Description
The "Ralph H. Poole House" stands as an enduring testament to David Adler's visionary craftsmanship, a cornerstone of architectural excellence, nestled amidst the Illinois prairie. Originally conceived between 1911-14 in collaboration w/Henry Dangler & landscape design by Frederick Law Olmsted, the residence is the essence of a Parisian home transplanted into the heart of the Midwest. As you enter the flowing driveway w/over 8 beautifully manicured acres, you are transported to your own private getaway. Stepping across its threshold, one is immediately enveloped by a sense of symmetry, balance, and proportion that seamlessly intertwines both interior and exterior spaces. Meticulously restored & elevated to its current state of opulence (2017), every facet of the home, from its plumbing & electrical systems, to chimneys & landscape, have all been redone or enhanced, & bears witness in a transformation to its original splendor! The current owner's hands were involved in every element of the design with true thought in bringing the home into the 21st century for living but honoring all of its history! Enter the expansive foyer/gallery with 13 ft ceilings on the main floor, a grand vestibule anchored by a sweeping limestone staircase, adorned w/ an infinity pattern stone floor & wheat & chaff plaster relief adorning the walls. The foyer offers access to the living room, boasting a signature black terrazzo floor, complemented by a marble fireplace and raised paneled walls with an exquisite Baccarat crystal chandelier. Adjacent, the library beckons w/ rich Gum Wood encased bookcases, paneling & marble carved fireplace, w/beautiful white oak flooring. The former music room is now a stunning dining room w/ fireplace, raised plaster walls & stunning white oak flooring adjacent to the family room. The oval sunroom, strategically positioned on the southwest corner, harnesses sunlight throughout the day & seasons, with the opposing side of the home containing the oval family room which now is seamlessly integrated w/the state-of-the-art kitchen, that exudes modern sophistication w/floor-to-ceiling custom cabinets, a waterfall marble island, & top-of-the-line appliances. The butler's pantry is also a wonderful complement for entertaining between the family room, & dining room. The first floor also has a large ensuite bedroom drenched with natural light, with a french door opening to the southern gardens. Adjacent is a beautiful first floor office with lovely southern views as well. There is also an elegant powder room and a large mud room off of the kitchen. Ascending the grand staircase to the second floor reveals a primary bedroom retreat adorned w/ a generous walk-in closet, mirrored double vanities, radiant heated floor & a luxurious frameless glass shower w/Greek key design elements & black/white marble throughout. There are two large bedrooms that share a beautiful bath w/ floating tub/shower, one bedroom that is ensuite & three additional bedrooms that share a beautifully updated full bath and a laundry room w/built-ins on this floor, near the back staircase. The unfinished basement has several large rooms, an original laundry room, dry storage and mechanicals. Outside, the newer pool area beckons w/ a bluestone patio and limestone stairs, with a pool house for your storage needs. The meticulously landscaped grounds feature a terrace patio connecting the home with the two-bedroom coach house. The coach house has a two-car garage, a studio area and second floor private guest apartment (904 sq ft) w/kitchenette, full bath, two bedrooms & living room. There is also an additional detached one +car garage, completing this unparalleled estate of timeless allure and modern convenience. Move right in and enjoy all that this luxurious estate has to offer near schools, parks, and town!
