The Story Behind
Tudor Grandeur on Ten Private Acres in Lake Forest
This magnificent Tudor estate represents the pinnacle of early 20th-century American architecture, where time-honored craftsmanship meets contemporary luxury across nearly 6,000 square feet of meticulously restored living space. The home's century-old bones showcase the finest materials of its era: rich walnut paneling flows seamlessly through formal rooms, while original ceiling moldings and ten-foot ceilings create perfect proportions for both intimate gatherings and grand entertaining.
The marble foyer sets an elegant tone, leading to a symphony of distinguished spaces. The living room's soaring ceilings and period details create an atmosphere of refined grandeur, while the formal dining room features original leaded glass windows and a commanding fireplace that anchors seasonal celebrations. Perhaps most striking is the south-facing cypress-paneled library, where natural light streams across custom built-ins and frames sweeping vistas of the estate's award-winning gardens.
Altounian builders have masterfully updated the culinary heart with a chef's kitchen that honors the home's heritage while embracing modern functionality. White shaker cabinetry, granite surfaces, and professional-grade appliances surround a generous island that naturally draws conversation. The thoughtful design seamlessly connects to the family room through a graceful pool breezeway, creating effortless flow for daily living and entertaining.
Upstairs, four en-suite bedrooms provide private retreats, crowned by a primary suite featuring luxurious appointments and expansive closet space. Above the four-car garage, a vaulted three-room suite currently serves as a wellness sanctuary with yoga studio and exercise facilities, though its flexible design accommodates myriad uses.
The outdoor entertainment complex rivals the finest resorts, centered around a brick-bordered pool and spa where multiple seating areas accommodate thirty guests. A pergola-draped dining terrace houses a complete stainless steel kitchen, while an outdoor fireplace extends evening gatherings under the stars. Every detail reflects thoughtful design, from the seamless indoor-outdoor flow to the carefully orchestrated sight lines that frame the estate's natural beauty.
Lake Forest stands as one of Chicago's most distinguished North Shore communities, where tree-lined streets and historic estates reflect over 150 years of careful planning and architectural significance. Founded in the 1850s as a planned community for Chicago's elite, Lake Forest was designed with generous lots and preserved natural landscapes that continue to define its character today. The city's commitment to preserving its historic charm while embracing modern amenities creates an unparalleled lifestyle just thirty miles north of downtown Chicago.
The community's educational excellence centers around Lake Forest College, a prestigious liberal arts institution that brings cultural richness and intellectual vitality to the area. Top-rated Lake Forest High School consistently ranks among Illinois's finest public schools, while numerous private academities provide additional educational options. The nearby Ravinia Festival, North America's oldest outdoor music festival, offers world-class performances throughout the summer months in nearby Highland Park.
Lake Forest's Market Square, designed by Howard Van Doren Shaw in 1916, represents one of America's first planned shopping districts and continues to serve as the community's charming downtown core. Boutique shops, fine dining establishments, and professional services create a walkable village atmosphere that complements the residential tranquility. The nearby Deer Path Inn, a historic luxury hotel, exemplifies the area's commitment to refined hospitality and serves as a gathering place for the community's social calendar.
Recreational opportunities abound with Lake Forest Beach providing private lakefront access for residents, while numerous forest preserves and the Lake Forest Open Lands Association maintain hundreds of acres of natural habitat. The Chicago Botanic Garden lies just minutes away, offering 385 acres of gardens and natural areas for year-round enjoyment. Golf enthusiasts appreciate proximity to prestigious clubs including Onwentsia Club and Lake Forest Country Club.
The area's natural beauty is perhaps its greatest asset, with mature oak forests, restored prairies, and the Lake Michigan shoreline creating a sense of sanctuary despite the proximity to urban amenities. Commuter rail service provides direct access to Chicago, while O'Hare and Midway airports remain easily accessible for national and international travel. This perfect balance of natural serenity, cultural sophistication, and urban connectivity continues to attract discerning residents who value both privacy and access to world-class amenities.
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