Most of us searching for our next living space instinctually avoid mansion listings. Let’s pretend for a spell, though, that a nearly $5.3 million residence is in our wheelhouse. Meet three stunning and historically-grounded contenders.
Spotlight: The Violet(-Trimmed) Tower
Site: 2024 W Pierce Ave | Wicker Park
Story: Situated in the Historic District, this brick beauty makes its market emergence for the first time in 40 years. Whether you’re into purple or Pink Floyd, the psychedelic window trim and characteristically Brownstone walls summon praise. Built in 1894, the 7,500-square-foot, 9-bedroom home offers ample space for a Double Door after party, at just a three-minute walk from the venue. Although with a $2.2 million asking price, you may want to keep cool and investigate the still functional dumbwaiter with your family. 2024 also houses 4 vintage fireplaces, 4 full bathrooms, and 2 half bathrooms. Authentic woodwork in floors and vegetation in front add extra magic. Check out the 2.5-floor gem for a worldlier existence. Bonus: nestled just far enough from Wicker Park’s “six corners” that you can join the bustle or play recluse.
Spotlight: Lakeside Luxury
Site: 115 Dempster | Evanston
Story: Over 100 years ago, architect Ernest Mayo envisioned a Colonial Utopia for Evanston. With coveted lake views, over 10,000 square feet and 3 levels, this mansion is one for the storybooks. Close proximity to architect Daniel Burnham’s old estate doesn’t hurt the appeal. At $5.3 million, the 6-bed, 4.5 bath is ready to make some lucky buyer a fantasy home. While the road and park prevent a perfect union of property and Lake, higher ground allows for optimal water and people watching. Your own slice of Versailles grants lush lawns and gardens plus a lake-greeting terrace and 2 living rooms. Fit for a solo, opulent residency or dubbing the ultimate family reunion locale, 115 Dempster is waiting.
Spotlight: Mr. Mayer’s Mansion
Site: 1030 Forest Avenue | Evanston
Story: Crowned for success in the food, and more specifically, sausage industry, Oscar Mayer deserved an impressive palace. He reigned at the Evanston estate from 1927 until his death 38 years later. Now, us mere peasants are invited to dream. Erected in the Gilded Age, 1030 Forest Ave embraces European influence. Priced just under $3 million, this once crumbling manor is now being renovated to its original glory. Well, for the most part. Details to be preserved include woodwork, brick fireplaces and decorative glass pieces. New features will include a contemporary kitchen, fresh bathrooms and modern cooling. Imagine hosting your own Chicago-style soiree, complete with Mayer’s finest, a little mustard and a lot of square footage. Try 7,400. 3 stories, 6 bedrooms, 4.5 bathrooms and other TBD spaces should supply the relish.
