Richard Gere’s former estate in New Canaan, Connecticut, is undergoing a dramatic change. The classic 1938 Colonial home is being demolished to make way for a nine-lot subdivision. Developer SBP Homes bought the 32-acre property for $10.75 million in November 2024.
Public reaction to the news was immediate and mixed. Many expressed sorrow over the loss of such a historic structure. One user wrote,“What a shame. That was one beautiful home.”Others criticized the developers, accusing them of valuing land over heritage.
According toRealtor.comon May 23, 2025, the land will be split into lots between 2.2 and 4.8 acres. These vacant plots will be sold for new home construction. Once complete, this will be the town’s largest subdivision project since 2007.
Before demolition, Hudson Valley House Parts stepped in to salvage key architectural features. The team saved oak-paneled rooms, stone mantels, nautical bay windows, and the original entryway.
Founder Reggie Young expressed regret:“It’s a real shame the house is being torn down. Once the stuff is gone, it’s never coming back.”Still, he emphasized that serious buyers appreciate quality design and craftsmanship—and that salvaging materials helps the environment.
Gere bought the property from singer Paul Simon and Edie Brickell in 2022. He had planned to turn the land into a farm. However, those plans changed when he and his wife, Alejandra Silva, chose to move to Spain.
The home’s formal front entrance included a classic Colonial portico and fanlight window above the door | Source: Instagram/hudsonvalleyhouseparts
Richard and Alejandra now live in Madrid with their sons. However, they don’t plan to stay forever. According toThe Daily Mailin April 2025, the couple intends to return to the U.S. within a few years.