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Steps away from the mighty Hudson river is a house arguably as medicinal as tea. Born out of a 19th century craze for octagonal homes in the United States, this domed structure is a whimsical treat for any visitor, but it once was on the verge of collapse.
The unusual shape of the Armour-Stiner House most likely was inspired by phrenologist Orson Squire Fowler, whose 1848 book “A Home for All” swept the nation. Phrenology, a pseudo-science mainly using brain and skull shape to determine a person’s medical traits, became a popular area of study in the early 1800s. Fowler’s book argued that the octagonal shape would be best the design for light, ventilation, mental and physical health, and even encourage morality (who knew square homes were sinful!).
Built originally for New York financier Paul J. Armour, the famous multi-story dome and veranda we added later by the home’s second tenant, tea merchant Joseph H. Stiner. Using the home as a weekend excursion away from the city, Stiner and his family also added the pink and red exterior colors to the home. Passing through a couple of owners in the ensuing decades, by 1975 the home had suffered structural damage and was at risk of demolition.
Purchased by conservationist Joseph Lombardi in 1976 (who still owns the home today), the Octagon House was restored back to its 1870s glory. While still a private residence, the building offers public tours throughout the year, so many can enjoy the home’s “healing” powers. In an homage to O.S. Fowler himself, multiple phrenological objects and heads litter the rooms of the Armour-Stiner, including the very Victorian-styled Egyptian Room.
Wrapping up a tour of the home and its meticulously designed gardens, it’s not hard to believe the estate does have restorative powers–at least for the soul.
