If you’re considering a move to Chicago’s prestigious North Shore area, you’ll want to explore Reserve at Barrington, an intimate gated community that’s redefining luxury living in Illinois. Since 2016, this exclusive enclave has attracted discerning homeowners who appreciate both sophistication and simplicity. While the development’s 43 custom homes and thoughtful amenities might initially catch your eye, there’s much more to discover about this remarkable neighborhood than what’s visible from its elegant entrance. Let’s explore what makes Reserve at Barrington a standout choice for those seeking an elevated suburban lifestyle.
Key Takeaways
- Exclusive gated community in Barrington, Illinois featuring 43 luxury homes with professional management by Foster Premier.
- Offers five luxury floor plans from 2,030 to 2,903 square feet, with base prices starting at $475,000.
- Homes include gourmet kitchens, stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops, and options for first-floor master suites.
- Located near Baker’s Lake Nature Preserve and multiple parks, offering residents access to extensive natural amenities.
- Community provides low-maintenance lifestyle while offering access to Barrington 220 school district and local conservation programs.
Location and Community Overview
Where luxury meets small-town charm, the Reserve at Barrington sits east of Barrington Road and north of Dundee Road in historic Barrington, Illinois.
You’ll find yourself in an exclusive gated community that screams “I’ve made it!” while still maintaining that cozy neighborhood vibe you’ve been dreaming about.
Let’s be honest – with only 43 homes, you won’t have to deal with hundreds of nosy neighbors asking to borrow your power tools.
Built by David Weekley Homes starting in 2016, this isn’t your grandmother’s cookie-cutter subdivision. The community features four distinct models to match your lifestyle needs.
You’re getting a low-maintenance lifestyle that’ll free up your weekends for activities way more exciting than mowing the lawn.
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Want parks? You’re practically drowning in options – Cipri, Colony, Huntington, Juniper, Kingston, Olmstead, Sundance, and Thornbark parks are all at your disposal.
The location’s pretty sweet too – you’re just a stone’s throw from Barrington’s shopping areas along Barrington and Dundee Roads.
And if you’ve got kids (or are planning on some), you’ll be in the coveted Barrington 220 school district, which means your little geniuses are covered from elementary through high school.
Home Models and Features
You’ll find a stunning range of luxury floor plans at Reserve at Barrington, from the cozy 2,030-square-foot Barton to the sprawling 2,903-square-foot Kirksville and Maryville models.
Each home’s master suite is thoughtfully designed with your comfort in mind, featuring spacious layouts and premium bathrooms that’ll make you feel like you’re living in a five-star hotel (minus the overpriced minibar). The peaceful suburban atmosphere makes it an ideal setting for relaxation and unwinding after a long day.
The homes’ custom interior finishes let you put your personal stamp on everything from cabinet styles to flooring options, because heaven forbid you’d have to live with someone else’s questionable taste in granite countertops. With access to local parks and amenities, residents can enjoy an active lifestyle right in their neighborhood.
Luxury Floor Plan Options
At Reserve at Barrington, homebuyers can choose from five distinctive floor plans ranging from 2,030 to 2,903 square feet. You’ll find these aren’t your average cookie-cutter layouts – each model packs a serious punch with luxury features that’ll make your friends drool with envy. Every home comes with gourmet designer kitchens complete with oversized islands and stainless steel appliances.
| Model Name | Specs That’ll Make You Swoon |
|---|---|
| Barton | Cozy yet luxe with 3 beds/2.1 baths (2,030 ft²) |
| Kemper | Party-ready 4 beds/3.1 baths (2,572 ft²) |
| Kirksville | Sprawling 4 beds/3.1 baths (2,903 ft²) |
| Maryville | Perfectly balanced 3 beds/3.1 baths (2,903 ft²) |
| Moonsgate | Extra bathroom magic 3 beds/3.2 baths (2,853 ft²) |
Let’s talk about that first-floor master suite – it’s available in one plan, and trust me, it’s a game-changer for those who aren’t fans of climbing stairs after a long day. Whether you’re sizing up or down, these plans offer the flexibility you crave without sacrificing an ounce of style. And with base prices starting at $475,000, you’re getting some serious bang for your buck in this gated paradise.
Master Suite Designs
The master suites at Reserve at Barrington redefine luxury living with thoughtfully designed spaces that blend comfort and elegance.
You’ll find these aren’t your typical cookie-cutter bedrooms – we’re talking seriously luxurious spaces with tray ceilings, coffer and crown molding, and windows so large you’ll practically be sleeping under the stars. Located in a gated community setting, these master suites offer both privacy and prestige.
Whether you prefer a first-floor retreat or an upper-level sanctuary, there’s a design that’ll make you feel like royalty without the whole castle maintenance hassle.
- Kick back in your spa-like bathroom featuring European-height sinks, super showers with floor-to-ceiling tile, and granite everything (because why stop at countertops?)
- Store your entire wardrobe (and then some) in California Closets that’ll make your friends seriously question their life choices.
- Customize every inch of your space with upgrades that’ll make HGTV hosts jealous.
With models ranging from the cozy 2,458-square-foot Keene to the sprawling 2,903-square-foot Kirksville, you’ve got options.
And let’s be real – with neutral color schemes and silver accents throughout, these suites are practically begging for your personal touch.
Want to swap that media room for a fourth bedroom? Done. It’s your castle, after all.
Custom Interior Finishes
Moving beyond the master suites, each home’s interior tells its own story through premium finishes and distinctive design elements. You’ll find yourself surrounded by high-end touches that’ll make your neighbors green with envy – from those sleek quartz countertops that practically scream “I’ve made it!” to hardwood floors that’ll outlast your kids’ teenage phases (and trust us, that’s saying something).
| Feature | Standard | Premium Option |
|---|---|---|
| Flooring | Hardwood | Custom Inlays |
| Counters | Quartz | Waterfall Edge |
| Fireplaces | Stone Surround | Custom Mantels |
| Kitchen Islands | Large | Extended/Double |
Let’s be real – these aren’t your grandma’s builder-grade finishes. The open-concept kitchens feature islands so massive you could land a small aircraft on them (though we don’t recommend trying). Every model comes with a fireplace that’s perfect for those Instagram-worthy family moments or, let’s face it, just showing off during holiday parties. And don’t get me started on the basement possibilities – with deep pour options, you’re basically getting an underground palace that’s begging to become your personal speakeasy or man cave extraordinaire. These custom homes offer Craftsman-style exteriors that perfectly complement the luxurious interior finishes.
Natural Beauty and Conservation
Nestled within the greater Barrington area, Reserve at Barrington boasts an impressive network of natural preserves and wildlife sanctuaries that exemplify the region’s commitment to conservation.
You’ll find yourself surrounded by over 200 acres of pristine wilderness at Baker’s Lake Nature Preserve, where great blue herons and egrets strut around like they own the place (honestly, they kind of do).
The area comes alive during spring and fall migrations, offering spectacular views of diverse waterfowl and songbirds passing through.
When you’re ready to break free from the mundane, these natural spaces offer endless opportunities for exploration and adventure.
From the sprawling Spring Creek Forest Preserve‘s riding trails to the Wagner Fen’s rare species sanctuary at Grassy Lake, you’re never more than a stone’s throw from something wild and wonderful.
- Watch majestic birds soar overhead at Baker’s Lake’s renowned rookery – it’s like National Geographic, minus the dramatic voiceover
- Trek through 5.6 miles of trails at Grassy Lake, where eight endangered species remind you just how precious these ecosystems are
- Connect with wildlife at Flint Creek Rehabilitation center, where they’re giving injured critters a second chance at freedom (talk about living the American dream!)
Smart Living and Sustainability
While nature thrives outside, smart living takes center stage within Reserve at Barrington’s thoughtfully designed community.
You’ll love how this place makes life ridiculously easy – it’s like having a personal assistant who actually shows up for work. The gated community keeps the riffraff out while Foster Premier’s professional management guarantees you won’t have to lift a finger for maintenance (unless it’s to call them with your demands). The community events calendar keeps residents connected to Barrington’s vibrant social scene year-round.
The community’s reliable information sources have been thoroughly validated through public records and documentation. You’re not just buying a home here; you’re investing in a lifestyle that’s both luxurious and sustainable. Thanks to energy-efficient designs and quality construction by David Weekley Homes, you won’t have to choose between comfort and conservation.
And let’s be honest, who doesn’t want lower utility bills? The community’s thoughtful planning means you’re just steps away from parks and amenities, so you can ditch the gas-guzzler more often.
Plus, with multiple home models featuring first-floor master suites, you won’t have to tackle those stairs when you’re feeling lazy – which, let’s face it, is probably more often than you’d admit.
Recreation and Local Attractions
The recreational opportunities surrounding Reserve at Barrington read like a nature lover’s wish list come true.
You’ll find yourself spoiled for choice with five major parks, including Langendorf Park’s epic pool complex and Citizens Park’s wheelchair-accessible treehouse (because everyone deserves some fun in the trees).
Let’s not even get started on the 3,900 acres of Spring Lake Preserve – it’s basically your personal outdoor playground. Nature enthusiasts can also take a day trip to explore the stunning Anderson Japanese Gardens in Rockford. The residential charm of Barrington makes it an ideal place to call home while enjoying these outdoor spaces.
Want to really break free? Here’s what makes this area pure paradise:
- You can hop on your bike and cruise those peaceful back-country lanes like you own them (and hey, technically you do – it’s your tax dollars at work)
- The Fox River’s calling your name for everything from lazy pontoon rides to adrenaline-pumping water sports
- The Riding Club of Barrington Hills lets you channel your inner cowboy on their massive network of bridle trails
When you’re done playing outdoors, catch a flick at the historic Catlow Theater, or get cultured at the White House Arts Center.
And if you’re feeling particularly adventurous, Six Flags Great America is just a short drive away – because sometimes you need to scream your head off on a roller coaster.
Community Impact and Engagement
You’ll find that environmental leadership isn’t just a buzzword in Barrington – it’s woven into the community’s DNA through year-round volunteer programs and partnerships with organizations like Citizens for Conservation.
The Reserve’s conservation initiatives have sparked some serious local pride, with residents rolling up their sleeves to protect everything from wetlands to wildlife corridors, proving that suburban living doesn’t have to mean saying goodbye to nature. The community’s dedication was highlighted by the Flint Creek Dreamway restoration project celebrated in 2021.
Thanks to groups like the Barrington Area Volunteer Connection, you’re never more than a click away from joining one of the countless environmental projects that keep this community green and thriving, whether you’re a seasoned tree-hugger or just someone who’d rather not see another strip mall pop up in your backyard.
Strong Environmental Leadership Role
Throughout its history, Barrington has demonstrated exceptional environmental leadership through extensive initiatives and community engagement.
You’ll find this community isn’t just talking the talk – they’re walking the green walk with impressive programs like their food scrap composting service and that fancy Tree City USA designation they’ve maintained.
Let’s be honest, while other towns were still figuring out which bin to put their recyclables in, Barrington was already crushing it with multi-material recycling back in the 1980s. The community’s approach mirrors the principles of transformational environmental leadership, fostering continuous improvement in sustainable practices.
Want to know what makes Barrington’s environmental game so strong? Here are three standout moves that’ll make other communities green with envy:
- They’ve joined forces with 119 other communities in the Greenest Region Compact, because saving the planet’s more fun with friends.
- Their Environmental Advisory Committee actually gets stuff done, unlike those “all talk, no action” committees you see elsewhere.
- They’ve partnered with local conservation groups to tackle everything from stream restoration to salt reduction (because who needs a side of sodium with their groundwater?)
You’ll find organizations like Go Green Barrington leading the charge, making sustainability not just a buzzword but a way of life.
Local Conservation Partnerships
Partnering with powerhouse organizations like the Barrington Area Conservation Trust (BACT) and Citizens for Conservation (CFC), Barrington’s conservation efforts have created lasting impacts across the region.
You’ll find these environmental champions working tirelessly to protect over 732 acres across 14 locations – and that’s just the beginning. Thanks to CFC’s ambitious initiatives, they’ve managed to secure more than 3,200 acres of public land, creating new forest preserves that’ll make any nature lover’s heart skip a beat.
But wait, there’s more! BACT’s collaboration with the Forest Preserve District of Cook County has brought you gems like the Horizon Farm Preserve, while Woods To Wetlands (W2W) is busy transforming Katie’s Marsh into a pollinator’s paradise. The area’s award-winning youth programs have inspired countless children to embrace environmental stewardship.
Even the Village of North Barrington’s gotten in on the action, promoting sustainable development that doesn’t make Mother Nature cry. It’s a beautiful thing when local organizations come together, and let’s be honest – without these partnerships, Barrington might’ve ended up looking like just another concrete jungle.
Instead, you’re living in a community where conservation isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a way of life.
Year-Round Volunteer Programs
When it comes to making a difference in Barrington, there’s no shortage of ways to get involved. You’ll find yourself spoiled for choice, whether you’re into digitizing historical documents at the library (totally thrilling, right?) or getting your hands dirty at the Cuba Township Food Pantry. The Fandom Fest event draws thousands of visitors each February for a celebration of pop culture and creativity.
The Barrington Area Volunteer Connection‘s got your back with their fancy “Get Connected” platform, making it ridiculously easy to find your perfect volunteer match.
- Want academic credit while doing good? Barrington High School’s volunteer program lets you rack up those sweet service hours while padding your college applications.
- Feeling charitable but hate leaving your house? BAVC’s virtual volunteering options mean you can make an impact without changing out of your pajamas.
- Ready to embrace your inner horse whisperer? Organizations like Mane in Heaven and Walk On Farm are always looking for animal lovers.
You’ll need to jump through some hoops – background checks for the 18+ crowd, parental permission for the youngsters – but hey, that’s what keeps the riffraff out.
Whether you’re teaching tots at Kaleidoscope or playing host at Barrington’s White House, there’s a spot waiting for your unique brand of do-goodery.
Final Thoughts
You won’t find a better blend of luxury and community than Reserve at Barrington, where you’re not just buying a home, you’re investing in a lifestyle. Let’s face it – between the high-end finishes that’ll make your friends jealous and the sustainable features that’ll keep Mother Nature happy, you’ve hit the jackpot. Whether you’re downsizing or upgrading, this exclusive enclave’s got everything you need, minus the headaches of traditional homeownership.
