In 1993, developer Bob Shaw purchased 39 acres of land on the east side of Lake Forest Academy from the Lake Forest Academy, and proceeded to develop the luxury home community, Academy Woods, with 77 single-family zero-lot-line homes situated on 19 acres of the 39-acre property. The heavily wooded remaining acreage was left as nature preserve that is behind each of the 77 homes. Two retention ponds were constructed and landscaped. Shaw's development featured extensive landscaping that has grown and matured into a beautiful forested community. The last home was completed in 2008, and all homes are owner occupied.
"The Most Beautiful House Between New York and San Francisco"
Academy Woods houses and the Lake Forest Academy occupy land that was originally home to Mellody Farm, the country residence of J. Ogden Armour. Completed in 1909, the building (now part of Lake Forest Academy) and the surrounding gardens have been called "The Most Beautiful House Between New York and San Francisco."
Academy Woods houses and the Lake Forest Academy occupy land that was originally home to Mellody Farm, the country residence of J. Ogden Armour. Completed in 1909, the building (now part of Lake Forest Academy) and the surrounding gardens have been called "The Most Beautiful House Between New York and San Francisco."