Colhour House

Gazing upon Colvin House, can you envision the grandeur of Chicago’s Gilded Age? This architectural gem, nestled along Sheridan Road, whispers tales of a time when the city’s elite graced its halls. Colvin House, built in 1909, stands as a testament to the Prairie School style, a movement championed by architect George W. Maher, a contemporary of the renowned Frank Lloyd Wright. Edwin M. Colvin, vice president of the printing giant W.F. Hall Printing Company, and his family made this house their home. The house, a Chicago Landmark since 1994, boasts over 6,000 square feet of living space, spread across 16 rooms. Notice the triangular and tulip motifs adorning the columns and the edges of the building. This is Maher’s signature Rhythm-Motif Theory, incorporating geometric shapes and local flora into his designs. Two original stained-glass windows, also designed by Maher, further showcase this artistic touch. Originally one of many single-family homes along Sheridan Road, Colvin House survived decades of neglect, including a damaging roof leak that caused extensive water damage. The interior, primarily renovated in the 1920s, bears the mark of that era, with later residents adding their own flourishes, such as the stucco walls, ornate crown moldings, and the charming plaster angels in the parlor. Imagine the gatherings that must have taken place within these walls, the laughter and conversations echoing through the sun-filled entrance hall and the grand staircase, illuminated by a crystal chandelier. Picture the warmth radiating from the three fireplaces on chilly Chicago evenings. Today, Colvin House has been lovingly restored by Angela and Stel Valavanis, breathing new life into this historic mansion. It now serves as a vibrant coworking space and private events venue, ensuring that its story continues to unfold. As you stand before Colvin House, you are not just observing a building, but a living piece of Chicago’s history, a place where the past and present intertwine.