Château El Masr, a Fine Architectural Masterpiece and a true testament of Art and Real Estate

Cologny, Geneva - With rich architectural provenance dating as far back as the 18^th century, Château El Masr, is a unique example of Neo-Tudor style property in Geneva. Enjoying a picturesque setting amidst 5,500sqm of landscaped gardens, and with stunning views out to the city and Lake Geneva, Château El Masr offers a refined sense of seclusion. 

El Masr meaning “the Egyptian” impresses with its dramatic medieval castle-like design and detail. The property’s distinctive feature is its medieval turret, adjacent to the main residence, leading up to a fortified tower terrace adorned with crenels and machicolations, affording great views to the city and Lake Geneva. 

Encompassing over 1,000sqm the property’s living areas span three floors featuring eight bedrooms and seven bathrooms. A double marble staircase graces the main entrance of the residence which opens up to an impressive entry hall; a sumptuous living-room fit for formal entertaining, a library-room and kitchen are also located on the same level.  

The first floor of the residence is occupied by the master bedroom graced with French doors leading to a beautiful terrace. Further up, on the second floor three more bedrooms and a bathroom are found, with a circular staircase connecting up the turret. A study is conveniently tucked in the tower-like, round space, benefiting from ample natural light and magnificent 360 views from its multiple windows.

The regal interiors and exterior of the house are adorned with exquisite elements, including bespoke fine chandeliers created exclusively in Murano, marble fountains and statues imported from Venice in order to maintain consistency of the architectural style. The property’s additional features include a water fountain, a seigniorial chapel and a xxth century, three storey tower which is one of only three like this in Switzerland and the only accessible one with a tea parlor on the xx floor. The Tower was built identical to the Champel Tower by the first owners, the Demierre family.

At the end of the 19^th century the property was bought by Scotsman Charles Floods who gave the property it’s current name El Masr, as he had just returned from Egypt where he made his fortune.  Keeping the tower, he invited architects, Bourrit and Simmler to build a half Gothic, half Oriental style chateau in 1883-1884, which he named El Masr.

Giles Hannah says, “Château El Masr is a testament to fine craftsmanship, both inside and out, an exceptional opportunity with exciting architecture; it’s old world elegance and dedication to perfection certainly appeal to the discerning eye.”

The property underwent intense renovations which lasted for three years. From the columns to the roof, everything has been renovated with great care, respecting each detail in order to perfectly maintain the Neo-Elizabethan style, which was very popular in Great Britain at the time of the initial construction of the Château . Craftsmen from Murano in Italy, were brought over to work full-time in order to revive it to the highest standard possible, no expense was spared in restoring the building. The care of the work is evident throughout the lavished, detailed interiors including high decorative, hand-painted ceilings. 

Sheila Sklar from Sociéte Privée de Gérance Finest Properties says, “This property represents a rare opportunity to own a landmark site in Geneva, offering the most stunning views I have seen in my entire 23 year long career…” 

Cologny, is on the left bank of Lake Geneva, and one of the eight towns juxtaposing the city of Geneva forming primarily a residential area with villa-style residential housing, including the Geneva Golf Club. Since the 18th century, Cologny has been home to some beautiful country houses.