A Glass House Legacy on Nearly Eight Acres of Timeless Modernism
Set amid nearly eight acres of private, wooded splendor bordering the prestigious Shoreacres Golf Course, this rare mid-century modern estate embodies a bygone era of architectural purity and connection to nature. Offered for the first time since its 1978 completion, the residence was designed by John Black Lee Associates, a revered disciple of the Glass House School—the modernist movement shaped by Marcel Breuer and Philip Johnson that forever changed the American architectural landscape.
Location
Lake Bluff, IL
Style
Mid-Century ModernAddress
240 Shore Acres Cir
Market
ChicagoState
IllinoisPhoto Credit
MRED & Coldwell Banker
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At the heart of the home lies a luminous solarium—a living sculpture of glass and light that anchors 4,286 square feet of inspired design. Here, walls of glass dissolve into the landscape, skylights pour sunlight into airy volumes, and sliding doors invite effortless flow between interior and exterior. The home’s palette of enduring materials—marble, brick, and warm wood—creates a dialogue between the natural and the crafted.
Original mid-century details remain beautifully preserved: marble fireplaces that soar from floor to ceiling, herringbone-patterned brick floors, and custom millwork that exemplifies the craftsmanship of its era. Every room reflects an architectural intent to merge shelter with scenery. The living and dining rooms bask in the glow of the surrounding gardens, while the original kitchen—complete with skylights, built-in banquette, and direct patio access—captures the casual elegance of alfresco living.
The primary suite is a private retreat, with its own marble fireplace, walls of glass opening to the west patio, and rich hardwood flooring. A flexible east suite with kitchenette serves perfectly as guest quarters or staff residence, while additional living spaces can transform to accommodate modern needs.
Beyond the architecture lies an estate of breathtaking artistry. Meandering pathways, a storybook bridge over a ravine, and fountains tucked among the gardens evoke the romance of a Monet canvas. Mature trees, vibrant seasonal blooms, and a tranquil gazebo make every step through the grounds an experience in serenity.
Only minutes from the charming village of Lake Bluff, yet worlds apart in privacy and peace, 240 Shore Acres Circle stands as a rare opportunity—a masterwork of American modernism that celebrates the poetry of light, land, and legacy.