Grand 1919 Estate in River Forest, Illinois, Blending Spanish Styles with Modern Luxury and a Stunning Saltwater Pool

823 Jackson Ave, a distinguished estate in River Forest, IL, blends Spanish, Prairie, and Arts & Crafts styles and was built in 1919 by Buurma Bros. This historical gem, set on nearly half an acre, features 6 bedrooms and 5.5 baths, making it one of the largest private lots in the area. Recent renovations have modernized its interiors while preserving original elements, including leaded glass doors and marble flooring. The listing price stands at $1,950,000, encompassing high-end finishes throughout, including a chef’s kitchen and spa-inspired bathrooms. With a total square footage around 5,200, the property offers a lavish lifestyle just minutes from top-rated schools and downtown Chicago.

Exterior View

A grand historic home featuring a robust brick exterior and a distinctive green tile roof. The architectural style showcases prominent overhangs and an open, welcoming porch supported by sturdy columns. Large bay windows adorn the front, allowing ample natural light to fill the interiors. The landscaping includes a lush green lawn with mature trees framing the property. A driveway leads up to the porch, accentuated by the symmetry of the house’s design. The combination of warm brick tones with the fresh green roof emphasizes an inviting and classic aesthetic, harmonizing with the surrounding nature.

Entryway

The image showcases a spacious entryway characterized by sturdy brick pillars supporting an expansive overhang. The warm tones of the red brick contrast with white trim around the windows, creating a welcoming ambiance. A smooth concrete driveway leads to a parked vehicle, suggesting practicality. Natural light filters through the surrounding trees, enhancing the space’s vibrancy. The steps ascend to an inviting wrought iron gate that hints at the home’s luxurious design. Attention to detail is evident in the architectural elements, such as the designed ceiling under the overhang and the stylish landscaping, complementing the overall charm of this historic residence.

Entryway

This welcoming entryway showcases a striking black and white checkered marble floor that draws the eye. The dark blue walls are complemented by a coffered ceiling, which adds a sense of height and elegance. A crystal chandelier illuminates the space, enhancing its sophistication. A round wooden table with intricate carvings sits elegantly in the center, adorned with a decorative statue. Framed art pieces line the walls, adding character. The staircase, featuring a rich carpet runner, leads to the upper level, with natural light filtering through a nearby window, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Entrance Hallway

The entrance hallway features an elegant black and white checkered marble floor, creating a striking first impression. A circular, intricately carved wooden table stands at the center, accentuated by a decorative sculpture. Dark, textured wallpaper contrasts with the polished floors, enhancing the sophistication of the space. A grand chandelier hangs from the ceiling, adding a touch of glamour. On one wall, framed artworks provide visual interest, while a leafy indoor plant adds a refreshing green element. Natural light floods through large windows, illuminating the space and creating a welcoming atmosphere for guests.

Living Room

This living room features a cozy layout with a bright, inviting atmosphere. A striking red couch with patterned pillows contrasts beautifully against the soft beige walls, while a blue couch adds depth to the arrangement. The sleek wooden coffee table serves as a focal point, adorned with decorative items. The fireplace, framed with a white mantel, is an architectural highlight, complemented by framed artwork above it. Natural light streams through large windows dressed in sheer white curtains, enhancing the vibrant green wall in the adjacent space. Light wooden flooring ties together the warm tones throughout the room, fostering a welcoming ambience.

Living Room

The room features a harmonious blend of modern and vintage elements, characterized by warm wood flooring and soft beige walls. A deep blue couch adds a pop of color, paired with decorative pillows. Across, a lush green sectional sofa invites comfort, accentuated by vibrant orange armchairs. A large coffee table centers the space, adorned with books and decorative trays. Rich artwork hangs on the walls, including a landscape painting. Natural light floods in through multiple windows, and sheer drapes enhance the airy feel. The room balances cozy textures and colors, creating a welcoming atmosphere perfect for relaxation.

Living Room

This spacious living room features a harmonious blend of modern and traditional design. A plush, olive green sectional sofa is adorned with yellow and blue pillows, providing a cozy seating area. A bright orange lounge chair complements a rich, burgundy sofa that showcases textured pillows. Natural light floods the space through large windows framed with soft, light curtains. A dark wooden coffee table sits centrally, decorated with vibrant books and intricate decor. The wall color is a soft beige, enhancing the room’s warmth, while an open archway leads to a cheerful lime green area, emphasizing spaciousness.

Living Room

This living room features a spacious layout with warm wooden flooring and soft, neutral wall colors. A large olive green sectional sofa, adorned with vibrant throw pillows in blue and yellow, anchors the space. A sleek, mid-century modern lounge chair in tan leather provides additional seating. Natural light filters through sheer curtains, enhancing the inviting atmosphere. In one corner, a stylish side table complements the chair. A vintage sideboard with decorative hardware adds character, while modern audio equipment and artwork enrich the decor, blending traditional and contemporary elements seamlessly for a cozy, stylish space.

Sunroom Decor

This sunroom features vibrant lime green walls that energize the space. Two elegant white armchairs with decorative black throw pillows create a cozy seating area, inviting relaxation. Natural light pours through large windows adorned with sheer white curtains, enhancing the airy ambiance. A striking red and gold lion statue serves as a playful accent, while a smaller bronze lion adds a touch of artistry. A plant shelf with greenery offers a hint of nature against the lively backdrop. The wooden flooring adds warmth, contrasting beautifully with the colorful decor, making the space feel lively and inviting.

Dining Room

A cozy dining room features a long wooden table with a unique, rustic finish, complemented by white, minimalist chairs with slender legs. Above, three pendant lights hang from a stylish coffered ceiling, providing warm illumination. Rich, earth-toned drapes frame large windows, allowing natural light to filter in, while a vibrant painting of a dog adds a playful focal point against the soft beige walls. Adjacent to the dining area, a glimpse of a modern seating arrangement with streamlined furniture suggests a seamless flow between spaces, enhancing the room’s inviting atmosphere.

Dining Area

This dining area merges contemporary and rustic aesthetics, featuring a long wooden table with a unique burl wood finish that adds warmth. Surrounding the table are modern white chairs, enhancing the light, airy feel. A bar with sleek black stools backs the table, creating a social space. The ceiling boasts a coffered design, giving depth and character, complemented by warm recessed lighting. To one side, a striking blue wall showcases vibrant artwork, introducing a playful color contrast. Large windows bring in natural light, while soft curtains add elegance and comfort to the atmosphere.

Kitchen

This kitchen features a spacious layout with a stunning blend of modern and traditional elements. The centerpiece is a large stainless steel countertop, reflecting natural light, complemented by a light blue cabinetry with subtle detailing. A unique stone backsplash brings an elegant touch with its intricate veining. Above, a suspended wooden shelf showcases glassware, adding an open and airy feel. Rich, earth-toned curtains frame large windows, enhancing the warm, inviting atmosphere. Pendant lights softly illuminate the space, while the contrasting dark accents and wooden floors ground the design, creating a harmonious and functional cooking area.

Kitchen

The kitchen features a contemporary design with a blend of classic and modern elements. Soft, muted blue cabinetry contrasts beautifully with the warm-toned hardwood flooring, creating a welcoming atmosphere. A large island adds functionality, complemented by a sleek, mobile cart. Stainless steel appliances shine against the intricate backsplash, enhancing the room’s elegance. Ample countertop space, along with open shelving displaying glassware, promotes both style and accessibility. Natural light pours in from nearby windows, illuminating the space and emphasizing the thoughtful arrangement of furniture and fixtures, making it both a cooking haven and a social gathering area.

Living Room

This cozy living room features a striking blue accent wall that creates a bold statement. A light gray sofa is adorned with geometric and tropical-patterned cushions, adding a touch of comfort and style. Above the sofa, a curated selection of framed art contributes to the room’s character. Ambient lighting is provided by a decorative wall sconce, which enhances the warm atmosphere. Natural light pours in through a large window, illuminating the polished wooden floor and accentuating the cozy vibe. Decorative elements, such as a wooden sculpture on the windowsill, provide a personal touch, enhancing the inviting space.

Reading Nook

This cozy reading nook features rich, deep blue walls that create a striking contrast with the warm, tan leather armchairs. Natural light floods the space through large, elegant windows adorned with patterned drapes that add a touch of sophistication. A slim, stylish side table sits between the chairs, enhancing the inviting atmosphere. Lush green plants bring life and color, accentuating the modern aesthetic. Decorative art pieces, including black-and-white photographs, add personal character to the room. The light oak flooring complements the overall design, ensuring the space feels both chic and relaxing, perfect for quiet moments.

Bedroom

This bedroom features a calming color scheme with soft blue walls and warm wood flooring. A spacious bed, adorned with crisp white linens, is the main focal point. Flanking the bed are elegant nightstands with stylish lamps, providing ambient light. On one side, two plush armchairs invite relaxation, complemented by a round wooden table. Floor-to-ceiling curtains in a rich gray tone frame the windows, allowing for natural light to filter through. A piece of art featuring a serene scene of a flamingo adds a splash of color and character. The area is grounded by an intricate area rug, enhancing coziness.

Bathroom

A beautifully designed bathroom featuring a modern aesthetic. The walls are painted a soothing deep blue, creating a serene atmosphere. Natural light streams through a window dressed with wooden blinds, enhancing the ambiance. On the left, a glass-enclosed shower offers a sleek look, while a large oval soaking tub occupies the corner, inviting relaxation. A marble countertop houses dual sinks, complemented by elegant fixtures. Beneath the sinks, cabinetry in a matching blue provides ample storage. A plush area rug adds warmth and texture to the floor, completing the sophisticated design that balances functionality with style.

Bedroom

This bedroom features a light green color scheme that creates a calming atmosphere. A prominent four-poster bed with rich wooden details is adorned with a soft, textured bedspread and plush pillows. Beside the bed, a round side table holds a modern lamp, providing subtle lighting. Elegant drapery frames the windows, allowing natural light to filter through. A cozy seating area is highlighted by a tufted bench, inviting relaxation. Two framed artworks add character to the room, while a simple clothing rack offers functionality. Glossy hardwood floors contribute to the classic aesthetic, enhancing the room’s overall warmth.

Bedroom

This serene bedroom features a soothing light green color scheme that promotes tranquility. The focal point is a grand wooden four-poster bed with rich, intricate carvings, paired with soft brown bedding that adds warmth. A tufted, olive green bench at the foot of the bed complements the decor elegantly. The room is illuminated by a ceiling fan and soft overhead lighting, enhancing the cozy ambiance. A large, ornate mirror reflects the space, creating a sense of openness. Natural wood flooring contrasts with a rich patterned rug, while a stylish lamp and side table add functional charm.

Home Office

This home office features a serene light green color scheme, promoting relaxation and focus. Large windows with white blinds flood the space with natural light, highlighting the warm, polished hardwood floor. A contemporary black ergonomic chair is positioned at a minimalist white desk, equipped with a computer and tasteful personal photographs. Shelving provides functional storage while maintaining a clean aesthetic. A small printer rests on a simple cart nearby, enhancing the workspace. The mix of modern furniture with traditional architectural details, such as crown molding, creates a harmonious blend of styles, making it an inviting and functional area.

Home Gym

This home gym features vibrant green walls that energize the space, complemented by warm wooden flooring that adds a natural touch. A ceiling fan circulates air, enhancing comfort during workouts. A vintage poster of Sean Connery adds a playful, cinematic flair to the atmosphere. The layout includes a rowing machine and stationary bike, promoting fitness and functionality. A sleek wooden dresser organizes equipment, while a compact television mounts effortlessly on the wall, ensuring entertainment during exercise. The large window invites natural light, highlighting the room’s invigorating colors and creating a spacious, inviting environment.

Bathroom Details

This modern bathroom features a bright, floral wallpaper in warm hues of pink and green, adding vibrant character to the space. White subway tiles line the walls, complemented by hexagonal floor tiles in subtle gray, creating an inviting contrast. A spacious glass shower enclosure showcases sleek fixtures and a neutral shower base. Two plush white towels hang neatly on chrome racks, enhancing functionality. A contemporary sink with polished chrome faucets is situated beside a modern toilet, while a large mirror reflects natural light from the window, making the room feel airy and open.

Bathroom

This modern bathroom features a refined layout with a sleek, minimalist aesthetic. The wall is adorned with multi-tone stone tiles, creating a subtle texture and a natural feel. A white pedestal sink complements the warm tones, accompanied by a wall-mounted glass shelf that holds neatly arranged toiletries. Above the sink, an arched mirror reflects the light emitted from two stylish sconces, adding a soft glow. Accents of pale pink in the storage canister add a hint of color, while the glass shower enclosure offers a contemporary touch, enhancing the open and airy atmosphere of the space.

Game Room

The space features a sleek, modern game room centered around a dark billiard table, offering a cohesive appearance. Soft gray carpeting extends across the floor, lending warmth to the area. Natural light filters through small windows, contrasting with the light beige walls, which provide an inviting ambiance. A green pendant light hangs above the table, enhancing its focal point. To the side, a cozy seating arrangement includes a light gray sofa, complemented by a dark, flat-screen TV mounted on the wall. Decorative touches include a small potted plant, creating a refreshing contrast against the minimalistic design.

Facade View

A striking view of a historic American home showcases its architectural elegance. The two-story red brick exterior contrasts beautifully with the green, sloped roof. Large windows framed in white allow ample natural light, while decorative stone accents provide texture. The symmetrical layout emphasizes traditional styles, with a prominent central chimney. Lush green grass surrounds the house, enhancing its inviting curb appeal. Flanked by trees, the home sits in harmony with its environment. A driveway leads to an attached carport, melding functionality with aesthetic appeal, making the property both timeless and contemporary.

Backyard Oasis

A serene backyard space featuring a glistening pool at its center, bordered by a smooth concrete deck. The pool’s edges are framed by dark stone tiles, enhancing its luxurious appearance. Surrounding the pool, lush green grass creates a vibrant contrast against the azure water. In the background, a stately two-story brick home showcases classic architectural details with rhythmically arranged windows. The stepped roof in a verdant hue complements the green foliage of nearby trees, creating a harmonious environment. A charming outbuilding with a tiled roof adds an element of character, enhancing the outdoor aesthetic.

Garage Exterior

The exterior of a charming garage showcases a symmetrical design with two white garage doors framed by exposed brick columns. The roofs feature distinctive green tiles, adding character against the backdrop of vibrant trees showcasing autumn hues. Lush greenery surrounds the space, with a prominent potted plant by the door, enhancing the inviting atmosphere. A spacious concrete driveway leads up to the garage, complemented by a well-maintained lawn and a wooden fence that provides privacy. Natural light bathes the area, highlighting the contrasting colors of the brick, tile, and foliage for an aesthetically pleasing view.

Listing Agent: James D’Astice of Compass via Zillow