229 S Ridgeland Avenue

Oak Park, IL 60302

Welcome to the William H. Preston House, a 1908 architectural treasure designated as a historical landmark by The Historical Society of Oak Park and River Forest, and lovingly updated for modern living. Located in the heart of downtown Oak Park-just steps from the L train, the farmers' market, the recreation center, and some of the area's best schools-this home blends timeless craftsmanship with 21st-century amenities. This estate-sized residence reflects Craftsman/early-Prairie influence, with a broad front porch perfect for morning coffee or evening entertaining. A rich Farrow & Ball exterior palette carries inside, where the entry hall showcases original millwork, a carved staircase, and leaded glass windows that cast shimmering light across hardwood floors. The bright living room features oak bookcases, millwork accents, and a bank of leaded-glass windows. Beyond its period elegance, it doubles as a 7.1 channel home theater with audiophile-grade speakers integrated into the coffered ceiling, hidden AV rack, and multi-zone audio extending across all three levels and into the backyard. The dining room is ideal for entertaining, encircled by oak moldings and anchored by a magnificent built-in sideboard with leaded-glass doors. A salvaged Craftsman light fixture and adjacent butler's nook with oak bar add character. Off the kitchen, a sun-filled multipurpose room offers backyard views and flexible use as family room, breakfast nook, or playroom. The updated kitchen balances historic and modern, with original glass-front cabinetry, updated counters, and marble tile backsplash. A half bath with period fixtures completes the main level. Upstairs, the quartersawn oak staircase leads to four generous bedrooms, a bonus room/office, and a remodeled full bath. Each bedroom has hardwood floors, high ceilings, large windows, and ample closets. The bath blends vintage style with modern upgrades: marble basketweave floor, subway wainscot, double pedestal sinks, and exposed thermostatic shower. A rear multipurpose room with wall-to-wall windows is ideal as an office or artist's studio. The third floor is a fully renovated retreat with primary suite, office (or sixth bedroom), laundry, hardwood floors, and custom Amish cabinetry. The primary bedroom features treetop views and built-in cabinetry. Dual walk-in closets with custom storage lead to a spa bath with clawfoot tub, frameless glass shower, rain-head, and stone-topped double vanity. Matching cabinetry continues into the office, offering both function and beauty. Hidden knee-wall storage adds practicality. The basement includes a laundry room with chute, workshop/storage, gym, bathroom, and a family room with a second home theater setup. A walkout provides direct access to the outdoor kitchen, creating seamless indoor-outdoor entertaining. Modern updates include multi-zone heating and cooling, new plumbing, updated electrical panels, spray-foam insulation, and a new roof and gutters (2024). Outdoors, the professionally landscaped backyard is a private oasis with mature trees, multiple gathering spaces, and a bespoke outdoor kitchen featuring a built-in sink with hot/cold water, refrigerator, three-tap kegerator, and natural-gas grill with side burner. The William H. Preston House is a rare Oak Park offering: a historic landmark with unmatched character, expanded by thoughtful renovations and every modern convenience.

Listing Courtesy of MRED as distributed by MLS Grid of D.B. Maloy & Company



Based on information submitted to the MLS GRID as of 2025-10-19 12:20 PM UTC. All data is obtained from various sources and may not have been verified by broker or MLS GRID. Supplied Open House Information is subject to change without notice. All information should be independently reviewed and verified for accuracy. Properties may or may not be listed by the office/agent presenting the information.
Last checked: 2025-10-19 12:20 PM UTC
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