Kessler Mansion (Indianapolis, Indiana)

 residence, estate (manor / mansion land)

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www.kesslermansion.com

Thirty years ago, homeowner Jerry Hostetler bought a nondescript ranch house in an ordinary Indianapolis neighborhood. Over the subsequent 30 years, Hostetler purchased lots adjacent to his property until he owned a compound spanning five acres and consisting of more than five separate buildings. Claiming his inspiration from the Roman Gothic style, Jerry designed the buildings and landscaping without any architectural or topographic plans. Every day or two, Jerry presents his building crew a new plan; the only blueprints are for legal building permits, with amendments occurring along the way.

The unusual exterior features custom-made and variously shaped windows, animal lights and gargoyle fixtures, as well as a Hawaiian-looking cabana that overlooks a 195,000-gallon swimming pool. Inside, the dining and reclining area near the kitchen is illuminated by more than 20 chandeliers and contains cabinets of Hostetler's own design. Also evident is a massive art collection consisting of glass, crystal, Lucite, antique, Lalique and contemporary pieces. The West wing once complete, was to serve as an entertainment area for guests. Surprisingly, although the total square footage is somewhere between 45,000 and 50,000, this house boasts only one bedroom for its eccentric owner.

It was sold in 2006 or 2007 after being put up on the market as a result of Hostetler being ill.