Welcome to Thompson House, a home whose reputation precedes it. Designed in the 19th century by the acclaimed architectural firm Cobb & Frost, today Thompson House is a nationally registered Historic Landmark, and one of the most iconic homes in Chicago’s highly sought after Gold Coast neighborhood on the corner of Dearborn and Delaware.
The history of this home, which is one of Cobb & Frost’s last remaining mega projects, stretches back into the last century, when from 1938 - 2006 it was used as a church office for the nearby Scottish Rite Cathedral. I was personally introduced to this home in 2009, when I sold the mansion and the direct neighbors as shells.
Lovingly and painstakingly restored since that sale with unparalleled craftsmanship costing millions of dollars over eight years, the home has been completely renovated and blends 21st century technology with old-world beauty, top of the line amenities and chic designer touches. Elegant marble, rich paneling, stained glass doors and windows and Santos Mahogany hardwood floors are perfectly married with modern luxury and complete smart home capabilities. This home presents a rare, once in a lifetime opportunity to own a coveted piece of Chicago history, but with all the trappings of the highest-end quality construction.
An architectural masterpiece built of solid red rocks, the property comprises a 13,400 square foot mansion including 6 bedrooms and 6.5 bathrooms, 3 cars garage, and separate carriage house. The home was reimagined as the setting for unforgettable formal grand dinner parties. My personal favorite design features of the home is the variety of natural stone, grand staircase and intricate arched windows.
Magnificent and refined architecture and finishes are around every corner with highlights such as full rooms of mahogany paneling, hand carved columns, Turkish Botticino marble flooring, crystal chandeliers, silk wall coverings, hand-carved wood and onyx fireplace, and the piece de resistance: the curved wood mahogany staircase below the jaw dropping custom stained glass dome.
The lower level is all about entertainment and relaxation, and is complete with a commercial sized bar, wine cellar and fully equipped spa. You will find endless enjoyment in the sauna, steam room, rain shower and jetted tub with artisanal waterfall cascading over gorgeous Italian mosaics.
The roots of this home stretch across the street to Washington Square Park, which was historically known as “Bughouse Square,” a renowned open-air free speech center where people would gather to give soapbox speeches on various topics. Public debates regularly occurred here, and notable figures like Carl Sandburg, Studs Terkel and even my father-in-law, Seymour Simon were regulars.
It is no accident that this grand property was erected in the heart of the Gold Coast, which in 1888 was rapidly establishing itself as Chicago’s premier enclave for the affluent. As the home of the Latin School of Chicago and millionaire Potter Palmer, the Gold Coast was then, and is now the premier Chicago neighborhood for entertainment and access. Seize the opportunity to own a piece of Chicago history with this unparalleled estate.
