The Brownstones of Arlington re-create old-time appeal

In a prime Arlington Heights location, 12 classic, old-world brownstones offer gracious living for the discriminating homebuyer at The Brownstones of Arlington.

With exceptional curb appeal, each residence features ornate copper cornicing, brick and stone facades, and distinctive details such as brick arched windows.

Homebuyers can select from three floor plans with three bedrooms, 21/2 baths, full English basement, two-car detached garage and patio. Each offers the space of a luxury single-family home. A landscape plan complements the overall charm and appeal of the community.

There isn't a better value around than the brownstones of this community with all their upscale features and ideal location near the train station, said Realtor Brian Bertoia.

Developed by Frontier Development, the new community sits on Northwest Highway about a mile east of Route 53 and one mile west of downtown Arlington Heights near Metra and the Arlington Park Racecourse.

Other amenities in downtown Arlington Heights include coffee shops, casual and fine dining, shopping and professional entertainment at the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre.

The Buckingham model residence is priced from $619,000 and features 2,712 square feet, three bedrooms, 21/2 baths, full English basement, two-car detached garage and patio.

Marcia Svenkeson of First Impressions designed an upscale, sleek contemporary interior that is still traditional. The color scheme features gold, beige tones and black with a hint of blue and a few other colors smattered in between, Svenkeson said.

Upscale standard features include 10-foot first-floor and 9-foot second-floor ceiling heights, oversized 51/4-inch painted baseboard trim and hardwood flooring throughout most of the main level.

A dramatic private entry brings you into the spacious living room where an oversized front bay window takes center stage. A sofa, love seat and chair furnish the room while two panels of abstract artwork with sconces on either side hang above the sofa. Paisley print draperies dress the windows.

In the formal dining room, an oval wood table with upholstered chairs sits ready to serve guests while an ornate gold-framed mirror adds elegance to the space.

A state-of-the-art kitchen features stainless steel appliances that include a side-by-side refrigerator/freezer with ice maker and water dispenser, self-cleaning gas oven range, under-cabinet microwave and a dishwasher. The center island doubles as a breakfast bar. Maple wood cabinetry topped with granite plus hardwood flooring gives the space a rich look. A half bath sits off the kitchen.

The kitchen is open to the family room where a wood-burning fireplace with gas starter gives the room a warm ambience. A leather sofa and chair provide seating while a plasma TV offers entertainment in this cozy spot. With this open layout, the cook can be part of the family room activity and conversation.

The second level houses three bedrooms including the master suite with two walk-in closets and a wall closet. A blue and chocolate color scheme creates a soothing retreat for homeowners. The private bath features dual sinks with marble countertops, elongated water closet, soaking tub and nine-foot shower with frameless glass divider.

A full hall bath and second-floor laundry complete this level.

With the flexibility of this floor plan, homeowners have several options of space usage and furniture arrangement. For example, the living room could function as a great room while the rear family room part of a large country kitchen with a sitting area.

The two other floor plans are The Kenilworth, priced from $579,000 with 2,600 square feet, and The Nottingham, priced from $539,000 with 2,428 to 2,466 square feet.

A rental option is also available for each of the designs at a cost of $2,500 to $3,000 per month.

The Brownstones of Arlington sales center and model at 1518 W. Northwest Highway is open for visitors from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday and 1 to 4 p.m. on Sunday or by appointment. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call Bertoia at (847) 934-9000.