Historic Gold Coast Mansion by Renowned Architects Cobb & Frost

The current restoration, begun in 2009, exemplifies the highest standards of historic preservation while seamlessly integrating 21st-century luxury. Every element showcases exceptional craftsmanship: original mosaic floors have been painstakingly refurbished, while custom millwork throughout the home is crafted from solid Honduras mahogany. Hand-carved marble fireplaces imported from Italy anchor principal rooms, complemented by custom stained glass that casts jeweled light across silk wall coverings.

The home's architectural narrative unfolds across multiple levels, beginning with a grand foyer where hand-carved columns frame Turkish marble floors. The great room commands attention with its Swarovski crystal chandelier and book-matched onyx fireplace sourced from Pakistan, while coffered ceilings demonstrate the period's dedication to ornate detail. An intricate hand-carved arch frames the second-level library, crowned by a custom stained glass dome skylight that floods the space with natural illumination.

Modern integration respects the home's historic integrity while enhancing livability. A custom elevator services all levels, while Control4 smart home systems, integrated audio, and intelligent HVAC controls operate invisibly within the period framework. The lower level entertainment space features a hand-carved Italian Botticino marble fireplace, in-wall wine display, and spa facilities including sauna, jacuzzi, and steam suite. Artistic elements include a Murano glass mural with integrated waterfall and hand-blown glass ceilings—details rarely found in contemporary residences.

The separate carriage house above the heated three-car garage provides additional living space, maintaining the estate's self-contained character. Throughout the 5-bedroom, 4.2-bathroom main residence, every room demonstrates the seamless marriage of historic grandeur and contemporary comfort that defines truly exceptional luxury properties.

The Gold Coast neighborhood represents Chicago's most prestigious residential enclave, a distinction earned through more than a century of architectural significance and cultural prominence. Bounded by Oak Street, North Avenue, Lake Shore Drive, and Clark Street, this historic district emerged in the late 19th century as Chicago's answer to New York's Fifth Avenue, attracting the city's most influential families to build grand mansions along tree-lined streets.

The neighborhood's development followed the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, when wealthy residents moved north from the downtown area to establish new estates on higher ground near Lake Michigan. This migration created one of America's finest collections of Gilded Age architecture, with mansions designed by the era's most celebrated architects. The Gold Coast's architectural heritage includes works by Louis Sullivan, David Adler, and of course, Cobb & Frost, whose contributions helped establish the neighborhood's enduring reputation for excellence.

Today's Gold Coast seamlessly blends historic preservation with contemporary luxury living. The neighborhood's mansion-lined streets coexist with world-class shopping along the Magnificent Mile, just steps away via Oak Street or Rush Street. Residents enjoy immediate access to Oak Street Beach and the lakefront trail system, providing recreational opportunities within walking distance of the urban core.

Cultural amenities abound throughout the area. The nearby Newberry Library, also designed by Cobb & Frost, houses one of America's premier research collections in a building that shares architectural DNA with the Thompson House. The Museum of Contemporary Art, Chicago History Museum, and numerous art galleries create a rich cultural landscape. Fine dining establishments along Rush Street and Oak Street cater to sophisticated palates, while the nearby Magnificent Mile offers luxury retail from international fashion houses.

The neighborhood's walkability distinguishes it from many luxury enclaves. Residents can easily access Lincoln Park Zoo, the Chicago History Museum, and the Gold Coast's own charming commercial districts along State Street and Rush Street. The lakefront location provides both stunning water views and access to recreational activities, while maintaining convenient connections to downtown Chicago's business district.

Transportation options reflect the area's central location. The Clark/Division Red Line station provides rapid transit access, while Lake Shore Drive offers convenient automobile connections throughout the metropolitan area. This accessibility, combined with the neighborhood's historic character and cultural amenities, continues to attract discerning residents who appreciate both urban convenience and residential tranquility in one of America's most architecturally significant neighborhoods.