Whoever coined the saying, “Your home is your castle,” must have had this sprawling stone mansion in mind. Its seven bedrooms, 33,000 square feet of interior space and several acres of land create limitless possibilities for luxurious living. It’s an enchanting sight for visitors as they pull up the winding driveway through a wrought-iron gate.
Owner Angie Porter, inventor of the FURminator pet deshedding tool, says the three-level property was built to be passed down through generations, but a change in plans necessitated a move. “The home was designed by architect Dick Busch and completed in 2014,” she says. “Construction took about four years, and attention was paid to every detail. The property is beautifully landscaped, and new trees were planted along the front a few years ago for additional privacy.”
Standout features include a light-filled conservatory, tennis court, spa, infinity pool with swim-up bar, gracefully spiraling staircases and picturesque views from every exterior angle. The kitchen has two center islands, a large butler’s pantry and professional appliances. “My family didn’t do a lot of entertaining, but this home is a wonderful place for parties,” Porter says. “We did hold some charity events and outdoor gatherings here, and it was perfect for those.” The design for an elaborate gentlemen’s retreat overlooking space for an auto collection was inspired by architectural features the family saw in Budapest.
Porter says the property is ideal for people who enjoy animals. She owns dogs and has raised chickens, and says the grounds are home to two graceful swans. “They live on the pond year-round and add a lovely touch to the landscape,” she notes. “At my family’s previous home, we enjoyed raising chicks in the spring, so we added space to do the same at this house. There’s also a dog grooming room inside.”
Outdoors, a romantic bridge arches across the pond, and a sparkling fountain greets guests at the circular front drive. “We told the architect we wanted the home’s design to include bold features like turrets and barrel vault ceilings,” Porter says. “There’s also a six-car garage, a garage for golf carts, a potting shed for those who like gardening, and security features like cameras and a walk-in gun safe.” The master bedroom suite is a refuge in itself, featuring a breakfast bar, adjoining patio, large sitting room and luxurious bathroom.
Porter says the conservatory was a later addition, but it’s one of her favorite spaces. “I love the pool house as well,” she notes. “It includes room for guests, and there’s also a two-bedroom apartment above the garage.” Family-friendly touches include an arcade room, entertainment center, a theater with soft seating, and plenty of space for kids to relax and play. Convenience factors include a dumbwaiter for firewood, three laundry rooms, a car wash and an elevator serving all three floors. Laura McCarthy Real Estate agents Katie McLaughlin and Megan Rowe are showing the property by appointment. Porter says she hopes the home’s next owner will enjoy its many luxuries as thoroughly as her family did. “Everything about it is pretty special,” she says.
For more information on the home or to arrange a showing, call 314.378.4077 or 314.283.8444, or visit 1705northwoodlawn.com.
Cover design by Julie Streiler | Cover photo by Square One Media Productions
Pictured at top: 1705 N. Woodlawn Ave.
Photo: Square One Media Productions
