Richard Gere’s former estate in New Canaan, Connecticut, has been demolished to make way for a luxury development. The actor, along with his wife, Alejandra Gere, sold the expansive 32-acre property for $10.75 million in October 2024 before moving to Spain. The new owners plan to transform the site into a nine-property luxury development, according to reports from PEOPLE.
Before the demolition, salvage experts from Hudson Valley House Parts worked diligently to recover architectural elements from the historic home. Founder Reggie Young expressed gratitude for the opportunity to preserve some of the estate’s treasures, stating, “We recently checked in and the house has been taken down. We are grateful that the buyers allowed us time to salvage and get everything out.” The salvaged items include vintage fixtures, ornate woodwork, and original stonework, which were preserved in collaboration with Delaware Valley House Parts in New Jersey and Green Circle Auctions.
Gere acquired the property in 2022 from musician Paul Simon and his wife, Edie Brickell, reportedly with intentions to develop it into a working farm. However, the couple’s plans shifted as they opted to relocate to Madrid to be closer to Alejandra’s family. Gere stated in an interview with Vanity Fair Spain in April 2024, “She was very generous in giving me six years living in my world, so it is only fair that I give her at least another six living in hers.”
The demolition has sparked controversy, particularly from Lulu Simon, daughter of Paul Simon. She took to social media to voice her frustration, accusing Gere of breaking a promise to preserve the land. In an Instagram post, Lulu stated, “He bought my childhood home. Promised he would take care of the land as a condition of his purchase.” Her posts included a scathing message, suggesting that Gere would face consequences for his actions.
The original mansion, built in the 1930s, was scheduled for demolition in May 2024. Following the couple’s move to Spain, they settled in Madrid with their two sons, Alexander and James, aged six and five, respectively. Alejandra also has an 11-year-old son, Albert, from her previous marriage, while Gere has a 25-year-old son, Homer, with ex-wife Carey Lowell.
The transformation of the estate marks a significant shift in the history of the property, which held sentimental value for many, including Lulu Simon. As the plans for a luxury development move forward, the site will soon reflect a new chapter, leaving behind the memories associated with Gere’s time there.
