A short-lived countryside retreat
Drew Barrymore is putting her historic Westchester, NY, estate on the market for $4.99 million, just two years after purchasing it for $4.4 million in 2024. The six-bedroom, nine-bathroom property sits on 12 acres and dates back to the 1740s, blending colonial-era architecture with modern upgrades completed during an extensive renovation led by the actress herself.
Barrymore, 51, initially envisioned the home as a peaceful escape from New York City, where she films The Drew Barrymore Show. Located in Harrison, NY, the estate offered a more accessible alternative to the Hamptons, cutting travel time to roughly an hour by car.
A renovation far larger than expected
What began as a cosmetic refresh evolved into what Barrymore described as a “complete internal gut.” Major systems—including heating, plumbing and air conditioning—were replaced. Structural changes were required to reconfigure the main level, particularly the kitchen, which was opened up to create a brighter and more fluid layout. Barrymore noted that redesigning the kitchen alone required a year of engineering work.
The property spans more than 7,200 square feet and features multiple fireplaces, expansive entertaining spaces and a great room with a dramatic 30-foot ceiling. The primary suite includes two bathrooms, a large walk-in closet, a sitting room and a balcony overlooking the grounds.
Design passion at the forefront
Unlike many celebrity homeowners who delegate design decisions, Barrymore personally selected much of the décor, furnishings and paint colors. She even lived in the house during early renovation stages, describing some of those stripped-down months as among her favorite memories.
The estate also includes a detached guesthouse with loft, living room, kitchen and bath, as well as a finished pool house. Outside, the grounds feature a gunite swimming pool and expansive wildflower gardens, offering privacy and space for entertaining.
Why sell so soon?
Despite the significant investment of time and resources, Barrymore explained that the renovation timeline outpaced changes in her family’s needs. By the time construction concluded, the countryside retreat no longer aligned with her lifestyle priorities.
The listing, held by Kori Sassower and Brian K. Lewis of Compass, describes the property as “a rare legacy estate where every room has been thoughtfully reimagined.” Notably, the 12-acre parcel has already been subdivided into five lots, creating potential development or resale opportunities for a future buyer.
Whether the sale marks a pause in Barrymore’s renovation ventures remains unclear. For now, the estate stands as a restored historic compound blending 18th-century charm with contemporary comfort.
