4 Historic Mansions in Illinois Preserve Architectural Legacy

These four historic homes offer a blend of preserved architectural details and modern updates in some of Illinois’ most desirable locations. The 1895 Gold Coast/Old Town home maintains its vintage charm while incorporating contemporary features for comfortable city living. In East Wilmette, a renovated 1903 estate combines historic craftsmanship with updated amenities on a nearly half-acre lot. The 1930 Hemphill home in Evanston and the 1929 Country French estate in Bannockburn both provide expansive properties with modernized interiors, offering a mix of historic character and functional living spaces.

1. 1895 Gold Coast/Old Town Home 

This $2,700,000, 5-bedroom, 5-bathroom historic home, built in 1895, spans 8,180 sq. ft. and is located between Chicago’s Gold Coast and Old Town neighborhoods. The home features 14-foot ceilings, original hardwood floors, intricate crown molding, and large soundproof windows, blending vintage charm with modern updates. A renovated kitchen with high-end Dacor appliances, a formal dining room, and period-detail living spaces provide an elegant setting for entertaining. Additional amenities include two attached garages, an elevator, a catering kitchen, and close proximity to boutique shopping, fine dining, the lakefront, and top private schools.

Where is Chicago?

Chicago, IL, is a major metropolitan city located in northeastern Illinois along the southwestern shore of Lake Michigan, approximately 90 miles south of Milwaukee, WI, and 280 miles west of Detroit, MI. As the third-largest city in the United States, Chicago is known for its iconic architecture, world-class dining, and vibrant cultural scene, with landmarks such as Millennium Park, the Art Institute of Chicago, and Wrigley Field. The city offers a diverse mix of neighborhoods, extensive public transportation, and access to two major international airports, making it a key hub for commerce, tourism, and urban living.

Living Room

Spacious living room includes two deep purple sofas, a geometric-patterned area rug, and a marble-top coffee table. Recessed lighting and natural light from large windows brighten the neutral-toned walls and hardwood flooring. A formal dining room with a chandelier is visible through a wide entryway. A grand staircase and a white-paneled entry door enhance the sophisticated design.

Dining Room

A long wooden dining table is surrounded by intricately carved chairs with blue patterned upholstery. A traditional black chandelier hangs from the ceiling, adding an element of elegance. Dark blue walls contrast with white crown molding and tall windows adorned with drapery. A large red Persian rug covers the hardwood floor, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Kitchen

White cabinetry with glass panels lines the walls, paired with a large central island that offers additional counter space. Stainless steel appliances, including a double-door refrigerator and a wine cooler, provide functionality. Beige and brown mosaic tile backsplash adds texture, complementing the polished hardwood flooring. Recessed lighting brightens the space, emphasizing the open layout.

Bedroom

A sloped ceiling with skylights allows natural light to fill the attic bedroom. A minimalist white bed with gray bedding is placed against the wall, with a moon-shaped shelf adding a playful touch. A wooden study desk with floating shelves provides a functional workspace. Light hardwood flooring and soft neutral walls contribute to a serene and airy atmosphere.

Source: Coldwell Banker

2. Renovated 1903 Estate 

This $3,550,000, 6-bedroom, 7-bathroom home in East Wilmette spans 6,352 sq. ft. on nearly half an acre, blending historic charm with modern luxury. Originally built in 1903, the home underwent a 2005 renovation and 2009 expansion, adding a NuHaus kitchen with a skylight, butler’s pantry, mudroom, recreation room, and a three-car garage. Outdoor spaces include a private bluestone terrace and an upper-level patio with a grilling station, while original architectural details like leaded-glass windows, hardwood floors, and a grand staircase enhance its timeless appeal. Located near Lake Michigan, the train, downtown Wilmette, and top-rated schools, this home offers both elegance and convenience in a prestigious neighborhood.

Where is Wilmette?

Wilmette, IL, is a suburban village located on Chicago’s North Shore, approximately 14 miles north of downtown Chicago along Lake Michigan. Known for its historic homes, excellent schools, and strong sense of community, Wilmette offers a mix of classic architecture and modern amenities. The village features beautiful parks, public beaches, the renowned Bahá’í House of Worship, and a vibrant downtown area, with easy access to the Metra rail and CTA Purple Line for convenient commuting to the city.

Living Room

Rich wood paneling and trim frame a spacious living room with a central fireplace. A grand chandelier hangs from the ceiling, complementing the warm lighting from wall sconces. Plush seating is arranged on a light-colored rug, with a grand piano positioned in the corner. Large windows with draped curtains allow natural light to filter into the space.

Dining Room

A long wooden dining table with intricately carved chairs sits beneath a crystal chandelier. Stained glass windows add character and allow soft natural light into the space. Rich wood paneling and crown molding frame the room, enhancing the traditional aesthetic. A Persian rug covers the hardwood floor, adding texture and warmth.

Bedroom

Soft green walls and white trim create a serene atmosphere in this bedroom. A large bed with a tufted headboard is centered on an ornate area rug. Natural light filters through two windows dressed with draped valances. A small wooden bench sits at the foot of the bed, enhancing the classic styling.

Porch

An expansive covered porch features exposed red brick walls and dark-framed French doors. Wicker lounge chairs with plush cushions are arranged for relaxation. A ceiling light fixture and a beamed ceiling add detail to the outdoor space. The porch overlooks a residential neighborhood with mature trees and well-kept homes.

Source: Coldwell Banker

3. 1930 Hemphill Home on Half-Acre Lot 

This $2,174,000, 5-bedroom, 6-bathroom Hemphill-designed home spans 5,174 sq. ft. on a half-acre lot, blending timeless architecture with modern updates. Featuring high ceilings, steel-frame casement windows, and wood floors throughout, the home includes a gourmet kitchen with quartz countertops, a Viking range, and a SubZero refrigerator, along with a dramatic two-story family room with a fireplace and stained glass panels. Outdoor amenities include a 35′ x 45′ bluestone patio with a limestone-faced fireplace, an in-ground hot tub, and a gourmet outdoor kitchen with a built-in gas grill and bar. Additional highlights include two home offices, a climate-controlled wine room, a four-car heated tandem garage, a Generac generator, and updated electrical and HVAC systems, offering a luxurious and functional living space in a prime location.

Where is Evanston?

Evanston, IL, is a suburban city located in Cook County, approximately 12 miles north of downtown Chicago along Lake Michigan. Home to Northwestern University, Evanston is known for its historic architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and diverse dining and shopping options. With lakefront parks, beaches, and easy access to public transportation via Metra and CTA Purple Line, Evanston offers a mix of urban convenience and suburban charm, making it a highly desirable place to live.

Living Room

Warm lighting illuminates a living room with a grand fireplace as the focal point. Plush beige sofas surround a glass coffee table on a rich red area rug. Large windows with decorative valances allow natural light to brighten the space. Built-in wood cabinetry and classic light fixtures enhance the refined aesthetic.

Dining Room

A polished wood dining table with intricately carved chairs sits beneath a wrought-iron chandelier. Exposed wood ceiling beams complement the built-in china cabinets on either side of the room. French doors open to an adjacent space, allowing for seamless entertaining. A patterned area rug adds texture and contrast to the dark wood flooring.

Bedroom

King-sized wooden bed frame is centered beneath a sparkling crystal chandelier. Matching wooden dressers and nightstands provide ample storage. Softly striped wallpaper and white trim create a classic and airy atmosphere. Two large windows bring in natural light, highlighting the glossy hardwood floors.

Patio

An expansive stone patio includes a built-in fire pit and an outdoor kitchen with bar seating. A circular hot tub is surrounded by comfortable lounge seating under large umbrellas. Lush greenery and mature trees provide a private setting. A stone fireplace offers warmth for cool evenings, making it a year-round retreat.

Source: Coldwell Banker

4. 1929 French Country Estate 

This $3,429,000, 6-bedroom, 5-bathroom estate, designed by architect William Aitken, spans 4,700 sq. ft. on 5.95 acres in Bannockburn. The French Country-style home features half-timbering with stucco infill, arched windows, French doors, a porte-cochère, and a grand wrap-around staircase with an ivy-themed wrought iron banister. The expansive bluestone patio includes a Wolf gas grill, a Wolf wood-burning grill, and a sunroom with floor-to-ceiling arched windows, while the kitchen boasts an AGA stove, French limestone floors, and wood cabinetry. Additional amenities include a third-floor gym, entertainment room, heated attached 2-car garage with pet shower, and a detached 3.5-car garage, all within a secluded wooded setting near the end of a private cul-de-sac.

Where is Bannockburn?

Bannockburn, IL, is a small, affluent village in Lake County, located approximately 30 miles north of downtown Chicago. Known for its large estates, wooded landscapes, and private, secluded setting, Bannockburn offers a peaceful residential atmosphere while maintaining convenient access to shopping, dining, and top-rated schools. With proximity to major highways and Metra train stations, the village provides an ideal balance of luxury living and accessibility to both urban and suburban amenities.

Foyer

A curved staircase with a patterned carpet runner and a wrought iron railing. An arched hallway leads to additional rooms with hardwood flooring. A vintage blue dresser with a decorative mirror and statue sits against the wall.

Living Room

Exposed wooden beams on the ceiling and hardwood flooring. A fireplace with a carved wooden mantel serves as a focal point, complemented by built-in bookshelves and a grand piano. Large windows and French doors bring in natural light and offer access to outdoor spaces.

Dining Room

A formal dining room has hand-painted mural walls depicting scenic landscapes. Hardwood floors, a vintage chandelier, and an ornate area rug complement the classic furniture. French doors open to an outdoor space, allowing natural light to brighten the room.

Kitchen

Wood cabinetry, patterned wallpaper, and tiled backsplash with illustrated herbs and vegetables. A red AGA stove sits beneath a hanging pot rack with well-used cookware. Granite countertops provide workspace, and built-in cabinets offer ample storage.

Patio

A large stone-paved patio is surrounded by lush greenery and mature trees. An outdoor kitchen with built-in stainless steel grills is positioned against a stone counter. A dining table with cushioned chairs and lounge seating provide space for relaxation and entertaining.

Source: Coldwell Banker