Tucked away on 1.4 pristine acres along a private lane just minutes from downtown Lake Forest, this stately French Normandy-style residence exudes timeless sophistication and exceptional craftsmanship. Custom-built in 1999 by Gene Martin, the home combines thoughtful design, solid construction, and luxurious finishes across more than 7,500 square feet of living space. The lime-washed brick facade welcomes you into a grand, two-story foyer with a sweeping staircase and herringbone oak hardwood floors. Flanking the entry, the formal living and dining rooms showcase exquisite millwork, floor-to-ceiling windows, Scalamandre window treatments, and twin gas fireplaces, creating an elegant symmetry ideal for entertaining. The de Giulio-designed kitchen is a chef's dream, featuring herringbone oak hardwood flooring, custom pine cabinetry, granite countertops, premium appliances (Viking, Sub-Zero, and Miele), a large island, and a sunlit breakfast area. Step down into the inviting family room, highlighted by a coffered ceiling, bay windows, and a stately, limestone fireplace. A handsome library with walnut built-in shelving w/ cabinets and access to a private patio provides an ideal home office. The main level also includes a spacious guest suite (or potential second primary bedroom) with a 14-foot tray ceiling, morning kitchen, and luxurious marble bath. A large, screened porch with a knotty pine, bead board ceiling and accessible via French doors from both the kitchen and family room, connects seamlessly to the bluestone patio, while the mudroom/laundry room leads to a heated 4-car garage. Upstairs, the 2nd floor landing features a wall of leaded glass panels that floods the space with light while facilitating views of the front of the property. The primary suite impresses with a 12-foot vaulted ceiling, a private balcony overlooking the grounds, a morning kitchen, an expansive walk-in closet with island, and a bonus room that can be used as a 2nd office or exercise space. The spa-like primary bath features dual vanities, a circular jetted tub, Sheryl Wagner faucetry, and a large walk-in shower. Three additional, sizable en suite bedrooms complete the second floor. The lower level offers 1,500 sq ft of finished living space and features a 2nd family room with fireplace, a game room, a full bathroom, and abundant storage. Outside, the professionally landscaped grounds feature mature trees, flowering gardens, a circular driveway, a slate roof, a sprinkler system, and multiple bluestone patios for outdoor entertaining. Perfectly located close to downtown Lake Forest, the Metra, shopping, dining, Lake Michigan, and major highways, this remarkable home blends timeless French elegance with modern comfort and convenience.
