Some homes whisper of history; these estates declare it in limestone and mahogany. Illinois, a land of architectural ambition, has long been a playground for barons, visionaries, and preservationists who understand that grandeur isn’t just about square footage—it’s about storytelling. These five mansions, scattered from the storied Gold Coast to the manicured enclaves of Kenilworth and Winnetka, embody the evolution of American luxury: ornate yet livable, historic yet forward-thinking.
A 1911 Evanston estate that once housed a Swedish ambassador still holds court with intricate moldings and an air of diplomacy. A 1927 English manor in Winnetka nestles against its own private lake, proof that European elegance found fertile ground in the Midwest. And then there’s Chicago, where Gold Coast townhomes and Old Town mansions blur the line between history and modern indulgence with rooftop terraces, indoor courts, and fireplaces that have seen a century of change. These homes aren’t relics; they are proof that great design is, quite literally, built to last.
Each of these homes presents a rare opportunity for luxury living with thoughtful renovations and prime locations.
1. Classic 1910 Home
This $3,025,000, 6-bedroom, 7-bathroom home in East Kenilworth spans 5,500 sq. ft. and has been fully renovated with modern upgrades while maintaining its classic 1910 architecture. The home features a formal living room with custom wood built-ins, a dining room with a brick fireplace, and a kitchen with quartz countertops, a butler’s pantry, and Italian Calacatta marble backsplashes. Additional amenities include a finished basement with a rec room, a three-season porch, a second-floor laundry room, a new attached 3-car garage, and a professionally designed landscape, all within walking distance to top-rated schools.
Where is Kenilworth?
Kenilworth, IL, is a small, affluent village on Chicago’s North Shore, located approximately 15 miles north of downtown Chicago along Lake Michigan. It is known for its historic homes, tree-lined streets, and top-rated schools, including the highly regarded Joseph Sears School (JK-8) and New Trier High School. With convenient access to Metra’s Union Pacific North Line and proximity to shopping, dining, and lakefront parks, Kenilworth offers a prestigious and private residential setting.
Foyer
Hardwood flooring and a neutral color scheme. A staircase with a blue carpet runner leads to the upper level. Large windows allow natural light to fill the space.
Kitchen
White cabinetry with brass hardware provides ample storage. A herringbone-patterned backsplash complements the stainless steel appliances. Hardwood flooring adds warmth to the space.
Bathroom
Vanity with a marble countertop provides storage and workspace. A glass-enclosed bathtub and shower combination adds functionality. Hexagonal marble floor tiles contrast with the smooth white walls.
Floor Plan
Four floors provide a total living area of 3,871 square feet. The layout includes multiple bedrooms, bathrooms, living spaces, and attic rooms. A screened porch, recreation room, and dedicated laundry areas enhance functionality.
Source: Coldwell Banker
2. Evanston Estate
This $3,500,000, 6-bedroom, 6-bathroom home in northeast Evanston spans 7,700 sq. ft. and sits on a rare 0.70-acre lot. Originally built in 1911 for Swedish Ambassador Oscar Haugen and designed by Augustus Nyden, the home retains historic details such as original hardwoods, a barrel ceiling, ornate crown moldings, and a shadowbox staircase while incorporating modern updates, including a renovated kitchen with Subzero, Wolf, and Miele appliances. The property features a bluestone patio with a firepit, a restored carriage house converted into a garage with a 2-bedroom, 1-bath apartment above, and upgraded mechanical systems such as a Generac generator, tankless water heaters, and three A/C units. Located near Lighthouse Beach, Northwestern University, and Wilmette Harbor, this home combines historical charm with contemporary amenities in a prime Evanston 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 a mix of residential, commercial, and lakefront recreational spaces. With access to public transportation, top-rated schools, and a variety of dining, shopping, and entertainment options, Evanston offers a blend of urban convenience and suburban charm.
Living Room
A seating arrangement with tufted armchairs and a marble coffee table is positioned in the center. A secondary sitting area near the large windows allows natural light to enter. Decorative elements include framed artwork, table lamps, and a wooden sideboard.
Dining Room
Long wooden dining table is surrounded by matching chairs with intricate carvings and upholstered seats. Large leaded-glass windows allow natural light to brighten the blue and white walls. A chandelier hangs from the arched ceiling, complementing the traditional decor.
Kitchen
Dark wood cabinets extend to the ceiling, providing ample storage space. A large island with a polished stone countertop offers seating with red barstools. Pendant lighting and recessed lights illuminate the space, complementing the warm tones of the hardwood flooring.
Bedroom
A king-sized bed with a dark wood headboard sits against soft blue walls. A fireplace with a white mantel and a plush armchair create a cozy sitting area. A walk-in closet is visible through an open doorway, offering ample storage space.
Backyard
Large green lawn stretches across the backyard, leading to a patio area with outdoor seating. A built-in fire pit sits at the center, surrounded by chairs and string lights. The house exterior features white stucco walls, green-tiled roofs, and multiple chimneys.
Source: Coldwell Banker
3. 1927 English Manor Estate
This $4,950,000, 7-bedroom, 9-bathroom English manor estate in Winnetka spans 9,744 sq. ft. on 2.3 acres, featuring a newly added pool, spring-fed lake, and extensive landscape enhancements. The home has undergone over $1.5 million in upgrades, including a redesigned great room, modernized kitchen with top-tier appliances, updated mechanicals, and a renovated pond dock. Additional features include a 4-car heated garage, elevator, heated floors, a new slate roof, and smart home technology, offering luxury living in a private and serene setting within one mile of Winnetka’s town center.
Where is Winnetka?
Winnetka, IL, is an affluent suburban village located in Cook County, approximately 16 miles north of downtown Chicago along the North Shore of Lake Michigan. Known for its historic homes, top-rated schools, and picturesque tree-lined streets, Winnetka offers a blend of small-town charm and easy access to the city. With beautiful parks, lakefront beaches, and a vibrant downtown area featuring shopping and dining, Winnetka is considered one of the most desirable places to live in the Chicago metropolitan area.
Living Room
A patterned U-shaped sectional surrounding a dark wood coffee table. A large chandelier with multiple lights hangs from the ceiling. Black-framed windows and French doors allow natural light to enter the space.
Dining Room
Long wooden dining table with intricately carved legs is surrounded by upholstered chairs. Hand-painted walls with botanical motifs complement the wood-paneled sideboard. A large chandelier hangs above the table, while natural light streams in through floor-to-ceiling windows.
Kitchen
Large island with marble countertops is paired with leather barstools. Dark cabinetry contrasts with a gold-accented range hood and stainless steel appliances. Pendant lighting and a coffered ceiling add to the contemporary design.
Bedroom
Dark wood-paneled walls and ceiling beams contrast with cream-colored furnishings and drapery. A carved stone fireplace sits against one wall, with built-in bookshelves and cabinetry. Large windows with floor-length curtains allow natural light to filter into the space.
Pool
Brick patio extends around a rectangular in-ground swimming pool with a slide. Multiple seating areas include wrought iron dining sets and a built-in bench surrounded by lush landscaping. Large trees and manicured lawns provide privacy and greenery in the background.
Source: Coldwell Banker
4. Renovated Old Town/Gold Coast Gem
This $5,200,000, 7-bedroom, 5.5-bathroom mansion in Chicago’s Old Town/Gold Coast neighborhood spans 8,400 sq. ft. on a 50-foot-wide double lot. Built with all-masonry brick and limestone, the home features 12-foot ceilings, three wood-burning fireplaces, a chef’s kitchen with Wolf and Thermador appliances, a 5-stop elevator, and a top-floor gym overlooking a professional indoor sports court. Additional highlights include a turret office, a three-season room with a fireplace, multiple balconies, a rooftop deck, a snowmelt driveway, a 2.5-car garage, and a geothermal heating system, all within walking distance to top schools, parks, dining, and the lakefront.
Where is Chicago?
Chicago, IL, is the largest city in Illinois and the third-largest in the United States, located in the northeastern part of the state along the southwestern shore of Lake Michigan. It is approximately 90 miles south of Milwaukee, WI, 280 miles west of Detroit, MI, and 180 miles northeast of Springfield, IL, the state capital. Known for its iconic skyline, diverse neighborhoods, and cultural landmarks such as Millennium Park, the Art Institute of Chicago, and Wrigley Field, the city serves as a major hub for finance, commerce, transportation, and the arts.
Living Room
A floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace with a wooden mantel serves as the focal point of the room. Dark hardwood flooring contrasts with light-colored walls and crown molding. Large windows with plantation shutters and French doors allow natural light to brighten the space.
Dining Area
Wooden dining table with six matching chairs sits beneath a modern pendant light. The adjacent living area features a floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace with a wooden mantel. Dark wood cabinetry contrasts with light walls and crown molding, creating a balanced design.
Kitchen
White cabinetry, a dark wood island, and granite countertops. A custom copper range hood sits above a gas cooktop with a decorative tile backsplash. Pendant lighting and hardwood flooring add warmth to the space.
Bedroom
Dark hardwood flooring and neutral walls. A sitting area with bay windows and a red armchair provides additional space. Two sets of French doors with plantation shutters lead to an outdoor balcony.
Patio
A brick-enclosed patio has a wood-paneled ceiling with skylights and a large ceiling fan. A built-in brick fireplace serves as a focal point. Sliding glass doors lead to an outdoor kitchen with a stainless steel grill.
Source: Coldwell Banker
5. Updated 1882 Gold Coast Townhouse
This $3,595,000, 4-bedroom, 5-bathroom home in Chicago’s Gold Coast spans 5,100 sq. ft. and has been completely renovated with modern updates while preserving historic charm. The home features multiple wood-burning fireplaces, a gourmet kitchen with Subzero, Wolf, and Miele appliances, and a Neely-enclosed atrium for informal dining. Additional highlights include a rooftop terrace with a wet bar and fireplace, a spacious primary suite with a marble-tiled bath, a lower-level rec room with a wet bar, and an attached two-car garage, all located steps from the lake, shopping, and dining.
Where is Chicago?
Chicago, IL, is a major metropolitan city in the Midwest, located along the southwestern shore of Lake Michigan, about 90 miles south of Milwaukee and 180 miles northeast of Springfield, the state capital. Known for its rich architectural history, diverse neighborhoods, and cultural attractions, the city offers world-class museums, renowned dining, and a thriving arts scene. As a major transportation hub, Chicago features an extensive public transit system, two international airports, and easy access to highways connecting it to the rest of the country.
Living Room
White fireplace serves as the focal point, framed by modern artwork. Curved gray sofas with orange and gray pillows sit on a patterned red rug. Large windows allow natural light to highlight the eclectic decor.
Dining Room
A mix of rustic wooden chairs with colorful cushions, a white fireplace, and vibrant artwork on the walls. A striking modern chandelier hangs above, complementing the artistic decor. Sculptural and cultural pieces add character to the space, making it a unique fusion of classic and contemporary design.
Kitchen
White cabinetry and marble countertops extend throughout the space, with a matching marble backsplash. Gold hardware and a brass pendant light contrast with the dark hardwood flooring. A gas range, double oven, and built-in refrigerator provide modern appliances.
Bedroom
A king-sized bed sits against a white wall, flanked by matching wooden nightstands. Large windows allow natural light to fill the room, with a view of the surrounding buildings. Patterned area rugs contrast with the dark hardwood flooring.
Patio
Outdoor seating is arranged around a white brick fireplace on a raised deck. A red cantilever umbrella provides shade over modern lounge chairs and sofas. Tall buildings in the background frame the enclosed private space.
Source: Coldwell Banker
Have you seen the historic mansions in Illinois? Each one tells a unique story!
I have indeed explored some of the incredible historic mansions in Illinois, and each one tells a unique story of its time. The architectural details and opulent designs really highlight the evolution of style and luxury throughout the years. It’s fascinating how materials like terracotta and stained glass were used!