family room which “showcases custom architectural details, including one of the three fireplaces, and stone staircase.”
Awesome views, ever changing with the natural lighting, are omnipresent from “multiple open decks” and grass landings. There are also a gazebo and “grilling patio which provides multiple areas for relaxation and entertainment.”
At the foot of the castle along the lake, you and your guests can “indulge in the ultimate family lakeside experience with a boat dock, fish house, four boat slips with two lifts.”
The fortress also boasts “an expansive 8,000 sqft workshop, with 4 bays, 14×8 garage door, and full RV hookup.”
The size is negotiable on the parcel of land. The castle itself occupies just about 6 acres but the new owner has an option to purchase “additional waterfront and wooded acres” if that’s what they’re looking for.
According to the listing agent, “It’s still the most well-known house on the lake. It’s a destination. People go to look at it.” The original owner “was in the construction business, and the home took years and years to build.“
