This stunning lakefront home, built in 1914, showcases the grandeur of early 20th-century architecture with its brick facade and vintage details. Located in the coveted area of Mayflower Road, Lake Forest, IL, the property boasts 300 feet of Lake Michigan shoreline and expansive grounds of nearly 4 acres. The home features seven bedrooms and six bathrooms, complemented by remarkable spaces like a library, a gourmet kitchen with commercial appliances, and a breathtaking family room with floor-to-ceiling windows. Recent renovations include a slate roof and updated mechanical systems. List price is $6,250,000, with extensive square footage and possibilities for additional creation in the unfinished basement, offering an opportunity for personalized enhancements.
Driveway Entrance
A serene entrance leads to a historic home, framed by lush, tall hedges on both sides. The driveway, paved with a mix of smooth concrete and bricks, creates a gradual path towards the house, flanked by vibrant autumn trees. Bright yellow and deep green leaves contrast beautifully against the earthy tones of the stone pillars marking the entrance. Decorative lanterns atop the stone posts add a touch of elegance. Sunlight filters through the foliage, casting gentle shadows, enhancing the inviting atmosphere of this tranquil space, reminiscent of classic American architecture set amidst nature’s splendor.
Aerial View
An elevated perspective showcases a historic American home surrounded by vibrant autumn foliage. The house features a classic architectural style with a sloped roof and brick facade, complemented by tall windows that invite natural light. Surrounding trees display a stunning array of fall colors, from deep reds to bright yellows, contrasting beautifully with the deep blue of the lake. A manicured lawn frames the property, while a gentle slope leads to the water’s edge, enhancing the serene and picturesque setting. This image captures the harmonious blend of nature and historic architecture, encapsulating a tranquil outdoor retreat.
Entryway
The entryway showcases a rich blend of architectural styles, highlighted by elegant wood paneling and intricate details. A stunning crystal chandelier hangs from the ceiling, illuminating the space with a warm glow. The walls are adorned with a combination of wood and white paint, creating a classic contrast. A noteworthy staircase with dark wooden banisters ascends to the upper level, featuring a deep red patterned carpet that adds warmth. To one side, an inviting nook reveals shelves filled with books, enhancing the room’s cozy atmosphere. A decorative rug graces the tiled floor, uniting the elements beautifully.
Living Room
The living room features a cozy layout highlighted by a plush red Persian rug that adds warmth and richness to the space. A cream-colored sofa is complemented by ornate armchairs, both adorned with decorative pillows. Natural light floods in through expansive windows, enhancing the airy atmosphere. Behind the sofa, a glass display cabinet showcases delicate artifacts. An elegant marble fireplace serves as a focal point, with a lively fire crackling within. Decorative art pieces, framed portraits, and lush curtains accentuate the walls, while subtle crown molding adds architectural detail, creating a harmonious and inviting environment.
Sunroom
This bright sunroom features large vertical windows allowing abundant natural light, illuminating the space and offering views of greenery outside. A plush sectional sofa in white fabric is adorned with vibrant red and muted green throw pillows, creating a cozy yet stylish atmosphere. Complementing the seating, two armchairs with red accents provide additional comfort. A glass coffee table rests atop a richly patterned area rug with deep blues and intricate designs, enhancing the room’s elegance. A decorative lamp adds a vintage touch, while potted plants and a small table contribute to a welcoming, serene environment.
Dining Room
This elegant dining room features a stunning wooden coffered ceiling with intricate detailing, creating a warm ambiance. The rich, dark wood paneling contrasts beautifully with the light-colored walls, enhancing the luxurious feel of the space. A glass-topped dining table is surrounded by upholstered chairs, showcasing floral patterns that harmonize with the vibrant Persian-style area rug beneath. Wall sconces provide soft lighting, adding to the inviting atmosphere. An archway leads to an adjoining room, where additional decorative elements like fine art and tasteful furnishings complete the sophisticated aesthetic, making it an ideal setting for gatherings and dining.
Kitchen Space
An inviting kitchen showcases warm wooden cabinets contrasting with sleek granite countertops. The layout is open, with a central island providing additional workspace and a stylish preparation area. Pendant lighting, featuring intricate designs, adds a decorative touch above the island. The stainless steel appliances, including a large refrigerator, reflect a modern utility while harmonizing with the traditional theme. Windows allow natural light to illuminate the space, highlighting the rich brown tones of the cabinetry and the subtle elegance of molded trim. A dining area is visible through an archway, featuring comfortable striped chairs, enhancing the cozy atmosphere.
Staircase
The image highlights a grand staircase within a historic home, featuring rich wooden railings and a beautifully patterned red and gold runner carpet. The intricately designed balusters complement the staircase’s elegant aesthetics. Visible steps are polished, showcasing the warm tones of the wood, with an additional patterned rug on the landing. The upper part of the staircase leads into a well-lit corridor, adding openness to the space. Natural light streams in through the sidelights near the landing, enhancing the inviting atmosphere. Overall, the combination of warm hues and detailed craftsmanship reflects a timeless charm.
Entryway
This entryway features rich wooden elements that frame a sweeping staircase adorned with a patterned red runner. The warm hardwood flooring extends into the space, enhancing the cozy atmosphere. A large window allows natural light to filter in, illuminating the intricate details of the stained glass above. Walls are painted white, contrasting with the dark wood trim. Framed artwork lines the entry walls, adding a personal touch. The staircase’s curved banister and detailed balusters showcase classic craftsmanship, inviting residents and guests to explore the upper levels. Accent lighting enhances the architectural beauty of this historic home.
Bedroom
This bedroom features a classic four-poster bed draped with neutral-toned bedding, establishing a serene atmosphere. The color scheme blends soft whites and warm wooden tones, illuminating the space with natural light from large windows. A cozy seating area includes two elegant chairs and a small round table, complemented by a decorative rug that adds texture. Architectural details include wainscoting and a classic fireplace, enhancing the historic charm. A vintage armoire adds functionality, while a subtle artwork piece on the wall introduces an artistic touch. Overall, the room exudes comfort and timeless elegance.
Bedroom Details
A serene bedroom showcasing a polished wooden floor and soft lavender walls. The focal point is a classic four-poster bed, elegantly draped with a textured quilt and accented by plush pillows. A cozy area rug, featuring a delicate spiral pattern, anchors the space. To one side, a traditional fireplace framed by a sleek black surround adds warmth, while an artistic vase complements its design. Large windows invite natural light, revealing vibrant greenery outside. Artworks hang tastefully on the walls, enhancing the room’s vintage charm while maintaining a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Bathroom
A serene bathroom featuring a clean, minimalist design. The walls are clad in glossy white tiles, extending from the floor to the mid-wall. A standalone pedestal sink with elegant chrome fixtures complements the sleek look. Light fixtures with a polished finish provide bright illumination, enhancing the spacious feel. A clear glass shower enclosure reveals a simple bathtub with a smooth, curved edge. The neutral color palette is accented by a framed artwork, adding a touch of warmth. A small waste bin and a light blue towel hint at functionality while maintaining the sleek aesthetic of the space.
Living Room
This living room features a harmonious blend of contemporary and classic elements. The light-colored walls are complemented by warm wooden flooring, enhancing the cozy atmosphere. Stylish leather sofas with cream cushions provide ample seating, arranged around a dark wooden coffee table, which is suited for gatherings. A flat-screen TV sits centrally on a glass stand, while large windows allow natural light to fill the space, framed by white wooden shutters. Artwork adorns the walls, adding personality and charm. A decorative area rug with intricate patterns anchors the room, creating a welcoming focal point for relaxation or entertainment.
Living Room
This bright living room features a sloped ceiling with a modern yet classic design. A large window showcases scenic views filled with fall foliage. The color palette blends soft, neutral tones on the walls with warm wood accents on the floor, enhancing the room’s cozy atmosphere. Two elegant armchairs upholstered in light fabric sit across from a stylish table, creating an inviting conversation space. A sleek, white bench runs alongside the wall, providing additional seating and a minimalist aesthetic. A traditional area rug adds character, while built-in shelves offer a tidy display option for books and decor.
Bathroom Design
This bathroom features a modern design with a sleek layout. Gray tiles cover the walls, accented by a black border that adds a touch of sophistication. A large window allows natural light to flood in, revealing colorful foliage outside. The space includes a minimalist shower with a glass enclosure, offering an open feel. A pedestal sink and a toilet are positioned efficiently, maximizing floor space. The black and white checkered floor contrasts elegantly with the gray tiles, enhancing the overall aesthetic. Lighting fixtures above the mirror provide a warm glow, contributing to a cozy atmosphere.
Bedroom Retreat
The room features sloped ceilings and a cozy aesthetic, enhanced by soft gray walls and warm wood flooring. A queen-sized sleigh bed, adorned with a textured white quilt, serves as the focal point, complemented by a dark wood nightstand topped with an elegant lamp. Built-in cabinetry line one wall, providing ample storage while maintaining a clean look. Natural light floods through two decorative windows, offering views of a lush exterior. A patterned area rug anchors the space, adding depth and comfort, while subtle lighting fixtures provide a modern touch to the traditional decor.
Bedroom Corner
A quaint bedroom corner features warm, honey-colored hardwood flooring that stretches across the space. Soft gray walls and white trim create a clean and inviting atmosphere. A vintage-inspired ceiling fan circulates air, adding comfort. A rattan floor lamp provides soft lighting next to a minimalistic golden basket, enhancing its charm. An ornate area rug with intricate patterns lies centrally, pulling together the color palette. Large, multi-paned windows invite natural light, offering glimpses of autumn foliage outside, while a framed art piece adds a personal touch to the decor. Overall, this corner exudes warmth and tranquility.
Exterior View
A charming historic home is showcased, nestled amid lush green lawns and vibrant autumn trees. The large tree with fiery orange and yellow leaves stands prominently, highlighting the seasonal transition. The house features classic architecture with a mix of brick and shingle siding, complemented by numerous windows that reflect natural light. Neatly trimmed bushes and manicured hedges create an inviting landscape. The slight elevation of the yard adds depth to the scene, while the clear blue sky adds brightness. Stone pathways can be spotted, suggesting accessibility and a connection to the surrounding nature.
Gazebo Entrance
A rustic gazebo emerges within a vibrant woodland setting. The structure features a prominent triangular, shingled roof, while its deep red wooden frame complements the surrounding autumn foliage, which showcases brilliant oranges, yellows, and greens. Stone steps lead down toward the entrance, flanked by lush greenery and scattered fallen leaves, enhancing the natural ambiance. Benches on either side of the gazebo add inviting seating, creating a peaceful retreat amid the trees. The overall scene radiates tranquility, inviting one to pause and appreciate the serene beauty of nature in this idyllic outdoor space.
Garden Pathway
A scenic pathway leads down towards a tranquil beach view, framed by trees displaying vibrant autumn foliage in shades of orange and yellow. The path is made of textured stone steps, partially covered by fallen leaves, accentuating the seasonal change. A rustic red railing guides the descent, providing a warm contrast against the natural greens and earthy tones of the surroundings. Beyond the foliage, the pristine blue water of the lake glimmers under a partly cloudy sky, inviting a serene, peaceful atmosphere. This setting harmonizes natural beauty with gentle architectural elements, ideal for relaxation and reflection.
Beach Scene
A serene beach with soft, golden sand stretching along the shoreline contrasts beautifully with the calm, azure water. The gentle waves lap at the edge, creating a rhythmic sound. A variety of smooth pebbles and shells dot the sandy surface, adding texture and interest. In the background, a rocky jetty extends into the water, leading the eye toward the horizon where the sky meets the lake. The expansive sky is clear and bright blue, evoking a tranquil atmosphere. Shadows from nearby trees softly outline the sand, enhancing the natural beauty of this peaceful coastal landscape.
Beachfront View
A serene beachfront scene features a blend of sandy shore and gentle waves lapping against the rocks. Large, smooth stones dot the foreground, adding texture and natural elegance to the landscape. Vibrant autumn foliage in hues of orange, red, and yellow frames the backdrop, contrasting beautifully with the deep blue sky and calm turquoise water. A distant wooden pier stretches into the lake, inviting exploration. The overall atmosphere is peaceful, highlighted by the soft, glistening surface of the water and the subtle rustling of leaves, creating a picturesque and tranquil coastal experience.
Lakefront View
A serene lakefront scene showcasing a clear turquoise lake bordered by a sandy beach. To the right, large rocks create a natural barrier alongside the water. Dense trees, adorned in vibrant autumn foliage, blanket the background in shades of red, orange, and yellow, enhancing the picturesque setting. The beach transitions seamlessly into the tree line, where a few bare branches add contrast. The sunlight bathes the area in a warm glow, casting gentle reflections on the water’s surface. This tranquil setting invites relaxation and is ideal for outdoor activities or simply enjoying nature.
Game Room
This charming game room features warm wooden walls and sloped ceilings that give a cozy, inviting atmosphere. A classic billiard table takes center stage, complemented by lush green felt and elegant wooden detailing. To one side, a wrought-iron chandelier illuminates the space, casting a soft glow among the rich brown hues of the wood. A small, intricately framed window allows natural light to filter through, creating a light and airy feel. The room’s design seamlessly combines functionality with rustic charm, making it an ideal spot for leisure activities and gatherings. Additional space for cues and games is thoughtfully arranged.
Listing Agent: Ann Lyon of @properties Christie’s International Real Estate via Zillow
