2019 W. Greenleaf Avenue

2019 W. Greenleaf Avenue, the Beckett/Dexter House.

Circa: 1891

Original Owner:

Present (2006) Owner: Beckett and Dexter

This house was in the 2006 Annual Fall House Tour.

The well-kept exterior belies one of the neighborhood's older homes. Structural evidence supports local stories that this was originally a modest frame farmhouse. During the 1890s, the garage is believed to have served as a stable and blacksmith shop. In the early 20th Century, the owners established one of Chicago's first stucco companies and to showcase the new material, covered their clapboard house with stucco. They seem to have undertaken some other stylish updates at about the same time, including the addition of the fireplace and flanking stained-glass windows.

The kitchen recently underwent complete remodeling. A rear addition creates an open, comfortable layout. Shiny, sleek kitchen collectibles immediately catch the eye, but the love of the old does not compromise the desire for modern efficiency. New appliances are blended into an exquisite vintage look. Behind beautiful new cabinets are clever receptacles for recycling. The pantry holds vintage containers of spices arranged compactly in easy-access shelving. In back, the cover over the back door and custom fencing echo the house's decorative details. The basement showcases more of the kitchen collection in a bright 1950s decor like you have never seen!

Upstairs, judicious remodeling has retained the period character while accommodating modern taste.