Tour Inside the Elegant 1894 Illinois Shingle Style Mansion With 6 Fireplaces
Standing proudly since 1894, this remarkable Shingle Style Victorian mansion in Illinois represents an era when craftsmanship, artistry, and imagination defined homebuilding. Every inch of this historic residence tells a story — from the intricate stained glass windows that scatter jewel-toned light across the wood-paneled halls to the six grand fireplaces that lend warmth and intimacy to its expansive rooms. The home’s elegance and authenticity have survived for over a century, preserving a level of architectural sophistication rarely encountered today.
This mansion captures the distinctive spirit of the late Victorian period while reflecting the transition into the American Shingle Style, which emphasized texture, natural materials, and asymmetrical forms. From the moment you arrive, the façade’s sweeping rooflines and broad porches suggest both grandeur and welcome. The exterior hints at what lies within: a world of ornate woodwork, masterfully designed rooms, and rich history tied to one of the most transformative events of the 19th century — the Chicago World’s Fair of 1893.
It has been reported that the original owner maintained close connections to the Fair and, when it concluded, managed to acquire architectural and decorative details from the exhibition itself. These salvaged treasures — perhaps carved mantels, stained glass, or ornamental trim — were incorporated into the mansion’s design. This fascinating connection adds a layer of narrative that elevates the home beyond mere beauty; it’s a living artifact of America’s Gilded Age ingenuity and artistic ambition.
Stepping through the grand entryway, visitors are immediately struck by the diversity of the woodwork. Each room presents a different species, showcasing a virtuoso’s command of material and form. Birds-eye maple gleams with its soft, rippling pattern, while flaming birch glows warmly under natural light. Sycamore, oak, and walnut bring depth and contrast, forming a gallery of late 19th-century woodcraft. The variety of these timbers not only adds visual richness but also speaks to the homeowner’s desire to celebrate nature’s abundance and artistry.
The home’s six fireplaces are among its most striking features. Each one serves as a centerpiece for its room — a sculptural statement combining masonry, carving, and period tilework. The mantels, likely hand-crafted by artisans, display patterns and motifs echoing those popularized at the World’s Fair, where themes of progress, art, and industry converged. Together, these fireplaces provide both practical comfort and aesthetic coherence, uniting the house through their repeated presence.
Throughout the interior, the mansion’s original design intentions remain intact. Pocket doors slide gracefully into the walls, preserving the flexibility that made Victorian layouts so adaptable. Expansive porches invite relaxation and connection to the landscape — a reminder that even during an age of ornate design, the builders valued the interplay between indoor and outdoor living. Stained glass windows catch the shifting light of the day, casting colors that seem to dance across the wood floors, creating a dynamic atmosphere of changing beauty.
While deeply rooted in history, this home also accommodates modern living. Its third floor has been transformed into a legal apartment with three bedrooms, providing an additional living space or private quarters. The apartment offers the possibility of independent living for extended family, guests, or renters, without compromising the home’s historic character. Many have found creative use in such spaces — as artist studios, offices, or cozy retreats overlooking the treetops.
Set on nearly 0.6 acres, the property maintains the stately sense of space and privacy that defines turn-of-the-century estates. Mature trees, well-kept gardens, and multiple porches provide tranquil outdoor areas for entertaining or quiet reflection. A garage, constructed in 2004 and measuring approximately 1,400 square feet, blends modern convenience with architectural harmony. Its generous size offers ample room for vehicles, storage, or even a workshop to continue the home’s tradition of craftsmanship.
What makes this mansion truly special is the way it bridges time. It is undeniably a product of the 19th century — with its elaborate finishes and unmistakable historic charm — yet it lives comfortably in the 21st. Its layout, amenities, and enduring materials make it as practical as it is poetic. Each room feels like a chapter in an ongoing story, one that connects the imagination of its original owner to the aspirations of today’s homeowner.
This 1894 Shingle Style Victorian stands not just as a residence, but as a testament to the artistry of a bygone age. Its walls echo with history, its windows reflect the legacy of the World’s Fair, and its craftsmanship surpasses the standards of modern construction. To step inside is to experience a living piece of architectural heritage — elegant, enduring, and uniquely American.
