Set on nearly an acre of lush private grounds professionally-landscaped by Chicago's famed Douglas Hoerr, on a quiet cul-de-sac just steps from the shores of Lake Michigan, rests an incomparable 17,000 sq ft custom gem. Unlike any offering on Chicago's North Shore, this magical estate is truly a work of historic sophistication reflecting the best of old world elegance that perfectly melds with modern luxuries meant for the most discerning buyer. The European-inspired residence accessed by an electric gated entry is fronted by a limestone and pebbled circular drive that leads to a motor court, and porte-cochere housing a rare heated 5-car split garage with wainscoting. In the nearly two years it took to build this architectural masterpiece, no expense was spared to replicate the grandeur of a 100-year-old home. 86 Prospect Ave's extraordinary beauty has graced the cover of Frontgate Magazine and been featured in Beautiful Kitchens, North Shore magazine, and countless publications showcasing its exceptional quality craftsmanship. Among the endless list of awe-inspiring elements included in the meticulous custom home are hand-cut and laid limestone, a brick and hand-troweled stucco exterior, Vermont slate roof, copper gutters, downspouts and windows, old world hand-plastered walls, hand-scraped wood flooring, reclaimed stone throughout, unique inlaid crown molding, dream kitchen, phone booth with leather flooring, 6 wood-burning fireplaces with stone mantles, dramatic ceilings soaring to 25+ feet, custom iron work, stunning dining room with hidden storage closet, fireplace, and so much more. The majestic estate abounds with contemporary amenities as well, from the elevator accessing 3 levels to custom closets with touch-less lights and built-in storage,to a world-class Iron Chef-designed kitchen with top-of-the-line Wolf commercial appliances, 4 ovens, 8 cooktops, indoor BBQ, flat-top grill, French cooktop, built-in steamer, walk-in refrigerator, commercial salamander, walk-in pantry, and separate breakfast room. Every comfort imaginable is yours to enjoy an exclusive lifestyle, with 8 bedrooms, 9 full and 3 half baths, secret playrooms, a safe/escape room, conservatory with fireplace, home gym, massage room, wine room with refrigerated storage, his and her home offices, a nanny's suite, dual primary baths, heated bathroom flooring, first floor and second floor laundry rooms, a fabulous kids playroom, gardening room, and 5,000 sq ft finished lower level with entertaining space, a large theater screen, guest suites, indoor pool cabana, and massive storage space. Outdoor entertaining areas are equally extraordinary, complete with a heated 40-foot pool with a sun shelf, slide and fountains, a covered patio, an oversized fire pit for gathering on cool evenings, and a blissful pergola with swings for relaxing in nature and there's even room for a pickleball court. A whole-house generator is on standby in the event of a power outage. This home is a rare find that combines a flawless combination of unmatched style, grace and tradition. Plus you're in the absolute best location near the lake, parks, shopping, dining, and vibrant Chicago that's just a quick drive away.
