This Storybook Illinois Cottage Was Reimagined for 2025—Without Losing Its 1920s Charm

by Kellie Speed

When a storybook-style home designed by noted architect R. Harold Zook last hit the market in June 2023, it snagged a buyer, who scooped it up for $ 1 million, just 64 days later.

Since purchasing, they reimagined the four-bedroom, Cotswold-style cottage in Elmhurst, IL that was built in 1925, taking great care to maintain its historic integrity. Now, the home is back on the market for $1.5 million.

"The sellers wanted to preserve the property and even met with the former owner and have maintained a close bond with them," says listing agent Pattie Murray of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Chicago. "They wanted to bring the home into 2025."

Now, the "magazine-worthy" interior boasts "timeless European architecture" combined with bold modern design." And the result would make Chip and Joanna Gaines proud.

The living room before the transformation (Realtor.com)

The grand space after being renovated (Realtor.com)

Found throughout the 2,906-square-foot brick residence with Zook roof (known for its curved transition to the below wall) are exposed dark wood beams, custom millwork, a sculptural chandelier, and built-in bookcases.

"The sellers are really much more of preservationists," Murray says. "They didn't do anything to change the actual footprint."

A custom marble fireplace can be found inside the grand sunken living room that also boasts dramatic cathedral ceilings and diamond-shaped leaded glass windows. French doors from here open up to a secondary family room with designer lighting and oversized windows to let in an abundance of natural light.

A nearby dining room with funky hanging lights has a beautiful accent wall with designer wallpaper and a custom curio.

The original kitchen had dark wood cabinets, vinyl flooring, and wallpapered ceilings. (Realtor.com)

The sellers opened up the breakfast area and transformed the kitchen into a lighter and brighter space. (Realtor.com)

"There is also a brand new kitchen that is beautiful with marble countertops and soft sage custom cabinets, along with a lovely breakfast room with built-in seating," she notes.

The curated kitchen also has designer pendants, an oversized sink with black faucet, and stainless steel appliances, including a double-wall oven.

"They also took out a back staircase and turned the space into a guestroom and mudroom, making it so much more 2026," Murray adds.

The mudroom also has built-in seating and the same sage-colored cabinets found in the kitchen.

A stunning turned staircase with wood treads and newer wood railings serves as a focal point for the main level.

An original primary suite had wall-to-wall carpeting and wallpapering. (Realtor.com)

The modernized bedroom now has an accent wall and built-in seating. (Realtor.com)

The upstairs primary suite features a dramatic accent wall, custom window seating, and a walk-in marble shower. Other bathrooms offer floating vanities, "statement tile," and designer lighting.

There is also a home office that could be used as a yoga studio, fitness center, or transformed into guest accommodations.

A private courtyard patio found out back has a checkerboard stone design, offering a "European-inspired entertaining space" designed for alfresco dining. It also has a detached matching two-car garage.

"We have already had two people look at it for a second time," Murray says.

"I could see a city person moving to the suburbs buying it, or a local upgrader. Elmhurst's school district is one of the top. What's also unique about this home's location is that it is close to restaurants, so it's like living in the city but with a completely suburban lifestyle."

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