Step back in time and enter a world of architectural elegance and grandeur. The central entry circle drop-off edged in stone reveals what is in store behind the limestone surrounded custom alder wood front door. The formal repetition of French doors with arched transom windows, wrought iron and louvered shutters is punctuated by a graceful stair turret capped by a custom copper finial. The stone façade, slate roof and copper gutters evoke a period in the past where important architecture was built to endure, both physically and architecturally. This French Normandy inspired residence designed in the spirit of David Adler on nearly 1 1/2 acres of one of Lake Forest’s finest remaining open lots continues the tradition of grand architectural residences on the North Shore.

Beyond the front door lies a floor plan based on simple elegance and axial view that draws the eye to the magnificent savanna views beyond or an array of interior focal points. To the left and right of the understated foyer, cased arched openings are centered on the generous living and dining rooms. A custom stone floor to ceiling fireplace with flush hearth in the living room provides the backdrop and, between the foyer and living room, a dramatic circular stair turret with custom glass windows floods the area with light. A gracious powder room with separate toilet area is neatly tucked into this private area yet accessible to guests.

The family room with dramatic beamed volume ceiling, custom arched windows, walnut built-ins and full height stone fireplace is the heart of the plan and the arched opening from the foyer and family room provides an unobstructed view of the spectacular scenery that lies beyond. Open to the family room yet more privately positioned are the huge chef’s kitchen and octagon shaped breakfast area which celebrates the natural setting with glass on five sides. The kitchen is designed for entertaining and functionality and boasts a granite farm sink, custom hood, 4 foot Wolf stove with double oven below. The massive island contains a separate prep sink and comfortable seating for three and a custom teak top. The refrigerator and freezer are separate 3 foot units side by side. The cabinet pantry with rollout drawers is complemented by another huge walk-in pantry. A functional desk is tucked away in the breakfast area to hide the clutter yet is in a warm, light filled setting. A full butler’s pantry with sink and wine cooler provides the perfect link between kitchen and formal dining room.

The mud room provides plenty of functional storage closet space as well as open locker type storage with bench that is popular with kids. This is attached to a huge 4-car heated garage with custom stained cedar doors with glass lites. From the breakfast room, French doors lead to the screened porch with bluestone floor or the bluestone patio which commands magnificent views of the rear yard and open lands. The secondary stairs conveniently link the kitchen and rear hall area to the 4 bedrooms above.

The library is an island of tranquility situated at the other end of the home yet linked to the central circulation corridor by a gracious pair of stained arched French doors with beveled glass. The walnut library is appointed with the finest details from floor to ceiling. Arched top bookcases, wet bar, refrigerator, beamed ceiling make this room perfect as a private retreat yet open to circulation when entertaining. A secret room with hidden door in the walnut paneling is a special feature. A rear bay with expansive glass take advantage of the view.

The upstairs is accessible by two stairways and has the same axial elegance as the first floor. On the front, directly over the front door is a pair of French doors with wrought iron railing which floods the upper foyer with light and adds elegant sophistication. The opposite end is terminated by a recessed art niché flanked by custom built floor to ceiling linen cabinets. All three generously sized secondary bedrooms are graced with full baths with linen storage, walk-in closets and special ceiling treatments.

The master suite is truly a retreat with no amenity spared. A private vestibule prepares one to enter the spacious bedroom with grand views of the open lands. A second vestibule with coffee bar provides access to a private sitting room with fireplace and a magnificent balcony offering spectacular views or the master bath, which boasts 2 large his and hers walk-in closets, vanities with separate make-up area, steam shower with seat, separate toilet room and 2 person whirlpool tub using the latest air-jet technology.

The upper levels contain 6,400 sq. ft. of finished space. The finished lower level adds another 2,500 sq. ft. and is a retreat for both the kids and parents alike. Tall windows in large cedar area wells flood this area with light. Every amenity is included with a large recreation area, exercise room, media room, bar, wine room, bedroom with private bath and closet, powder room and stone fireplace.