Renowned science fiction author Andy Weir is making headlines with the upcoming auction of his magnificent lakefront estate in Winnetka, IL. Nestled in one of Chicago’s most exclusive neighborhoods, this sprawling 13,000-square-foot property, dubbed a “haven of lakeside serenity and bespoke luxury,” boasts 7 bedrooms, 9 bathrooms, and sits on 1.12 acres with over 100 feet of private frontage on Lake Longmeadow.
The home, built in 2008 and extensively renovated by Weir and his wife, Ashley, combines timeless elegance with modern convenience. Designed by acclaimed architects Benvenuti & Stein and Karl Straussburger, the property is one of only 14 on a private peninsula, providing unrivaled privacy and exclusivity. The stunning estate is enhanced with amenities like a floating dock for direct lake access, ideal for fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, or even winter ice skating. To preserve the shoreline, a custom-built retaining wall ensures long-lasting protection.
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Inside, the estate seamlessly marries traditional charm with contemporary sophistication. A grand foyer welcomes guests, leading to a 560-square-foot great room, a pair of primary suites, and custom-designed offices. The kitchen was fully remodeled by Benvenuti & Stein, featuring handcrafted cabinetry and top-tier appliances, designed to create an open, European-inspired space that maintains the estate’s architectural harmony.
Additional unique features include a sunroom with heated floors and reclaimed 100-year-old barn wood, a wine cellar and tasting room, and a soundproofed theater complete with vintage seating, perfect for private screenings.
An elevator provides easy access across all three levels, and a spiral staircase ascends to a library adorned with custom stained glass.
Outside, the landscaped grounds offer an expansive brick patio with a stone-mantled fireplace, creating an ideal space for alfresco dining and relaxation while overlooking serene lake views.
The property is set to be auctioned from November 15 to December 3 with bidding expected to start between $1.8 million and $2.8 million, managed by Concierge Auctions. Despite renovating the property with no intention of moving soon, Weir’s career is leading him back to California for additional film projects, including Project Hail Mary, his latest movie adaptation starring Ryan Gosling. In his words, “We renovated the home for ourselves to love for many years… but work takes me back to California. We hope someone else will love the house and the beautiful land it’s on.”
Andy Weir is a celebrated American science fiction author best known for his debut novel, The Martian, which became an international bestseller and was adapted into a hit film starring Matt Damon. A former software engineer with a passion for science and space exploration, Weir’s work combines rigorous scientific accuracy with thrilling storytelling. His journey from self-published author to renowned writer is a testament to his unique talent and dedication to the craft. Following the success of The Martian, Weir continued to captivate readers with novels like Artemis and Project Hail Mary, further solidifying his place in modern science fiction. Currently involved in film projects, including a Project Hail Mary adaptation with Ryan Gosling, Weir is also an avid property enthusiast