Designed in 1904 by renowned architect Benjamin H. Marshall, this Georgian estate in Lake Forest, Illinois is a rare gem near Lake Michigan. Expanded by Thomas Beeby in 1996, the 11,787 sq. ft. home sits on 9 acres of manicured gardens, featuring a main house, coach house, guest house, and pool house. The property’s historic Prairie School and Italianate influences, along with 21 curated garden rooms, make it a one-of-a-kind retreat. With eight bedrooms, ten bathrooms, and seven fireplaces, this estate blends timeless elegance with modern luxury, offering an unparalleled living experience in a prestigious location.

Aerial View

This breathtaking aerial view showcases the 9-acre estate, surrounded by lush greenery and mature trees. The Georgian-style main house, guest house, and pool house sit harmoniously within a landscape of bentgrass lawns and manicured gardens. A circular driveway leads to the grand entrance, while the 21 garden rooms, designed by renowned landscape architects, create a private and serene retreat near Lake Michigan.

Where is Lake Forest, IL?

Lake Forest, Illinois, is an affluent and historically rich community located along the scenic shores of Lake Michigan, just north of Chicago. Known for its grand estates, tree-lined streets, and lush natural landscapes, Lake Forest blends historic charm with modern luxury. The city is home to prestigious institutions, including Lake Forest College and the Onwentsia Club, and features renowned architectural landmarks. Its serene beaches, exclusive golf courses, and expansive nature preserves make it a sought-after retreat. With easy access to downtown Chicago, Lake Forest offers a tranquil yet well-connected lifestyle, perfect for those who appreciate heritage, elegance, and sophistication.

Coach House

A quaint yet elegant coach house stands gracefully amid cobblestone paths and lush greenery. The symmetrical gabled structure, painted in a soft gray-blue hue, evokes classic charm while maintaining a functional elegance. The ivy-covered walls and meticulously curated flower beds enhance the visual appeal, making this space a picturesque extension of the main estate, perfect for guests or additional accommodations.

Poolside

An inviting brick-arched veranda leads to the estate’s serene poolside retreat. The in-ground lap pool, framed by stone terraces and vibrant greenery, offers a peaceful escape in the heart of the gardens. Woven lounge chairs rest beneath a large cream-colored umbrella, providing the perfect setting for relaxation. The lush landscaping and vine-covered columns add an old-world charm to this elegant outdoor oasis.

Evening Glow

At twilight, the estate transforms into a glowing masterpiece, with warm lights illuminating the ivy-clad Georgian facade. The cupola and symmetrical gabled roofs add timeless charm, while expansive windows reflect the evening sky. Rolling lawns extend toward the tree-lined perimeter, creating a scene reminiscent of a classic country estate. The well-manicured formal gardens and outdoor terraces invite evening strolls under the soft moonlight.

Garden Porch

A graceful covered porch blends classic architecture with lush landscaping. Brick columns, intricate latticework, and wooden railings frame this inviting space, offering a seamless transition between indoors and the surrounding gardens. Climbing ivy and vibrant flowers add a touch of English countryside charm, while shaded seating provides a tranquil retreat to enjoy fresh air and garden views on a warm afternoon.

Sunlit Conservatory

This elegant conservatory is bathed in natural light, thanks to its floor-to-ceiling windows that offer panoramic garden views. The refined interior features striped upholstered seating, gilded chandeliers, and delicate drapery, creating an atmosphere of sophistication. The neutral color palette and marble flooring add a touch of timeless grandeur, making this a perfect space for entertaining or enjoying peaceful mornings surrounded by nature.

Formal Dining

A grand formal dining room exudes classic elegance with deep crimson walls, intricate crown molding, and a stately wooden dining set. A large Persian rug anchors the space, while built-in alcoves display fine china and curated artwork. Antique brass sconces and framed oil paintings add to the room’s regal ambiance, making it an exquisite space for hosting elegant dinners steeped in tradition.

Breakfast Nook

This sun-drenched breakfast nook offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere with its curved bay window and floral-patterned wallpaper. Soft pastel tones and floor-length drapery create a warm, vintage charm. A traditional wooden hutch houses delicate china, while a central chandelier casts a soft glow over the intimate dining space. With panoramic views of the lush gardens, it’s the ideal spot for morning coffee.

Cozy Sitting Room

A charming and intimate lounge filled with natural light, thanks to its large paned windows overlooking the estate gardens. The vintage floral wallpaper, plush seating, and antique artwork evoke a timeless elegance. A striped chaise lounge and soft area rug add warmth and comfort, making this a perfect retreat for afternoon reading or quiet reflection in a peaceful setting.

Elegant Bedroom

This graceful bedroom embodies classic charm with a carved fireplace, delicate floral drapery, and antique furnishings. Large double-hung windows invite natural light, offering a view of the estate’s lush gardens. A gilded mirror and framed artwork adorn the soft beige walls, while plush seating by the fireplace provides a cozy retreat. This timeless space exudes warmth, history, and refined elegance.

Wood-Paneled Library

Rich wood paneling and built-in bookshelves create a warm and inviting atmosphere in this timeless library. Plush floral armchairs and a carved fireplace offer cozy seating, while large windows bathe the space in natural light. The open archway leads to a charming sunroom, making this the perfect retreat for quiet reading or intimate gatherings. Elegant antique furnishings and curated artwork add a refined touch.

Serene Bedroom

Soft blue tones and crisp white linens bring a sense of calm to this spacious bedroom. The large windows fill the space with natural light, offering peaceful views of the surrounding gardens. Classic wooden dressers, a tufted headboard, and antique mirrors enhance the timeless elegance. Plush carpeting and delicate drapery complete the serene retreat, providing both comfort and sophistication.

Red-Walled Bedroom

This vibrant bedroom features bold red damask wallpaper, adding warmth and character. Large windows framed by floral drapery invite natural light, while antique furnishings and soft bedding create a cozy retreat. The striking contrast of crisp white trim and plush carpeting enhances the room’s elegance. A vintage bamboo mirror and ornate wall decor complete the sophisticated yet inviting space, perfect for restful nights.

Attic Guest Room

This charming attic bedroom features a sloped ceiling covered in intricate toile wallpaper, giving it a storybook feel. Twin beds with matching upholstered headboards, a vintage armchair, and an ornate window add to the room’s nostalgic charm. Warm lighting and delicate framed artwork enhance the cozy ambiance, making it a unique retreat for guests seeking a quiet and inviting escape.

Rustic Sitting Room

Exposed wooden beams, patterned wallpaper, and vintage furnishings define this rustic sitting room. Large arched windows fill the space with natural light, offering stunning garden views. A mix of floral and plaid upholstery brings warmth and character, while antique tables and lamps add a historic touch. The aged wooden floors and a traditional area rug complete this timeless and inviting space.

Loft Lounge

This airy loft space blends traditional charm with modern comfort. Soft floral and plaid-upholstered seating creates a cozy setting, while recessed lighting and skylights enhance the bright, open feel. The rich hardwood flooring adds warmth, and an adjoining kitchenette makes it a perfect spot for relaxation or entertaining. Neutral walls allow the space to feel fresh and welcoming, ideal for a quiet retreat.

Cozy Kitchenette

This charming kitchenette offers a blend of practicality and vintage appeal. White cabinetry, a tiled backsplash, and soft wood flooring create a warm and functional space. A small bistro table with intricate metal chairs provides an intimate dining area. Sloped ceilings and a skylight add character, while framed artwork and traditional decor give the space a nostalgic charm, making it perfect for casual meals.

Bedroom

This inviting bedroom is tucked beneath sloped ceilings, offering a cozy and intimate atmosphere. A curved upholstered headboard, crisp white linens, and soft lighting create a tranquil retreat. A traditional area rug adds warmth, while an antique wicker chair and wooden dresser bring a touch of timeless elegance. The window fills the space with natural light, making it a serene and restful haven.

Arched Sitting Room

Graceful arched ceilings and soft yellow walls give this sitting room a unique and inviting character. A central chandelier adds elegance, while built-in cushioned benches provide intimate seating. The pale wood flooring enhances the room’s airy feel, and antique furnishings offer a refined touch. French doors open to a sunlit terrace, making this the perfect space for quiet gatherings or morning tea.

Vintage Kitchen

This charming kitchen combines classic elegance with practical functionality. Light wooden cabinetry, vintage-style appliances, and a hand-painted backsplash bring warmth and character. A cozy dining nook with a traditional chandelier offers a lovely spot for casual meals. Large windows invite in natural light, while antique-inspired furnishings and soft pastel tones create a welcoming and timeless space for everyday living.

Yellow Bedroom

Soft yellow walls and floral-patterned decor bring warmth and charm to this inviting bedroom. A tufted upholstered headboard complements the vintage-style drapery, creating a cozy retreat filled with natural light. The hardwood flooring enhances the airy ambiance, while classic furnishings, including a distressed wood nightstand and a delicate table lamp, add timeless elegance. Large windows offer serene views of the surrounding estate gardens.

Country-Style Lounge

This relaxed lounge features a blend of classic and country-inspired furnishings, creating an inviting space for unwinding. A bold Persian rug anchors the room, while a red-checkered loveseat and wicker armchair add warmth and comfort. Antique wooden cabinets and decorative sconces enhance the vintage charm. Large windows allow natural light to highlight the soft neutral walls and rustic wood flooring, completing the cozy atmosphere.

Twin Bedroom

A whimsical twin bedroom featuring red and gold-striped antique headboards with intricate detailing. Floral bedding and coordinating drapery bring a cheerful touch, while soft yellow walls enhance the warmth of the space. A large central window floods the room with natural light, offering picturesque views of the lush estate grounds. Classic wall decor and vintage accents create a storybook charm perfect for guests or family.

Window Nook

This enchanting built-in window nook offers a serene retreat with a canopied sleeping alcove framed by delicate floral drapery. The large leaded-glass window allows sunlight to pour in, illuminating the soft neutral tones of the room. Two gingham-upholstered stools and a handwoven rug complete the cozy space, making it a perfect spot for reading or quiet reflection with a view of the gardens.

Elegant Bathroom

This bright and airy bathroom blends vintage charm with modern elegance. A diamond-pane window allows natural light to filter through, complementing the soft white walls and warm hardwood flooring. The classic pedestal sink and antique wall sconces add timeless sophistication, while framed botanical prints provide a delicate touch. Thoughtfully designed with a neutral palette, this space offers a peaceful retreat within the estate

Listing agent: Ann Lyon @ properties Christie’s International Real Estate via Zillow