Realty Check: What $700K Gets You on East 86th Street

As an up-and-coming architect, David Snapp liked to push the envelope with forward-thinking notions, often incorporating elements from minimalist Swedish design into his projects. That same ambition influenced the look of his own contemporary hillside manor and studio in 1976, though some scoffed at his vision.

Snapp built the three-story, red cedar, post-and-beam–style home on densely wooded land, towering 80 feet above Mud Creek near Geist. “That’s a big hill for Indiana,” he says. Three major drop-offs surround the property, so his 7,200-square-foot spread and standalone studio were completely constructed from one side. “Some people thought I had rocks in my head,” he says. But he notes that the challenges were well worth the seclusion and expansive views showcased through the structure’s 84 mammoth windows.

Few homes on the market now will top the sprawling orientation of his main living spaces. The master suite stretches across the entire third floor, and the two-story family room flaunts a lofty fireplace while anchoring a deck and wraparound porch that overlooks the two-acre lot. Twelve years ago, Snapp added 1,600 square feet when he expanded his studio. The vast space also boasts a red spiral staircase and wall cutouts befitting a modern-day Stockholm loft. Yet, this innovative hilltop estate nestles perfectly amongst lush Indiana woodlands. “It was ahead of its time,” Snapp says.

Want to buy it?
Address: 9501 E. 86th St.
List price: $699,000
Agent: Nathan Slabaugh, Nathan Alan Realty
Phone: 317-201-0049

This article appeared in the April 2014 issue.