Four Grand Estates That Redefine Luxury Living

When it comes to luxury real estate, the terms “mansion” and “estate” might seem interchangeable, but they represent distinct property types with unique characteristics. Understanding the difference is key, especially if you’re navigating the high-end market.

Let’s break it down: a mansion is a single, grand residence designed with luxury in mind. An estate takes luxury a step further, encompassing more than just the main house. Think sprawling grounds, multiple structures, and amenities like sport courts, swimming pools, equestrian facilities, even private golf courses.

Curious to see what this level of luxury looks like? Here are four grand estates currently on the market in the Chicagoland area.

                                                                                                                                           546 Oak Knoll Road, Barrington Hills

Set on over 25 rolling acres, this lavish estate offers resort-style living in Barrington Hills. The 7,730-square-foot home features rich walnut trim, custom crown moldings, and herringbone hardwood floors that exude warmth and sophistication. Five fireplaces add charm throughout the home, while the first-floor primary suite is a sanctuary with dual spa-like baths and oversized walk-in closets. The walkout lower level is packed with amenities including an oversized rec room, a fitness studio, wine cellar, sauna, and a hidden passageway for a touch of whimsy.

Outside, the estate is a haven for relaxation and recreation. An in-ground pool, expansive stone patio, firepit, and gazebo provide the perfect setting for entertaining or soaking in the peaceful surroundings. There’s also endless potential to create a world-class equestrian estate with barns, paddocks, and riding trails.

875 Country Club Road, St. Charles

Known as Stone Wood Manor, this historic estate was originally built in 1935 and extensively renovated in 2016. The 13,500-square-foot home sits on over nine acres of wooded land in the Fox River Valley and is accompanied by a pool house and a pickleball court with a studio. A peaceful walking path weaves through the landscaped grounds, which include a serene pond.

Inside the main house, you’ll find seven –bedrooms including the primary suite, which has a sitting area with a fireplace, a spa-like bath with high-end finishes, and a dream walk-in closet. Other highlights include a home theater, bar, wine cellar, gym, game room, and spa with a built-in pedicure tub and hair salon.

1010 Green Bay Road, Lake Bluff

Nestled on over eight manicured acres, the Ralph H. Poole House was designed by David Adler in collaboration with Henry Dangler and landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted.

Meticulously restored in 2017, the nearly 8,000-square-foot home boasts 13-foot ceilings, a sweeping limestone staircase, and several marble fireplaces. The living room, library, and dining spaces showcase exquisite details like terrazzo flooring, a Baccarat crystal chandelier, and custom wood paneling. The primary suite on the second floor includes a walk-in closet, radiant heated floors, and a luxurious bath.

The sunroom, strategically located on the southwest corner, is bathed in natural light. Outside, the property features a pool with a bluestone patio, limestone stairs, and a pool house. The grounds also include a terrace patio and a two-bedroom coach house with its own two-car garage, studio, and private guest apartment.

20719 Highview Road, Marengo

Spanning 27 acres, this one-of-a-kind property offers more than 6,500 square feet of living space with four bedrooms, a third-floor loft and a walk-out lower level with a bar. On the main level, authentic Saltillo tile floors complement soaring ceilings and a statement fireplace in the family room.

With multiple decks, gazebos, ponds and fireplaces, the estate invites you to take in the scenery. The property also includes a six-car garage with a dog-wash station – perfect for when your pooch gets muddy from running around all that land.