Nick and Vanessa Lachey Swap Hawaii Home for an All-New SoCal Showpiece“As a UGA alum, I am honored to represent this distinguished landmark,” says Bonneau Ansley, who holds the listing at| Christie’s International Real Estate. “I’ve always marveled at the grandness and stately presence it has on nearly 5 acres in downtown Athens. It’s exciting that someone is going to breathe new life into this icon.
Built way back in 1856 by railroad executive John T. Grant and sold a year later to attorney and politician Benjamin H. Hill—hence its nickname, the Benjamin H. Hill House—the Greek Revival-style mansion was acquired in 1883 by First National Bank of Athens founder James White and then bequeathed upon his death that same year to his daughter, Mrs. W.F. Bradshaw.
Once inside, the stately columned home greets with a wallpapered entrance hallway displaying an ornate staircase and a vintage crystal chandelier dangling from a ceiling medallion. Dual crystal chandeliers and white marble fireplaces adorn a double parlor, and there’s also a fireside dining room enhanced with a landscape mural and a large kitchen sporting a center island, newer stainless appliances, and a butler’s pantry. Upstairs, the primary suite has its own balcony.