Set on one of Buena Park's most storied tree-lined blocks, this $1,249,000

Home For Sale near Lake Michigan - Cook County

Set on one of Buena Park's most storied tree-lined blocks, this home is a true piece of Chicago history and has been lovingly owned by the same family for over 60 years. Originally permitted in September 1901 for pioneering real estate investor Albert W. Hester and designed by prominent Chicago architect Emery Stanford Hall (of the firm & Marshall), this stately residence embodies the architectural pedigree that defines the neighborhood's early 20th-century character. Distinguished by its Dutch Colonial Revival form, the home's side gambrel roof-tucking the third floor within its classic double-pitched silhouette-creates the unmistakable profile that anchors the streetscape. A semi-elliptical portico supported by classical columns, symmetrical detailing, and a centered dormer with Palladian-style window composition reflect the academic Colonial Revival influence that was especially celebrated at the turn of the century. Built of sand-mold brick and stone at an original cost of $10,000 (and advertised for $20,000 in 1902), the residence stands as a lasting testament to Buena Park's architectural ambition. Situated on an oversized 40' x 125' lot, the main residence offers extraordinary scale rarely found today: 6BR's, 3.1BA's three expansive levels, a full basement, and a secluded backyard. From the moment you step inside, the home's unmistakable grandeur claims its presence, yet warmly wraps its arms you. The oversized main floor living area is a showpiece in both proportion and presence, anchored by an ornate staircase, substantial oak millwork, original pocket doors, and thoughtfully symmetrical design. South and east-facing windows pour natural light into the home throughout the day-most notably the uniquely arched south windows, designed to echo the waves of Lake Michigan just blocks away. Designed for true entertaining, the formal dining room is equally impressive in scale and rich in craftsmanship-offering a dramatic foundation for thoughtful restoration. These principal rooms were designed for celebration, conversation, and permanence, and they continue to deliver that same sense of occasion today. The kitchen is filled with natural light, and offers a commercial-grade range, ample counterspace, and a clever breakfast nook for morning coffee and enjoying the views of the blooming backyard. Upstairs, the south-facing primary suite features a walk-in closet and additional closet space, plus a full ensuite bath. Three additional bedrooms with great light and storage are on the second level. A distinctive hall bath showcases back-lit marble tile, a walk-in shower, jetted tub, and bidet. The third floor-nestled within the gambrel roofline-offers two additional bedrooms, a full bath, private terrace, and luggage room, presenting an incredible opportunity for reconfiguration into a guest suite, playroom, home gym, or a new incredible primary suite. Downstairs the basement offers endless opportunities for storage or expansion for additional living space. The coach house adds a compelling second chapter: a 1BD/1BA apartment (tenant-occupied through 4/30/26) above a rare pass-through 2-3 car garage configuration-entering from the main driveway and exiting onto the dead-end of North Dayton Street-an almost unheard-of feature in the city, and further underscores the property's unicorn status. Throughout its lifetime, the home has been occupied by notable Chicagoans-including civic leaders, entrepreneurs, and most recently architect Frank Alschuler, who later worked under Bertrand Goldberg and was honored for decades of community service in Uptown and Buena Park (including renaming Junior Terrace after him). Junior Terrace offers more freedom for your vision as it is not bound by local Historic Preservation ordinances (though some national regulations may apply as Buena Park is a National Landmark District). Close proximity to schools: Chicago City Day, Lycee Francais, Sacred Heart, Bernard Zell Anshe Emet, Waldorf, and Disney Magnet

Open house: 3/7 13:00 - 15:00