HISTORIC BEMAN HOUSE

This historic House by S. S. Beman, Jr. (whose father designed Pullman, Illinois) is situated on a beautifully landscaped site. An extensive remodeling took place inside the existing structure and a pool and cabana were added at the side of the property, creating a private English-Tudor style estate. Exterior materials were restored and steel sash doors and windows were replaced to match the original design.

Designed as a continuation of the existing masonry site walls, the Cabana creates a courtyard for informal use. Form, proportion and detailing of the new structure follow the spirit of the historic residence. Additionally, steel sash windows and doors, rustic brick with slate accents, heavy timber posts and beams, wattle and daub stucco and clay tile roofing were chosen to closely match the materials of the residence.

Formal interior spaces (e.g., Entry, Living Room, Dining Room) were renovated to conform to the original design. To accommodate the contemporary needs of the Owner, private areas required greater alteration. This included restructuring original staff areas to create a Family Room and Kitchen and renovating the Master Bedroom suite. Although new, proportion, material and detailing of the interiors reinforce the fabric of the original.

In 2005, the Village of Winnetka selected the house for a Historic Preservation Excellence Award.

  • Location: Winnetka, IL

  • Design: 2001

  • Construction: 2001-2002

  • Design Principal: Thomas L Shafer AIA

  • Project Architect: Scott Crowe AIA

  • Project Team: Ben Gauslin, Jack Bransfield

  • General Contractor: Eiesland Builders, Inc.

  • Structural Engineer: Enspect, Inc.

  • Mechanical Engineer: Lehman Design Group

  • Interior Design: Gregga Jordan Smieszny, Inc.

  • Landscape Architect: Rosborough Partners, Inc.

  • Photography: Doug Snower Photography


Awards

  • 2005 Village of Winnetka Historic Preservation Excellence Award