Just 40 minutes from downtown Louisville, the Shelbyville property known as Briar Rose Estate offers a peaceful escape that feels far removed from city life. Set across 50 acres of rolling hills, the estate features a pool, guest house, and a serene atmosphere.
“It’s neat, fun, peaceful, (and) inspiring,” said Matt Case, who co-owns the property with his sister, Madison. The siblings, part of the third-generation Case family, transformed the once-neglected manor into a luxurious retreat.
Family-fueled revival
The name Briar Rose was given by James Burwell, who handled many renovations in the 1970s and 1980s.
“There were a bunch of briar patches and roses,” Matt explained, noting the home was originally built in 1841 and once covered nearly 300 acres.
Over time, several additions were made before the Case family purchased the estate in 2014. While the foundation remained solid, extensive renovations were needed.
“It wasn’t usable (or) very inviting,” Matt said. “It was kind of haunted housey.”
The family restored the brickwork, refinished ceilings, repainted every room, installed new lighting, restored original floors, and renovated all bathrooms.
Matt led the overall vision and layout, while Madison focused on interior design, furnishings, and lighting. Their mother and stepfather also contributed significantly, assisting with tiling and ongoing maintenance.
“(It has) sentimental value to me,” Matt said, recalling his first experience at the estate during college. With help from family and friends, he once prepared the home to host a large group in just 60 days. “Those are stories (with) generational legacy.”
Rooms that feel worlds away
The library stands out as one of the most striking spaces in the home. Featuring built-in shelves filled with vintage books and leather-bound classics, it also includes an original working fireplace adorned with equestrian decor and bourbon bottles.
“For me, the library is the penultimate,” Matt said. “(It embodies) the vibe, and the grandeur, and the history of what this place is. People don’t build libraries anymore.”
Connected to the library is the “green room,” known for its deep forest-green walls and ceiling. Tall French-style windows allow natural light to pour in while offering sweeping views of the landscape.
The dining room is equally dramatic, with deep wine-red walls and matching doors that create a cohesive, enclosed aesthetic.
“Cheers to my sister on wanting to go bold — not traditional,” Matt said. “When you’re in here at night, it’s like, where am I? Am I in a castle in Italy?”
Other spaces continue this theme, including the upstairs “blue room,” which features a large terrace with panoramic views of the property.
Property with purpose
The estate also includes redesigned outdoor areas with designated spaces for events such as receptions and cocktail gatherings. When not in use by the family, the property is available for rent on Airbnb and hosts weddings, retreats, and corporate events.
Horses from Willow Hope Farm, the Kentucky Humane Society’s horse rescue and adoption facility, are permanent residents on the property.
“My mom is an animal/nature/horse junkie,” Matt said, noting the estate includes a 42-stall horse barn. “Anytime they need extra space, we take them. It gives her joy, taking care of them.”
Matt added that renting the property is less about profit and more about upkeep.
“If it just pays for its existence, I’m happy,” he said. “It’s meant to be enjoyed.”
Nuts & bolts
- Owners: The Case family
- Home: Six bedrooms, four-and-a-half bathrooms, 6,500 square feet
- Location: Shelbyville, Kentucky
- Year built: 1841
Distinctive features:
- 50 acres of rolling hills
- Modern amenities with historic charm
- Spacious living areas and fully equipped kitchen
- Library with historic book collection
- Bold interior design elements
- Fishing pond, pool, gazebo, and 4.5-acre lake
- Horse farm with a 42-stall barn
The Case family credits numerous contributors for helping bring the estate to life, including contractors, local businesses, and extended supporters who became part of the journey.
Leave a Comment