Tucked away on a picturesque knoll near the Meramec River in St. James, this beautiful ranch estate offers refined country living with no restrictions. Featuring 4+ spacious bedrooms and 3 full baths, the home boasts a primary suite with a handicap-accessible bath and a newly renovated main floor bath with dual vanities and a custom walk-in shower. The gourmet eat-in kitchen is the heart of the home, showcasing floor-to-ceiling custom cabinetry, a large center island, and an L-shaped built-in bench—perfect for gathering. Entertain in the formal dining and living areas, or unwind in the expansive 25x32 Florida-style room, complete with tile flooring, a wood-burning stove, and French doors that invite the outdoors in. Outside, enjoy a private oasis with an above-ground pool (new pump), a stone and brick patio, raised herb gardens, and fruiting apricot trees. A large chicken coop, barn with stalls, and pipe-and-wire fencing make this property ideal for hobby farming. Recent upgrades include a new HVAC, water softener, well pump, generator-ready electrical, and new metal roofs on the home and outbuildings. A rare blend of elegance, function, and freedom.