Listing Description
Along Chicago's famed North Shore rests an extraordinary masterwork blending classic architecture with timeless details and of the moment luxuries. This expansive family home was inspired by a 19th century mansion and feels like a romantic European vacation, every day. Originally erected in 2006, and recently refreshed in 2023, this stunning property is not just a home; it's a testament to the quality craftsmanship and expertise of a famed North Shore builder who spent over 3 years crafting his own residence. Situated just steps from Lake Michigan with lake views, in a quiet Highland Park cul-de-sac, this home is a bold statement of luxury and sophistication. Nestled on nearly an acre, this estate boasts an expansive 12,000 square feet of living space with soaring ceilings, hidden playrooms, pecan paneled club room, gardening room, nanny quarters, and guest rooms. The exterior is fashioned from an interplay of brick and hand-cut limestone, and crowned with a distinguished Vermont slate roof. The pebble-strewn circular driveway, combined with a secure gated entrance and a porte-cochere, ushers you into a heated 5-car wainscoted garage. Once inside, you'll find the natural stone and wood flooring throughout, with 6 oversized wood-burning fireplaces, arched doorways, and barrel ceilings. Outdoors, secluded family gatherings start on the covered veranda which steps down to a 45' heated pool, with a sun shelf, fountains, and a playful slide. A large fire pit offers warm conversation on cool evenings. There's even room for a pickleball court. Channel your horticultural passions with the vegetable garden, twine-covered pergola with swings, rose garden, and mature landscaping wrapping the property, the vision of the renowned landscape architect, Douglas Hoerr. The heart of the home is its massive epicurean kitchen that combines restaurant efficiency, and commercial quality with family comforts designed for a serious cook. Expansive space meets functionality with 2 islands of marble and walnut countertops, an arched cooking cove that houses all Wolf and Viking appliances, 4 ovens, 8 burners, an infrared BBQ grill, a Salamander, a French cooktop, warming drawers, and under counter steamer. The stainless steel door is the entrance to a walk-in-commercial refrigerator storing cases of water and wine to entertaining trays, bulk food, and flowers. The home offers an oversized family room just off the kitchen, an expansive dining room, connecting wine-tasting room, and a sun-drenched conservatory with 360 views of natural light -each graced with its own fireplace, creating the perfect ambiance for relaxation and entertainment. Offering 8 distinct ensuite bedrooms which include 9 full bathrooms, every space tells its own story with balconies and custom walk-in closets. The primary suite, a haven in itself, features a wood-burning fireplace, walk-out balcony, and 2 separate luxury baths with connecting showers, towel warmers, steam showers, jacuzzi, effervescent air tub, and custom closets. A personal elevator takes you from the lower level to the 3rd floor bedrooms. The finished 5,000 sq ft lower level family room features a home theatre, 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, with a cabana bath having direct access to the pool, massive storage, and a kitchen for entertaining. Additional amenities include a massage room, a home gym, homework stations, and a playroom. This builder's own home is a rare find. Immerse yourself in a home where history and luxury converge in perfect harmony with today's buyer in mind. Don't miss the opportunity to make this exceptional property your forever family home. Schedule a private showing today and experience the epitome of refined living crafted by a master builder.