The HISTORy & Legacy
OF THE ESTATE AT RIVER RUN
When you walk into The Estate at River Run, you’re stepping into a place shaped by vision, craftsmanship, and the kind of hospitality that never goes out of style. The mansion you see today was created in the late 1970s and 1980s as the personal estate of William Blair Massey — a home designed for beauty, gathering, and unforgettable moments.
The story of River Run is one of intention, artistry, and hospitality — and today, you’re invited to add your own chapter.
From private estate to celebrated venue,
this is the story of River Run.
A home created for gathering — now the destination for your most meaningful moments.
The Beginning of River Run Manor
The Estate’s story begins in the late 1970s, when Massey began assembling more than 62 acres of land along River Road West in Goochland County. He acquired parcels from neighboring landowners as well as seven lots from the new River Cliff subdivision — all to create an expansive property overlooking the James River.
His goal was simple and grand: to build a timeless home where he could host family, friends, and business associates with elegance and generosity.
Acquiring the Land + Crafting the landscape
The property’s acreage was carefully selected for its elevation, privacy, and breathtaking riverfront views — the same vistas your guests admire today.
Before a single brick was laid, the land underwent significant transformation in 1979–1980.
Truckloads of earth were brought in to build the high bluff, shape the terraces, and create the perfect setting for a stately mansion. Every elevation and grade was intentional, ensuring that the future home would capture the sunset over the James River through its windows and across its terraces.
The terraced hillside and elevated placement of the mansion were part of Massey’s vision — one that continues to define River Run’s magic today.
Bringing River Run
Manor to Life (1981–1987)
Construction of the mansion began in the early 1980s under the leadership of Taylor & Parrish Construction, known for their excellence in custom building. Over the next several years, the 22,000-square-foot Georgian Revival home took shape.
The result was a landmark of craftsmanship and architectural beauty.
Architectural Highlights
From the moment you arrive, the architecture of the Estate tells its own story. A grand brick terrace with a limestone balustrade overlooks the grounds, leading gracefully into a dramatic double curved staircase that links the upper and lower terraces. Inside, a soaring marble foyer welcomes you with twin sweeping staircases and 18-foot Corinthian columns crowned with gilded capitals. Custom crystal chandeliers anchor the main rooms, while ornamental plaster friezes and masterfully crafted moldings showcase the meticulous artistry that shaped the Estate into the Georgian-Revival masterpiece it is today.
Every detail was selected to inspire awe — and still does.
Design Inspired by English Heritage
The interior design of River Run Manor was entrusted to Diane Allard Saunders of Anne Woods Ltd. Interiors in Charlottesville. Drawing inspiration from historic English manor homes, she envisioned interiors that were both regal and welcoming — filled with layered textures, custom finishes, and timeless elegance.
SIgnature Details
Every corner of the Estate reveals a signature touch. Hand-glazed woodwork in soft neutrals and mahogany doors trimmed with classic egg-and-dart detailing reflect timeless craftsmanship. Look closely and you’ll find the oak leaf–and–acorn motif hidden in the cornices — a subtle homage to Mr. Massey’s personal symbol. Above the kitchen cabinetry, hand-painted fox-hunting scenes created by VMFA artist Bill Ryan bring character and charm to the space. Throughout the home, custom wallpaper, textiles, and furnishings were curated specifically for the Estate, ensuring that every detail feels intentional, authentic, and beautifully preserved.
The result was a residence that felt grand without feeling cold — designed for entertaining, hospitality, and warmth.
Rooms Designed
for Entertaining
At the heart of River Run are the spaces created to bring people together — rooms rich in architectural detail and perfectly suited for modern celebrations.
The Cameo Ballroom
Originally known as the Drawing Room, the Cameo Ballroom showcases an elaborate hand-molded plaster ceiling in the grand 18th-century English style. Look closely and you’ll find acanthus leaf scrolls, mythological figures, and hidden faces woven into the design — artistry meant to be discovered over time. Natural light fills the room, bouncing gently off the soft neutral palette to create an atmosphere of warmth and intimacy.
With three sets of double doors that open onto the terrace, this space transitions seamlessly outdoors — perfect for indoor receptions, cocktail hours, ceremonies, or intimate gatherings. The Cameo Ballroom was designed to feel timeless — understated enough to let your vision shine, yet detailed enough to elevate every moment spent inside.
The Wedgewood Ballroom
The signature room of the Estate, the Wedgewood Ballroom rises two stories high with sweeping views of the James River. Inspired by fine European china, the ceiling features delicate shades of “river” blue contrasted against intricate plaster designs reminiscent of 18th-century Wedgwood porcelain.
The room includes a musicians’ gallery wrapping around three sides, an English oak spiral staircase ideal for grand entrances, and gilded laurel-wreath chairs originally sourced from Castle Howard in England — famously featured in Bridgerton. A custom-designed crystal chandelier, paired with floor-to-ceiling windows, makes the entire ballroom glow from morning to sunset.
The Wedgewood Ballroom is ideal for wedding ceremonies, receptions, galas, corporate dinners, concerts, and large-scale celebrations — a true showpiece meant to be experienced.
The Tuscan Ballroom
Located on the ground level of the Estate, the Tuscan Ballroom offers a warm contrast to the grandeur above — designed to feel like you’ve stepped into an elegant European gathering space. Brick walls and hand-laid Italian marble create a richly textured environment, complemented by stone fireplaces that anchor the room with softness, warmth, and character.
Virgin heart pine floors were chosen with movement in mind — perfect for dancing the night away — while a built-in wooden bar allows for service from multiple sides, ensuring guests can flow easily throughout the room. A cozy wine cellar enhances the atmosphere and adds an old-world charm, ideal for cocktail hours, rehearsal dinners, welcome parties, or tastings.
With four individual restrooms, entertainment-ready wiring, and generous space for live music or dining, the Tuscan Ballroom is one of the Estate’s most versatile spaces — equally suited for intimate gatherings or lively celebrations. It’s a room made for connection, conversation, and the feeling of being somewhere unforgettable.
Furnishings With A Story
River Run is filled with hand-selected pieces chosen not only for their beauty, but for their heritage. Throughout the Estate, you’ll find furnishings and decor sourced from notable designers and fine dealers, each chosen to complement the architectural style of the home.
The custom dining table by Smith & Watson of New York offers a striking centerpiece for formal gatherings, accompanied by a silver and mirrored dining centerpiece curated from a renowned New York dealer. In the ballrooms, hand-carved and gilded gallery seating by Frederick P. Victoria & Sons adds refinement and historical charm, alongside the original ballroom chairs from Castle Howard — the famed English estate known widely from Bridgerton.
These elements bring texture, storytelling, and authenticity to the Estate, allowing every event to unfold within a space rich in character and legacy.
River Run Today
In 2019, a new vision for the property emerged when Kim and Andrew Moody saw what the Estate could become — not just a private residence, but a place to gather, celebrate, and create lasting memories. With deep respect for the home’s original architecture and story, they began the careful transformation of River Run into a premiere wedding and event venue.
Every update since has been made with intention — preserving historic elements while introducing the modern comforts today’s couples and clients deserve. From restoring original spaces to curating new event locations across the grounds, their goal has remained the same: to honor the craftsmanship of the past while opening the doors to the future.
We are especially grateful to William A. Cobb, who worked on the home as a design assistant to Diane Allard Saunders from 1983–1986. His knowledge and passion were invaluable in helping maintain the integrity and legacy of the Estate, ensuring its story could be shared with guests for generations to come.
The Making of The Estate at River Run
A Documentary
A huge thank you to our friends at MV Wedding Films for creating this special film about our journey!
Your Story
Begins Here
The Estate at River Run has always been a place where people gather, celebrate, and create memories that last. Now, that legacy continues through the weddings, events, and joyful moments shared by couples and families like yours.
When you step onto the terraces, look up at the chandeliers, or walk through the marble foyer, you become part of the Estate’s unfolding story.
Are you ready
to Write your chapter?
Let us help you bring your vision to life — with elegance, intention, and care.
