5 Historic Mansions in Illinois Define Elegance with Distinctive Midwest Style

Illinois is home to some of the most breathtaking historic mansions in the Midwest, each with a unique blend of architectural grandeur and timeless elegance. These estates tell the story of the state’s rich past, from the Gilded Age opulence of Chicago’s Gold Coast to the sprawling countryside retreats of the North Shore and beyond. Whether built as lavish urban townhouses or countryside estates crafted with imported European materials, these homes reflect the ambitions of the business magnates, industrialists, and architects who shaped Illinois’ skyline and cultural landscape.

Among these historic gems is an English manor constructed with French limestone and clay tile, a Gold Coast mansion transformed through meticulous modern renovations, and a Highland Park estate with an indoor pool fit for royalty. Each property preserves its original craftsmanship while incorporating modern luxuries, making them as functional today as they were over a century ago. Step into a world where historic charm meets contemporary refinement as we explore five of Illinois’ most extraordinary historic mansions—homes that redefine elegance and stand as a testament to architectural excellence.

1. English Manor on 10 Acres 

This $4,995,000 English Manor estate spans 18,770 square feet on a 10-acre lot, built with premium European materials and craftsmanship. Featuring 5 bedrooms and 5 bathrooms, the home includes 8 original French limestone fireplaces, beamed ceilings from England, and limestone and wood floors imported from France. Constructed with reinforced concrete blocks and Indiana limestone, the home also features a roof with imported French clay tiles. A fully furnished 60-foot dome for private gatherings is located in the garden lower level, with an additional 42-acre park available for purchase at $995,000.

Where is Harvard, IL?

Harvard, IL, is a small city in McHenry County, located approximately 63 miles northwest of downtown Chicago and near the Illinois-Wisconsin border. Known for its rural charm and historic downtown, Harvard is home to the annual Harvard Milk Days festival, celebrating its dairy farming heritage. The city offers a blend of small-town living with access to natural preserves, parks, and the Metra Union Pacific Northwest Line for convenient commuting to Chicago.

Living Room

Tall arched windows bring in natural light and offer a view of the outdoors. An ornate stone fireplace with intricate carvings serves as the focal point of the room. Exposed wood beams, elegant furnishings, and antique décor add to the classic design.

Dining Room

A long wooden dining table with matching chairs sits atop a patterned parquet floor. Exposed wood ceiling beams complement the carved stone fireplace on the side. Large French doors and windows bring in natural light and offer views of the outdoors.

Kitchen

Large wooden island with a dark countertop provides workspace and storage. Black and gold stove and cabinetry line the wall beneath a row of windows. Exposed wood ceiling beams and vintage artwork add character to the space.

Terrace

Modern lounge seating in dark tones is arranged around a central coffee table. High-top white tables with bold red chairs provide additional dining space. Open landscape views stretch beyond the stone terrace, creating a spacious outdoor setting.

Source: Coldwell Banker

2. Fully Renovated 1880 Gold Coast Home 

This $4,995,000, 5-bedroom, 6-bathroom home in Chicago’s Gold Coast was fully renovated by architect Steve Hall of Wheeler and Kearns. Originally built in 1880, the 6,500-square-foot residence features modern upgrades while maintaining its historic charm, with multiple outdoor spaces and a two-car garage. The fully finished basement includes a workout room, additional bedroom, bathroom, laundry room, and ample storage. Located on Bellevue, the home is within walking distance of dining, shopping, and entertainment.

Where is Chicago, IL?

Chicago, IL, is located in the northeastern part of Illinois, along the southwestern shore of Lake Michigan, approximately 90 miles south of Milwaukee, WI. It is about 280 miles west of Detroit, MI, and 180 miles northeast of Springfield, the state capital. As a major transportation hub, Chicago is served by O’Hare International Airport (about 16 miles northwest of downtown) and Midway International Airport (about 10 miles southwest of downtown), with extensive rail and highway connections throughout the Midwest.

Living Room

Neutral-toned sofa and bold red chairs are arranged around a dark area rug. A minimalist fireplace with a simple mantel serves as a focal point on the white wall. A grand piano is positioned near tall windows that allow natural light to fill the space.

Kitchen

Floor-to-ceiling wood cabinetry provides storage and blends with the modern design. A long island with a dark countertop includes a built-in sink and seating with wooden barstools. Stainless steel appliances and under-cabinet lighting enhance the functionality of the space.

Bedroom

Wooden bed with white linens is positioned against a softly lit accent wall. Open walkway leads to a walk-in closet and a modern staircase. Cozy seating area with a sofa and desk adds functionality to the space.

Bathroom

Walk-in shower with floor-to-ceiling glass enclosure includes a rain showerhead and built-in bench. Gray subway tiles cover the walls and extend around the built-in bathtub. Floating vanity with wood finish and under-cabinet lighting adds warmth to the space.

Source: Coldwell Banker

3. Renovated 1891 Lincoln Park Home 

This $2,675,000, 6-bedroom, 5.5-bathroom home in Lincoln Park spans 6,300 square feet and was renovated by Jeffers Gillespie Architects while preserving its original vintage details. The home features high ceilings, crown moldings, built-ins, stained-glass windows, and a modernized open kitchen with Thermador and Viking appliances. A private lower level provides additional living space, and the property includes a spacious patio and a two-car garage built to support a potential roof deck. Located steps from Oz Park, Lincoln Park Zoo, top schools, and the lakefront, this home offers both historic elegance and modern convenience.

Where is Lincoln Park in Chicago, IL?

Lincoln Park is a prestigious residential neighborhood on Chicago’s North Side, bordered by Lake Michigan to the east, North Avenue to the south, Diversey Parkway to the north, and the Chicago River to the west. The neighborhood is known for its proximity to the sprawling 1,200-acre Lincoln Park, which features the Lincoln Park Zoo, nature boardwalks, and lakefront trails. With easy access to downtown Chicago via Lake Shore Drive and public transit, Lincoln Park blends historic architecture, tree-lined streets, and a vibrant mix of cultural, dining, and shopping destinations.

Sitting Room

Neutral-toned sofa with blue accent pillows sits in front of a large bay window with wooden trim. Glass coffee table reflects natural light from the window, highlighting the warm wood flooring. Marble fireplace with modern artwork above it adds character to the space.

Dining Room

Round dining table with a glossy surface is surrounded by cream-colored upholstered chairs. Decorative wooden archway with intricate detailing separates the dining area from a cozy sitting nook. Large windows framed with natural wood trim allow natural light to fill the space.

Bedroom

Neutral-colored walls and carpet complement a king-sized bed with a tufted headboard. A large window allows natural light to enter, offering a view of the surrounding buildings. Two framed artworks, a dark wood nightstand, and a small seating area add to the room’s simple yet refined aesthetic.

Patio

Brick-paved backyard space is enclosed by a tall wooden fence for privacy. A cozy sectional sofa with a coffee table and umbrella provides a shaded seating area. A staircase with gray railings leads to a raised deck with flower planters and direct access to the home.

Source: Coldwell Banker

4. Grand 1904 Highland Park Estate 

This $2,999,000, 6-bedroom, 6.5-bathroom brick home in Highland Park spans 7,640 square feet, with an additional 2,330 square feet in the finished walkout basement. Situated on over an acre, the home features a 40-foot indoor pool with a retractable glass wall, 20-foot barrel ceilings, and five fireplaces. The chef’s kitchen includes a double island, professional-grade appliances, a walk-in pantry, and a fireplace, while the second floor is dedicated to a private primary suite with a family room, movie-star-sized closet, and spa-like bath. Additional features include a home theater, gym, summer kitchen, screened porch, and a 3+ car garage, all within walking distance to town, the train, and Lake Michigan.

Where is Highland Park, IL?

Highland Park, IL, is a suburban city located in Lake County, approximately 25 miles north of downtown Chicago along the shores of Lake Michigan. Known for its tree-lined streets, vibrant downtown, and cultural attractions, it is home to the Ravinia Festival, the oldest outdoor music festival in the U.S. The city offers a mix of historic and modern homes, top-rated schools, and easy access to Chicago via Metra rail and major highways.

Living Room

Vaulted ceilings and modern chandeliers highlight a spacious living area centered around a stone fireplace. Two upper-level balconies with wrought iron railings overlook the room, adding architectural interest. Plush seating, glass display cabinets, and wooden flooring create a blend of elegance and comfort.

Dining Room

High ceilings with exposed wooden beams frame a spacious dining area with neutral-toned wallpaper and travertine tile flooring. A large circular crystal chandelier serves as the focal point above dark wood tables and upholstered chairs. An open archway with decorative iron railings connects the space to an adjoining living area.

Kitchen

Wooden ceiling beams contrast with light-colored walls and stone flooring in an open-concept kitchen. A large central island with dark countertops and carved wood cabinetry offers seating and storage. Pendant lights hang over the workspace, while arched windows and a fireplace connect the space to the dining area.

Pool

Expansive indoor pool area includes a built-in spa section with tiled edges. Large sliding glass doors provide access to an outdoor patio and allow natural light to enter. Ceiling fans, wall sconces, and comfortable seating create a relaxing atmosphere.

Source: Coldwell Banker

5. 1926 English Manor 

Priced at $5,250,000, this 6-bedroom, 8-bathroom English manor estate, built in 1926 by architect Russell S. Walcott, offers 8,025 square feet of refined living space on a private lane in Winnetka. The home features a newly renovated de Giulio custom kitchen, a formal dining room with de Gournay wallpaper, a solarium breakfast room, and multiple grand entertaining spaces. The private primary suite includes separate dressing rooms, two baths, and a sitting room/office, while the third floor offers a workout room, playroom, and additional bedrooms. Outdoor amenities include terraced patios, a boutique-style pool, and manicured gardens, combining historic elegance with modern luxury.

Where is Winnetka, IL?

Winnetka, IL, is a suburban village located on the North Shore of Chicago, approximately 16 miles north of downtown. It is part of Cook County and is known for its affluent residential neighborhoods, top-rated schools, and scenic Lake Michigan shoreline. With easy access to Metra trains and major highways, Winnetka offers a convenient commute to Chicago while maintaining a quiet, community-focused atmosphere.

Foyer

A dark wood staircase with intricate carvings leads to the upper level. A long upholstered bench with patterned fabric sits against the wall beneath the staircase. A black sideboard with a marble top is placed near a decorative mirror, with potted plants adding greenery.

Living Room

Wood-paneled walls and built-in bookshelves surround the space, creating a warm atmosphere. A large fireplace with a carved mantel serves as the focal point, with framed artwork and wall sconces above. Plush seating, patterned chairs, and a striped carpet add color and texture to the room.

Dining Room

Long wooden dining table is set with fine china, candles, and greenery. Green floral wallpaper and a crystal chandelier contribute to an elegant atmosphere. Large windows with leaded glass allow natural light to illuminate the space.

Kitchen

White cabinetry and countertops contrast with dark wooden ceiling beams. A large island with a built-in sink provides seating with woven barstools. Pendant lights with decorative green accents hang above, adding character to the space.

Source: Coldwell Banker