Stately 1914 Manor in Lake Forest, Illinois With 6 Fireplaces, an Elevator, and 300 Feet of Private Lake Michigan Shoreline
This remarkable century home, built in 1914, is a stunning example of stately brick architecture with vintage detailing, set on nearly 4 private acres on coveted Mayflower Road, Lake Forest, Illinois. Offering 300 feet of Lake Michigan shoreline, the residence features seven bedrooms, 6.1 bathrooms, six fireplaces, original millwork, high ceilings, and a grand library, all exemplifying early 20th-century craftsmanship. Recent updates include a newer slate roof (2003), modern mechanicals, and professional landscaping. The home’s spacious layout includes a gourmet kitchen, elevator, and expansive lake-view family room. Listed at $6,250,000, this rare property combines historic significance, luxury, and unmatched waterfront access, making it a unique Lake Forest treasure.
Property Overview
Nestled among a dense grove of autumn trees, a grand historic home sits near a lake with vibrant turquoise water. The house features a steep, multi-gabled roof in gray with prominent chimneys and a brick exterior. The property is surrounded by lush, mature trees in shades of red, orange, yellow, and green, highlighting the beauty of the fall season. A large, grassy lawn extends from the rear of the house down toward the water, creating an open space framed on either side by the vivid foliage and providing a picturesque, secluded setting combined with serene lake views.
Lakefront Beach
A tranquil shoreline curves along crystal-clear turquoise lake water, bordered by large, light-colored rocks forming a protective breakwater. The sandy and pebbly beach extends to the base of a forested hill. The trees display a vibrant palette of autumn colors, with rich reds, oranges, golds, and greens, creating a picturesque contrast against the brilliant blue sky above. Metal sheet pilings segment the shore at one point, hinting at erosion control. The scene suggests peaceful seclusion, natural beauty, and the soothing juxtaposition of still water, rugged stone, and lush woodland in early fall.
Private Beachfront
Golden sand and scattered pebbles stretch along the lake’s edge, with angular white and gray rocks in the foreground leading up to a dense border of tall trees. The trees display various shades of green, yellow, and orange, suggesting an autumn setting that enhances the peaceful, natural atmosphere. The lake water is a clear turquoise, lapping gently onto the shore beneath a vivid blue sky and fluffy white clouds. The shoreline curves gracefully into the distance, bordered by both lush forest and rocky barriers, offering a secluded and serene retreat that highlights natural beauty and tranquility.
Private Beachfront
A wide stretch of sandy and pebbly beach curves gently down to calm, crystal-blue water under a cloudless sky. The beach features a mix of fine tan sand and smooth, white pebbles scattered throughout, giving it a natural, unmanicured appearance. Faint shadows from trees or structures off-frame stretch diagonally across the sand. In the distance to the left, a small rocky jetty juts into the tranquil lake, enhancing the sense of seclusion and offering a focal point. The overall ambiance is peaceful, inviting relaxation and appreciation of the natural lakeshore setting.
Driveway Entrance
A long, straight driveway leads to a stately brick home partially visible in the background. The driveway is bordered on both sides by tall, manicured hedges creating a private, enclosed approach. Flanking the entrance, two stone pillars topped with ornate brass lanterns add a historic charm. Autumn sunlight filters through mature deciduous trees arching overhead, their leaves turning golden and yellow, casting dappled light and shadows on the paved surface. The overall ambiance is serene, elegant, and well-maintained, evoking the grandeur and seclusion of a historic American estate.
Front Lawn
A vast, open green lawn stretches from the foreground to the stately house in the distance, offering a sense of expansive space and serenity. Mature trees, some leafless and others adorned with vibrant autumn foliage in shades of gold and orange, border the lawn, casting gentle shadows on the grass. The historic home features steeply pitched gables, multi-pane windows, and brickwork that complements the natural setting. The sky is bright blue with scattered clouds, enhancing the crisp and inviting atmosphere. Manicured shrubbery adds texture and frames the view toward the elegant entrance of the house.
Staircase Landing
A multi-level staircase constructed from polished, medium-toned hardwood winds through the interior of the house, featuring intricately carved bannisters and handrails. Each set of stairs is covered with a plush red runner adorned with traditional floral and geometric motifs, adding warmth and sophistication. The landings and approach to the stairs are accented with matching ornate rugs. The walls are finished in crisp white plaster, enhancing the natural light and giving the space an airy, inviting feel. The overall aesthetic blends historic charm and elegance with a focus on quality craftsmanship and period-appropriate décor.
Kitchen Island
Spacious kitchen featuring rich, dark wood cabinetry accented by polished granite countertops. The center island, fitted with a wine cooler and topped with a stainless steel surface, serves as a focal point. Above, a stained glass chandelier adds a vibrant, classic touch. Matching wood trim frames the doorways and windows, contrasting with crisp white walls. Large windows invite natural light, illuminating stainless steel appliances and a mounted television. Ornate details, like the decorative vent panel and ceramic rooster, contribute to the historic aesthetic. The adjoining dining area is visible, offering continuity through consistent materials and finishes. The room feels warm, luxurious, and meticulously maintained.
Dining Room Features
A spacious dining room showcases traditional elegance, featuring a vibrant, patterned red area rug that anchors a glass-top table surrounded by eight upholstered chairs with floral fabric. The wood-paneled walls are accented with cream insets and period-style sconces, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The coffered ceiling boasts a geometric design with soft beige panels bordered in white, adding depth and character overhead. Decorative accents like a flower arrangement grace the table, while framed artwork and vases are displayed on a console in a recessed alcove. Doorways lead to adjoining rooms, allowing natural light to flow throughout the space.
Sunroom Seating Area
A bright and airy space enclosed by floor-to-ceiling glass walls and vertical blinds, offering panoramic garden views. Plush white sofas and armchairs are arranged around a glass-top coffee table, accented with red and sage green throw pillows for a touch of color. The floor is covered by a richly patterned Persian-style rug, bringing an elegant contrast to the modern, neutral upholstery. Light streams in, illuminating a brass-accented side table topped with a Tiffany-style lamp, while plants by the windows and a small dining table in the corner add warmth and domestic charm to the serene setting.
Living Room Details
This space features a generous layout with seating arranged around a dark wooden coffee table and an ornately patterned red Oriental rug that ties the room together. Light cream walls and high ceilings give an airy feel, while a stately fireplace with a dark marble surround sits on the right, topped by a colorful framed painting. Large windows and glass doors along the back wall let in ample sunlight, complemented by tailored cream drapes with red accents. The furniture includes elegant upholstered armchairs and a striped sofa with decorative pillows, alongside side tables and a glass display case filled with collectibles. Classic art pieces adorn the walls for added refinement.
Parlor Fireplace
A richly detailed parlor centers on a dark wood fireplace framed by paneled walls and high ceilings featuring crown molding. The color scheme combines cream and golden browns, with accents of dark polished wood. A prominent carved secretary with glass doors and elaborate scrollwork stands to one side. Antique chairs with cream upholstery, a rose-patterned red settee, and a marble-topped coffee table clustered on an ornate Persian rug add to the room’s elegance. Window drapes with swags highlight the natural light streaming through the multi-pane window. Artwork, lamps, and period details evoke a refined, historic ambiance.
Entryway and Stairs
A spacious, elegant entryway featuring rich, dark-stained wood paneling and trim throughout. The white walls create a bright contrast against the intricate woodwork, lending a timeless, historic feel. At the center of the ceiling, a sparkling crystal chandelier casts light over the entry. Cream-colored stone tiles with brown accents cover the floor, leading to a staircase with ornate wood railings and a patterned red runner. A glimpse into an adjoining library is visible to the left, lined with bookshelves. A vintage display table with a decorative vase sits beneath framed wall art near the front door.
Stairway Landing
A richly detailed stairway features dark wood banisters, trim, and paneling, grounding the space with classic elegance. The stairs are covered in a deep red patterned carpet runner, which continues as a long hallway rug. Large arched windows with leaded panes flood the landing with soft daylight, highlighting the crisp white walls and warm woodwork. Off to the left, the entryway opens into a sunlit living area with a black leather sofa and a television. Artwork in gold frames adorns the hall, and vintage light fixtures create a welcoming ambiance characteristic of a historic American home.
Bedroom Fireplace
A spacious bedroom featuring a four-poster canopy bed with striped bedding as the focal point. The color palette is soft and neutral, with white walls and light wood flooring. In front of the bed, two elegant armchairs upholstered in white are set beside a glass-top side table, positioned near a trio of large windows that allow natural light to pour in. A classic patterned rug adds warmth underfoot. The far wall is adorned with a traditional white fireplace, above which hangs framed artwork. Ornate architectural details, such as crown molding and paneled walls, contribute to the room’s timeless, cozy, and refined ambiance.
Dressing Area Hallway
A spacious hallway with floor-to-ceiling light wood cabinetry features a built-in vanity with a mirror and small table, paired with a simple wooden chair. The area is bright, illuminated by recessed ceiling lights and natural daylight streaming through an expansive grid-style window, which also provides views of a garden with autumn trees. The pale wood floors complement the cabinetry, while a richly patterned red Persian rug adds warmth and character. Decorative touches include a framed artwork on the cabinetry wall, and adjacent rooms, visible through wide doorways, continue the light and airy aesthetic with classic furnishings and workout equipment.
Bedroom Fireplace
A spacious bedroom features a classic white mantel fireplace with a black surround and brass trim, where a fire glows warmly. Above the mantel hangs a nautical painting, while another framed artwork is positioned between two tall windows. The room is anchored by a four-poster bed dressed in a light quilt, accentuated by gold and white pillows. Hardwood floors are softened by a large, patterned area rug in neutral tones. Walls are painted a very pale lavender, and large windows with white trim allow in plenty of natural light. Subtle recessed lighting completes the bright, serene look.
Bathroom Details
A classic bathroom featuring a predominantly white color palette that emphasizes cleanliness and brightness. The floor and walls are covered in white square tiles, with the wall tile extending up to about shoulder height. The pedestal sink and toilet both have traditional styling, with chrome fixtures adding shine and a hint of vintage charm. A bathtub with a glass sliding door occupies one side of the room, surrounded by matching tile. Over the sink is a mirrored medicine cabinet, flanked by two wall-mounted light fixtures that emit a warm glow. A small artwork in a black frame adds a touch of personality.
Living Room Details
Spacious living room with natural light streaming through two large sash windows framed by detailed white trim. The seating area features a long black leather sofa and matching armchair, both adorned with light throw pillows, arranged around a dark wood coffee table. An upholstered settee with colorful accent pillows adds vibrancy. A patterned area rug covers the wooden floor, contributing warmth and depth. The walls are painted a soft, neutral off-white above elegant chair rail molding. Three framed paintings add artistic touches above the wainscoting. A small side table with books and a television on a glass stand complete the cozy, inviting atmosphere.
Sitting Room Details
Bright and airy space featuring a warm, honey-colored wood floor and soft taupe walls capped with crisp white trim and molding. Large picture windows on one side offer lovely views of trees and water, while an adjacent window bathes the room in additional natural light. The room includes an elegant patterned area rug, two upholstered armchairs with striped accent pillows, a white minimalist bench beneath the main window, and a small bookshelf filled with books and CDs. Built-in cabinetry and a decorative fireplace add architectural charm, and the overall aesthetic is serene, timeless, and inviting with subtle historic touches.
Beach Access Steps
Stone steps descend gently through a canopy of mature trees, leading directly to a sandy lakeshore. A wooden handrail painted in a muted red runs along one side for safety, contrasting with the natural surroundings. The ground and steps are scattered with fallen autumn leaves in shades of gold, brown, and orange, hinting at the season. Low greenery and brush border the path, giving a secluded, rustic feel. Beyond the trees, the view opens to a tranquil, blue-green lake with light waves lapping at the beach, creating a peaceful, inviting transition from wooded shade to open water.
Garden Gazebo
A rustic wooden gazebo with weathered shingles is nestled among tall trees, their leaves colored in vibrant autumn hues of orange, yellow, and green. The structure is painted brick red, blending harmoniously with the natural surroundings. Simple wooden benches line both sides under the roof, offering a peaceful spot to sit. A narrow, sloped boardwalk leads down to the gazebo, flanked by matching red railings. Dappled sunlight filters through the dense foliage above, casting soft shadows on the ground. The setting feels tranquil and slightly secluded, capturing the charm of a historic home’s woodland garden.
Front Lawn View
A wide expanse of lush, green grass stretches across the foreground, leading up to a large two-story brick house. The home features steep gabled roofs, tall windows, and classic architectural lines nestled among mature trees. The centerpiece of the yard is a massive tree with bright orange autumn foliage, its spreading branches dominating the scene. Additional shrubs and bushes decorate the gentle slope toward the house, framed by trees displaying a mix of fall colors. The blue sky, dotted with a few white clouds, enhances the vibrant, serene, and welcoming appearance of this historic property.
Billiard Room Loft
A cozy attic-style space with sloped wooden ceilings and walls, all made from warm-toned, richly grained wood. The room features a central billiard table with green felt and two pool cues laid across it. A window with a narrow, vertical shape lets in soft natural light, with partial trees seen outside. Overhead, a classic chandelier with multiple bulbs illuminates the room, enhancing the inviting golden hues of the wood. In one corner, a rack holds billiard cues, and stairs lead down into another area, while exposed pipes add a bit of rustic, historical character to the space.
Bedroom Details
A spacious room features honey-toned hardwood flooring and soft gray walls accented by crisp white trim and molding. The ceiling is painted white with a central brass ceiling fan that has frosted glass and green-tinted blades. A dark wooden door stands to the left, and two large multi-pane windows on adjacent walls allow ample natural light, highlighting the fall foliage outside. The floor is partially covered by a large, intricately patterned traditional rug with rich maroon, blue, and beige tones. Minimal furniture includes a tall brass floor lamp and framed wall art, giving the room a classic, serene atmosphere.
Bedroom Corner
A light-filled bedroom with sloped ceilings and a soft, neutral palette of whites and pale grays. A large wooden sleigh bed covered with a light quilt and decorative pillows anchors the space. Next to the bed is a dark wood nightstand topped with an elegant lamp. Built-in cabinetry with white drawers and cupboards lines one wall under a pair of windows, offering extensive storage. Hardwood floors run throughout, partially covered by a detailed area rug in shades of beige and gray. Radiant natural light filters through large paned windows, giving the room an airy, tranquil atmosphere.
Bathroom Shower Area
Bright natural light streams in through a large multi-pane window, illuminating an inviting bathroom. The shower enclosure features clear glass and chrome framing, set against glossy gray wall tiles accented with a striking black tile band near the ceiling. A pedestal sink with elegant curves is paired with a classic toilet, both in white. The checkered black and white tile floor adds vintage charm, echoing the home’s historic character. A compact mirrored medicine cabinet and modern light fixture provide functionality above the sink. The overall look is crisp, clean, and timeless, enhanced by glimpses of autumn foliage outside.
Listing Agent: Ann Lyon of @properties Christie’s International Real Estate via Zillow
