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Our Big Little Place: A David Adler Masterpiece

Ivan Turner

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Our Big Little Place is a stunning David Adler masterpiece located in the heart of the North Shore. This sprawling estate is a testament to Adler's impeccable design and attention to detail. From the grand foyer to the intimate gardens, every inch of Our Big Little Place is a work of art.

Our Big Little Place

by David A. Adler

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
Lending	:	Enabled
File size	:	11276 KB
Print length	:	38 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

The History of Our Big Little Place

Our Big Little Place was built in 1927 for the prominent Chicago family, the Wrigleys. The Wrigleys were close friends of David Adler, and they commissioned him to design a home that would reflect their love of entertaining and their passion for the arts. Adler did not disappoint. He created a home that is both grand and intimate, with a perfect flow for entertaining and a stunning collection of art and antiques.

The Wrigleys lived in Our Big Little Place for over 50 years. During that time, they hosted countless parties and gatherings, and they welcomed many famous guests, including President Franklin D. Roosevelt and Winston Churchill. In 1987, the Wrigleys donated Our Big Little Place to the Landmark Preservation Council of Illinois. The Council has since restored the home to its original grandeur, and it is now open to the public for tours.

The Architecture of Our Big Little Place

Our Big Little Place is a classic example of David Adler's architectural style. The home is characterized by its clean lines, simple forms, and elegant detailing. Adler was a master of proportion and scale, and he created a home that is both visually stunning and incredibly livable.

The exterior of Our Big Little Place is made of Indiana limestone. The home is two stories tall, with a hipped roof and a symmetrical facade. The front entrance is flanked by two Ionic columns, and the windows are topped with pediments. The back of the house overlooks a formal garden, and there is a terrace on the second floor that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

The interior of Our Big Little Place is just as impressive as the exterior. The home is filled with beautiful woodwork, plasterwork, and murals. The floors are inlaid with marble and parquet, and the ceilings are adorned with intricate moldings. The home is furnished with a collection of fine art and antiques, and every room has its own unique charm.

The Gardens of Our Big Little Place

The gardens of Our Big Little Place are just as beautiful as the house itself. The gardens were designed by landscape architect Jens Jensen, and they are a perfect complement to Adler's architecture. The gardens are filled with a variety of plants and flowers, and they offer a serene setting for relaxation and contemplation.

The formal garden at the back of the house is the centerpiece of the estate. The garden is laid out in a symmetrical pattern, with a central fountain and a series of paths that lead to different areas of the garden. The garden is filled with a variety of flowers, including roses, peonies, and irises. There is also a small reflecting pool, which adds to the beauty of the garden.

In addition to the formal garden, there are also a number of other gardens on the estate, including a rose garden, a vegetable garden, and a cutting garden. The gardens are all beautifully maintained, and they offer a variety of different experiences for visitors.

Our Big Little Place Today

Our Big Little Place is now a museum, and it is open to the public for tours. The museum offers a variety of different tours, including a general tour, a garden tour, and a behind-the-scenes tour. Visitors can also rent the estate for special events, such as weddings and corporate retreats.

Our Big Little Place is a truly special place. It is a beautiful example of David Adler's architectural genius, and it is a testament to the Wrigleys' love of art and entertaining. The estate is now open to the public, and it is a must-see for anyone who is interested in architecture, design, or history.

Our Big Little Place Our Big Little Place David A Adler