1131 Forest Ave

Beloved, beautifully renovated SE home by the lake seeking new owners who want a move-in ready house bursting with sunlight and joy! Built in 1904 by notable architectural firm Frost and Granger (Charles Frost designed the Navy Pier Auditorium) and located on a lovely stretch of Forest Avenue, this 6 bedroom/3.1 bath historic gem contains oversized windows, high ceilings and sweeping views throughout. Unlike choppy floor plans typical of the home's era, the layout offers unobstructed east west views and 9 ft ceilings throughout most of the house. The show stopping kitchen renovation and sunroom addition were completed in 2022 and feature new Marvin windows and French doors that lead to the backyard, gas fireplace, custom shaker cabinets, marble countertops, Waterworks faucet and designer appliances. Relax in front of the kitchen's renovated gas fireplace and eat-in sunroom with custom banquets. Adjoining the kitchen, the dining room (which current owners use as a family room) is wonderful, with original plaster wall paneling and four windows that are over 6 feet high that flood the room with light. In addition to the dining (family) room, the living room is large enough to accommodate a separate dining space and seating area in front of the restored wood burning fireplace. The two separate spacious common areas on the first floor are perfect for both intimate and large gatherings. Off of the living room, two sets of floor to ceiling double French doors open to the covered terrace, which is a favorite place to gather, relax on the porch swing and enjoy al fresco dining. Two separate staircases lead to the second floor, where four of the six bedrooms and one of the laundry rooms are located. The primary bedroom has a walk-in closet and spa-like ensuite bathroom. Three other large bedrooms, a bathroom with a custom double vanity and cheerful floor tiles, and a huge walk-in linen closet complete the space. With 9 foot ceilings and a wonderful cut out detail perfect for house plants, the hallway is open and bright. The third floor is also expansive and light with 8 foot ceilings and large windows. There are two more bedrooms, a media/lounge space that could also be used as an office or workout room, an adorable bathroom, two large walk-in hallway closets and nooks in the hall perfect for study/meditation/yoga spaces. The large basement contains waterproof flooring throughout and additional laundry great for pets, sandy beach towels and sport gear/clothes. There is also an office, two large storage closets and ample space for socializing and working out. The walk-out basement offers the opportunity to explore creating in-law/au pair/rental possibilities. Outside, the back yard contains uniform cedar fencing and beautiful professional landscaping/hardscaping throughout. The north side of the yard (driveway) is great for ball playing, hover boarding/skating/biking. 2020 tear off roof for the home and two car garage and both repainted in 2022. New triple track storm windows being installed July 2025. The home's unbeatable SE location is within walking distance to the lake front parks and trails, Greenwood and Lee Street beaches, Northwestern, Dempster Street 'L', Main Street 'L' and Metra, Main Street Corridor shops and restaurants, downtown Evanston, Trader Joe's and a 30 minute drive to downtown Chicago. There are too many updates to list (please see 4 page update sheet) for this unique historic home. Listing broker is owner.