Grand 1903 Chicago Masterpiece in Illinois Featuring Hand-Carved Staircase, Restored Fireplaces, and Lush Secret Gardens
Built in 1900 by the renowned firm Huehl & Schmid, this landmark Chicago residence blends early 20th-century architectural elegance—evidenced by beamed ceilings, intricate leaded glass, and original fireplaces—with striking contemporary updates. Located on a rare 50’ x 178’ lot near Lake Michigan in Lakeview, this meticulously restored home offers expansive, light-filled living spaces with top-tier finishes including heated floors and a chef’s De Giulio kitchen. Extensively renovated over four years with all-new systems, sensational landscaping by Doug Hoerr, and luxe amenities—including an elevator, spa, gym, and wine room—the home sits within the prestigious Nettlehorst School district. Listed at $3,995,000, it provides a true city sanctuary with multiple terraces and a private, gated drive.
Front Entrance Walkway
A spacious paved walkway bordered by a sturdy brick wall and decorative black metal fencing leads to the entrance of the house. The brick columns are topped with neutral caps, adding classic architectural detail. Mature trees provide ample shade, creating dappled patterns of sunlight on the sidewalk and driveway. Lush shrubbery lines the interior side of the fence, offering greenery and privacy. The exterior of the home is built from warm, sand-colored brick with simple trim. The overall design is inviting yet private, blending historic American style with urban sophistication and a touch of natural elegance.
Front Entryway
A spacious, welcoming front entryway features a stately wooden door with a glass panel, framed by gently curved brick walls in a warm beige tone. Two large windows flank the doorway, allowing natural light to spill into the adjacent rooms. The entry porch is paved with square gray stone tiles arranged in a diagonal pattern, adding sophistication and durability. Elegant urn planters with lush green ferns stand on either side of the door, providing a touch of greenery. Overhead, a rich wood-paneled ceiling with a geometric hanging lantern creates depth and accentuates the home’s historic charm.
Front Porch
Expansive, covered porch framed by substantial brick columns with ornate capitals, adding a touch of historic elegance. The ceiling is finished in warm-toned wood planks, teamed with a geometric black-and-white light fixture. Stone tiles cover the floor, creating a cool, textured surface that’s practical and handsome. Large, built-in stone benches line the perimeter, inviting relaxation while overlooking a lush, tree-filled garden and wrought iron fencing. The porch opens widely to the surrounding urban landscape, offering both privacy with its solid railings and a welcoming entrance to the home’s exterior. Natural light filters through the leafy branches, enhancing the tranquil environment.
Foyer and Stairway
Warm wooden paneling and exposed ceiling beams create an inviting ambiance in this grand foyer. A stately staircase with elaborate railing rises along the back wall, anchoring the space. In the center sits a round, ornately carved table topped with a bouquet of fresh flowers and decorative trays. To the right, a light green upholstered bench, framed by matching woodwork, provides a welcoming spot to sit. Large windows with patterned glass bathe the area in natural light, while artwork and a decorative framed piece add interest to the cream-toned walls. Rich, dark hardwood floors complete the refined, historic look.
Foyer and Staircase
A spacious entryway features warm oak paneling, intricate woodwork, and coffered ceilings, highlighting historic craftsmanship. A round, dark wood table topped with flowers and books sits on a richly patterned Persian rug, anchoring the center of the foyer. The front door and adjacent windows are dressed with delicate lace curtains that filter natural light. Stairs with finely turned balusters ascend to the right and display a lush potted fern above a built-in bench. Through a wide doorway, a glimpse of a cozy parlor with colorful upholstered furniture and matching carpets invites exploration, creating a welcoming and elegant arrival.
Living Room Details
A traditional living room awash in warm tones, anchored by ornate wooden cabinetry and a decorative fireplace on one wall. Glass-fronted display cabinets and a tall china hutch showcase blue-and-white ceramics and fine dishware. A trio of windows framed by classic drapes lets in natural light, accentuating the intricate detailing on the carved woodwork. An upholstered beige sofa with tassel trim and embroidered throw pillows faces a glass-topped coffee table, which holds a vase of fresh pink lilies and stacked books. Rich, Persian-style rugs in shades of rust, navy, and cream cover the dark wood floor, adding warmth and texture.
Library Sitting Area
A cozy library space features a large wall of tall, glass-fronted wooden bookcases filled with colorful books. To the left, an inviting bay window framed by dark wood casing allows natural light to stream in, framed with heavy floral curtains. Below the windows, a striped settee and patterned armchairs arranged around a circular wooden coffee table create an intimate reading nook. Beneath the furniture, a richly patterned red Persian rug anchors the room, complementing the upholstery. A mix of side tables, lamps, and a vase of fresh flowers complete the sophisticated, historic atmosphere with warm, traditional decor.
Library Lounge
A spacious and well-lit room that combines a library, lounge, and office area. Pale hardwood floors add warmth, complemented by built-in wooden bookcases topped with divided light windows framed in rich wood trim. The seating area features a gray velvet sofa and matching armchairs, accented by soft-toned pillows, arranged around a rectangular ottoman atop an ornate rug. Decorative molding graces the high, tray ceiling, and a large pendant light fixture hangs centrally. One wall features vintage metal filing cabinets with a horse weather vane, while the nook houses a modern workstation with a desk and shelving, creating a cozy, functional retreat.
Bathroom Details
A bathroom features classic neutral tiles in tan with black trim framing the upper and lower perimeters. A frosted window allows diffused natural light above a white bathtub, complemented by a gold-toned, vintage-style shower fixture. The sink is a pedestal style with brass hardware, matching the fixtures throughout the space. Above the sink is a bevel-edged mirror with a pair of geometric wall sconces. A toile-patterned shower curtain in red and cream adds a traditional accent, and the tiled floor carries a small-scale black and white motif. A framed botanical print and towel bar contribute to the warm, period-appropriate charm.
Kitchen Island
A spacious, elegant kitchen features a large central island with a dark, glossy stone countertop and light gray paneled cabinetry with bronze hardware. Overhead, pendant lights with fluted glass shades hang from a coffered ceiling, accented with exposed dark wood beams. The room is bathed in natural light from several large windows with woven wood shades. Ornately arranged open shelving around the stove displays decorative plates, and wood cabinetry flanks the stainless steel appliances. Soft cream-colored walls and beige stone flooring create a warm, inviting backdrop, while fresh flowers and potted plants add a touch of vibrancy and life to the space.
Kitchen Details
A spacious, elegant kitchen features a large central island with a dark, veined granite countertop and traditional paneled cabinetry in a muted, sage-green color. Overhead, glass pendant lights hang from a metal fixture, providing soft illumination. The perimeter countertops are a light marble, complementing glass-fronted upper cabinets filled with white dishes. Stainless steel appliances and a large range are framed by a decorative white tile backsplash and open shelving showcasing colorful ceramic plates. Warm wood accents appear in exposed ceiling beams and shelving, while a vase of fresh pink lilies adds a pop of color to the classic, refined space.
Kitchen Island
Spacious and elegant kitchen featuring a large, dark granite island with subtle green undertones, complemented by two wooden stools. The island includes a built-in wine cooler and a stainless steel sink with modern faucet. The cabinetry exhibits a soft gray finish with classic paneling and glass-front upper cabinets, showcasing fine dishware. Rich wood beams highlight the ceiling, pairing beautifully with matching drawer fronts and door frames. A row of pendant lights above the island adds a warm, inviting glow. Decorative ceramic plates stand out on open shelves, while a fresh bouquet of pink lilies brings life to the sophisticated, timeless setting.
Living Room Details
Open and inviting living space characterized by dark wood ceiling beams and trim that contrast elegantly with cream-colored walls. The room features large windows dressed in woven bamboo shades, allowing natural light to bathe the space. A cozy sitting area includes a plush dark sofa with textured pillows, two rounded armchairs, a patterned area rug, and a glass-topped coffee table. Along one wall, a wooden sideboard with books adds warmth, complemented by a matching wall cabinet above. The dining area, visible in the background, continues the wood theme with a classic table and chairs under a coordinating pendant light.
Living Room Details
Warm and inviting living room with a mix of traditional and modern elements. Exposed dark wood ceiling beams and window trim contrast softly with pale textured walls and a beige tiled floor. A plush, deep brown sectional sofa with light pillows faces a glass-topped coffee table on a floral-patterned area rug in earthy tones. Across from the sofa, a pair of curved modern armchairs in muted gray flank a low wood chest. A stone fireplace is centered between two tall windows with woven wood shades. Above the mantel, abstract artwork adds a contemporary touch, complemented by sculptural accents.
Dining Nook
A cozy dining area features a round wooden table surrounded by six matching wooden chairs with cream-upholstered seats. Large bay windows with classic dark wood trim bring in natural light, softened by woven bamboo shades for privacy and warmth. The alcove is framed by substantial wooden moldings and a wide entryway, creating an inviting, semi-enclosed space. Neutral stone tile flooring grounds the room. The walls are adorned with a few framed artworks, adding character and a hint of color. Overhead, a vintage-style pendant light centers the table, lending a historic charm to the intimate setting.
Dining Room Details
An elegant dining room featuring a large wooden oval table surrounded by six blue upholstered chairs with nailhead trim. Rich wood beams form intricate geometric patterns on the coffered ceiling, emphasizing the room’s historic character. The room receives abundant light from three tall windows and a glass-paneled door, all framed in dark wood and accented by blush-pink draperies. A detailed fireplace with a decorative tile surround anchors one wall beneath a wide wooden mantel and a large mirror. Floral arrangements add fresh color atop the table, which sits atop a vivid red and blue Persian-style rug.
Powder Room Vanity
A compact powder room featuring classic wooden wainscoting and trim in rich oak tones, giving the space a warm, traditional appeal. The vanity area includes a white porcelain sink with brass fixtures set in a black marble countertop. Above the sink, a large framed mirror is flanked by two vintage-inspired wall sconces, casting a soft, warm glow. The toilet is partially separated by a wall, and a window dressed with a floral Roman shade provides privacy and natural light. The floor has a border detail, complementing the room’s timeless style and cohesive woodwork. Overall, the aesthetic is elegant and inviting.
Upstairs Landing
A spacious upstairs landing is shown with rich, dark wood flooring and intricate wooden railing that lines the staircase and hallway edge. The walls are painted in a soft beige, creating a warm, inviting contrast to the dark woodwork. A large oriental rug with intricate patterns and a vibrant reddish-orange centerpiece covers most of the landing floor, adding color and texture. Ornate window trim and a matching wooden door frame reinforce the historic character. Sheer lace curtains filter soft natural light through the windows. A simple pendant light fixture hangs from the white ceiling, with a framed landscape painting adding an artistic accent.
Bedroom Fireplace
Spacious bedroom featuring a vaulted ceiling with exposed wooden beams and a sparkling chandelier as the centerpiece. The walls are a soft, muted sage, complemented by richly toned woodwork framing the fireplace and windows. A large, intricately patterned area rug covers the dark hardwood floors, adding warmth to the room. The bed is dressed in crisp white linens and has a decorative pillow, sitting between two mirrored nightstands with matching lamps. Heavy draped curtains with subtle patterns frame the windows, allowing natural light to flow in. Above the wooden mantelpiece, an ornate mirror reflects brightness throughout the serene, elegant space.
Bathroom Vanity Area
Classic double bathroom vanity setup with symmetrical design, featuring rich, dark wood cabinetry and trim. Two stone countertops, each with an under-mount sink, are positioned on either side of a central doorway that leads into a spacious walk-in closet. Large mirrors with elegant sconce lighting fixtures above each sink amplify the sense of space. The cabinetry has glass-front shelves containing neatly stacked linens. Pale neutral wall paint and creamy marble or stone countertops provide a refined contrast to the deep wood tones, creating both a warm and sophisticated atmosphere. The overall design feels luxurious, timeless, and highly organized.
Bathroom Tub Area
A serene bathroom corner featuring a deep soaking tub with cream marble surround and classic white subway tile accented by ornate trim. The walls are painted a soothing pale blue, creating a gentle contrast with rich, warm woodwork on the window frame, crown molding, cabinetry, and door. Above the tub is a window draped with an elegant roman shade trimmed with tassels, filtering daylight into the space. On the adjacent wall, a cluster of framed vintage sketches adds character. The floor is patterned with small square tiles in neutral tones, complementing the traditional and refined ambiance.
Laundry Room Details
A compact laundry room with a clean, functional layout featuring a side-by-side washer and dryer in crisp white. The backsplash and countertop are covered in luxurious white marble with bold gray veining, extending along the wall and enhancing the space’s brightness. Above the sink and counter are natural wood cabinets with matching trim, providing ample storage and a classic touch. An open shelf with a hanging bar adds convenience for drying or sorting. The large window, framed in warm wood, allows natural light to flood the room, while the slate gray floor tiles ground the overall neutral and elegant color scheme.
Bedroom Bay Window
A spacious bedroom with soft blue walls and rich wood crown molding, creating a calm and classic feel. Dominating one wall is a large bay window framed in wood, with delicate leaded glass details at the top and lush green views outside. A cushioned window bench sits below, inviting relaxation. The queen bed features an arched wooden headboard, crisp white quilted bedding, and green accent pillows. Two dark wood nightstands with matching lamps and vintage wall art flank the bed. A large, ornate area rug in earthy tones covers the dark hardwood floors, while floral drapes and a patterned quilt add cozy elegance.
Bathroom Vanity and Tub
A classic bathroom with a warm, inviting atmosphere featuring a wooden vanity topped with a light stone countertop and chrome fixtures. Above the vanity is a large mirror framed in matching wood, flanked by two elegant wall sconces. The room is painted in soft neutral tones, with simple framed art on the walls for a touch of sophistication. To the right, a white soaking tub is surrounded by more stone and nestled beneath a window dressed in a light beige Roman shade decorated with a subtle floral pattern. The floor features small square mosaic tiles adding visual interest.
Billiard Room
A spacious recreation room centers around a luxurious pool table with a rich wooden frame and deep blue felt that harmonizes with the surrounding paneled walls in navy blue. Wood ceiling beams and trim add warmth and character, complementing the light, patterned parquet floor. A trio of pendant lights hangs directly above the table, casting focused illumination. Built-in wooden cabinetry and paneling house a wall-mounted television, while plush blue armchairs and a low coffee table create a cozy lounge area. Decorative artwork, framed prints, and a rack of pool cues are displayed on the walls, enhancing the sophisticated, club-like ambiance.
Library Sitting Area
Richly paneled wood walls in deep reddish-brown hues frame this refined sitting area, accented by navy blue wall insets for a stately contrast. Four plush blue armchairs, each with clean modern lines, encircle a light-colored square coffee table with a recessed center. An ornate patterned rug complements the neutral tones of the parquet floor. The substantial fireplace features a cream surround and is topped with gleaming silver trophies and a framed crest. Large ceiling beams add architectural interest, while small glass side tables provide convenience. A wall-mounted flat-screen TV and whisky barrel add vintage charm to the relaxed, sophisticated ambiance.
Home Gym
A spacious home gym featuring contemporary workout equipment such as a weight machine, stationary bikes, and an elliptical trainer, all set atop black rubber mats for comfort and durability. The walls are painted a light neutral shade, with upper horizontal windows allowing natural light to filter in. Framed sports memorabilia, including photographs, jerseys, and championship plaques, add personality and vibrancy to the otherwise functional space. A long mirrored wall expands the sense of space and enhances brightness. Additional elements include a ballet bar, a red stability ball, and neatly rolled mats, creating a well-organized and inviting exercise environment.
Bathroom Tub Area
A spacious bathroom dominated by a deep soaking tub with a curved wood-tone front panel, set into stone tile. Steps lead up to the tub on the right, with three sculptural black stools placed nearby. The backdrop features a wall of pale aqua glass tiles, creating a calming, spa-like effect. On the tub deck are five green glass jars, with a statue resting in the corner, blending artistic and serene elements. Neutral stone tile covers the floor and lower walls, while a decorative wooden bench and geometric wall art add an Asian influence to the tranquil space.
Patio Seating Area
A welcoming patio features stone tile flooring and is enclosed by warm brick walls with tan trim. There’s a small round table with a mosaic-style top, surrounded by four wrought iron chairs with vibrant, patterned cushions, contributing both comfort and color to the space. A large, turquoise ceramic planter adds an additional accent to the corner. Along one wall, a built-in stainless steel grill is ready for outdoor cooking. Overhead, a glass canopy lets in natural light while offering shelter. The area combines both leisure and functionality, offering urban outdoor relaxation with nearby city views.
Garage Driveway
A spacious paved driveway leads to a two-car garage with warm wooden doors and divided light windows, set within a pale brick structure. On the left, a set of broad, stone-topped stairs ascends to a patio space above the garage, furnished with large beige umbrellas. The area is framed by mature trees, some with deep reddish foliage, and wrought iron fencing enclosing landscaped garden beds. Lantern-style wall sconces add subtle historic charm. The surrounding buildings create an urban backdrop, while the natural greenery softens the area, lending the space both privacy and elegance.
Patio Seating Area
A spacious outdoor patio is arranged with a matching dark wicker furniture set, including a sofa and two armchairs, all with pale beige seat cushions. Colorful, floral-patterned throw pillows add lively accents to the seating. A rectangular black glass-top coffee table sits in the center, and a large tan patio umbrella provides ample shade overhead. Potted red geraniums add bursts of color at the corners. The patio is enclosed by a low stone and brick wall, affording a private, cozy atmosphere. Surrounding leafy trees offer greenery and soft natural light, balancing the urban brickwork backdrop.
Listing Agent: Emily Sachs Wong of @properties Christie’s International Real Estate via Zillow
