Some homes are just made for entertaining. Their open, comfortable spaces create the perfect environment for gatherings and making memories. That’s the case with this Frontenac gem in the Ladue School District. The five-bedroom home has been the cherished centerpiece of a happy, busy family life according to its current owners, who have become empty nesters and plan on downsizing to a smaller house in the area. “We built the home about a decade ago because we had a young family, and also because we love to host guests,” says the owner, who has been in the catering business with her husband for many years. “Everything is connected and easily accessible. It really is the place for gathering our family and friends.”

Party priorities were the main reason behind the home’s large wine room, one of its most striking features. “My husband is a big collector,” the owner notes. “When we have guests, he takes them in there to help select a bottle to complement what we’re serving.” It holds about 1,200 bottles and is a wonderful conversation piece, she says.

The family’s focus on food and entertaining also inspired the conversion of the home’s mudroom into a separate catering kitchen. “We decided to install counters, a refrigerator, ice maker and other features in that room for catering staff when we’re having a large party,” she says. “That way, guests still can gather and mingle around appetizers in the main kitchen. That’s where everyone wants to be anyway!”

The couple’s children were active in band and theater while in school, so their home served as the perfect destination for after-parties and celebrations. “We built out the lower level with a theater room, pool table area and more,” she says. “It’s nice that it is so separate from the bedrooms and upstairs living space.” Other memorable parties include a Southern-themed bash for friends when their son was accepted to college in Atlanta, and a get-together for out-of-town guests during their daughter’s wedding weekend. They brought in special lighting to illuminate the house and grounds at night, and it was magical, she recalls.

The owner says she will miss the covered back porch most of all. “It’s so lovely with its high ceiling and view of the pool,” she notes. “It’s perfect for entertaining, or just sitting outside and reading.”

listing price | $1,795,000
listing agent | sabrina robb, robb partners of keller williams realty-st. louis

Photos courtesy of Robb Partners
Cover photo: Bill Barrett