Downtown Libertyville project hits milestone
School Street District Brownstones recently opened to rave reviews at a gathering of village officials, new homeowners and other guests of The Hummel Group, which unveiled the new model and celebrated completion of the first phase of the historic project.
The Hummel Group Ltd. Of Palatine, which specializes in redevelopment of downtown neighborhoods, is builder of the $40 million project in downtown Libertyville.
The 31 brownstones and 18 condos are a combination of new construction and a revitalization of a historic structure, in conjunction with the preservation of trees and open space - all complementing a thriving downtown district and an established residential neighborhood.
With Libertyville's downtown historic feel, this just fits right in, said Jason Majerczak, vice president of sales and marketing for The Hummel Group. "The completion of Phase I and launch of Phase II are important milestones as the project moves toward completion.
"We'll renovate the old landmark school across the street to accommodate 18 condos, which will really bring the whole project together," Majerczak said. "We're in an excellent location very close to downtown, Starbucks, movie theaters, great restaurants and Metra."
With full brick and stone exteriors and a classic American urban design, brownstones line the quiet, secluded School Street between Milwaukee Avenue and a long-established residential neighborhood.
The model at 173 School St. shows a standard brownstone floor plan priced from $800,000 to $855,000 with 4,244 square feet (including basement), three bedrooms, 2 baths, full English basement and two-car attached garage with rooftop terrace. An elevator is optional.
This home features a traditional interior showcasing warm brown tones and an elegant, sophisticated look. The foyer showcases red oak flooring with an antique brown stain, custom hardwood staircase to the second level and molding-framed walls that extend into the gallery.
Off the foyer, a gas fireplace with marble surround and built-ins on either side highlight the living room, where furnishings allow for intimate conversation before dinner. An arched opening and architectural columns define the dining room, where a table is set for six. Both rooms feature crown molding.
With taupe walls, the showpiece kitchen has a Kitchen Aid stainless steel appliance package with double oven, antique white cabinetry topped with granite, large center island with wood walnut top and walk-in pantry. A glass-topped table for four sits in the breakfast area.
It's easy to entertain on the first floor where guests can overflow to the large terrace with plenty of outside furnishings. Off the hallway, there's a powder room with pedestal sink.
Upstairs, a double-door entry opens to the master suite where a cathedral ceiling with two skylights lets in natural light. A soft teal contrasts with dark wood furnishings while luxurious silk fabrics cover the bed and windows. There is also a large walk-in closet and sitting area. The bath features two sinks, whirlpool tub with porcelain deck, floor and shower surround.
A full hall bath serves two secondary bedrooms, each with a walk-in closet and dark wood furnishings. Homeowners will enjoy the convenience of a second-floor laundry room.
The full English basement with full-size windows and full bath offers plenty of possibilities. The space is large enough to accommodate a family room, recreation area with pool table and home office or second bedroom.
Residents of the School Street District Brownstones can walk to and enjoy Libertyville's unique downtown with the charm and warmth of a downtown of yesteryear.
The town sits less than 10 miles from area destinations such as Six Flags Great America, Ravinia and the Chicago Botanic Garden.
And for recreation, the Libertyville Sports Complex is a popular spot with youth programs and adult leagues, eight full-size basketball and volleyball courts, two indoor soccer fields and a 28-foot climbing mountain. There is also a golf learning center for all levels of players.
The fitness center offers personal training for those who want a workout program designed for them while village-wide bike paths and walking trails make it easy to fit exercise into your schedule.
Libertyville's historical jewels are the Ansel B. Cook Victorian home museum in Cook Park in the heart of Libertyville, and the Adler Cultural Center, formerly the home of David Adler, one of Chicago's great architects. The center features art and music classes, folk and ethnic concerts, art exhibitions, special events, tours and programs.
Located on School Street just east of Milwaukee Avenue, the School Street District Brownstones model is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, Thursday and Friday; 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday; and Tuesday and Wednesday by appointment. For more information, call (224) 513-5500 or visit www.thehummelgroup.com.