Billionaire Telecom Tycoon John McCaw’s $14M Idaho Compound Hits the Market

Published: July 6, 2017 | By: American Luxury Staff

John McCaw—who co-founded McCaw Cellular, the company that outflanked the 1980’s telecom industry at the dawn of the cellular age—is marketing his mountain retreat near Ketchum, Idaho for $14 million.

Fans of Nick Adams and the history of philosophical fly-fishing may recognize the place-name Ketchum; it marks a chapter in the American literary canon as Ernest Hemingway’s final home. McCaw’s estate is situated on the Big Wood River, and extends to 3.5 acres with water frontage.

The home measures 11,225 square feet, and sprawls out in a winged design. Some of the more notable details of the house include a modern interpretation of a porte-cochère entrance, an intricate carved limestone fireplace mantel, and abundant stone and hardwood.

The execution might be described as ‘modern lodge’; the rustic in the home is consistently balanced out by the lines and measured style of contemporary design. Mostly, though, it’s rustic, albeit self-consciously.

Most impressive features include the master suite—which features a private sitting room, a fireplace, and a spectacular master bath with full, elevated spa. The home also features impressive living and family room fireplaces, a walk-in wine cellar, a wet bar, a home cinema, a home fitness center, and discrete guest accommodations.

The property exterior features landscaping which takes full advantage of the home’s beautiful location, as well as spectacular views of Bald Mountain.

The brothers McCaw sold their cellular company to AT&T in 1994 for $12.6 billion.

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