The classic Chicago greystone can be found in virtually every neighborhood in the city. The buildings, which are typically multi-family homes or large mansions, stand out for their facades of Bedford limestone from Indiana, a lighter-colored material than the sandstone used in New York brownstones.
The durable limestone in Chicago greystones doesn't just add a touch of class; it also represents a bygone era when high-quality craftsmanship was a key for the upscale homebuyer. For shoppers seeking a greystone of their own, there are plenty of options.
1456 W. Foster Avenue, $725,000
Located in the heart of Andersonville, this three-flat greystone boasts a mixture of original and contemporary finishes, spacious back decks, and a two-car garage. There’s also a picturesque front porch that’s perfect for relaxing outside during patio season. Records show that the house last sold for $650,000 in February 2016 and has been on the market for about six weeks
3059 W. Palmer Boulevard $1.625 million
Palmer Square possesses some of the most grand homes on the northwest side, and this nine-bedroom, six-bathroom stunner is no exception. With sprawling grounds and a view of Palmer Square, this mansion epitomizes the City of Chicago’s “City in a Garden” motto. There's plenty of architectural splendor inside, too. According to the listing notes, this three-unit building nets more than $100,000 a year in rent.
2845 W. Division Street $1.799 million
Here’s a colossal greystone in Humboldt Park. Previously a multi-unit building, the structure was deconverted to into one 5,600-square-foot, five-bedroom home. The building wasn’t entirely gutted, however. Original features including the staircases and mantels remain. The asking price also encompasses a two-story brick coach house with two apartments inside.
3035 W. Jackson Boulevard $399,500
A nice perk of this East Garfield Park two-flat: both apartments inside have been updated to feature hook ups for in-unit laundry, a godsend for walk-up dwellers. Its floor plans are traditional and feature spacious bedrooms. Interestingly enough, its identical twin neighbor is also currently for sale, for a lightly cheaper $393,500.
3601 S. Michigan Avenue $949,500
This behemoth is characteristic of the grand historic mansions built along South Michigan Avenue at the turn of the century — the gilded age of Chicago architecture. Located near IIT campus and Sox Park, the mansion glimmers with original ornamentation and finishes. The house went on the market back in April with an asking price of $999,500.
438 E. 46th Street $499,900
Greystones don’t have to cost a million bucks. Just take this Grand Boulevard row home. Located on a long stretch of stately greystones, the 3,650-square-foot structure has been thoroughly renovated with new finishes and appliances. All that for just under half a million dollars.
4010 S. Ellis Avenue $999,900
Those seeking a mix of contemporary luxury and classic opulence should consider this stately Oakland greystone. The 4,000-square-foot seven-bedroom mansion features all new finishes and some unique upscale amenities, including a spacious chef’s kitchen, a theater room, and an open side yard.