A David Adler Designed Home Steeped In History

All photos courtesy of Compass Real Estate

I love a house with history and soul, and interior designer Frank Ponterio’s Lake Forest, Illinois home, is the epitome of both. Designed by famed Architect David Adler, Ponterio has lovingly renovated, restored, and decorated the residence during the 20 years he’s called it home. Originally part of the Lasker Estate, this three-building property includes the main house, a dining/entertainment pavilion, and a coach house, which has served as Ponterio’s office and design studio. Currently for sale, the beautiful home is a one-of-a-kind marriage of history and stylish design.

Steeped in History
Albert Lasker was the head of Lord & Thomas, a now-defunct Chicago advertising agency among the largest in the country at the beginning of the 20th century. He socialized with celebrities, helped launch commercial radio, and even bought a stake in the Chicago Cubs. Lasker hired renowned architect David Adler to design and oversee the construction of his estate built between 1925 and 1928 for about $3.5 million.

The Lasker Estate, also known as the Old Mill Road Estate, encompassed 480 acres, including a 55 room French provincial mansion, 26 outer buildings, a staff of 150, and a private 18 hole golf course. Among the many extravagant amenities were a horse barn, cocktail house, and an air-conditioned theater. Old Mill Road’s architecture, roads, and golf greens later shaped the neighborhood constructed after the estate was subdivided. 13 David Adler-designed farm buildings are now private residences.

Arial view of the Main House of the Lasker Estate

Interior Designer Frank Ponterio gave it Soul

Frank Ponterio is a noted Chicago-based interior designer with award-winning designs and product lines for Lee Jofa, Avrett, Arteriors, and Clarence House. His expertise in interior architecture and historic preservation is evident throughout his beautiful home. The exterior exudes charm with limewashed brick, french blue shutters, and gorgeous outdoor living spaces. The expertly designed interior rooms feature many of Ponterio’s custom lighting and furniture pieces. Wide plank, hand-scraped walnut floors, and French limestone flooring run throughout. The home has a rustic appeal but has been completely updated with every modern comfort.

The private brick-walled courtyard boasts fantastic gardens, shade and fruit trees, a subtle water feature, an outdoor fireplace, and a custom dining table with seating for twelve. The stunning landscaping is the work of Miriani landscaping.

The combination of historical significance and state-of-the-art amenities make this home something extraordinary. Enjoy the photo tour!

The log stools add a unique rustic touch

The home has many outdoor spaces. This one is perfect for late night conversation and smores.

Wisteria Covered dining pavilion sets the stage for is perfect indoor/outdoor entertaining

With naturally aged mahogany doors, this dining area stores his wine in enormous temperature-controlled “caves” hidden behind panels made from simple slat boards that match the look of the old structure

The living room features linen hide wallpaper, plaid drapery and leather chairs

The Kitchen cabinetry is by Christopher Peacock. Butcher block and soapstone counters, Carrara marble tiled backsplash complete this custom kitchen.

Gold and brown tones create a cozy dining room

Rich Neutrals and warm woods make Ponterio’s office stylish and inviting

This Conference table converts to a pool table when entertaining

To learn more about this special property at 1450 Old Mill Road in Lake Forest, contact Lori Baker at Compass Realty lori.baker@compass.com or
(847) 863-1791.

To see more of interior Designer Frank Ponterio’s work visit his website Frankponterio.com