199 E Lake Shore Drive , 10-11E

Description

Chicago's Penthouse. This elegant and spacious penthouse sits atop an exclusive 1913 Benjamin Marshall Beaux-Arts masterpiece with iconic Lake Shore Drive and Lake Michigan views. Experience ultimate privacy, security and service in this boutique building with only 13 residences and full-time staff. What truly sets this home apart is the potential to build a one-of-a-kind private roof terrace overlooking the lakefront - one of the city's largest! The generous scale and proportion of this duplex home is impressive to even those with the most discerning standards. A trophy property, this home is the perfect blend of old-world elegance and modern amenities, plus full-on panoramic lakefront and beach views out of 120' of windows. There are generous indoor-outdoor living opportunities, including two expansive balconies and a dining deck off the conservatory. The stately foyer showcases a sweeping two-story staircase and vaulted ceiling. Pick your favorite place among the public living rooms, den or sunroom, each with its own views and vibes. The living room has a majestic bay window, and the den is equipped with attractive built-ins, a wet bar and balcony, and is also an optional bedroom. The dining room is a generous size, typically set up for intimate dinner parties of 10-14, but can be expanded to accommodate up to 24. For smaller gatherings, the sunroom or kitchen nook are perfect. The bright and airy main kitchen contains all the high-end appliances and amenities a chef could want, including a butler's pantry, two warming drawers, an extra Sub-Zero freezer and ice maker, wood burning fireplace, island with seating, bay dining nook, temperature-controlled wine room and second powder room. Tucked away in its own wing on the main level, the primary bedroom includes a fireplace, classic built-ins, several walk-in and standing closets and a seating/reading alcove. The suite has individual dressing rooms, two water closets, double vanities, a separate walk-in shower and soaking jacuzzi with lake views. Conveniently, there is a hidden safe and locked jewelry drawers as well. The top floor is accessible by elevator as well and holds additional bedrooms and various entertainment spaces. Got game? Challenge your family and guests in the lounge (cards, backgammon, chess) or in the billiards room (pool, ping pong). This home has endless entertaining possibilities. If you prefer, with a quick change of furniture, these rooms can be used for any other purpose, including up to five additional bedrooms (as there were originally). More lake views, walnut wall paneling, a fireplace and ornamental ceilings make this floor warm and inviting. The den has a drop-down media screen/system and a fireplace. The private walnut paneled office is an oasis with a balcony and powder room and can easily be transformed into an optional bedroom. A rare addition is the conservatory with 22' ceilings and a catering kitchen nearby. It has a separate A/C unit, heated flooring and remote windows surrounding the periphery. This space is totally unique to high rise living as it truly invites the outside in. There is a dining terrace with attached gas grill and seating for six to eight. There is an integrated audio system throughout. The original oak and reclaimed marble floors from the early 1900's are in perfect condition. Five fireplaces (two wood burning and three gas) and five HVAC systems keep your living environment comfortable year-round. The two large storage rooms measure 80 and 480 SF. 100% walkability. Luxury, security and privacy with endless lake views.