Architect Bertrand Goldberg’s 1952 Creation ‘The Snyder House’ Seeks $14M on Shelter Island

Shelter Island’s “Snyder House” is a renowned home in the area, designed by the one-and-only Bertrand Goldberg for John Snyder, the CEO of the Pressed Steel Car Company. At the height of the mid-century modern movement, the property came alive in 1952 and was, and still is, seen as a design marvel. Rare and enticing for architectural lovers searching the East End for something special, the modern now wants $13.95 million.

Per the late and great Chicago-born architect’s website, after the home’s construction “a man-made beach became a landing area for amphibious airplanes used to transport onlookers between New York City and the ‘demonstration house.’” It was something people flocked to see and today it retains that midcentury style while welcoming 21st-century living. A renovation in 2002 by the home’s current owners kept the architectural integrity while adding high-end updates. Incorporating natural elements such as flagstone flooring and a fireplace anchored in stone, theses choices give a warm touch to the clean feel of glass and steel throughout.

Goldberg’s primary goal with this project was, in fact, all about the materials, seeking “to create a design that would make a commonly invisible building material visible and take the stigma out of plywood.” Adding cozy flair, plywood can be seen in many of the 6,000-square-foot home’s main areas.

The heart of the home contains beautiful living and dining spaces, which then branch off into separate wings. To one are the home’s accommodations, containing six bedrooms and five bathrooms. A separate entrance to the primary suite through the deck creates the ultimate escape, complete with stunning views and a luxurious spa-like bathroom. Of course, the water can be seen wherever you are.

While the home has its own private beach and 235-foot deep personal dock, there is also a 74-foot heated saltwater pool for breezy dips. For a chance to own an integral piece of Shelter Island architecture, Nick Brown of Sotheby’s International Realty holds the listing.