Since I had recently featured a few gardens on the North Shore of Chicago, I thought it a welcome segue to include this elegant in-town home located on an extraordinary corner lot in the prestigious Gold Coast neighborhood, a quiet, well-preserved retreat in downtown Chicago. I was, of course, first taken with its perfect exterior landscaping (as in the feature image above). Other well considered interior green spaces include a garden terrace and a charming central courtyard that infuses an abundance of natural light.

These private outdoor spaces flow seamlessly from the home’s expansive living areas that lend themselves to both grand scale entertaining, as well as to intimate private spaces for relaxed conversation. The thoughtful floor plan flows with ease and refinement from elegant room to elegant room, as is so apparent the moment you step into the foyer, where what surprises you most is the light and generosity of volume.

The wide and spectacular gallery spans the floor east to west giving you an immediate sense of the expanse of the first floor. You are immediately captivated by the Estraillades limestone walls and complementary limestone flooring with black granite borders. The breathtaking staircase was inspired by the grand staircase at the Musee Nissim de Comando in Paris; French empire sconces illuminate both floors of the entry area and stairwell.

Meticulous architectural details and unparalleled appointments inform this splendid mansion that has been transformed into a 21st century home, with state-of-the-art infrastructure. Enjoy these “insider views” of what could certainly be called an iconic residence.

With 6 Bedrooms/suites, and 8 full, 5 half baths that made me green with envy. How about the selection and styling of the marble in the bathroom below?! Which also includes (my preference) a soaking tub.

And this 18 room Gold Coast beauty also includes extra amenities like a Screening Room, Wine Cellar, Game Room, and Exercise Room.

Tempted?? The listing agent, Katherine Malkin, is as close as an email (katherine.malkin@compass.com).

Year built: 1978
Remodeled/Updated: 2000
Price: $18,750,000
20,002 sq. ft.
Lot: 6,599 sq. ft.

All images courtesy of Compass Real Estate.