745 East Woodland Road is an exceptional east Lake Forest residence that offers a rare blend of architectural excellence, modern luxury, and serene natural beauty. Originally built in 2006 and extensively renovated between 2022-2024, this English Country estate was honored with the Historic Preservation Award for New Construction, and has since been enriched with significant upgrades. Beyond the gated entrance, a private bridge spans a natural ravine, leading to a circular brick paver drive, creating a dramatic and private approach to the home. Set on 1.23 acres, the striking exterior showcases a Ludowici clay tile roof, zinc-coated copper gutters, and hand-chiseled limestone--materials that reflect enduring quality and craftsmanship. Inside, timeless character and refined luxury define every inch of the home. Highlights include French limestone floors, high ceilings, extraordinary millwork, oak hardwood flooring, four wood burning fireplaces (with gas logs), and an abundance of windows and French doors that fill the interior with natural light. The gracious formal living room enjoys three distinct exposures and features a traditional wood-burning fireplace with herringbone-patterned firebrick. The formal dining room has expansive French doors that open to a bluestone terrace-ideal for seamless indoor/outdoor entertaining. A cozy pine-paneled library with fireplace and charming bay window offers a warm and inviting retreat. Both the original architectural design and the comprehensive renovations were masterfully executed by Melichar & Associates. The recent improvements include new mechanical systems, upgraded electrical service to 600 amps, extensive new low-voltage lighting, a Lutron lighting system and all new Marvin exterior French doors. In addition, the entirely new and reimagined kitchen features custom white cabinetry, a large center island with seating, marble counters, professional-grade appliances (Wolf, Sub-Zero, Miele), a serving/beverage center with dining room access, and a spacious eating area with expansive new windows that offer inviting views of the rear lawn. The kitchen opens to a magnificent family room with vaulted beamed ceiling, French doors, and a handsome stone fireplace with herringbone-patterned fire brick and gas logs. The second level, accessible by handcrafted front and back staircases or a wood-paneled elevator, boasts wide hallways, a luxurious primary suite, three additional ensuite bedrooms with deluxe bathrooms and generous closets, and a full laundry room. The redesigned primary suite is a private sanctuary, complete with two new luxurious marble bathrooms with steam showers, WaterWorks polished nickel fixtures, spacious walk-in closets, a freestanding WaterWorks soaking tub, and a sitting room. The renovated lower level has high ceilings, radiant heated floors, an expansive recreation room, a billiards room with a convenient beverage bar, a fifth bedroom suite (currently used as an exercise room), a media room with fireplace, and a private office with an impressive glass wall. This lower-level "redesign" is ideal for fun, informal gatherings. Additional highlights include a heated 3.5-car garage, first and second floor laundry rooms, a mud room with ample built-in storage, and of course, the exceptional location close to the lake, beach, town, schools, and parks. 745 East Woodland Road represents a rare opportunity to own a pristine newer home in east Lake Forest--where architectural authenticity, modern luxury, and natural serenity exist in perfect balance.
