Kentucky Homes & Gardens July 2024, Mallard Hall Estate
1. Mallard Hall stands majestically under a clear blue sky, showcasing its elegant blend of historical architecture and modern enhancements. The white facade, accentuated by black-framed windows and surrounded by lush greenery, reflects the timeless elegance of its late 18th-century origins. The expansive, well-manicured lawn leads to a circular driveway, welcoming visitors to explore the grandeur within. The seamless integration of the original structure with the newer editions highlights the meticulous attention to detail in preserving the estates historical charm while accommodating contemporary luxuries.
Mallard Hall is a prime example of historical preservation merged with modern luxury, situated in the heart of Kentucky. This grand estate, originally constructed in the late 1790s, has undergone a meticulous renovation to blend its rich history with contemporary comforts. Annette Vitale, the proprietor and driving force behind this transformation, shared the story of Mallard Hall, its significance, and the challenges and triumphs of its renovation.
Mallard Hall’s journey began over two centuries ago. Initially a Federal Style farmhouse, it has witnessed Kentucky’s evolution through the Civil War and beyond. The estate’s historical significance is recognized by its listing on the National Historic Registry, a testament to its quintessential architectural elements. Annette recounted how she discovered the dilapidated estate during a casual visit with friends and family and was instantly captivated by its potential.
“Eleven years ago, while hosting a girls’ weekend with family and friends, we stopped by the then-dilapidated estate, which I had passed by many times,” she said. “We decided to take a closer look and found an ajar door, so naturally, we let ourselves in for a self-guided tour. I could see then that this home had once been something special and could see the potential given some love and money.”
Fast forward a decade, and Annette’s vision came to fruition. After purchasing the estate in October 2019, she embarked on a three-year journey to restore and elevate it, preserving its historical essence while infusing modern luxury.
Mallard Hall spans approximately 12,000 square feet and includes eight bedrooms, eight full bathrooms, and three half baths. The expansive layout provides ample space for both intimate family moments and grand social events. The estate’s design thoughtfully integrates historical elements with modern amenities, ensuring a unique and luxurious experience for all guests.
Annette’s passion for design and remodeling and her incessant desire to learn drove her to take on this ambitious project. Originally from Michigan, Annette moved to Kentucky 23 years ago. She is a registered Dietitian and spent 26 years working in medical nutrition sales before retiring in 2017 to spend more time with her family, including her wife, Tonya Miller, and their two children, Vinnie and Ren. A self-taught real estate investor, Annette has spent the past 10-12 years renovating and remodeling homes.
“Before taking on this project, I was the sole business owner, contractor, painter, plumber, landscaper — you name it, I tried to tackle it!” she said. “As you can imagine, this project was VERY different. One of the critical challenges was finding and building reliable subcontractor relationships.”
The renovation process was challenging. Annette faced numerous obstacles, from sourcing appropriate materials to ensuring the cohesiveness of the design throughout the estate.
“The estate has seen many changes, from its origins dating back to the 1790s, through the Civil War, to hosting prominent Kentucky politicians and eventually becoming a homestead and legendary Saddlebred farm in the 1980s,” Annette said. “I wanted to maintain and highlight the historical aspects of the original home while honoring the transitions of the estate over the past 200 years and maintain a cohesive design throughout.”
With the help of Niki Zdanow of Arden Haus Designs, Annette Sourced many antiques and architectural design elements to ensure a cohesive feel throughout the home. This included 11-foot-tall European wood sliding doors, 200-year-old hand-hewn beams in the grand corridor, and an antique vanity and lead glass window in the Mallard half bath.
​
One of the most remarkable aspects of Mallard Hall is how modern amenities have been seamlessly integrated with historical features. The estate boasts luxurious features such as whole house surround sound, heated flooring, a steam shower, and an EV charger.
Kentucky Homes & Gardens July 2024, Mallard Hall Estate
2. The grand staircase inside Mallard Hall is a striking architectural feature that exudes elegance and sophistication. With its graceful curves and intricate detailing, Staircase leads the eye upwards to a modern chandelier that illuminates the space with a warm, inviting glow. The use of neutral tones and classic design elements creates a timeless look, while the high ceilings and abundant natural light add to the airy, open feel of the interior. This space perfectly captures the blend of historical charm and contemporary style that defines Mallard Hall.
​
3. The serene pond offers a picturesque setting for relaxation and contemplation. Framed by lush greenery the pond features a central fountain that adds a dynamic element to the tranquil waters. A charming brick walkway leads to a cozy seating area adorned with elegant potted plants, inviting guests to unwind and take in the peaceful surroundings. The miniature replica of the estate in the pond adds a whimsical touch, making this spot a delightful retreat for quiet reflection and casual gatherings.
​
4. The outdoor pool area epitomizes luxury and leisure. A beautifully tiled patio surrounds the expansive pool, providing ample space for sunbathing and outdoor dining. Umbrellas and comfortable seating areas offer shaded retreats perfect for enjoying the sunny weather. The adjacent building, with its large windows and modern design seamlessly integrates with the landscape’s natural beauty. This space is ideal for intimate family moments in larger social events, offering a perfect blend of comfort and elegance.
Kentucky Homes & Gardens July 2024, Mallard Hall Estate
5. The kitchen combines functionality with refined aesthetics. The spacious layout features a large island with ample seating, making it a perfect spot for casual meals and socializing. The white cabinetry and light countertops are complemented by the island's warm wood tones in the range hood’s rustic charm. High-end appliances and thoughtful design details ensure that this kitchen is beautiful and highly practical, catering to the needs of everyday cooking and entertaining guests.
6. The intimate dining room offers a cozy yet elegant setting for meals and gatherings. Dark, rich tones dominate the decor, greeting a warm and inviting atmosphere. The room's focal point is the beautifully crafted fireplace, flanked by built-in shelves displaying curated art and collectibles. A statement chandelier adds a touch of glamour, while the large windows allow natural light to enhance the room's ambiance. This space is perfect for hosting sophisticated dinner parties or enjoying a quiet meal with family.
​
7. The game room offers a lively space for entertainment and relaxation. A sleek pool table takes center stage, inviting guests to enjoy a friendly game while natural light floods the room through expansive glass doors. The view of the sparkling pool outside enhances the inviting atmosphere, making this an ideal spot for socializing. The decor is accented with striking horse portraits, adding a touch of personality and a nod to the estate's historical equestrian connections.
​
8. Mallard Hall’s office exudes calm and sophistication, making it an ideal space for focused work or quiet reflection. The room is adorned with custom shelving, showcasing a collection of decorative items and framed art. A cozy fireplace adds warmth, while the unique ceiling mural depicting a pastoral scene with birds adds an artistic touch. The combination of classic and contemporary elements, along with the comfortable seating and elegant desk, makes this office a standout feature of the estate, offering a tranquil and inspiring environment for productivity.​
Kentucky Homes & Gardens July 2024, Mallard Hall Estate
9. The poolside bar area provides the perfect setting for casual gatherings and refreshments. This indoor-outdoor space features a convenient garage-style window that opens to the patio, seamlessly connecting the bar with the pool area. The stone walls and patterned tile floor create a rustic yet modern vibe, while the bar itself is equipped with all the amenities needed for a great time, including a wine fridge and stylish bar stools.
10. The primary bedroom combines comfort and style and a spacious layout. With a cozy sitting area by the fireplace, this room offers retreat within a retreat. Large windows allow natural light to fill the space, highlighting the neutral color palette and tasteful decor. The bed, with its elegant canopy, serves as the focal point, providing a luxurious yet inviting place to rest and rejuvenate.
11. The primary bathroom is a spa-like sanctuary featuring a freestanding tub and vintage fireplace. The mix of modern and classic elements, such as the marble tiles and antique mirror, creates a unique and relaxing atmosphere. Soft lighting and natural accents enhance the tranquil atmosphere, making this bathroom a perfect place to unwind and indulge in self-care.
12. Mallard Hall’s speakeasy-style lounge offers a cozy, intimate space for relaxation and entertainment. The long bar, with its sleek countertop and well-stocked shelves, invites guests to enjoy a drink in a comfortable setting. This room is adorned with artistic horse portraits and soft lighting, creating a warm and inviting ambiance. This hidden gem within the estate provides a perfect escape for both quiet evenings and lively gatherings.