Most people are drawn to Barrington because of the very idea of “country,” a concept that embraces nature, open spaces, and privacy. Homeowners Thomas and Lisa were among that group of residents when they lived in Barrington Hills.

However, the hub of a vibrant downtown beckoned like a siren song, and ultimately, they answered the call with a property at 723 South Street.

“We knew moving back to the Village was in our future and actually found the house before it went on the market through a friend,” says Lisa. “We never toured the house but knew that the property had a lot of potential.”

Situated on Bakers Lake on a double lot in the midst of mature trees—with a pool and a pool house—the property had everything they were looking for. It was inevitable that—combined with the eclectic, European-style architecture and their love of rare antiques—the couple was about to create a masterpiece of modern elegance.

“A combination of aesthetics, comfort, and practicality played a large role in the design of the home, from the solar system to the placement of the home with spectacular views,” Lisa explains. “The decks, the pool, and the size of rooms were well thought out and came together to give us the perfect outdoor and indoor space for living and entertaining.”

While the couple has loved living in their dream home, the time has come for them to let it go to the next owner. Priced at $2.2 million, the unique property is now on the market (and is expected to be the highest priced property in village history).

“Selling it comes with some hesitation,” she says, “but a home this size for two people is more than needed. Having the home lived in from top to bottom would be a joy to see.”

It would also be a joy to move in to, with no detail overlooked in creating a European retreat in the heart of the Village.

The foyer and grand hallway are accented with emblematic checkered flooring and dramatic 12-foot ceilings adorned with custom molding. Eight-foot doors are framed in limestone casing, adding to the glamour of the space. Antique and modern imported chandeliers add ambiance throughout—providing the perfect complement to the architectural design.

“It was important for us to give character to our home and one way was through the lighting,” Lisa explains. “We have antique exterior bronze lighting as well as unique interior fixtures, modern, one-of-a-kind fixtures from France, Italy, Austria, Germany, and Israel.”

The kitchen is also particularly exquisite. With a lakefront view, Carrara marble countertops, three Sub-Zero refrigeration  units, a Lacanche French range, artisan dome porcelain chandelier, and butler’s pantry—it’s a suite unto itself. Equally impressive is the great room, with cathedral ceilings, herringbone flooring, and grand fireplace. And a sumptuously appointed and spacious first floor master suite with custom cabinetry provides the perfect respite after a long day enjoying the outdoors (including a 2,400-square-foot outdoor decked living space) or shopping in the Village.

“There are many favorite things about this special property,” says Lisa. “The convenience of downtown Barrington and the privacy of the street being a dead end into the lake sets it apart from most homes. Bakers Lake is the backdrop with the sunrises, lovely views, and the waterfowl and wildlife. Coming from Barrington Hills, it’s the best of both worlds.”

The couple put six years of love and thought into the property and hope that a young family will enjoy it as much as they have.

“Moving back to the Village is like coming home,” she adds. “There are many neighbors we have grown to love in the Village and this home has been open to all of them. The town of Barrington with many new homes developing brings many positive changes and is a great place to raise a family. The best part of where our home is that it has the town at its fingertips and a beautiful Bakers Lake as its back yard. It is truly a special place to call home.”

723 South Street is currently offered at $2.2 million. For more information, contact Mike Kussmann, a broker with Baird and Warner, at 312-203-5295 or [email protected].