SW Lake, IL March 2021 by City Lifestyle

M A R C H 2 02 1

COMING HOME

LIST YOUR HOME...IT’S A SELLERS’ MARKET! Steeple View Estates 1-2 Acre Lots

Close to Downtown Long Grove

Golf Course, Pond Views; Walkout and English Basements Available

Stevenson High School District 125 Elementary Middle District 96

FOR SALE!

1145 Steeple View Dr, Long Grove

1146 Steeple View Dr, Long Grove

Preferred Builder

STEEPLEVIEWESTATESLG.COM

SOLD!

6886 September Blvd, Long Grove

4705 Cantibury Ln, Long Grove

6888 September Blvd, Long Grove

3805 Turnberry Ln, Long Grove

“Renee is the best. She is knowledgeable of the area, and she knows what she’s doing. I’ve had bad and mediocre experiences with real estate agents. And I have to say, Renee is not only a good experience, she’s probably the best experience you can get. Out of few moments in my life I can reflect on knowing I made the right choice, choosing Renee as my real estate agent is one of them.” - A.T.

847.612.0027 | reneeclarkhomes.com

January Sales in Southwest Lake County Subdivision

List Price

Sold Price

SP:LP

LMT

Beds/Baths

Subdivision

List Price

Sold Price

SP:LP

LMT

Beds/Baths

Victorian Oaks

$850,000

$870,000

102%

4+1/3.2

Farmington

$674,900

$660,000

98%

142

4/4.2

Wentworth

$535,000

100%

2/2.1

Fox Point

$889,000

$867,000

98%

5/3.2

Flint Creek Farms

$699,900

100%

5/5

Highland Pines

$585,000

$570,000

97%

4/2.1

Timbercreek

$567,500

$560,000

99%

4+1/3.2

Concorde

$559,900

$545,000

97%

4/3.1

Oaksbury

$735,000

$725,000

99%

3+1/3.2

White Birch Lakes

$549,900

$535,000

97%

5/3.1

Lake Zurich Pines

$625,000

$615,000

98%

3+1/4.1

Wynstone

$850,000

$825,000

97%

5/4.2

Bishops Ridge

$587,000

$575,000

98%

4/3.1

Country Club Estates

$750,000

$725,000

97%

105

5/6.2

MLS statistics from 1/1/21-1/31/21. All information herein has not been verified and is not guaranteed. Featured properties may not be listed by the agent/office providing this data. Supplied by Renee Clark, @properties.

A Full Service Remodeling Company featuring

Finely-Crafted Amish Cabinetry B o one Cre ekC abi n e t .c om | 81 5. 3 8 5. 8 4 1 4 | 7 6 4 R i dg e v i ew Dri ve • McH e n r y, I L

LIFESTYLE LETTER

MARCH 2021 PUBLISHER

Michael Beightol | michael.beightol@lifestylepubs.com EDITOR

Coming Home

Stephen Neilson | stephen.neilson@lifestylepubs.com STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Graham Blus | grahamkblus@gmail.com

HOME.

AD DESIGNER

It is where my heart is.

Whitney Lockhart

It is where we’ve been horrifically, pandemically confined this past year.

L AYO UT DESIGNER

It is where we were wonderfully, uniquely born. It is where we live now. It is where we’ve changed our lives (how many times?) in between. It is where we’ve planted our stakes, grown our families, based our careers. Its location is fixed, until it (inevitably?) moves. Then we take the deepest of breaths, and launch our lives into the new. I’m so proud of this COMING HOME issue of SW Lake Lifestyle. I love the casual photos in Good Times of life lived well at home these days… even in these restricted times, anticipating our positive future. I stand in awe of a local hero, Brian Williams, who in his time after-hours from

Dani Moore CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jay Adams, Michael Beightol, Kimberly Blaker, Stephen Neilson, Erick Olech CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Brian Allendorfer, Michael Beightol, Graham Blus, John Briggs, Randy Holloway, Heather Moran, Stephen Neilson, Mauricio Romy, Claire Slattery, Stacy Tisci, Cassidy Towne, Marli Williams

building other people’s homes, handcrafts kid’s desks in his garage so students confined to their homes can have their own special place to study and learn. In our retirement years, we yearn to settle just exactly where we belong. Brian Allendorfer crafted a distinctive home with a terrific view for their beloved matriarch. We should all be so fortunate. I celebrate the history and heritage of Long Grove, and Renee Clark for alerting us to a new development by John Ullrich of a family property with a natural conservancy.

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

For all of us ready to reject any remnants of the winter blahs, jump on board with Jay

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

Adams and his great tips on sprucing up your home at a discount with your favorite

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

splashes of paint.

AD MANAGER Chad Jensen

To close, I’m very grateful for the resiliency of all who planned the events listed in

REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams

this month’s calendar: you adapted your presentation and schedules to take place

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

safely, online, for all of us. You Rock! Best wishes from our homes to yours, 514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

CityLifestyle.com/SWLake ON THE COVER Photo by Graham Blus of a home built by Brian Allendorfer. 4

SW Lake Lifestyle | March 2021

Proverbs 3:5-6 SW Lake Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the SW Lake area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in SW Lake Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

INSIDE THE ISSUE MARCH 2021

FEATURES 12 Coming Home Contractor Brian Allendorfer Built a Distinctive Home On a Stunning Site For His Retired Mother-In-Law

16 Home Buying Tips How To to Avoid Costly Mistakes While Searching for Your Perfect Home

24 Historic Long Grove Site Ready for Transformation Site Boasts an Abundance of Natural Conservancy, and a Beautiful Pond in a Grove of Trees

28 Now’s the Time to Automate In 2021 Having an Automated Home is Well Within Reach

28 12

DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

Good Times

Around Town

Trend Setter

24 Open House 28 Tech Savvy 32 Hometown Hero 34 Lifestyle Calendar

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GOOD TIMES 1.

We Asked Readers, "What Says Home to You?" After a year of spending more time at home than ever before we asked readers to share photos that say "home." Here is a gallery of images while spending more time with pets, distanced schooling, seeing grandchildren virtually, trying something entirely new, and generally sinking into the good feelings of being safe at home.

1. In North Barrington, Eric Beightol with best friends Lia (left) and Emma. | 2. Distance Learning at the Romy household. | 3. Lake Zurich’s Slattery family cookie decorating. | 4. In Lake Zurich, Stacy Tisci’s daughter agrees: “There’s no day like a snow day!” | 5. Goldie & Scott Holloway stay connected with grandparents Randy & Tina, of North Barrington. | 6. “Blanket? Check. Lap? Check. What’s on TV, Mom?”— Misty, from Lisa Neilson’s lap. | 7. The pack of shelter dogs in foster care with the Slattery Family. | 8. Virtual greetings from the Briggs family of North Barrington. | 9. In February Lucy Moran finally got to attend her first day IN Mundelein High School.

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SW Lake Lifestyle | March 2021

KRISTEN M. TODOROFF CERTIFIED HOLISTIC HEALTH COACH Be Well 360

The new toy store in town

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AROUND TOWN by Dwornik. He's now doing every window in the house with each different in their own right.

GREENROOM IMPROV PERFORMANCE AVAILABLE VIA STREAM MARCH 13, 7—8:30 P.M. Now in their 20th year, GreenRoom Improv has performed nationally for a wide range of audiences and events. GreenRoom specializes in a unique blend of clean, high-energy, multi-faceted improv comedy, with current residencies at The Hemmens in Elgin and Cosman Theater in Huntley. Tickets to stream their performances to your home are available at a discount for RaueNOW members,

HAWTHORN WOODS RESIDENT CREATES STUNNING STAINED GLASS WINDOWS Andrew Dwornik is on to something. The Hawthorn Woods resident took up creating stained

available at RaueCenter.org. GreenRoom was founded by a group of Judson University (Elgin, IL) students in 1999; they've performed nationally for a wide range of audiences. For more information, visit GreenRoomImprov.com.

glass windows in 2019. He caught on quickly and has been re-doing the windows in his home using

Would you like to get in touch with us? We would love

his own designs. The results have been impressive,

to hear from you! Contact us at CityLifestyle.com/

including this five-window set last October. It's a

SWLake using the Get In Touch link and let us know

bit in the style of Frank Lloyd Wright and hand-built

what you think.

TRANSFORMING HOMES - TRUSTED CONTRACTORS SINCE 1885 -

EXTERIORS

ADDITIONS

KITCHENS

BATHS

WHOLE HOME

Beginning in 1885, Allendorfer has transformed Chicago area homes with roof ing, remodeled kitchens and baths, room additions and new home construction. FOR A COMPLETE ASSESSMENT OF YOUR FAMILY’S NEEDS, PLEASE CONTACT US TODAY.

773-770-8655

ballendorfer.com 10

SW Lake Lifestyle | March 2021

Designs with you in mind

DESIGN STUDIO NOW OPEN

THE EVOLUTION OF INTERIOR DESIGN SHOP. DESIGN. CREATE.

Contemporary. Traditional.

BE COMFORTABLE with LRS Interiors. We will come to your home or you may visit us privately in our airy, light-filled studio. We can also meet by phone or on Zoom. 2020

BEST OF

SW LAKE

847. 550.6363 | 479 EL A ROAD AT THE C ORNER OF ROUTE 2 2 & E L A ROAD

W W W. L R S I N T E R I O R S .CO M

LO R EN R EI D SE A M A N ASI D, II DA , State Licensed

CityLifestyle.com/SWLake

H O M E

TREND SETTER

The spacious great room and kitchen is perfect for family gatherings under a cathedral ceiling.

COMING HOME THE CUSTOM HOME SITS ATOP A NORTH BARRINGTON RAVINE WITH A WINDING CREEK BELOW. The home suits the pastoral setting, built to the specifications of the retired owner. “The lot is an absolute gem filled with heritage trees,” says Allendorfer. “Everything inside the house is on the main level. That’s by design as a convenience factor for an aging person.” Whether enjoying her home alone or entertaining, there’s lots of amenities while being essentially no-or-low maintenance.

SW Lake Lifestyle | March 2021

Frieda in her kitchen with lots of storage and peaceful ravine view.

CONTRACTOR BRIAN ALLENDORFER BUILT A DISTINCTIVE HOME ON A STUNNING SITE FOR HIS RETIRED MOTHER-IN-LAW.

A modern take on a Craftsman design, there’s a cathedral ceiling on the main level with a beautiful, high efficiency fireplace for cozy winter days. The owner has a dog and two cats, so all flooring is vinyl wood tongue and groove plank that is easy to care for and extremely durable.

ARTICLE MICHAEL BEIGHTOL PHOTOGRAPHY GRAHAM BLUS 02

The kitchen, an island with seating and a separate dining area feature lovely views. A large main-level laundry room accesses a two-bay garage. The 1600-square-foot home has a full basement with high ceiling, perfect for a growing family when it is time to sell.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/SWLake

TREND SETTER (CONTINUED) The rear view of the home slopes down to a lovely branch of Flint Creek.

R E S T

Isabella Allendorfer enjoys the view prior to home construction.

A very private master suite, off to the side on the main level, has an oversized bedroom, large bath with convenient walk-in shower, a dressing area and plenty of storage. On the opposite side of the home is another full bath and two more bedrooms, one of which doubles now as a den.

Master suite bathroom.

05 03

SW Lake Lifestyle | March 2021

The owner has a passion for the outdoors going back to her time growing up in Germany, so the porch and gardening in the backyard are ideal. The home exterior is low maintenance siding, brick and stone. The windows are all wood with aluminum cladding on the exterior side. In the master suite, the windows are raised for extra privacy.

Isabella Allendorfer found the lot for her mother, negotiated the purchase of the land with the sellers, and worked with the village on all approvals and permits. It was one of the few undeveloped properties in the Biltmore neighborhood. Isabella was also responsible for all design selections. The Allendorfer family lives right around the corner which makes the location perfect for drop-in visits by the grandchildren. Learn more about Brian Allendorfer Company, Inc. by visiting BAllendorfer.com or call 773.292.0600.

Offering Complimentary

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Call for a free consultation from a contractor with 30-years of experience in the community.

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CityLifestyle.com/SWLake

home buying HOW TO TO AVOID COSTLY MISTAKES WHILE SEARCHING FOR YOUR PERFECT HOME

tips

ARTICLE KIMBERLY BLAKER PHOTOGRAPHY HAPI PHOTOGRAPHY BUYING A HOME IS OFTEN A HIGHLY EMOTIONAL EXPERI-

You can always add to your list or amend

ENCE. It begins with the exciting prospect of finding your perfect

it, but it serves as a blueprint to narrow your

home and the exhilarating idea of new beginnings. But as the hunt

search while keeping you on track.

progresses, it can become an emotional roller coaster. After view-

When you find a home that wows you,

ing many homes, you might fear you’ll never find the right home.

look at your criteria to make sure the house

When you find the perfect house, you’ll be dealing with frustration if

has all or most of your must-haves. If it

another buyer beats you to the punch. When you do make an offer,

doesn’t, maybe you’ll decide your criteria

you may be worried you offered too little or too much. You’ll also

have changed, and this home is just what

experience disappointment if your offer is rejected.

you want. On the other hand, it might also

But once you’ve closed on your home and you’re confident you made the right decision, you’ll rejoice, knowing it was worth every bit

bring you back down to earth and encourage you to continue searching.

of the turbulent ride. DETERMINING AFFORDABILITY BEFORE SHOPPING

First, prepare a budget and figure out

The first thing to do is to make a list of your objectives. Are you

how much you can comfortably spend

trying to reduce your work commute? Is there a particular school

each month on mortgage and interest

district you like? What about proximity to shopping or recreation?

payments, property taxes, and insurance.

Also, think about the specific features you want in a home. Would

Also consider whether there’ll be a sub-

you like a larger garage, finished basement, professional landscap-

stantial change in monthly utilities. Include

ing, a certain number of bedrooms and bathrooms, updated kitchen,

an allowance for home repairs and mainte-

ample closets, or a home that’s turn-key ready? Make your list as

nance as well.

detailed as possible. Next to each item, mark if it’s a must-have, prefer-to-have, or nice but not necessary.

Second, get pre-qualified through a mortgage lender. Despite what you calculate, a

The reason for creating this list and then breaking it down is two-

lender will ultimately determine the maximum

fold. First, buying a home is a significant investment. Secondly, since

you can afford. Don’t risk getting your hopes

there’s seldom a home with every feature you want, you should pri-

up on a particular home until you know the

oritize what’s most important to you.

amount of your loan.

SW Lake Lifestyle | March 2021

CONTINUED >

Kathcon Development is the recommended builder for Steeple View Estates in Long Grove (see story on page 24).

CityLifestyle.com/SWLake

HOME BUYING TIPS (CONTINUED)

Quality appeals to buyers as found in this home by Kathcon at Steeple View Estates in Long Grove.

BEGINNING THE SEARCH Now you’re ready to find a realtor! When choosing a realtor, some important factors to consider are:

+ Customer satisfaction reviews: do customers leave positive comments? + Whether the realtor is located in the area where you plan to buy. (This matters because your realtor’s access to the MLS system, the database of homes listed for sale by agencies, is limited to the realtor’s own region.) If you’re making a big move to a distant area, choose a realtor in the area to which you’re relocating.

+ Whether the realtor is willing to sign an Exclusive Buyer’s Agency Contract. Under an exclusive buyer’s contract, the realtor represents you, the buyer, rather than both buyer and seller. While in many states you can ask the realtor to write up and submit your offer, be aware that some states allow that realtor to be a dual agent, required to treat both the buyer and seller with fairness and honesty. In this capacity, “your” realtor is also working for the seller, and therefore cannot be loyal to you or specifically advance your interests.

SW Lake Lifestyle | March 2021

When you meet with a realtor, make sure they feel like a good fit. The agent should ask plenty of questions to

also note any aging features that could require repair or replacement in the not-so-distant future.

gain a solid understanding of what you’re looking for. Also, find out if the agent is available to show homes during

MAKE THE RIGHT DECISION

your usual hours of availability. Finally, be cautious before

Regardless of what a lender says you can afford, or

signing an exclusive contract. Ultimately, you’ll want to do

whether an agent pushes you to bid higher, you are the

this when you find the right agent. But if you’re not yet

best judge of what’s really within your budget. Don’t

comfortable with the agent, be prepared to say you need

make a decision you’re not confident you can afford.

time to think about it and stand your ground.

Remember, your financial well-being and lifestyle are on

HOME INSPECTION

+ Don’t get impatient in choosing your perfect home.

the line. Two keys to making your final choice: Once you’ve made an offer, getting a home inspection

Sometimes it takes a while to find just the right home.

is crucial to help ensure you’re making a sound buying

Although you may never find a home with everything

decision. Unfortunately, too many homebuyers learn the

you’ve ever dreamed of, make sure it meets enough of

hard way that inspectors are not required to be licensed

the criteria that matters most to you so you can live hap-

or have any special skills or training in many states. Do

pily in your home.

your homework before hiring an inspector. Ask about

+ When you do find the perfect home, don’t drag your

their qualifications, how long they’ve been in business,

feet. If it’s a buyer’s market like we’ve seen recently in

and get referrals. Also check with the Better Business

Lake County, it could be gone before you act.

Bureau and search online reviews of the inspector.

And finally, once you make an offer, try not to

A skilled inspector will look at every aspect of the home,

get your heart too set on the home until it’s been

including windows, foundation, attic, roof, plumbing,

inspected. That way, if the report comes back reflect-

electrical components, and much more. Your inspector

ing costly repairs, you’ll be able to make a wise deci-

should alert you to all defects, big and small. They should

sion on whether to proceed.

“BUT ONCE YOU’VE CLOSED ON YOUR HOME AND YOU’RE CONFIDENT YOU MADE THE RIGHT DECISION, YOU’LL REJOICE, KNOWING IT WAS WORTH EVERY BIT OF THE TURBULENT RIDE.”

CityLifestyle.com/SWLake

spring to life

ARTICLE JAY ADAMS | PHOTOGRAPHY BENJAMIN MOORE

SPRING IS THE PERFECT TIME TO SPRUCE UP WITH PAINT

EVERYONE HAS SPENT MORE TIME AT HOME

used to build and maintain our homes. Once these chem-

LATELY, AND WITH THE START OF MARCH WE’RE

icals are in our homes, they potentially can “off-gas” (i.e,

ALL PROBABLY READY TO SAY GOODBYE TO THE

release chemicals into the air as gas) into the indoor air

WINTER BLAHS. Paint is an inexpensive way to spruce

we breathe. Low to no VOC means no lingering paint

up home interiors with great new colors.

smell. Self-priming paints make walls look more uniform

Projects both small and large can be done with paints

and require fewer coats for even coverage. Most modern

that contain low to no Volatile Organic Compounds

paints also dry quickly which allows you to put the room

(VOC), a large group of chemicals found in many products

back together sooner for less disruption.

Rosy Blush (alcove walls) & Gray Owl (outer walls & trim).

SW Lake Lifestyle | March 2021

There are many places in your home that can be invigorated with a new color. A powder room can be refreshed with a rich color such as a lively magenta. Small rooms are good places for pops of color without interfering with the main colors in the home. The laundry room is often an overlooked space but it can be energized with an inviting color like a sunshine yellow or a bold bright blue. An accent wall can instantly change the feel of a family room by drawing attention to an architectural item such as a fireplace. Colors

Refinishing the kitchen cabinets is easier than you think. There are cabinet paints that are easy to apply by brush or roller. A rich blue can make the kitchen really stand out. Interior projects can be accomplished now while we wait for sunnier skies and warmer weather.

for the accent wall can be pulled from existing accessories to give the room a decorator feel. Brick and stone fireplaces can be painted,

About the Author: Jay Adams is the owner of Blue Jay Paint and Blinds

too, especially if the color or style is outdated and drab.

in Lake Zurich, an independent Benjamin Moore dealer. For more infor-

Repainting the kid’s bedroom a fun color can make everyone feel a

mation on the wide range of products and services offered, including

bit better about the long hours we have to spend inside. Let the kids

Hunter Douglas and Graber window fashions, visit BlueJayPaint.com

help choose the color to make them feel a part of the project.

or call 224.677.5334.

CONTINUED >

Kitchen cabinets in Aegean Teal.

Powder room wall in Old Claret. CityLifestyle.com/SWLake

SPRING TO LIFE (CONTINUED)

Laundry room colors: Dolphin Jump & Raw Cotton.

“Everyone has spent more time at home lately, and with the start of March we’re all probably ready to say goodbye to the winter blahs. Paint is an inexpensive way to spruce up home interiors with great new colors.” 22

SW Lake Lifestyle | March 2021

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OPEN HOUSE

site details: + 18-acre parcel + Abuts Country Club Estates + 1-2 acre homes sites + Original farmhouse dates to 1840s + 1910 Sears kit barn on property + Tucked away and pastoral + Private subdivision + Near downtown Long Grove

ARTICLE MICHAEL BEIGHTOL PHOTOGRAPHY STEPHEN NEILSON & HAPI PHOTOGRAPHY

Stately home on Steeple View Drive.

SITE BOASTS AN ABUNDANCE OF NATURAL CONSERVANCY, AND A BEAUTIFUL POND IN A GROVE OF TREES. 24

SW Lake Lifestyle | March 2021

historic long grove site ready for transformation

Kathcon is the recommended contractor at Steeple View Estates.

“ T h is ma g n i f icent set t i ng prov ides a genu i nely n ice

bu f fer of nat u ra l space a f ford i ng a q u iet respite, as wel l as a lot of pr ivacy for the residents.”

THE HISTORY OF LONG GROVE IS STEEPED IN FAMILY. A

Steeple View Estates is a new Long Grove subdivision owned

survey map circa 1838 revealed large groves of oak trees standing

and developed by childhood resident John Ullrich. The 18-acre

amid bluestem prairie on the south edge of Lake County. It was

parcel, adjacent to Country Club Estates of Long Grove, boasts

around that time when a New Englander by the name of John

an abundance of natural conservancy, a beautiful pond, and

Gridley chose a trail crossing to set up his homestead.

many trees. It was purchased by Ullrich’s parents, Norma and

German families followed and made claims for similar home-

Bill Sayles, who moved there from Northbrook with John and

steads deep within the grove. The first post office established in

his siblings in 1950. Norma owned a popular dress shop in town

1847 emphasized the strong German influence by being called

(Rural Rags), and later she and Bill purchased the historic land-

Muttersholz (“Mother’s Woods”). Local families carved out a

mark Village Tavern, the oldest such establishment in Illinois.

tough but generally good life farming the rich soil and sending

The Tavern remains in the family, owned-and-operated by John’s

food to the distant and growing big city of Chicago.

brother, Charles (Chip) Ullrich, and wife Mary Ann.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/SWLake

OPEN HOUSE (CONTINUED)

Historic Long Grove Community Church.

Each lot i n Steeple View Estates is approx i mately one to t wo acres w ith mat u re t rees a nd nat ive vegetat ion, w ith a n opt ion for either a lookout or wa l kout lower level.

Across the pond in Steeple View Estates on Route 53 stands the namesake for the neighborhood, the

natural space affording a quiet respite, as well as a lot of privacy for the residents.”

Long Grove Community Church, established in 1846,

Two newer custom homes were built by Kathcon

where John attended Sunday school as a child. “While

Development, Inc. The homes are approximately 5,000

developing Steeple View Estates, I have always wanted

square feet each with the size and amenities that families

to be sure it was done right to maintain both the vision

are looking for today. Ullrich says the exteriors of these

of my parents, as well as what Long Grove has stood

homes are crafted with brick and stone. One is overlooking

for over the years,” says John Ullrich. “So far, four

the pond; the other overlooks the adjacent Grove Country

of the nine lots have been sold and developed. This

Club golf course. One of the unique features of the neigh-

magnificent setting provides a genuinely nice buffer of

borhood is a farmhouse dating from the 1840s which has

SW Lake Lifestyle | March 2021

An aerial view of one of the lots.

Windmill and 1910 barn.

been rehabbed to retain the history and roots of the com-

convenient location and an historic downtown of shops,

munity, along with an historic barn on the adjacent lot. Amy

restaurants, and other establishments. The Ullrich family

Pabst, the new owner of this historic farmhouse, loves the

continues to be invested in the community and its well-being.

community so much that she purchased the adjacent lot with the barn. This barn, originally constructed in 1910, is

About Steeple View Estates: Prices for the remaining lots

currently undergoing a renovation to restore it to its original

range from $250-275K. Enjoy the peaceful serenity of the coun-

condition. Ullrich points out that Steeple View Estates is a

try and expansive space with the convenience of a location

private subdivision managed by a homeowner association.

within walking distance of Historic Long Grove Village. Visit

Today, Long Grove retains rural roots and is best known

ReneeClarkHomes.com or call Renee Clark of @Properties

for large homes on oversized wooded lots, excellent schools,

(847.612.0027) for more information or to schedule a showing. CityLifestyle.com/SWLake

TECH SAVVY ERICK OLECH

Now’s the Time to A u t o m at e

I personally have been in or around the industry since 2003. At one point I worked as a project manager for another AV company and it was that experience that opened my eyes. I realized with some hard work, a great team and lots of follow-through I could build a company that stood for what I believed in. I had learned what not to do in this industry and what I needed to be focused on. It is a life lesson for which I remain thankful.

We are a professional home technology integrator. Our objective is to take the technology in your home, such as

IN 2021 HAVING AN AUTOMATED HOME IS WELL WITHIN REACH

TV, music, security, home comfort, shades and lighting, and nest it under one umbrella in a home automation platform called Control4. We offer the complete package from system design, hardware from all the top brands,

ARTICLE ERICK OLECH

installation and maintenance. If you already have a solu-

PHOTOGRAPHY STEPHEN NEILSON & PROVIDED

tion, we are glad to take it over and maintain it for you. CONTROL4 DEVICES

I STARTED ECO AUTOMATED DESIGNS IN 2015 WORKING OUT OF MY HOUSE. Within the first year we outgrew the garage and realized it was time to move to our current location in Mundelein near Midlothian and Gilmer Road. I put together an experienced team and built out a certified Control4 showroom. From there things escalated quickly as we were able to land some great opportunities.

SW Lake Lifestyle | March 2021

RING PRO VIDEO DOORBELL

ENTERTAINMENT CENTER

Our industry is in high demand and we continue to thrive.

One area we believe we shine in is new construction.

We braced ourselves for a downfall during the pan-

We are the builder’s integrator. It allows us to design

demic; however, we experienced the exact opposite and

a project from the ground up, focusing on building a

for that we are thankful. Even through all the tragedy of

foundation for future technology. Anyone that is build-

2020 we were able to prevail and are projected to have

ing a new home or works as a custom home builder

another year of growth in 2021.

can take advantage of our services.

I am a Lake Zurich resident with my beautiful wife, Regina, and our two young boys. What little free time I have is spent with my family and enjoying some of my personal hobbies which are cars and fishing. As a family we are looking forward to vacationing again. Learn more by visiting ECOAutomatedDesigns.com or call 847.475.4442. Their number one goal is to always make sure the customer is happy and utilizing their technology to its fullest. OUTDOOR SPEAKER

CONTROL4 WATCH ALERT Every day provides a new lesson. This company is constantly evolving, growing, and finding the right way to do

things. Yesterday is the past and our motion is always forward. Technology evolves quickly, and we are committed to being the most knowledgeable expert for our clients.

CityLifestyle.com/SWLake

Q UALI T Y SE R V I C E AT A R E A S ONABLE PR I C E 10-year labor warranty on all roofing & siding projects. We work closely with insurance companies

ROOFING, SIDING, WINDOWS & DOORS, SOFFIT/FASCIA & GUTTERS

MAKING YOUR HOUSE A F A M I LY - O W N E D S I N C E 1 9 8 0

5 5 4 W. R O U T E 2 2 L A K E Z U R I C H

MARCH IS NATIONAL PROBLEM GAMBLING AWARENESS MONTH Contact us to request:

+ Free Workshop for Your Group + Information and Resource Materials + Giveaways + Participate in National Screening Day + Volunteer to Help Awareness Efforts Want to Learn More? Send an email to: GamblingServices@Nicasa.org

847-546-6450 | gamblingservices@nicasa.org | nicasa.org 30

SW Lake Lifestyle | March 2021

847-550-5200

home

MULLERE X TERIORS.COM

COME VISIT US AT OUR NEWLY REMODELED DEER PARK LOCATION! NEW SAFETY PROTOCOLS IN PLACE: We Practice Social Distancing | Please Remember to Wear Your Mask DEER PARK TOWN CENTER avalondeerpark.com | 847-726-8855 | 20530 N. Rand Road, Deer Park, IL CRYSTAL LAKE 847-428-8821 | 12 Crystal Lake Plaza, Crystal Lake, IL

NOW HIRING, COME GROW WITH US!

2021 IS THE YEAR TO AUTOMATE YOUR HOME

THE CONVENIENCE, MONEY SAVINGS & EASE OF USE WITH AN AUTOMATED HOME IS EASY TO ACHIEVE. The power of Control4 OS 3 plus the skills of our technologists puts more features and benefits of an automated home at your fingertips. With touch screen, keypad, voice and app access, you can create a smart home that’s uniquely yours.

FREE CONSULTATIONS. CALL US TO SCHEDULE YOURS TODAY!

847.475.4442 ecoautomateddesigns.com

Kildeer (Deer Park) 20413 N Rand Rd, Suite 104 Kildeer, IL 60074 (847) 847-1784

Skokie 9719 Skokie Blvd Skokie, IL 60077 (847) 763-5000

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CityLifestyle.com/SWLake

HOMETOWN HERO

ARTICLE MICHAEL BEIGHTOL PHOTOGRAPHY MARLI WILLIAMS

BUILDING KID’S FUTURES

Brad Williams and his daughter, Marli.

BRAD WILLIAMS, OWNER OF WILLIAMS DESIGNERS AND BUILDERS, IS A LONG-TIME RESIDENT OF HAWTHORN WOODS. LEARN MORE AT BCWILLIAMSCONSTRUCTION.COM.

SW Lake Lifestyle | March 2021

The Williams' desk design includes a bigger work surface and plenty of storage.

BRAD

WILLIAMS

SAYS

HIS

HOME

WORKSHOP IS A REFUGE, A PLACE HE GOES FOR A CREATIVE OUTLET. When he heard from two cousins, both teachers, that disadvantaged kids were struggling with distance learning he wondered if he could do something. Watching the news one night he learned of a family in California building desks for kids learning from home. Many students lacked a dedicated space for attending class online, doing homework and keeping school materials in one place. Williams looked online, found designs for the California desks, and went one better: he created his own desk design suitable for any elementary, middle or high school student. Using just plywood and pine lumber the Williams desk is larger, has more surface space and is suitable for students of all ages with any type chair. The desks are unpainted so students may decorate their desk any way they want.

CityLifestyle.com/SWLake

MARCH

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

APR 9

WOH SPOTLIGHT SERIES— LIVESTREAM BY OFF SQUARE MUSIC

EXPRESSIONS IN OILS BY BARRINGTON'S WHITE HOUSE ONLINE

WOH SPOTLIGHT SERIES— SMALL POTATOES

Online Event, 6 p.m.

Small Potatoes call themselves eclec-

and songs old and new—get a dose of

Frankie Johnson, owner and director

to-maniac, describing their music as

the real thing for St. Patrick's Day!

of the Main Street Art Center/School

“Celtic-to-Cowboy”. They say it's taken

Fiddle/guitar duo Karen Reshkin and Mike

of Fine Art in Lake Zurich for 25 years,

them “years of careful indecision”

O'Regan perform traditional Irish music—

will conduct at 6 p.m. a free live virtual

to come up with a mix of music that

the driving reels and jigs, the haunting airs,

event about her career as an oil painter.

ranges from country, blues, and swing

the songs in Irish Gaelic and in English.

Learn more about this and other virtual

to Irish, with songwriting that touches

TICKETS:

events at BarringtonsWhiteHouse.

on all of those styles and more.

com/events.

TICKETS: $10 Individual Stream/

Online Event, 8 p.m.

Roaring reels, haunting airs, lively jigs,

$10

Individual

Stream/

$20.00 Livestream Package (Includes all

Spotlight

Performances)

$20.00

Livestream

Package

(Includes all Spotlight Performances)

LET'S VISIT WESTMINSTER ABBEY VIA ZOOM WITH PALATINE PUBLIC LIBRARY

APR 25

Online Event, 3 p.m.

Travel Pro and former London Tour

Online Event, 3 p.m.

A favorite of Barrington's White House,

Guide John Gowing presents the

Dr.

Llewellyn Sanchez-Werner will perform

stories of the notable people buried

WIlliam Rainey Harper College

on a Sunday afternoon live online at 3

within the walls and the history of

and a higher education scholar

p.m. The young piano virtuoso will per-

Westminster Abbey. Sign up begins

and Aspen Presidential Fellow,

form selections from Debussy, Chopin,

3/17 through the Palatine Library at

will share insights on the state of

Beethoven, Leonard Bernstein and

PalatineLibrary.org. Once registered,

higher

Duke Ellington. There is a $10 vir-

they'll send the meeting link pass-

for this 3 p.m. event can be made

tual event fee. Reservations can be

word. New to Zoom? Watch this quick

at BarringtonsWhiteHouse.com/

made at BarringtonsWhiteHouse.

tutorial: How to Use and Join Zoom

events. There is a $10 fee for this

com/events.

Meetings (at youtu.be/BorU1X0fPJI).

virtual event.

WoodstockOperaHouse.com.

14 CLASSICAL PIANO SHOW VIRTUALLY LIVE

Online Event, 8 p.m.

SW Lake Lifestyle | March 2021

Online Event via Zoom, 7 p.m.

at WoodstockOperaHouse.com.

THE STATE OF HIGHER EDUCATION Avis

Procter,

President

education. Reservations

Dedicated to

EXCEPTIONAL client service.

KNOWLEDGE. EXPERIENCE. COMMITMENT. Business Law • Real Estate • Trusts Estates & Probate • Tax Appeals 1699 E. Woodfield Road, Suite 400, Schaumburg, Illinois 60173

(847) 466-5280

winkler-law.com

New online store at

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WOMEN’S & MEN’S CLOTHING GIFTS & ACCESSORIES 118 S. Main Street, Wauconda, IL

847-526-2058 CityLifestyle.com/SWLake

Inventory is tight. Find more options with Zenlist. Chicago, IL as of 12/30/2020

Zenlist Zillow Redfin

17,299 Listings 15,585 Listings 15,252 Listings

Don’t wait for new homes to come on the market. @properties and Sandra Frampton can provide tools and services to help navigate a market with low inventory. Use zenlist.com/a/sandra.frampton to get started! Call Sandra now with any questions you may have.

SANDRA FRAMPTON Broker Associate

847.207.7551

sandraframpton@atproperties.com sandraframpton.com SERVING YOUR REAL ESTATE NEEDS FOR OVER �� YEARS IN THE NW SUBURBS. #� INDIVIDUAL BROKER*

*MRED, LLC, based on closed sales data, 1/1/2017-12/31/2019, @properties Barrington office.