The Thompson House, built in 1888 and designed by Cobb & Frost, is a historic architectural gem nestled in Chicago’s Gold Coast neighborhood. As one of the first homes established after the Great Chicago Fire, it holds national historic landmark status. This grand, solid red rock residence spans 13,400 square feet, featuring 5 bedrooms, 4.2 bathrooms, and a separate carriage house. Meticulously restored since 2009, it blends 19th-century craftsmanship with modern luxuries, including smart home technology and elegant finishes like hand-carved mahogany woodwork and imported marble. Listed at $18,500,000, this exquisite property embodies timeless elegance and sophisticated urban living in the heart of Chicago.

Historic Stone Exterior

Robust stone masonry with intricate carvings defines the facade of this historic home. The warm, earthy tones of the stone contrast softly with the deep reddish-purple slate roof. Distinctive architectural elements include a round turret with tall, narrow windows, bay windows, and decorative columns framing the entrance porch. The building is complemented by wrought iron fencing and well-trimmed shrubbery. Ornamental details like dentil molding and patterned stonework enrich the exterior, while the tall chimneys and a distant spire add vertical interest. Mature leafless trees enhance the historic charm and seasonality of the scene.

Historic Exterior View

Stone masonry defines the solid structure with rough-hewn texture and earth tones enhancing its historic charm. Rounded turret with conical roof introduces medieval architectural influence, while steep gabled roofs add to the stately appearance. Black wrought iron fencing lines the front, enclosing manicured low hedges and ornamental plants that contrast against the stone facade. Mature deciduous trees with bare branches suggest a winter season, complementing the serene street view. Tall church spire and urban building rooftops in the background highlight this home’s setting within a historic yet developed neighborhood. The overall style reflects grandeur and timeless craftsmanship.

Outdoor Patio Area

Spacious outdoor patio with warm-toned stone tiles covers the floor. The walls are clad in textured brick and stone, adding a rustic charm. A metal trellis overhead provides a framed glass roof, blending open air with partial shelter. Dark wrought iron railings and sconces complement window and door trims painted in deep brown, highlighting historic architectural details. Two covered grills and an outdoor sink suggest a functional cooking area. A central table with a weathered finish offers a casual gathering spot. Leafless climbing plants hint at seasonal dormancy beside tall windows, contributing to a classic yet inviting outdoor living space.

Elegant Entry Hall

The room opens with a grand staircase, carpeted in a soft, muted pattern, ascending with intricately carved wooden balustrades. Rich dark wood paneling envelops the walls and ceiling beams, highlighting the space’s historic character. A large, ornate fireplace with a red marble mantle anchors the room, flanked by two elegant green velvet armchairs and a small side table. A round wood pedestal table sits atop an intricate, circular marble inlay on the cream-colored tile floor with a subtle grid pattern. A vintage chandelier hangs from the ceiling, casting a warm glow and emphasizing the luxurious, classical ambiance.

Foyer Entrance Hall

Deeply carved wood paneling wraps the walls and ceiling, creating a rich, warm ambiance with intricate cornices and fluted pilasters topped by ornate capitals. A grand chandelier with soft, glowing lamps hangs from an elaborate coffered ceiling with dark wood beams contrasting against the lighter inset panels. The polished floor features large, light-colored tiles with subtle gold accents, centered by a circular Persian-style rug beneath a round wooden table with a pedestal base. A stained glass window adds colorful detail, while an upholstered bench and elegant side table with a vase complete the sophisticated entry setting. The space includes a staircase with finely turned balusters, enhancing the classic architectural charm.

Grand Foyer Entrance

The grand foyer features rich, dark wood paneling with intricate molding and Corinthian-style carved capitals on the columns. The coffered ceiling echoes the wood tone, adding depth and elegance. Marble tile flooring in a light cream shade with brown accents contrasts with the dark paneling and includes a circular medallion beneath a round wooden table. A sweeping stairway, carpeted in neutral tones, with intricately carved balusters, ascends from the center. Luxurious velvet seating and a small side table with a lavender arrangement add subtle comfort. A multi-arm chandelier with frosted glass shades hangs centrally, providing warm illumination.

Elegant Living Room

Two plush velvet sofas in a muted charcoal grey velvet face each other, flanking a large tufted ivory leather ottoman that doubles as a coffee table, adorned with a mirrored tray and glassware. The fireplace is grand, framed by intricate, dark wood carvings with floral and urn motifs, resting on a smooth, variegated stone hearth. The walls are covered in soft-patterned wallpaper and paneled with rich, dark wood that extends up to a coffered ceiling with recessed lights. Tall windows, dressed with cream curtains, allow natural light to highlight the warm and classic ambiance of this stately living room.

Powder Room Vanity

Dark wood cabinetry with ornate paneling and a white marble countertop anchors the space. The vessel sink has a bold gold finish, paired with matching wall-mounted brass faucets, adding a luxurious touch. Walls are covered in warm coral wallpaper with a delicate floral damask pattern, enhancing the historic elegance. A large framed mirror with rich wood trim reflects a chandelier, emphasizing the traditional style. Small rolled white towels and a reed diffuser add refined detail. The floor features cream-colored tiles with subtle accents, grounding the sophisticated design of this intimate powder room corner.

Dining Room & Kitchen Counter

A spacious dining area adjoins a kitchen counter with a marble surface and four upholstered bar stools in white, creating a blend of casual dining and formal settings. The floor is polished marble with a diamond pattern, enhancing the room’s elegance. Rich dark wood is used extensively: ceiling beams, columns with ornate capitals, trim around stained glass doors, and cabinetry by the kitchen stretch the room’s historical style. A crystal chandelier hangs over the oval dining table, amplifying the room’s luxurious antique vibe. Heavy, patterned curtains adorn windows, and a display cabinet with glass doors holds fine china, contributing to the refined aesthetic.

Dining Room Details

A curved dining area with a round polished wood table surrounded by eight upholstered chairs in beige with dark wood accents rests on a detailed patterned rug. The walls are covered in a soft gold damask wallpaper, complementing the rich dark wood trim and coffered ceiling beams. A magnificent crystal chandelier hangs above the table, adding elegance and warm lighting. Floor-to-ceiling windows framed with heavy, beige drapery let in natural light while offering a view of quaint street storefronts. A matching dark wood china cabinet with glass panes stands against one wall, enhancing the room’s refined aesthetic.

Kitchen with Bar Seating

Rich dark wood cabinetry spans the walls, paired with a large coffered ceiling featuring matching wood beams and detailed carvings. A prominent fluted wood column stands center, dividing space but maintaining an open feel. The light marble countertops contrast with the wood tones, wrapping around a curved breakfast bar with high-back white upholstered stools. The floor is tiled with polished cream marble squares accented with darker insets, enhancing the room’s bright, elegant look. Recessed ceiling lights provide subtle illumination, while the adjacent room’s traditional furnishings peek through, emphasizing the home’s classic, stately design.

Kitchen and Dining Area

This space combines a kitchen with a dining area, highlighting a large central island with a polished marble countertop. Rich, dark wood cabinetry and detailed carved columns support a coffered ceiling with matching dark wood beams, creating a luxurious, classical atmosphere. The floor is tiled in light cream tones with a subtle grid pattern of darker trim. Multiple windows framed by full-length curtains allow natural light to flood the space. In the dining area, an elegant crystal chandelier hangs above a set of cushioned dining chairs surrounding a polished dark wood table, enhancing the room’s refined, historic elegance.

Dining Room Details

A rich wooden built-in unit with elegant arch details anchors the room, incorporating display shelves filled with books and decorative objects and a flat-screen TV. The dining area features a polished wooden rectangular table surrounded by six cushioned chairs in a soft cream fabric, harmonizing with the curved, upholstered banquette seating that wraps the corner. Cream-colored curtains with gold curtain rods frame the windows, complementing the creamy floor tiles in a diagonal grid pattern. The ceiling boasts coffered wood beams paired with a classic chandelier of warm, frosted glass globes, lending the room a luxurious, timeless feel.

Elegant Sitting Room

Rich, dark wood paneling and coffered ceilings create a profound sense of luxury and warmth in this sitting room. Two tufted leather Chesterfield sofas face a central wooden coffee table, complemented by two modern gray upholstered armchairs. The flooring is polished light stone with subtle square inlays, while an intricately patterned area rug ties the furniture together. Soft recessed lighting enhances the elegant ambiance, revealing detailed carved Corinthian capitals on the wood columns. Beyond the sitting area, a glimpse of a formal dining table adds depth and continuity to the traditional yet refined design.

Elegant Sitting Room

A circular ceiling with ornate wooden trim encloses the sitting area, accented by recessed lighting and a central chandelier. Creamy beige damask wallpaper pairs with polished marble flooring that incorporates an intricate brown and white geometric design, echoing the round shape of the room. Plush, modern armchairs and a softly curved sofa in light neutral upholstery cluster around a glass coffee table topped with golden decorative items. Two sleek, gold-accented floor lamps illuminate the space softly. Dark wood trim continues through the doorway, leading to a rich, paneled bar area visible ahead, blending classic and contemporary styles.

Bathroom Jacuzzi Area

A sunken jacuzzi tub occupies the center, surrounded by small, light gray mosaic tiles that cover both the tub and its outer structure. The walls and ceiling are clad in larger, smooth gray stone tiles, creating a unified, modern look. A striking colorful mosaic artwork with floral and geometric patterns in blue, yellow, pink, and orange hues adorns the back wall, adding vibrancy and artistic contrast to the otherwise muted tones. A rain showerhead is mounted in the ceiling, and the space is enclosed by clear glass panels with brass handles, blending luxury with spa-inspired design.

Sauna and Steam Room Area

Luxurious relaxation space with a warm wooden sauna that contrasts the surrounding cool, dark gray marble tiles. The sauna’s design includes smooth, horizontal cedar planks, built-in benches, and modern recessed lighting, accessed through a glass door with a metallic handle. Adjacent, a sleek steam room is lined with glossy white marble tiles accented by two horizontal dark bands, featuring a small marble bench and a black tiled floor. The ceiling of the steam room echoes the marble pattern, illuminated by recessed lighting and a skylight, creating a bright, serene atmosphere. The surrounding walls continue the dark marble with varying gray veining, complementing the light beige tiled flooring outside.

Bathroom Vanity Area

Dark wood cabinetry with detailed paneling lines the vanity under a striking marble countertop that extends to the backsplash, enhancing the luxurious feel. A unique gold shell-shaped vessel sink paired with elegant gold wall-mounted faucets adds an artistic touch. The wall features soft, patterned wallpaper in muted taupe with subtle sheen, which complements the rich wood trim and crown molding. Crystal knob handles on drawers and two ornate glass light fixtures cast a warm glow, while neatly stacked white towels provide a clean contrast. The floor has large polished tiles with decorative insets, emphasizing the room’s refined style.

Master Bedroom Sanctuary

Spacious master bedroom with polished hardwood floors and a large, light-hued area rug that softens the rich wood tones. Elegant cream wallpaper with subtle damask patterns enhances the room’s traditional charm. A plush, tufted bed with crisp white linens anchors the space between two glass-based bedside lamps, which add a modern touch. Dark wood window trim and crown molding highlight classic architectural details, while full-length, light-colored curtains frame the tall windows that allow natural sunlight to flood the room. An ornate gold chandelier adds warmth and sophistication, complemented by a dark wood console table adorned with decorative items and a delicate orchid.

Bathroom with Wood Details

Polished dark wood cabinetry runs along the left wall with rich carved detailing and silver hardware, topped by a glossy marble countertop housing dual sinks with vintage-style faucets. A large mirror framed in matching wood panels reflects the serene outdoor view visible through a window at the far end, where an inset whirlpool tub is nestled beneath a classic coffered ceiling. To the right, a glass-enclosed shower features subtle botanical tilework and a polished metal towel warmer. The floor consists of large white tiles with dark accent squares, enhancing the room’s elegant, timeless aesthetic.

Library Stairwell Nook

Rich hardwood floors lead into a stairwell area surrounded by warm, dark wood paneling and intricately carved architectural details. A built-in floor-to-ceiling bookcase with classical fluted columns offers display shelves and cabinetry. A curved window seat with soft carpeting sits beneath a large, framed arched window dressed in elegant Roman shades with delicate embroidered patterns. Ornate wrought-iron railings with scrolling designs enclose the stairwell opening, mirroring the balusters on the stairs. Above, a striking crystal chandelier with multiple arms illuminates the space, adding grandeur and timeless elegance to the cozy reading nook.

Bathroom Vanity and Toilet

Polished marble tiles in neutral tones cover the floor and shower wall, creating a sleek and serene backdrop. A modern white toilet sits against the tiled wall, controlled by a flush panel. The vanity is crafted from rich, dark wood with intricate carved details, topped with a light granite countertop adorned with neatly folded white towels and small toiletries. A large framed mirror, matching the vanity’s wood, reflects the shower area with mosaic tiles. Subtle vertical striped wallpaper complements the warm wood, blending classic elegance with contemporary functionality.

Enclosed Balcony Lounge

Spacious enclosed balcony with rich wooden plank flooring extends warmth to the seating area. The ceiling echoes the floor’s wood with a detailed coffered design, enhancing architectural sophistication. Furnished with cushioned sofas and chairs in neutral tones, adorned with patterned and striped pillows, it offers comfort with subtle elegance. A central glass-topped coffee table holds a decorative bowl centerpiece. Large windows frame an urban view, featuring a historic reddish shingled roof and a modern cityscape beyond. Lanterns with candles line the black wrought-iron railing, contributing soft, ambient lighting. The overall style blends classic warmth with contemporary urban charm.

Upper Staircase Landing

Rich, dark wood paneling wraps the staircase landing, offering a warm and classic ambiance. The stair railing is finely detailed with carved newel posts and slender balusters, blending elegance and craftsmanship. Walls have a subtle, textured wallpaper in a soft beige tone complementing the woodwork. An outstanding feature is the stained glass skylight above, framed with ornately carved wood molding, filling the space with colorful, artistic light. A large mirror reflects the woodwork, enhancing the sense of spaciousness. The doorway leads to a light-filled adjacent room, partially visible beyond the hallway.

Elegant Sitting Room

The sitting room is richly detailed with warm wood paneling and intricately carved columns topped with floral motifs. A luxurious chandelier with crystal accents hangs from a wooden tray ceiling, centered above a seating area. Creamy white curved sofas and armchairs surround a black oval coffee table with gold trim, placed atop a patterned area rug. The wallpaper features a subtle damask pattern in neutral tones, complementing the deep mahogany wainscoting and stair railing with wrought iron and gold scrollwork. Soft lighting fixtures add a touch of softness to the stately ambiance.

Master Bedroom Dome Ceiling

A spacious master bedroom with a large, intricately decorated dome ceiling framed by dark wood trim, creating a dramatic focal point. The centerpiece chandelier with multiple gold arms and cream lampshades adds an elegant, vintage touch. The room features a curved wall of tall windows framed with matching dark wood, draped with light, flowing curtains. The bed is dressed in soft gray bedding with plush pillows, positioned on an expansive patterned area rug that complements warm wood flooring. Soft textures from armchairs and sleek dresser maintain a refined balance between classic and contemporary styles.

Master Bedroom Details

A spacious master bedroom is defined by a large upholstered bed in soft grey tones, adorned with plush pillows and a bolster. The room’s hardwood floors are partially covered by an intricately patterned area rug in subtle beige and grey hues. A curved, dark wood trim lines the room’s upper wall section below a delicate, ornate ceiling with fresco-like painted details. A golden chandelier with cream lampshades hangs centrally, adding elegance. Opposite the bed, a vintage-style caramel brown sofa anchors the seating area. Light-colored floral wallpaper and classic wood furniture pieces with muted finishes enhance the room’s tranquil ambiance.

Bathroom Vanity and Shower

A double vanity with polished granite countertop is complemented by rich, dark wood cabinetry, featuring detailed molding and vintage-style glass knobs. The large mirror above the sink reflects the room’s elegant design. Adjacent is a glass-enclosed shower with a mix of beige marble tiles and vertically oriented mosaic tiles in neutral tones. Chrome shower fixtures with classic cross handles add a timeless appeal. The walls have subtle textured wallpaper complemented with dark wood trim along the ceiling and baseboards, which balances the overall traditional and sophisticated aesthetic of the bathroom.

Bedroom Corner View

The space has steeply angled ceilings painted in a soft cream tone that complement the textured wallpaper below. Dark wood trim frames three double-hung windows dressed with pale roman shades, bringing in natural light. The dark, polished hardwood floors anchor the room, contrasted by a large, intricately patterned gray and cream area rug. A substantial bed with white linens and floral accent pillows sits adjacent to a dark wooden dresser beneath the windows. Decorative lighting includes a sparkling chandelier overhead and wall sconces, adding elegance to this cozy, airy bedroom corner.

Bathroom Vanity and Shower

Polished dark wood cabinetry with intricate panel detailing lines the left side, topped by a speckled granite countertop housing an undermount sink. Leaf-patterned wallpaper in soft greens and neutrals adds gentle warmth behind the vanity. The floor and shower walls are clad in creamy marble tiles, blending classic elegance with modern simplicity. The spacious walk-in shower features a glass enclosure and a mosaic tile focus wall in neutral earth tones, with multiple showerheads and chrome fixtures providing luxury and functionality. Crystal knobs and a reed diffuser atop the countertop enhance the bathroom’s refined, timeless style.

Bedroom with Window Seating

Soft, cream-toned wallpaper with an intricate damask pattern adorns the walls, creating an elegant backdrop. The bed features a dark wood frame with a curved, painted headboard decorated with subtle floral motifs. Bed linens are kept neutral with beige and white tones, enhancing the serene atmosphere. Matching bedside tables in dark wood hold contemporary white lamps with gold accents. Two large windows framed in rich wood trim flood the room with natural light, complemented by simple white Roman shades. A cozy armchair with a patterned upholstery sits near the window, resting on a light, textured area rug that covers the warm wooden floor.

Bathroom Vanity and Shower

This bathroom combines classic elegance with modern utility. The vanity is crafted from rich, dark wood with ornate paneling and silver knob handles, topped with a polished granite countertop. Two integrated sinks sit beneath a large mirror framed in matching dark wood. The floor is covered with cream-colored tiles laid in a herringbone pattern, complementing the beige and gold wallpaper adorned with a subtle damask motif. A tall, intricately carved pedestal holds a large floral arrangement in soft earthy tones. The shower, enclosed with clear glass and light beige tiles, includes a rainfall showerhead, providing a contemporary contrast to the vintage-inspired decor.

Bedroom Interior Detail

A bedroom corner with a high ceiling and wallpaper textured with a subtle, floral vine pattern creates an elegant, vintage ambiance. A tufted, cream-colored leather headboard framed in dark wood pairs with a thick mattress set on a matching low-profile bed frame. Beside the bed, a tall rectangular window with white blinds is bordered by rich wood trim. Along the adjacent wall stands an expansive wall-to-wall wardrobe with deep mahogany paneled doors and simple round knobs. The geometric-patterned rug beneath adds a modern contrast, balancing classic and contemporary elements seamlessly.

Garage Interior

The space is a spacious garage with a polished, speckled gray floor that reflects light cleanly, emphasizing the room’s tidiness. Walls are painted a soft, neutral off-white, creating a bright atmosphere under long, rectangular fluorescent light fixtures suspended from a white ceiling with subtle recesses. A large, metallic, roll-up garage door dominates one side of the room. Opposite, rich dark wood doors with metallic handles add warmth and a contrasting traditional touch. Two woven rattan chairs sit tucked into a corner beside stainless steel kitchen-grade appliances, suggesting an integration of functionality and purposeful design. Framed colorful artwork on the wall introduces vibrancy to the utilitarian space.

Garage with Storage Area

Concrete garage area with two open garage doors revealing distinct sections; the left side is a storage/workspace featuring shelving units filled with boxes and equipment, while the right side is a cleaner, polished section with a shiny granite or marble floor. Wooden cabinetry with stainless steel refrigerator units and a sink is visible along the back wall on the right, paired with a double wooden door, providing a warm contrast to the industrial concrete surroundings. Two framed artworks lean against the wall, adding a decorative touch to the otherwise utilitarian space.

Listing Agent: Millie Rosenbloom of Baird & Warner via Zillow