Country-like setting in Lake Bluff appeals to couple
Ann Sanborn and David Nash are hoping that everything goes as planned. They are engaged to be married and are ready to start their new life together in a villa at Stonebridge of Lake Bluff.
But they must first sell David's large four bedroom home in Lake Forest. Ann has already sold her small townhouse in Wilmette.
"Neither home was adequate to start our new life together," explained David, a retired banker who now spends his time volunteering with the American Legion and his church.
So they embarked on a search for the perfect home that would suit their new lifestyle and found it at Stonebridge of Lake Bluff.
"We fell in love with the magnificent setting," said Ann. "When you drive into the community, there is a beautiful, tree-lined lane winding through 12 acres of private woods. You see landscaped ponds, a stone bridge and a wooded paradise. It's peaceful nature gives me a feeling that we are on vacation, far from the hub bub of city life."
Stonebridge will feature 71 single family and European-inspired duplexes. The upscale homes range from 2160 to 3230 square feet and are priced from the $800,000s to $1.8 million. Eventually, 14 condominiums will be built in the historic Kelley manor house on the property. It was designed by Howard Van Doren Shaw.
The unique country-like setting in this upscale 55-plus community, coupled with the new construction and a maintenance-free lifestyle, met all their criteria.
They chose the 2,200-square-foot Abbotsford villa with its open floor plan, first floor master bedroom, large great room and spectacular views. Being able to expand the dining room into the great room to accommodate dinner parties was important. And since they expect out-of-town family to visit often, the two upstairs bedrooms will come in handy.
Currently buyers have nine country manors or villas to choose with either stone and stucco or shingle-style facades. Stone paved terraces are standard, but screened porches may be substituted.
"When it came time to choose our interior selections, we kept upgrades to a minimum because New England Builders offers high levels of interior finishes and products," David said. "Base and crown molding throughout the homes are exquisite."
"Now that the two models are open, we're pleased with the quality of construction and anticipate that the builder will meet all our expectations," he continued. "Since we're starting a new life together, we are thrilled to find a place we both love and expect our new villa to be our home for a long time."
Ann and David say they anticipate becoming snowbirds in a few years so the concept of maintenance-free living is very appealing to them. They can visit their second home and not worry about the upkeep of their Lake Bluff residence.
They are also delighted with the location, which is close to Lake Bluff Beach and the quaint shops and restaurants of both Lake Bluff and Lake Forest. The train that will take them into the city is also very close.
"We love the idea of living in a community that is reminiscent of the country lifestyle, yet having everything we need in close proximity," David said.
The sales center for Stonebridge of Lake Bluff is located at 136 Green Bay Road. Take Route 41 north to Deerpath Road, east to Green Bay Road, north two miles to the community entrance. The sales center is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Saturday, closed Wednesday and open noon to 6 p.m. on Sunday. For information, call (847) 234-4500 or www.stonebridgeof lakebluff.com.