Timeless French Elegance With Modern Luxury Potential

Bonjour, ”La Lanterne” with its breathtaking, prominent curb appeal of pure French elegance, this is where the romance of a grand Parisian hotel meets the timeless beauty of Chicago’s North Shore, only 18 miles from Chicago. With a story of architectural significance to match, prepare to be transported to another place & time as the dramatic, stately entrance through the gated entry with a private motor court outlined in Belgian cobblestone & pea gravel, framed by exquisite formal landscaping, highlights the striking symmetrical facade. Intricate wrought-iron balconies, sculptural stonework, exquisite hand-carved detailing, and old-world lanterns embody the timeless romance of French architecture & reflect a level of artistry & craftsmanship that are impossible to replicate today. A commissioned home for Mrs. Bailey of Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus, this extraordinary French estate inspired by the architect behind Versailles and The Louvre, stoically rests on 1.12 acres backing up to Hole 2 on Indian Hill Golf Club. French doors are crowned by an exquisite wrought-iron Juliet balcony upon entry, with a sweeping curved wrought-iron staircase setting the tone with the original marble floors, soaring ceilings, and another set of French doors that open to the formal terrace with rolling green grounds. With a southern exposure, there is no shortage of natural light throughout all formal rooms. The grand parlor delivers intricate wall moldings, tall windows and a carved original Parisian marble fireplace. Just off the living room, a handsome paneled cozy library creates a more intimate setting with custom built-ins and a picture-viewing window that captures the sweeping views of the expansive lawn. Off the office is the private first-floor en-suite guest wing ideal for visiting guests. Gracious & intimate dining room leads to the solarium family room, a sun-filled garden room crowned by a dramatic oval glass skylight, a lion-sculpted water fountain & triple arched doors opening to the lush grounds. Equal parts breakfast room, sitting room, and year-round garden retreat, it changes beautifully with the light & seasons. The de Giulio kitchen features richly stained custom cabinetry, polished stone countertops, and a generous center island with seating. A bar and laundry area just off the kitchen lead to a second first-floor bedroom with additional lofted space, perfect for an office or studio. With a grand entrance up to the second floor, the sitting room still has the original matching carved pine built-ins flanking the Juliette balcony overlooking the courtyard. Large primary suite with endless windows, marble fireplace, walk-in closet, and spa marble bath. Two additional ensuite bedrooms finish this floor with an incredible opportunity to expand into a much bigger footprint. The lower level is enhanced with a custom wine cellar outfitted with storage & display with dry bar area. And perhaps the greatest compliment to this masterpiece is the setting...with more than an acre of beautifully established grounds creating an almost endless green backdrop. Mature trees & layered landscaping envelop the property, giving it the privacy and feel of a secluded country estate with authentic European romantic grandeur. This will be the greatest show on earth when you bring your timeless ideas, your talented designer & prolific architect to explore the endless potential to make this ”one of one” North Shore destination into an ultra 2027 luxury re-imagination. This is the pinnacle rehab opportunity on the North Shore, with the perk of being on Winnetka’s most premier walking loops... Indian Hill Road!