Description
Once in a lifetime opportunity to own an architecturally significant, 8,650-square-foot historic mansion in the heart of the Gold Coast. Located on an amazing, 30'x132' corner lot with spectacular southern exposure for natural light, the McConnell House was originally constructed in 1877 by architect Asa Lyon and, later, meticulously renovated for modern living. From the Queen Anne flourishes across its two stone porches to the carved, terracotta plaques that adorn the brick, this 5 bed/9 bath home's exterior masonry is beyond exquisite. Inside, an unsurpassed level of material selection and finish detail is evident across every room, beginning with a foyer that flaunts marble floors, tall ceiling heights and flawlessly restored original millwork. The main level's front-of-the-house living/entertaining footprint continues with a grand staircase, a large receiving salon and parlor with herringbone hardwood floors and a fireplace, a French Rococo-style formal dining room with crystal chandelier and statement gilding, and a presentation-worthy chef's kitchen with solid wood cabinets, hammered copper sinks, marble countertops, professional-grade appliances and a built-in breakfast nook. But there's more: in recent times, Chicago architect Richard Nelson was commissioned for an epic remodel of the home's back addition which was originally added in the 1920s. Taking his cues from the S.S. Normandie (a swank, French liner that made its maiden voyage in 1935), this section of the house features art deco lines and moderne motifs, and encompasses a massive great room with high ceilings, a burlwood-and-marble-fronted fireplace and gilt wrought-iron window gates from the Normandie, not to mention a handsome library/media room and a deco-inspired back staircase that forms an ante chamber to the salon. Upstairs, the second level presents 3 spacious, secondary bedrooms with en suites, including a fabulously private guest suite, plus a luxurious primary suite with a custom, walk-in closet and an absolutely stunning, marble-clad, en-suite bath with a glass, walk-in shower and an oversize soaking tub that's set by the windows. The top floor reveals a stained-glass skylight above the stairs that affords endless natural light, an expansive office with tall dormers, a marble-topped wet bar, a conservatory, a sun room, and a formidable roof deck. Additional living spaces and amenities include a lower-level wine cellar with tasting/dining room, a game room, a home gym, a rear foyer/mudroom, an all-floors elevator, 4 statement fireplaces throughout, and an attached 2-car garage. Further design details include custom millwork, restored stained glass, period-specific pendants and sconces, custom window treatments and professional landscaping. Walking distance to Lincoln Park, Oak Street Beach, Division Street Farmers Market and world-class shopping and dining along the Mag Mile, 1401 N. Dearborn St. is a true Chicago treasure for the homeowner who wants nothing but the best.
