The Gardens at 900

Lake Forest, IL
Water feature, Garden structure/sculpture, Fruit/vegetables, Historic garden, Organic/toxin-free, Woodland/shade garden

The Gardens at 900 are a sensitive renovation and interpretation of the original entry building complex and gardens of the historic Elawa Farm. Originally designed by architect David Adler in 1917 for A. Watson and Elsa Armour, the buildings had been abandoned for nearly a decade before being acquired by Craig Bergmann and Paul Klug. Used as both private residence and the design offices for Bergmann and Klug, the buildings and garden areas regard the history of the site, while also fostering creativity.

Formal borders, a shade garden with a 2022 greenhouse addition, an orchard laden with old roses and a panicle hydrangea collection, a swimming pool garden, and a motor court constitute the garden today. The Gardens at 900 are an excellent example of how quickly a landscape can be transformed with a focused, collaborative vision. The property has been designated as a State of Illinois historic landmark.

This garden’s estimated size is 2 3/4 acres.

Open Days 2024:  Saturday, July 27
Hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Tickets for this Open Day will be available on Wednesday, May 1.

  • This garden allows photography
  • Partial wheelchair access
  • Nature friendly f372a65207813459a0d18d2caa5c1eece145dbb205535bacd45d09e443889605Nature-friendly

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