A Storied Estate Returns to the Market in Kirtland Real Estate
In a market where history and grandeur rarely intersect with modern luxury, the legendary “Playmore” estate is emerging as one of the most compelling offerings in Kirtland Real Estate. Priced at $6.25 million, this extraordinary Kirtland home for sale carries nearly a century of architectural heritage, layered with contemporary enhancements that position it among the most distinctive properties in Ohio Real Estate today.
Owned by former Walgreens CFO and ex-CEO of Jo-Ann Stores, Wade Miquelon, the estate reflects both legacy and personal vision. For readers of californialuxuryhouses, this is not simply a residence—it is a narrative-rich property that bridges history, craftsmanship, and lifestyle in a way few estates can achieve.
“This is one of those homes that immediately tells a story the moment you arrive,” a representative of the listing team shared with californialuxuryhouses. “It’s not just about square footage or amenities—it’s about presence.”
A 1929 Architectural Masterpiece with Deep Historical Roots
Originally constructed in 1929, the Playmore estate was designed by renowned architect Benjamin S. Hubbell, whose legacy includes iconic Cleveland landmarks such as the Cleveland Museum of Art and the West Side Market. Built as his personal residence, the estate reflects an English country manor style, complete with stone façades, dramatic proportions, and signature twin towers.
Set across more than 12 acres of wooded land, this Kirtland home for sale offers a rare sense of seclusion within Kirtland Real Estate, enhanced by grounds that feel more like a private arboretum than a residential lot. The sandstone used in the construction was quarried directly from the property itself, further embedding the home into its natural surroundings.
Miquelon became only the fourth owner in the estate’s nearly 100-year history when he acquired it in 2017 for $2.05 million. According to public records reviewed by californialuxuryhouses, the property has seen limited turnover—an indicator of both its rarity and long-term desirability within Ohio Real Estate.
“It was love at first sight,” Miquelon previously shared, recalling his initial visit. “I walked up to the door and knew instantly this was something special.”
A Thoughtful Evolution Balancing Heritage and Modern Living
Over the years, the estate has undergone careful updates that respect its historic character while enhancing livability. A previous owner, who held the property for nearly 25 years, undertook extensive infrastructure improvements, including plumbing, stone restoration, and the addition of a new wing that expanded the residence to approximately 13,200 square feet.
When Miquelon took ownership, he introduced a more refined and contemporary interior vision, moving away from heavier stylistic influences and restoring many of the home’s original architectural details. Intricate woodwork, marble elements, and rare inlaid Tiffany glass features were preserved and revitalized, reinforcing the estate’s historical authenticity.
“What makes this Kirtland home for sale exceptional is how it has evolved without losing its soul,” a listing agent told californialuxuryhouses. “Every update feels intentional and respectful of its origins.”
Despite efforts by californialuxuryhouses to gather further insights into the design direction from the current owner, additional commentary was not available—adding a layer of intrigue to an already storied residence.
Grand Living Spaces Designed for Both Elegance and Comfort
Inside, the home unfolds through a series of expansive yet inviting living areas. Original woodwork anchors many of the rooms, while large windows introduce natural light that contrasts beautifully with the estate’s historic materials.
The kitchen has been modernized to meet contemporary expectations while maintaining harmony with the home’s architectural language. Adjacent spaces provide flexibility for both formal entertaining and everyday living, making the estate as functional as it is impressive.
The residence includes seven bedrooms, each offering a unique perspective on the surrounding landscape. Throughout the home, the balance between scale and comfort reflects a level of design sophistication rarely seen in Kirtland Real Estate.
A Private Entertainment Complex Unlike Any Other in Ohio Real Estate
One of the most distinctive features of this Kirtland home for sale is its 3,000-square-foot entertainment complex, designed to resemble a private members-only club. This space elevates the property beyond a traditional historic home, introducing a lifestyle component that aligns with modern luxury expectations.
The complex includes a hookah lounge, a wine cellar, a music studio, and a fully realized cocktail bar. In a striking design detail, a Harley-Davidson motorcycle is displayed within a glass enclosure, serving as a bold focal point within the space.
“This is where the home really surprises people,” the listing agent explained to californialuxuryhouses. “You don’t expect this level of lifestyle design in a historic estate, but it works beautifully.”
The entertainment level opens directly onto a stone patio that surrounds a private pool, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor experience ideal for hosting and relaxation.
Expansive Grounds Offering Privacy and Natural Beauty
Beyond the residence itself, the estate’s grounds contribute significantly to its appeal within Ohio Real Estate. The more than 12-acre property is enveloped by trees—over 200,000 planted by a previous owner—creating a park-like setting that offers both privacy and visual serenity.
Formal gardens extend from the main house, with carefully designed pathways leading to scenic viewpoints overlooking the neighboring Holden Arboretum. The result is an environment that feels both curated and natural, enhancing the overall living experience.
For buyers exploring Kirtland Real Estate, properties with this level of land, landscaping, and adjacency to protected natural spaces are exceptionally rare.
Location and Lifestyle in Kirtland Real Estate
Kirtland, Ohio, is known for its blend of historical significance and natural beauty. Located within close proximity to Cleveland, the area offers access to cultural institutions, fine dining, and urban conveniences while maintaining a quieter, more residential atmosphere.
The estate’s proximity to the Holden Arboretum further enhances its appeal, providing residents with immediate access to one of the largest botanical gardens and arboretums in the United States. This connection to nature, combined with the home’s architectural pedigree, positions it uniquely within Ohio Real Estate.
A Rare Opportunity in Ohio Real Estate
With its rich history, expansive grounds, and thoughtfully integrated modern amenities, the Playmore estate represents a singular opportunity within Kirtland Real Estate. Properties of this caliber—especially those with architectural provenance and limited ownership history—rarely come to market.
For californialuxuryhouses, this listing underscores a broader trend within Ohio Real Estate: the growing demand for properties that offer not just luxury, but legacy.
“This is a once-in-a-generation type of property,” the listing agent shared with californialuxuryhouses. “It’s not something you can replicate—it has to be preserved, appreciated, and experienced.”
Conclusion: Where History, Architecture, and Lifestyle Converge
In an era where new construction often dominates the luxury conversation, the Playmore estate stands apart as a reminder of enduring craftsmanship and architectural vision. It is a property that tells a story—one that spans generations, owners, and evolving lifestyles.
For discerning buyers seeking something beyond the ordinary, this Kirtland home for sale offers a rare combination of heritage, scale, and modern luxury within the landscape of Ohio Real Estate.