luxury architect house for sale Lake Forest, United States

On the market for the first time in nearly 50 years, the historic Phelps Kelley House is one of Lake Bluff's most significant estate properties. Designed in 1927 by noted Chicago architect Ambrose Cramer, a protege of David Adler, this Tudor Revival masterpiece was originally part of the historic Stonebridge estate. The 9.35-acre property is elegantly situated at the end of a long, private, tree-lined drive, and features a pond, rolling lawn, mature trees, gardens, a 7,383-square-foot main residence with meticulously preserved interiors, and a detached 5-car garage with a full coach house apartment above. Across five decades, one family has carefully stewarded the character of this home, preserving its original grandeur through its stone floors, carved millwork, wood paneling, intricate moldings, tall casement windows, and generous ceiling heights. Cramer carefully planned the floorplan for gracious living and entertaining. A grand entry leads to expansive formal living and dining rooms-each with fireplaces and French doors opening to an expansive terrace overlooking verdant gardens and the pool beyond. A paneled sunroom offers a quiet retreat with views of the grounds and lends itself perfectly to a sun-filled private office. Service areas are thoughtfully configured for ease: a large butler's pantry with extensive vintage cabinetry connects the dining room to the kitchen, which adjoins a sunlit breakfast room oriented toward the pool. A spacious family room provides yet another vantage point to appreciate the property's natural beauty. Additional first-floor conveniences include a large laundry room, back staircase, and discreet storage integrated throughout. Five bedrooms and six full baths complete the second floor, including a primary suite that functions as its own private wing with dual baths, multiple closets, and a dressing room rich with period character. Two additional bedrooms and 1.1 baths on the first floor offer ideal space for guests or multi-generational living. The lower level includes a powder bath and abundant storage space, but could also be converted into a future recreation room. The property's park-like grounds elevate the estate into a true retreat that feels worlds away. Outdoor amenities include a swimming pool, greenhouse, and a prior tennis court site that provides exceptional potential for a new court or custom outdoor recreation. Meandering paths encourage exploration, while open lawns and a broad terrace facilitate gatherings of any scale. Adding to the estate's pastoral charm, the current owners maintain beehives on the property for small-batch honey production. The greenhouse, beehives, and expanses of lawn and garden reinforce the feeling of escape that a private country estate provides while being only minutes from Lake Bluff's beloved community fabric: downtown's charming shops and dining, the Metra station, Sunrise Beach, highly rated schools, outstanding parks, and the town's renowned Fourth of July celebration. A once-in-a-generation offering, the Phelps Kelley House represents the finest expression of North Shore heritage. It is an estate in the truest sense, meticulously preserved and ready to begin its next chapter.

Unobstructed views of Lake Michigan set the tone for this beautifully restored circa 1890s residence at 552 Sunrise in Lake Bluff - an exceptional lakeside retreat and rare opportunity to own a true shoreline escape. Originally built between 1888 and 1902 and lovingly cared for by just three families, this remarkable home spans two parcels with 100 feet frontage facing the lake. A comprehensive renovation by the highly regarded Gobeler Company, with architectural design by Landmark Development, seamlessly blends timeless character with modern comfort, preserving the home's historic charm while thoughtfully updating it for today's lifestyle. Oversized windows and French doors flood the interiors with natural light and frame sweeping lake views throughout. The large yet cozy living room is anchored by a massive custom-built stone fireplace, creating a warm and charming focal point. A generous bay window with a window seat offers panoramic lake views, an ideal spot to relax and take in the ever-changing scenery. The chef's kitchen features high-end appliances, seperate breakfast room, and an inviting hearth room that opens to a charming front porch, perfect for enjoying morning light and lake breezes. The dining room, highlighted by a statement Aerin chandelier, is well-suited for both intimate gatherings and larger entertaining, with direct access to the rear deck and gardens. The upper level is thoughtfully arranged as a private primary retreat, offering stunning water views, custom built-ins, and a spa-inspired marble bath with a soaking tub, steam shower, and heated floors, along with an adjoining room currently used as a closet and laundry. Two additional bedrooms are equally inviting and share a beautifully renovated bathroom. Additional features include restored hardwood floors, integrated audio/visual systems, beautiful light fixtures, a custom-designed mudroom and powder room, and flexible guest spaces. A large basement provides ample storage. Outdoors, the Craig Bergmann designed grounds create a true lakeside oasis with seasonal gardens, layered plantings, stonework, and multiple outdoor living areas designed to capture the beauty of the lake. A rear deck, reclaimed brick driveway and walkways, and a two-car garage complete the property. Located less than one mile from the Lake Bluff train station and town center, this home offers both tranquility and convenience. This is more than a home - it's a rare blend of history, charm, and refined lakefront living, offering a truly unique opportunity to own a timeless lakeside retreat.