Across Illinois, this trio of homes shows how architecture can shape daily life, from quiet edge-of-town ease to city-scale spectacle. In Watseka, 23 Cedarwood Dr. pairs a generous lot with refreshed, move-in-ready comfort and spaces made for gathering, from a sunroom to a patio and flexible lower level. Belleville’s keeps more than 100 years of heritage alive through details like fireplaces and a butler’s pantry. Chicago’s 2217 N Clybourn Ave. elevates modern luxury with a soaring atrium, elevator access, and a rare aerial yoga studio component.
Modern Family Retreat | $460,000


Tim Smith

Tim Smith
On a generous lot at the edge of Watseka, 23 Cedarwood Dr. pairs everyday comfort with a layout designed for gathering. The main level moves easily from a light-filled living room to a family room warmed by a gas log fireplace, with a sunroom overlooking the backyard for all-season unwinding. In the kitchen, granite countertops, a center island, custom cabinetry, and brand-new stainless appliances (2024) bring both function and polish. Upstairs, four spacious bedrooms include a primary suite with dual walk-in closets and an en suite bath with dual vanities. A partially finished basement extends the living space with a game area, large family room, bar setup, dedicated workshop, and mechanical room. Recent updates include a new roof and windows (2025), plus a central vacuum, laundry chute, expansive patio, and oversized 3-car garage—moments from nearby parks and nature.
- Price:
- $460,000
- Size:
- 3,190 sq ft
- Contact:
- Tim Smith, Smith’s Real Estate Service, 815.383.7592
19 N 40th St | $175,000


Lisa Whitacre

Lisa Whitacre
On a residential street in Belleville, this over-100-year-old, two-story home celebrates the kind of timeless charm that never feels manufactured. Inside, original character shines through in details that speak to its long history, including two fireplaces and a butler’s pantry—small, thoughtful touches that lend everyday routines a sense of occasion. The layout includes three bedrooms and two full baths, offering comfortable flexibility for daily living. Recent cosmetic updates bring a fresh perspective to the classic bones, with new flooring, fresh paint, and additional improvements that help the home feel cared for while preserving its warm, storied atmosphere. It’s an inviting place to settle in, enjoy the glow of a fireplace, and let the home’s quiet personality shape the rhythm of your days.
- Price:
- $175,000
- Size:
- 2,080 sq ft
- Contact:
- Lisa Whitacre, 360 Prime Realty Group, LLC, 618.806.5076
2217 N Clybourn Avenue | $4,500,000


Kip Karl

Kip Karl
On N Clybourn Avenue in Chicago’s Lincoln Park/DePaul neighborhood, timeless design meets the precision of structural steel and 18” crown molding. A soaring 40’ atrium, crowned by five skylights, draws light deep into the interiors and gives everyday living a sense of drama. The kitchen is outfitted for serious cooking with Sub-Zero refrigeration, a Viking oven/range, six Viking wine coolers, and two Bosch dishwashers. Custom lighting—featuring fixtures by Darcy Bonner and Holly Hunt—adds a curated finish, alongside maple flooring, stainless steel railings, and three woodburning fireplaces. A three-stop elevator serves the home, including a spacious custom office on its own private floor. Four levels of outdoor space total 1300 SF, paired with heated driveway parking for five, abundant storage, and a first-floor aerial yoga studio.
- Price:
- $4,500,000
- Size:
- 7,800 sq ft
- Contact:
- Kip Karl, @properties Christie’s International Real Estate, 773.412.7385














