Daisy Kessler selected the finishes when she and her husband Mike Martini expanded the kitchen in their Arlington Heights home.

Bob Chwedyk | Staff Photographer

Simba surveys his domain under a valance Daisy Kessler made for the home's blue and white bedroom.

Bob Chwedyk | Staff Photographer

This staircase was probably built in the Martini/Kessler home in the 1940s.

Bob Chwedyk | Staff Photographer

Steve Martini loves the old maple floor in his home's dining room, where he and his wife, Daisy Kessler, can seat up to 12 people.

Bob Chwedyk | Staff Photographer

Daisy Kessler likes to garden in the large front yard o of the Arlington Heights home she shares with her husband, Steve Martini.

Bob Chwedyk | Staff Photographer

A friend gave Steve Martini and Daisy Kessler this rocking chair when he was downsizing.

Bob Chwedyk | Staff Photographer

Wheat decorates the door to the pantry in the Martini-Kessler home.

Bob Chwedyk | Staff Photographer

The living room is large in the Martini-Kessler house.

Bob Chwedyk | Staff Photographer

Libby hides out in Daisy Kessler's office.

Bob Chwedyk | Staff Photographer

Arlington Hts. quasquicentennial logo

Jessica Braun likes the built-ins of her Arlington Heights home, such as this china cabinet in the dining room.

JOE LEWNARD | Staff Photographer

Visitors should not miss the backyard at Jessica and Mike Braun's Arlington Heights home.

JOE LEWNARD | Staff Photographer

The metal plate and old-fashioned tile are under an antique cherry fireplace mantel.

JOE LEWNARD | Staff Photographer

The woodwork is one of the impressive features of Jessica and Mike Braun's home.

JOE LEWNARD | Staff Photographer

The wallpaper in the foyer of the Braun house is from a previous owner.

JOE LEWNARD | Staff Photographer

The round window in the center of the second floor attracts the curiosity of passers-by.

JOE LEWNARD | Staff Photographer

Built-ins are charming in the Braun house.

JOE LEWNARD | Staff Photographer

The mantel is cherry to match the woodwork.

JOE LEWNARD | Staff Photographer

Redoing the kitchen was the major work the Brauns did in their Arlington Heights home.

JOE LEWNARD | Staff Photographer