Down by the Riverside

By Mark Loehrke
Appears in the September 2024 issue.

The outdoor recreation possibilities seem endless at this Naperville estate

In the East Highlands neighborhood of Naperville, the sprawling backyard of the home at 854 Santa Maria Drive, now on the market for $2.6 million, makes for a long stretch of outdoor entertaining space. Encompassing a sizable chunk of the property’s 1.1 acres, this impressive greenway extends from the well-appointed patio behind the 4,600-square-foot house all the way down to the bank of the DuPage River, with fun diversions like a basketball half-court and a pair of fire pits along the way—not to mention a great place to launch a kayak or paddleboard at its terminus.

Against that showcase yard, the house itself holds up its end of the luxe bargain as well, with six full bedrooms (including a primary that features a Juliet balcony overlooking the grounds), a living room with fireplace, gourmet kitchen, and high-end finishes throughout. According to listing agent Trevor Paulson of John Greene Realtor, the house has seen a number of updates since it was constructed in 2007, including the addition of an office space (featuring a 12-foot ceiling) and the recently finished walkout basement, which now boasts a full bar, entertaining space, steam shower, and a bedroom of its own.

Photos: Reel Tour Media