Homes & Estates

108 | Homes & Estates

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

Suburban

Sanctuary

BY JAYMI NACIRI

LUXURY ON A GRAND SCALE IN

ST. LOUIS’ PREMIER LOCATION.

MIDWEST SPOTLIGHT

Dining Room

PHOTOS BY ALISE O’BRIEN