Homes & Estates

MIDWEST SPOTLIGHT

Suburban

LUXURY ON A GRAND SCALE IN ST. LOUIS’ PREMIER LOCATION.

Sanctuary BY JAYMI NACIRI

W hile driving on this heavily treed road, you may be surprised to learn there’s a residence behind that thicket of lush greenery and hardwoods. Barely perceptible from the outside, this historic Ladue, Missouri, manse, called “The Woodlands” for its verdant setting, commands a grand presence once approached, with a sprawling expanse of brick gorgeousness surrounded by acres of parklike grounds. It’s the acreage that is one of the most illumi- nating features of this five-bedroom, six-bath estate. In this exclusive St. Louis suburb, luxury properties abound, but not at this scale. “The Woodlands is set in our absolute premier community of Ladue, offering a 100-percent location,” says listing agent John Ryan of Coldwell Banker Gundaker in Ladue/Clayton. “It is an eight- acre property, which is really unique in this area. The largest properties are usually around three acres. This is a true estate.” Beyond an elegantly welcoming front terrace

that was added in 2006 during one of the home’s renovations, etched glass doors open into a grand foyer with marble floors and detailed Italian ceilings. Built in 1926, The Woodlands retains the flair of its famous architect, with detailed characteristics that include period millwork, ornate wallcoverings, multiple fireplaces, sparkling chandeliers, arched wrought-iron doorways and numerous built-ins. “The home features the classic architecture of its era,” says Ryan. “It was designed by the noted architect George Helmuth and built by a lumber baron of the time. That explains the extensive use of beautiful wood paneling, casework and millwork throughout, including the library and grand living room. The home has been completely modernized while preserving the historic design and details.” The Old World elegance is complemented by modern amenities in the immense gourmet kitchen, where the warmth of the wooden ceiling provides an inviting counterpoint to the professional Wolf and Miele appliances, extensive custom cabinets, built-in refrigeration, Asbee hood, and the functionality and

Dining Room

PHOTOS BY ALISE O’BRIEN

108 | Homes & Estates