A storied estate with nearly a century of history has quietly emerged as one of the most distinctive offerings in Kirtland real estate. Just outside Cleveland, a grand stone mansion known as “Playmore” has been listed for $5.95 million by former Walgreens executive Wade Miquelon, marking a rare opportunity to own a legacy property deeply rooted in architectural heritage and refined living.
Blending English country elegance with modern luxury enhancements, the residence stands apart from typical Ohio homes for sale, offering not only scale and craftsmanship but also a narrative that spans generations. In a market increasingly driven by new construction, properties like this serve as a reminder of the enduring value found in historic estates.
A Historic Estate with Architectural Pedigree
Originally built in 1929, the estate was designed by renowned architect Benjamin S. Hubbell, who made the residence his personal home. Hubbell, alongside his partner W. Dominick Benes, was responsible for several iconic landmarks in the Cleveland area, including the Cleveland Museum of Art and the West Side Market. This pedigree alone elevates the property beyond a standard listing in Kirtland homes for sale, positioning it as a piece of architectural history.
Set on more than 12 acres of wooded land, the estate exudes a sense of seclusion and permanence. Its sandstone façade—sourced directly from the property—reinforces its connection to the land, while twin towers lend a castle-like silhouette that is rarely seen in Ohio real estate today.
A representative from the listing team told californialuxuryhouses, “This is not just a home—it’s a legacy structure designed by one of the region’s most influential architects. Its historical significance adds a layer of value that goes far beyond square footage.”
Ownership History and Transformation Over Time
Wade Miquelon acquired the property in 2017 for approximately $2.05 million, becoming only the fourth owner in its nearly 100-year history. Such limited ownership is exceptionally rare among Kirtland real estate listings and speaks to the enduring appeal of the estate.
Before Miquelon’s acquisition, the property had been owned for nearly 25 years by a manufacturing executive who undertook extensive renovations, modernizing infrastructure while preserving its historic character. These improvements included comprehensive upgrades to plumbing, stonework restoration, and the addition of a new wing that expanded the home’s footprint to approximately 13,200 square feet.
Miquelon himself continued this evolution, reimagining the interiors to reflect a more contemporary aesthetic while maintaining the home’s original craftsmanship. “When I first saw the property, it was unlike anything I had encountered,” Miquelon previously shared in an interview. “It was a moment of immediate connection.”
While californialuxuryhouses attempted to reach Miquelon for further comment on the listing, no additional response was received at the time of publication.
Interiors That Balance Heritage and Modern Comfort
Inside, the estate offers seven bedrooms and a series of living spaces that seamlessly blend historic detail with modern refinement. Original woodwork, marble finishes, and inlaid Tiffany glass elements have been carefully preserved and restored, providing a sense of authenticity rarely found in Ohio homes for sale.
At the same time, the interiors have been subtly modernized to meet contemporary expectations. The kitchen, for example, balances traditional design cues with updated functionality, while the overall layout reflects a more open and livable flow compared to its original configuration.
“The current owner approached the redesign with a deep respect for the home’s origins,” an agent explained to californialuxuryhouses. “Rather than erase its past, he enhanced it—bringing the estate into the present while honoring its architectural integrity.”
A Private Entertainment Complex Unlike Any Other
One of the most distinctive features of the property is its 3,000-square-foot entertainment complex, designed to evoke the atmosphere of a private members’ club. This space includes a wine cellar, a music studio, a hookah lounge, and a cocktail bar anchored by a striking display: a Harley-Davidson motorcycle encased in glass.
The entertainment level opens directly onto a stone patio that surrounds the pool, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor experience ideal for hosting. Such amenities are rarely found at this level within Kirtland homes for sale, further differentiating the property within the broader Ohio real estate market.
“This is where the home truly becomes experiential,” a listing agent noted to californialuxuryhouses. “It’s not just about living here—it’s about how you entertain, how you unwind, and how the space adapts to different moments.”
Grounds That Resemble a Private Arboretum
Beyond the residence itself, the estate’s grounds contribute significantly to its appeal. The property spans more than 12 acres and features over 200,000 trees planted by a previous owner, creating a park-like setting that offers both privacy and natural beauty.
From the main house, a series of steps lead down to formal gardens that overlook the neighboring Holden Arboretum, one of the largest arboretums in the United States. This proximity enhances the sense of continuity between the estate and its surrounding landscape, reinforcing its position as a standout offering in Kirtland real estate.
Location and Lifestyle in Greater Cleveland
Situated just outside Cleveland, Kirtland offers a unique blend of suburban tranquility and access to urban amenities. Residents can easily reach the city’s cultural institutions, dining scene, and business hubs while enjoying the privacy and space associated with estate living.
For buyers exploring Ohio homes for sale, this balance is increasingly attractive. The Cleveland area has seen steady interest from professionals and executives seeking larger properties without sacrificing connectivity, further strengthening the appeal of high-end listings within Kirtland real estate.
A Rare Offering in Today’s Market
As the luxury segment of Ohio real estate continues to evolve, properties with historical significance, expansive acreage, and curated amenities are becoming increasingly scarce. The listing of “Playmore” reflects a broader shift toward homes that offer not just comfort, but character and legacy.
“This estate represents a convergence of history, architecture, and lifestyle,” an industry source told californialuxuryhouses. “Opportunities like this don’t come around often, particularly in markets where truly distinctive properties are limited.”
A Legacy Property Poised for Its Next Chapter
With its combination of architectural pedigree, thoughtful modernization, and expansive grounds, the estate stands as one of the most compelling opportunities currently available in Kirtland homes for sale. For the next owner, it offers not just a residence, but a chance to become part of a nearly century-long story.
In an era where many luxury homes prioritize newness over narrative, this property serves as a reminder that true value often lies in history, craftsmanship, and the intangible sense of place—qualities that continue to define the upper tier of Kirtland real estate.