Illinois is home to an extraordinary collection of historic estates, where past grandeur meets present-day elegance. From Tudor revivals and classic Colonials to landmark Gold Coast mansions, these homes have been thoughtfully restored while retaining their original character. Architectural details like leaded glass, coffered ceilings, and grand staircases blend seamlessly with state-of-the-art kitchens, updated bathrooms, and modern amenities.
Here’s a curated list of Illinois’s most distinguished historic mansions that offer timeless charm in some of the state’s most coveted neighborhoods.
1. Revival Tudor Estate
Built by Mayo & Mayo, this historic Revival Tudor in East Winnetka spans four levels and 13,171 square feet, featuring six bedrooms and seven bathrooms. Originally constructed in the early 20th century, it sits on over one acre, including a rare buildable lot suitable for a 4,000-square-foot second structure.
The estate has undergone a full restoration with modern upgrades, including a chef’s kitchen, new baths, and a redesigned lower level with a gym and theater. Priced at $9,999,500, the property includes a 60-foot pool and a Lannon stone cabana, combining historic craftsmanship with contemporary living.
Where is Winnetka, IL?
Winnetka, Illinois, is a quiet village located along the shores of Lake Michigan, just north of Chicago. It is known for its tree-lined streets, historic homes, and strong public school system. The village features a small downtown with local shops and restaurants. Winnetka also gained fame as a filming location for several well-known movies.
Living Room
A vaulted living room with exposed balcony railing looks down on two sofas centered around a low black coffee table. At one end, a large stone fireplace anchors the room beneath a traditional chandelier. The open archway leads directly into the dining room, while a wooden door and accent chairs complete the layout.
Kitchen
Pendant lights hang over a marble-topped island in the kitchen, surrounded by light wood cabinetry. The cooking area features a marble backsplash that extends into a range hood, and a brass pot filler mounted above the stove. A farmhouse sink is placed beneath a window, accompanied by built-in glass cabinets and small decorative elements.
Dining Room
Double archways and a carved fireplace define the dining room at the center of the home. Upholstered chairs surround an oval wooden table under a minimal pendant light, with large windows allowing views of the exterior. Two armchairs flank the fireplace, while a smaller sitting room is visible through a raised stone-framed opening.
Bedroom
Framed by tall windows, the primary bedroom places a seating area directly across from the bed. A bench sits at the foot of the bed, with a dresser and floor lamp positioned along the right wall. Neutral tones and natural light fill the room, with light wood floors continuing the style seen in other parts of the home.
Bathroom
Located in the main bathroom, a freestanding tub is positioned in front of a row of tall windows. Two large decorative vases stand nearby, and a stool with a candle rests beside the tub. A marble-framed shower with fluted glass and brass hardware occupies the right side of the space.
Source: Jena Radnay @ @Properties Christie’S International Real Estate via Coldwell Banker Realty
2. Gold Coast Landmark
Once home to the Scottish Rite and crafted by famed architects Cobb & Frost in 1888, the Thompson House helped shape the identity of Chicago’s Gold Coast after the Great Fire. The 13,400 square foot residence includes 6 bedrooms and 7 bathrooms, with a separate 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom carriage house above a 3-car garage.
Listed at $18,500,000, this nationally registered Historic Landmark blends restored 19th-century craftsmanship with smart home upgrades on a private, walled property.
Where is Chicago, IL?
Chicago, Illinois, is a major city on Lake Michigan known for its architecture, deep-dish pizza, and sports teams. It is a hub for finance, transportation, and the arts. The city has a dense downtown area called the Loop and distinct neighborhoods with strong cultural identities. Chicago also features an extensive public transit system and a busy lakefront.
Living Room
Coffered ceilings and large windows frame the formal living room, where two long velvet sofas face each other across a tufted ottoman. A crystal chandelier hangs above a smaller seating arrangement near the corner bay, while a grand piano and antique cabinet accent opposite walls. Draped curtains, traditional sconces, and a soft color palette round out the room’s layout.
Dining Area
Curved bay windows define the formal dining room, where a round wooden table is surrounded by six high-back chairs. A crystal chandelier hangs overhead, casting light onto a patterned rug that anchors the arrangement. Flanking the space are a glass-front china cabinet and a small sideboard topped with brass-accented lamps.
Home Office
Rounded windows line one wall of the study, where a carved wood desk sits on an ornate rug. Built-in bookshelves and a gas fireplace with a mirrored mantle occupy the opposite wall. A globe, chandelier, and plush seating area fill in the remaining elements of the home office.
Bedroom
Positioned at the center of the primary bedroom, a tufted headboard anchors the bed beneath a chandelier suspended from a tray ceiling. Nightstands with glass lamps sit on either side, and a decorative writing desk faces a trio of large windows. A patterned area rug covers dark hardwood floors, complementing the intricate fireplace surround on the right.
Bathroom
Stretching along one side of the bathroom, a double vanity with marble counters matches the deep-toned cabinetry framing the space. A glass shower stands across from a large built-in tub positioned below two windows, one of which includes etched detailing. Recessed lighting and reflective finishes amplify the room’s natural light.
Source: Millie Rosenbloom @ Baird & Warner via Coldwell Banker Realty
3. Charming 1912 East Kenilworth Home
Located in East Kenilworth, this 4,906 square foot home was built with classic design and has been updated with modern amenities. It features 5 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms, set on a 75-foot-wide lot and priced at $1,650,000. Vintage elements like leaded glass and custom millwork blend with recent upgrades including a 2021 primary bath renovation and 2023 boiler, offering both character and comfort in a walkable, tree-lined neighborhood.
Where is Kenilworth, IL?
Kenilworth, Illinois, is a small residential village located on the North Shore of the Chicago metropolitan area. It was carefully planned in the late 19th century and features large homes and wide streets. The village has one public school and a close-knit community. Kenilworth offers easy access to Lake Michigan and nearby suburbs.
Living Room
Oriented toward a central fireplace, the living room features a beige sofa and armchair arranged around a wood coffee table. Trimmed windows span the walls, bringing in garden views and natural light. A neutral area rug anchors the layout, while crown molding and baseboards create a cohesive finish.
Kitchen
White cabinetry and stainless steel appliances line the perimeter of the kitchen, where a wraparound countertop creates an efficient work triangle. Open shelving near the window displays dishware, while pendant and ceiling lights offer layered illumination. Hardwood floors add warmth to the otherwise neutral palette.
Dining Area
Wood beams and trim frame the dining room, centering around a rectangular table with green-upholstered chairs. A crystal chandelier hangs above a patterned rug, and multiple windows bring in views from two sides. A glass-front china cabinet and built-in bench add function and character to the space.
Bedroom
Vaulted ceilings and multiple skylights define the primary bedroom, where a king bed sits beneath a wall of corner windows. A fireplace with a stone surround and built-in mirror adds warmth to the far side of the room. Soft carpeting, white walls, and a reading chair complete the relaxed setup.
Bathroom
Framed by tile and wood flooring, the bathroom includes a freestanding tub beneath a wide window with privacy blinds. A large glass shower and dual vanity run along opposite walls, with white cabinetry and chrome fixtures throughout. Skylights above bring in extra daylight over the soaking and grooming areas.
Source: Paige Dooley, Hannah Burque @ Compass via Coldwell Banker Realty
4. Classic Colonial
This center-entrance Colonial in River Forest features 5 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms, with thoughtful updates throughout and a remodeled basement completed in 2021. Priced at $1,249,900, the home includes a large screened porch with cathedral ceilings, a three-car garage, and a landscaped yard. Located just blocks from transit, parks, and downtown Oak Park, the property combines classic charm with modern conveniences in a walkable neighborhood.
Where is River Forest, IL?
River Forest, Illinois, is a suburb west of Chicago known for its historic homes and tree-lined streets. It shares a border with Oak Park and is home to two universities. The village features a mix of residential areas, schools, and local businesses. River Forest also has access to forest preserves and bike trails.
Living Room
Natural light floods the living room through several black-trimmed windows, with white walls and curtains keeping the space bright. A long white sofa faces a black coffee table, surrounded by a mix of lounge chairs and greenery. A white fireplace anchors one wall, accented by minimal art and a mounted sculpture.
Kitchen
Tiled walls and glass-front cabinets line the kitchen, where a dark stone island contrasts with surrounding white cabinetry. A built-in cooktop, dual ovens, and integrated refrigerator provide function, while brass pendant lights hang above the island. A wide garden window sits behind the sink, framed by black trim and white tile.
Dining Room
Set against white paneled walls, the dining room features a carved wooden table with a mix of traditional and upholstered chairs. A black metal chandelier hangs from the ceiling, positioned above a patterned rug. Framed bird prints and a large ceramic planter bring subtle character to the room.
Sunroom
Vaulted wood ceilings and wraparound windows define the sunroom, which centers on a circular table with slipcovered chairs. A black iron chandelier hangs overhead, echoing the shape of the arched central window. Tile flooring and white wainscoting complete the bright, transitional space.
Bedroom
Positioned along one wall, the bed in the primary bedroom features a tall, dark headboard and beige bedding. A checked armchair and framed mirror sit in the corner near a door, while a side table and plant are placed by the window. Hardwood floors and neutral tones keep the space simple and calm.
Source: Maria Cullerton @ Compass via Coldwell Banker Realty
