Tucked inside the rolling hills of The Sanctuary home development in Elkhorn, this lavish French country-style home exudes both comfort and luxury. From the privacy to the wildlife to the unique scenery of the area, the location was ideal for owners Lana and the late Patrick Clarke, who recruited designer Marshall Wallman to bring this custom-built retreat to fruition.
The Clarkes, who moved into the lush estate in the spring of 2012, had every intention of deeming the property their forever home. However, their plan was halted by Patrick’s sudden passing in a tragic plane accident in the fall of 2012. Since then, Lana has decided to downsize, but the decision wasn’t easy. “This would have been our last home,” she said. “We loved our time here very much, and our family has enjoyed every aspect of the home. The craftsmanship and attention to detail throughout the design is what makes this space so flawless and special. Now, it’s time to allow a new family to experience its charm.”
Located in the Elkhorn School District, the 10,000-sq. ft. estate sits on just over two lots and features a dazzling backyard reminiscent of a city park. In fact, the unique shape of the property was designed around the winding trees, so as to not disturb the landscape. Beyond the gated entrance and sprawling three-car garage, a dramatic stone arched entry proclaims elegance, foreshadowing what’s inside.
Upon entering, a two-story spiral staircase, striking woodwork, French doors, and grand arches are just a few of the distinct elements that draw attention. Each room is unique, as varying textures of walls and beautifully contrasting ceilings display the immense personality of the home. Multiple fireplaces and cozy nooks also help to foster a warm and welcoming appeal throughout the home.
The six-bedroom, eight-bathroom home offers lavish living, dining, and kitchen areas that are ideal for large gatherings and entertaining. The gourmet kitchen features vaulted, beamed ceilings, a large center island, and a spacious pantry. Natural light seeps from one room to the next as grand windows offer a sweeping view of the grounds outside. Onward into the expansive master suite, which features a chandelier and crown molded ceiling, a spa-like master bath and adjoining walk-in closet await.
From Lana’s perspective, one of the more favored rooms of the home has been the study/living area that lies at the entrance of the master bedroom. Inside, photos of family line the retreat, where Lana said she has successfully added her own touch of style, referred to as “grandma chic.”
Moving into the lower level of the house, there’s an additional kitchen featuring soapstone countertops, as well as a large living room with wooden beams overhead that originated from the Mattress Factory in Omaha. Also downstairs, a billiards area and theater room allow for excellent entertainment choices. Around the corner also lies a customized dog wash area and a storage room that doubles as a safe room. For added convenience, the home also houses an elevator. Outside, a large fire pit and covered patio face a captivating view of the grand yard.
Looking back, Lana fondly recalled family gatherings, Husker football parties, and time spent with grandchildren in the home. For the Clarkes, this abode was a safe haven that embodied love, family, and faith. Now, as Lana moves onto a new stage in her life, she hopes the home will offer the next owners the same kind of happiness she experienced. “A great amount of thought went into the creation of this home,” she said. “The house has a lot of character and beautiful features. It will be a lovely space for the next family to treasure and enjoy.”
The luxurious home was listed in the summer of 2019. For additional information or to schedule a private showing, contact Jeff Cohn with kwELITE at (402) 452-0642.
