42 Countryside Lane, Frontenac

Stephanie Wallace

3 months ago

from the homeowners | For something truly one-of-a-kind, look no further than 42 Countryside Lane. Designed by renowned architect Bobby McAlpine, the English-inspired main residence, guest cottage and pool house are beautifully composed across a 1.45 acre lot. “McAlpine only designed two houses in the Midwest, so it’s a very special property,” the current homeowner notes.

What have you enjoyed about the neighborhood?
You’re close to shopping, restaurants and the highway, but the neighborhood is still private and quiet. The home backs up to the Mercy Conference Center, so it’s very peaceful. It really is an unbelievably lovely neighborhood.

Tell me about the outdoor spaces.
My husband would tell you the natural spaces are the highlight. We’re right next to a walking trail, and the home is in Frontenac, so you can sit outside in the evening and see all kinds of wildlife like deer and turkey. There is a pool, a Sport Court and plenty of green space. We have 15 grandchildren, so when the weather is nice, the yard is always full of activity. It’s wonderful to look out and see people swimming, playing pickleball and having a baseball game.

What are some other standout features of the home?
You can’t beat the quality. The home is bright and open with lots of windows. It’s really fabulous for a family. There’s a movie theater in the basement with a wet bar, and there’s a stage for the kids that was painted by a local artist with murals of fairy tale characters. The same artist painted murals on both staircases; one reflects the English countryside and the other the sea. It’s very charming. The master suite has two sitting rooms, which is great. The third floor has two bedrooms and a bath, so the kids can have the whole floor to themselves.

How is the home for entertaining?
It has great flow and is very welcoming. We did a lot of entertaining outdoors. The kitchen and living room open to the pool and poolhouse, so people can easily move inside and out. There also is a lovely carriage house for guests. They can have their own space, including a small kitchen.

Do you have a favorite room?
The entire house is a knockout. When decorating, I used a lot of British wallpapers. I personally gravitate towards things that you aren’t going to see in other places. The entire home is like that. It has a very specific feel and sophisticated charm. You’re not going to find a property like this anywhere else.

from the agent
“The property is very special, creating an European countryside motif that integrates beautifully within the secluded landscape.”
–Stephanie Oliver