Most Expensive Zip Codes: 60611, Estate of the Day
For the next couple of weeks we will be checking out some homes in the most expensive zip codes in the United States, up today, 60611 . This zip code is in Chicago, Illinois and encompasses pricey Chicago's Gold Coast area. This zip code has a median price of $1,954,000 with an appreciation rate of 236% since 1990.
Right now, the most expensive listings in this area belong to the Chicago Spire, the massive spiraled Santiago Calatrava masterpiece that will be the new defining piece in the Chicago skyline. The MLS is also sprinkled with some pricey listings for Trump's Chicago offering. But for today's estate I chose something a little older that speaks to this area's history. This duplex is part of a building built in 1913, designed by architect Benjamin Marshall and located on East Lake Shore Drive. The unit was purchased as raw space by the current owners in 1998 and redesigned by architect Scott Himmel. The main level has a round entry foyer with curved stairway, large living room with lake views, a separate dining room/library, family room, eat-in kitchen with breakfast room and butler's pantry, and a separate laundry room. The upper level has three bedrooms including a master suite with a study, dressing rooms and a terrace over looking the lake. This home is listed at $5.6 million.
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Chris Apr 7th 2008 2:54PM
So let's see, you get to sit out on your balcony, and get a glimpse of the lake all the while listening to the roar of traffic below you? And that road doesn't quiet down after 5, either. Well, I guess you could go into the ugly, stark, cold marble bathroom, ugh! At least some of the other rooms have at least a modicum of warmth.
maureen Apr 7th 2008 4:36PM
hi - can you tell me where you got the median price and appreciation rate from? thanks
Deidre Woollard Apr 7th 2008 4:37PM
All our numbers regarding appreciation and median came from NeighborhoodScout.com
Jacqueline Apr 7th 2008 8:44PM
This is my zip code! My apartment could probably fit into one room of that one though (although I think mine is much cozier).
ace Apr 7th 2008 9:42PM
I'm curious as to whether your data included the 98039 zip code, since several of the world's wealthiest people live in that zip. A search on another site came up with values over $600,000 more in 98039 than in 85253.
Ray Lanfear Apr 7th 2008 10:06PM
Good article on expensive zip codes, but it does not tell anything about the families that live there, for instance they could be in foreclosure or bankruptcy on many of the expensive homes. There is an alternative, to foreclosure or bankruptcy, simply visit 6figuresandmore.com, Warm regards and God Bless
JOEYS50JUNK Apr 8th 2008 3:41PM
THESE HOUSES ARE PRETTY SHOWPLACES BUT SADLY JUST THAT. I WOULD LOVE TO SEE SOME OF THESE HOUSES THAT HAVE BEEN TURNED INTO HOMES FOR THEIR FAMILIES FOR COMFORT AND SOLACE. CORNY? WELL, A HOME IS SO MUCH MORE THAN A SHOW PLACE EVEN IF THERE'S JUST TWO OF YOU.
Joeybrill Apr 8th 2008 6:52AM
They've made the place look airy without being too minimalist. The shelving built-ins are great. Too many of these places pretend that you have no possessions. This is one place where those canister lights in the ceiling also make good sense.
I love the ceiling details and the parquet flooring. I'm not sure about the color schemes or that leopard skin wall to wall business.
Those are North views, so you're never blinded -unless you're spying on the beach cabanas across LSD.
J Frank Apr 8th 2008 11:54AM
Wow! This is a superbly designed apartment - I love the furniture plan in the living room, it is so great to have seating for so many people without crowding the space with a bunch of sofas facing other. I LOVE the leopard carpet and the chairs with the kitchen banquette, as well. So chic!
alan miretzky Apr 8th 2008 6:47PM
It is not often that sophisticated interior design and a warm and comfortable living environment can co-exist. For my money, this unit accomplishes that, in spades! As far as the location is concerned, it is, for me, the best block in Chicago, for its views, its history, and its architecture.
ann levin Apr 8th 2008 7:35PM
how stunning!!! i would never leave the gorgeous shower with views of the Lake....then again, maybe it would be worth cooking something just to be in the delicious looking kitchen. seems to me the rooms are beautiful in scale with classic features (floors, moldings, builtins, lighting) that would accomodate a variety of design styles. just love it.
clara lang Apr 9th 2008 12:22AM
The combination of warmth and glamour in this home is rare
and inviting. Do you see a room you wouldn't love to be in?
The designer obviously worked closely with the client--be they traditional or modern--and created a cozy respite ready for large gatherings or intimate family occasions. Thank you for letting us enjoy this special spot.
btulipan Apr 9th 2008 7:04AM
It is unusual to find a living space in Chicago--especially one of this caliber--that is both comfortable and sophisticated. Usually the owners go for one of the other. In this case, every inch of the home invites you in, from the spectacular parquet and tile floors to the exquisite panoramic views of Lake Michigan beyond. This place is the bomb! I disagree with the other respondent who calls this nothing more than a "showplace." Every inch of the home is lived-in. Do I sense a faint odor of envy?
Pat Apr 10th 2008 8:03AM
I knew someone who lived in this building about 25 years ago and their apartment had a similar layout. It is an elegant city apartment - and by the way, as I recall, there is NO street noise whatsoever.
mhines Apr 10th 2008 10:58AM
i have been in a lot of homes along this perfect stretch of land in chicago. what i like best about this home is that it is just that, a home, with a family,a dog, a teenager. This is the perfect home to enjoy the life of living. Besides, when a buyer calls this their home, they'll change it all anyway. Its great to see a sense of style.