The David Robertson Forgan House, a Queen Anne masterpiece designed by architect Harry Bergen Wheelock in 1894, stands proudly in Evanston. This historic home showcases original intricate details like built-in bookcases, tiled fireplaces, and curved pocket doors, blended seamlessly with modern updates by the current owners. Spacious interiors include a grand entry hall, a family room, and a unique third-floor basketball court in the former ballroom. The finished basement offers numerous amenities, including a theater and bar. The property also features a two-bedroom coach house and oversized garage. Listed at $2,800,000, this pristine estate offers one-of-a-kind elegance within walking distance of downtown Evanston.

Historic Home Exterior

A large historic American home surrounded by mature trees in late winter or early spring, with bare branches casting shadows. The home is two stories tall with additional dormer windows in the steeply pitched roof, featuring classic architectural details like white wood siding, multiple chimneys, and a prominent covered porch with ornate trim and columns. The front yard includes a circular bed around a central tree, bordered with small stones. The landscaping is natural and understated, allowing the classic architecture and substantial size of the home to dominate the scene.

Historic Home Exterior

A large, stately two-and-a-half story home with classic colonial revival design stands prominently on a spacious lot. The light gray wood siding contrasts with bright white trim around windows and detailed cornices. Two tall brick chimneys rise through the dark shingled hip roof, which incorporates dormer windows that add architectural interest. The covered front porch, supported by thick white pillars and topped with a pediment displaying intricate molding, invites entry. Mature deciduous trees and maintained hedges frame the property, while the front lawn shows signs of seasonal dormancy beneath clear blue skies.

Backyard Patio Area

A spacious red brick patio extends from the side of a classic house with light gray horizontal siding and white trim. Multiple large windows with white framing overlook the patio, inviting natural light indoors. Arranged outdoor seating includes metal chairs and a table, complemented by a stainless steel grill stationed at the far end. Several tall evergreen shrubs and trees create privacy and a natural backdrop. Leafless deciduous trees and bare ground suggest early spring or late winter. Planters and pots add potential for seasonal blooms, enhancing the inviting outdoor living space.

Exterior Side View

The pale gray exterior is clad in horizontal siding with white trim around windows and doors, presenting a classic, clean look. Two dormer windows on the dark shingled roof add architectural interest and light to the upper floor. A sturdy brick chimney rises prominently towards the center, hinting at a cozy hearth inside. The yard is spacious though winter-dormant, bordered by various mature shrubbery including conical evergreen trees that add vertical structure. A treatment of natural mulch and a winding brick pathway suggest thoughtful landscaping. The backdrop of leafless trees and neighboring homes situates the property in a serene residential neighborhood.

Entrance Foyer

The entrance foyer is spacious with a blend of historic and modern elements. White paneled walls extend up to the ceiling, complemented by rich dark hardwood floors. A simple round table with a striking blue glass sculpture anchors the space on a light beige rug. An impressive, ornate chandelier with cascading glass pieces hangs centrally, adding elegance and warmth. To the left, a staircase with a beige carpet runner ascends next to a stained glass window, filtering colorful light. Built-in bench seating next to a small fireplace with green tiles and intricate black metalwork above it provides extra charm. Multiple doorways and transom windows allow natural light to flow freely.

Living Room Seating Area

Symmetrically arranged with two identical beige patterned sofas facing each other on a large, textured area rug in neutral tones. A minimalist, glass-topped coffee table with a thin metal frame is centered between the sofas, holding a dark ceramic teapot and a book. Pale cream walls frame a central fireplace clad in light beige tiles, topped by a simple mantle and an impressionistic landscape painting with warm earth tones. Four tall windows with semi-sheer, patterned white curtains allow natural light. An abstract art piece and modern armchair in yellow print add subtle pops of color, enhanced by a contemporary leaf-shaped chandelier above.

Dining Room with Built-In Cabinetry

A spacious dining area centered around a round dining table with a polished, richly textured wooden top surrounded by eight dark upholstered chairs. The room features dark hardwood floors partially covered by a large traditional patterned area rug in warm earth tones. A white built-in cabinet with glass-front upper doors and mirrored backsplash runs along one side, offering both storage and a sense of depth. Three tall windows draped with heavy, cream-colored floor-length curtains provide natural light. The opposite wall includes white wainscoting topped with muted sage green paint, accented by two vibrant, warm-toned paintings and a geometric pendant light above the table.

Kitchen Island and Dining Nook

The kitchen space combines modern and classic elements with a wide central island painted in deep navy blue topped with white marble, accompanied by four velvet bar stools with gold accents. Soft creamy cabinetry hugs the white subway tile backsplash, and large windows bring in natural light. The walls are painted a muted grey-blue, complementing the black wainscoting that frames the built-in dining nook, which has a wooden table and soft cushions. Above the nook, four framed artworks add personality, while a striking linear chandelier with tubular lights hangs over the island, enhancing the sophisticated atmosphere. Dark hardwood floors anchor the room.

Kitchen Island and Dining Nook

A spacious kitchen with a striking central island painted in deep navy blue topped with a waterfall-style white marble countertop featuring subtle veining. The island incorporates a built-in microwave and storage cabinets with polished brass handles. The floor is dark hardwood, contrasting beautifully with the white cabinetry and light gray walls. To the left, a cozy dining nook is framed by a black wainscoting panel and illuminated by natural light from a nearby window. Above the island, a modern linear chandelier with sleek, vertical lights adds contemporary charm. Artwork adorns the walls, and a green sideboard with matching lamps adds warmth to the space.

Living Room Details

A spacious living room with soft, pale blue walls framed by white trim and molding that accentuate the room’s height and elegance. A rich, dark wood floor contrasts beautifully with a light gray area rug that anchors the seating area. Two modern gray sofas provide comfortable symmetry, complemented by patterned pillows adding subtle color. A square coffee table with a light-toned surface and black legs holds a small plant and books, contributing to a cozy ambiance. The room includes large windows flooding the space with natural light, an ornately carved classic dark wood fireplace, and tasteful wall art above the fireplace and sofa. A stained glass chandelier with warm tones hangs from the ceiling, adding character to this harmonious blend of historic and contemporary design.

Home Office Details

Classic mahogany desk with green leather insets occupies the center of this home office, resting on a plush purple area rug with abstract patterning. Two matching dark wood dressers complement the desk, each topped with contemporary accessories and lamps. Walls are adorned with bold, vintage-style wallpaper featuring a repetitive red and orange leaf motif on a cream background, contrasting with the elegant white wainscoting and crown molding. Large windows with wooden blinds allow natural light, softened by a delicate floral spherical pendant light hanging from the ceiling. Ornate column trim and a large wall mirror complete this refined yet vibrant workspace.

Fireplace Nook

A cozy, symmetrical nook surrounds a central fireplace with dark green tiles and a decorative black metal screen. White wood paneling lines the walls and built-in bench seats flank each side, both topped with neutral cushioned pads for comfort. Flanking the fireplace are glass-front cabinets filled with neatly arranged books, adding a classic touch. Above the mantel, an intricate dark lattice panel contrasts against the light wall, drawing the eye upward. Warm, dark hardwood floors ground the space. Soft white walls, crown molding, and a sculptural ceiling light complete this elegant, inviting corner.

Sunken Seating Area

Dark hardwood floors contrast sharply with the crisp white trim, wainscoting, and pillars, lending a clean and classic ambiance. A sunken seating nook framed by built-in bench seating on three sides is upholstered in muted blue-green cushions. An ornate wooden chest with detailed metalwork serves as a central coffee table. Above, a modern pendant light with a square shade balances the vintage window panels with intricate ironwork above the benches. Near the stairs, a vivid stained glass window adds character and color, infusing this inviting transitional space with historic charm and contemporary touches.

Master Bedroom with Bath Entrance

Spacious master bedroom characterized by classic and elegant design. A large wooden bed with an intricately carved headboard stands prominently on a richly patterned Persian-style rug in deep reds and purples. Matching wooden nightstands flank the bed, each topped with glass-based lamps casting soft light. The dark hardwood floors contrast with the light neutral walls, enhancing the room’s timeless appeal. A doorway leads into an adjoining bathroom with white wainscoting and natural light streaming through a window. Simple ceiling light fixtures and minimal decor maintain an airy, refined atmosphere.

Bathroom Interior

This bathroom presents a blend of classic and modern design with light blue-green walls contrasted by creamy beige wainscoting and trim. A large soaking tub with a black marble surround anchors the left corner beneath multiple windows, including a decorative leaded glass pane allowing natural light with privacy. Adjacent to the tub is a white toilet positioned with wall sconces above for soft lighting. The vanity features a black marble countertop matching the tub surround, double sinks, and a large framed mirror illuminated by chrome light fixtures. An open doorway reveals a spacious walk-in shower clad in light beige natural stone tiles, matching the marble floor accented with dark marble borders.

Living Room Corner

A cozy curved living room corner with dark hardwood floors contrasting the soft off-white walls and ceiling. A white fireplace with intricate molding and a built-in mirror above serves as a classic focal point. Three large windows allow natural light to brighten the space, framed by rich, deep red drapes reaching from ceiling to floor. A vintage-style loveseat with a bold floral pattern in matching red tones is centered between two round wooden side tables, one topped with a small lamp. The overall aesthetic blends historic charm with warm, inviting colors.

Bedroom with Workspace

Soft gray walls contrast with the dark hardwood floor, creating a modern yet cozy atmosphere. A large, plush white shag rug anchors the black wooden bed frame dressed in neutral-toned bedding and accent pillows. Two large windows invite natural light and are framed by muted gray curtains. A vintage wooden desk and classic swivel chair sit beneath one window, providing a dedicated workspace. The room’s clean lines and minimalistic decor emphasize spaciousness. A round glass side table with a decorative lamp stands next to the bed, blending contemporary elements with understated elegance.

Modern Bathroom Vanity

A sleek, contemporary bathroom vanity with a dark wood finish contrasts strikingly with the white countertop and integrated sink. The wall boasts a large mirror framed by two elongated vertical light fixtures emitting soft, even light. The adjacent walk-in shower is enclosed with clear glass panels, enhancing the open feel of this compact space. Neutral beige tiles cover the walls and floor, while a unique vertical mosaic tile accent adds texture and visual interest near the showerhead. A recessed niche in the shower wall features the same mosaic tile, perfect for toiletries and enhancing the design continuity. The rich wooden door adds a touch of warmth to the otherwise minimalistic and modern aesthetic.

Bedroom Interior

Soft gray walls and matching curtains create a calm atmosphere, complemented by the white ceiling with subtle crown molding. Two large windows allow ample natural light to brighten the space. The bed, dressed in deep blue linens and white pillows, sits on a plush, light gray shag rug, adding texture and warmth. A sleek dark wooden dresser lines one wall, topped with two chrome decorative items and a contemporary lamp. Minimalist framed black-and-white prints contribute artistic charm. Dark hardwood floors provide contrast, while a ceiling fan offers a modern touch, balancing comfort and style.

Bathroom Vanity and Shower

Floating vanity with a sleek white countertop and integrated sink paired with modern chrome faucet integrates smoothly with the wall-mounted cabinet in a grey wood grain finish. A large rectangular mirror above the sink is flanked by two cylindrical wall sconces emitting a soft white glow. Adjacent is a frameless glass shower enclosure featuring neutral beige tiles with a vertical strip of blue-green mosaic tiles that run from floor to ceiling, adding textural contrast. An inset niche within the shower holds toiletries, highlighting the minimalist, contemporary design and light, soothing color palette throughout the space.

Bedroom with Fireplace

Soft blue walls envelop a cozy bedroom with a neatly made bed dressed in muted blue bedding and pale beige cushions. A deep plum rug anchors the space, contrasting with the dark hardwood floors. Two wooden doors with classic brass hardware add warmth and a vintage charm. The focal point is a white, intricately patterned fireplace framed by yellowish tiles, flanked by built-in shelves containing books and decor. White butterfly decals create a whimsical touch above the fireplace. Large windows with white trims let in ample natural light, introducing a serene ambiance to this historic room.

Bathroom with Shower

Bright bathroom featuring a corner glass-enclosed shower with beige stone tiles. The space has a patterned wallpaper in blue, green, and white tones above beadboard wainscoting, adding a vintage charm. A dark wood vanity with a white countertop sits beneath a rectangular mirror flanked by two traditional wall sconces with frosted glass shades. The floor is covered in light beige tiles complementing the neutral elements. A white toilet is positioned along the right wall under a window with a white fabric roman shade. Matching teal towels hang on metal rings and bars, enhancing the color harmony.

Game Room

A spacious game room with soft beige walls and white crown molding contrasts with the rich dark wood flooring. A large, ornately patterned area rug in deep reds, blues, and cream colors anchors the centerpiece, a classic wooden pool table with green felt top and intricate carved legs. Two comfortable armchairs with a bold leopard print fabric are positioned near two windows dressed with patterned valances that add character to the angled ceiling alcoves. A dark wood console table with slender turned legs and a tall classic lamp stands against one wall, lending an antique elegance to the cozy recreational space. Overhead hangs a stained-glass pendant light providing soft, warm illumination over the pool table.

Home Theater Room

Seating is arranged in two rows of plush dark brown leather recliners with built-in cup holders, offering a comfortable and immersive viewing experience. The room is carpeted in a neutral beige tone, enhancing warmth and sound dampening. Walls are painted a muted olive green, complementing the earth-toned curtains that frame small windows. A large flat-screen TV is centrally mounted on a raised wooden stage, with discreet black speakers integrated on the wall and stage corners. Classic movie posters of “The Jungle Book” and “E.T.” add a nostalgic cinematic charm, highlighted by elegant wall sconces emitting soft, ambient lighting.

Home Gym Equipment

The room is designed as a compact home gym with muted sage green walls contrasted by white trim around the small, high-set windows that allow natural light to filter in. The ceiling is smooth and neutral, with recessed lighting providing bright, even illumination. Flooring consists of a soft-toned carpet tile offering a comfortable yet practical surface. A treadmill and an elliptical machine sit side-by-side on black rubber mats to protect the floor, while adjustable dumbbells rest neatly on the floor adjacent to the equipment. The simple, clean design prioritizes functionality with a calm, understated color palette.

Living Room and Dining Area

Soft cream walls complement warm reddish-brown hardwood floors, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. A deep blue sofa sits on an intricately patterned area rug with muted cream, red, and green hues. Next to it, a modern beige armchair with a colorful patterned pillow adds comfort, positioned beside a niche with stacked stone cladding and a built-in, minimalist fireplace. The dining area is nestled under sloped ceilings, with a simple round wooden table and four white chairs on a floral rug. Recessed ceiling lights brighten the space, while artwork and a decorative lamp add artistic touches.

Bedroom Corner

A serene bedroom corner with a low ceiling due to the sloping attic-style architecture creates a cozy ambiance. The walls are painted in a soft neutral gray, complementing the rich dark hardwood flooring. A large white textured rug adds warmth and softness underfoot. The black metal bed frame contrasts subtly with the white bedding, adorned with multiple pillows in soothing shades of teal and white. To the right, a retro-style green armchair sits near a window with teal curtains, bringing in natural light. Recessed ceiling lights brighten the space, while a classic framed landscape painting adds an artistic touch to the otherwise minimalist decor.

Modern Bathroom Details

A sleek, contemporary bathroom with a clean and bright aesthetic. The space includes a floating dark wood vanity with a white rectangular vessel sink, complemented by a minimalist chrome faucet. A large frameless mirror stretches across the wall above the vanity, reflecting the soft lighting. The walk-in shower has clear glass doors enclosing beige wall tiles with an accent vertical strip of mosaic tiles. The shower has both a rainfall-style showerhead and handheld attachment. A frosted window provides natural light and privacy. The overall palette is neutral tones of beige, white, and gray, creating a fresh, airy feel.

Cozy Sitting Area

A small, intimate seating nook painted in soft gray creates a calming atmosphere. Two cushioned armchairs upholstered in light beige with patterned accent pillows face each other across a round side table with a clear glass base and white lampshade. A contemporary gray rug with yellow geometric patterns anchors the space over rich dark wood flooring. On the left, built-in white cabinetry provides storage and shelving, while on the right, a dark wood console table stands beneath framed landscape paintings. A small window with sheer white curtains lets in natural light, highlighting the sloped ceiling overhead.

Listing Agent: Sally Mabadi of Compass via Zillow