Stonebridge of Lake Bluff is a new, “55-and-better” community on the North Shore whose architecture and landscape design will be restored to match the original vision of the Kelley Estate, designed by architect Howard Van Doren Shaw. Through a collaboration of New England Builders and The Office of Shawn Hunt, the remaining 47 acres of this 130-acre estate will be restored, incorporating numerous new single-family homes and condominiums.
Beyond the historic woods and mansions, nestled amidst 130 acres of wooded land with lakes, walking trails and ponds, will be 71 European-inspired country manors. Both single-family and duplex homes will offer ranch styles and two-story homes with first-floor master suites. Additionally, there will be 14 condominium residences in the renovated Van Doren Manor House and adjacent Gate House.
The single-family homes have been grouped in “hamlets” that will feature two and three bedrooms and up to three-and-one-half bathrooms.
Stonebridge of Lake Bluff will include Woodmode Brookhaven cabinets, Kohler fixtures, granite countertops in the kitchens and baths, hardwood floors in the living room and dining room and natural stone or porcelain floors in the kitchen and entryway. Viking and Bosch appliances are also included.
Exterior architecture will blend seamlessly into the historic landscape. Visitors will chose from nine country manors to choose in stone, stucco or shingle style façades. Owners may also add a screened porch onto their home in lieu of the standard stone paved terrace. Homes range from 2,160 to 3,230 square feet and are preview-priced from the high-$800,000s to $1.8 million. Basements are available for finishing on a limited basis.
All residents of Stonebridge of Lake Bluff will enjoy unlimited access to a business center and programmed fitness center, which will be integrated into the historic mansion.
In addition to the architectural renovations, Stonebridge of Lake Bluff will feature the restoration and conservation of 12 acres of historic Jens Jensen-designed woodlands and gardens. Under the watchful eye of landscape architect Bernie Jacobs of Jacobs/Ryan Associates, the restoration of the original Jens Jensen landscaping will be achieved.
Equally important, the landscape architects have plans to create waterways by adding cascading waterfalls and Jensen-inspired stone bridge crossings. Adding to the stunning landscape canvas, Stonebridge is bordered by the Lake County Forest Preserve along its western boundary.
For more information, call 847.234.4500, or visit stonebridgeoflakebluff.com.
STONEBRIDGE OF LAKE BLUFF
Housing Type Single-family and condominium
Location Lake Bluff
Number of Units 71 single-family homes and 14 condominiums
Number Sold 5
Delivery Date Summer 2008
Price Range From the high-$800,000s to $1.8 million
Co-op 2%
Architect Myefski Cook Architects, Inc.
Developer New England Builders