Offered at $8 Million, This Beaux Arts-Style Chicago Home Dates to the 1890s
Nestled in Chicago’s picture-perfect Gold Coast neighborhood, known for its sprawling mansions and tree-lined streets, this $7.85 million single-family residence is one of the neighborhood’s most historic properties.
The Beaux-Arts-style residence was built in 1894 by George Maher and has a recognizable limestone facade, gated front garden, landscaped rooftop terrace, and bespoke iron front door. Inside, however, it has been gut renovated and transformed into a luxe contemporary home by Hewitt Horn. Spanning 9,700 square feet, there are six bedrooms, eight bathrooms, and a total of 15 rooms that are made even more voluminous thanks to 12-foot-high ceilings.
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It’s no wonder why so many filmmakers and producers seek out this home as a set for films and shows. It has served as a filming location for Empire, What Women Want, Chicago P.D., and Chicago Fire. The five-story residence has also hosted many high-profile people within its historic walls over the last century. It’s ripe for entertaining. You enter the home and are greeted with a formal entry gallery that connects to a living room and sitting area with a fireplace and large French windows. There’s also a formal dining room with a fireplace and a spacious marble kitchen with a large eat-in center island, dining nook, and French doors that open directly onto a charming terrace.
A grand staircase connects you to the upper levels. The second floor has three en suite bedrooms—one is used as a Versailles-style library with custom shelving, a marble fireplace, and large windows that let in plenty of natural light. At first glance, it might be hard to decipher which is the primary bedroom, as all seem suitable for the title. However, the primary suite on the third floor takes the cake. The elegant room has vaulted ceilings, a marble fireplace, seating area, and large windows that illuminate the space. The primary bathroom is also noteworthy, with its dual marble vanity and freestanding soaking tub. Each bedroom features exceptional millwork, ornate crown moldings, and custom built-in cabinetry.
“The finishes and designs of this home cannot be replicated today,” says listing agent Carrie McCormick with @properties Christie’s International Real Estate/Luxury Portfolio International. “You step into this residence, and you step back in time. Between the millwork and craftsmanship, you just feel the elegance. It has a very Parisian tone, and it’s extremely calming. The seller has gone to great lengths to preserve those original elements while renovating and modernizing the entire property. I also think it’s important to note that every room of this home serves a purpose.”
This floor also has a lovely office near a large sitting room. On the top floor, there’s a family room, lit by a skylight, with a stone fireplace and French doors that bring you to the rooftop terrace. Landscaped with a grill, fireplace, and irrigation system for the plants, the terrace offers views over the Chicago skyline and the neighboring historic mansions. Finally, there’s a basement level with a game room, second laundry room, extra storage, a one-car garage, and extra gated parking spot.
“Each space has its own character, she says. “The location on State Parkway is also a very sought-after address; so here, you’d be owning a piece of history in an incredible setting. It stands to reason why this residence has been a draw for Hollywood producers and filmmakers alike—it’s such a singular retreat.”
Click here for more images of 1521 N. State Parkway.
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