Denver Historic Estate Lists for $10.75 Million

A historic Tudor Revival estate located at 575 Circle Drive in Denver's Country Club neighborhood has been listed for $10.75 million, positioning it as the second-most expensive residential property currently on the market in the city. This significant property, built in 1931, was originally commissioned for Mason and Dorothy Lewis by architect Henry S. Koch and constructed by the F.J. Kirchoff Construction Co. for a sum of $38,000. Mason Lewis, a partner at the law firm Lewis and Grant, resided in the home with his wife for approximately three decades. His father, Robert E. Lewis, served as a judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 10th Circuit, underscoring the distinguished lineage associated with the estate. The residence itself boasts six bedrooms and approximately 10,000 square feet of interior living space, designed with a blend of classic Tudor Revival exterior elements, including custom brickwork, masonry, and half-timbering, and interior details featuring art deco influences. The property's unique setting, described as offering an "English countryside estate" feel within the city, is highlighted by listing agent Katie Hoster of LIV Sotheby’s International Realty as a key feature contributing to its iconic status and rarity on the market. The home has undergone renovations and additions over the years, including by the Gallagher family who added rooms over the garage and updated the interior. Its most notable former owner is Tom Shane, the founder of the Shane Co. jewelry chain, widely recognized as "the diamond king." The estate has maintained its original craftsmanship and charm nearly a century after its construction, presenting a rare opportunity for new ownership. The home's historical context is further enriched by recollections from Mason Lewis's daughter, Sally, who shared memories of a gentler Denver era in Alice Millett Bakemeier's "Country Club Heritage: A History and Guide to a Denver Neighborhood." These anecdotes paint a picture of the neighborhood's past, including the presence of milkmen delivering by wagon and local cinema-going habits, such as attending films at the Hiawatha theater, now known as the Esquire Theater. The architectural details, such as hand-carved millwork and art deco accents, are preserved throughout the interior spaces, including a dedicated library and study area, contributing to the home's enduring appeal and historical significance.