5543 S Dorchester Ave., Chicago, IL 60637

In the early 1890s, as the University of Chicago was founded and the Columbian Exposition thrilled visitors, construction was underway on a handsome group of row houses located nearby. The quality of craftsmanship and detailing of that earlier era is evident at 5543, incorporated into a house that has been updated for modern living. Glazed tiles, carved wood and elegant brickwork are featured with in this five-bedroom house, while a major renovation created a large chef's kitchen overlooking the lush backyard. Lovingly maintained and warmly finished with jewel-toned hues of terra-cotta and blue, the house offers 2,500 square feet of living space, plus a lower level. On the main floor one is welcomed into a foyer that provides a link between the living and dining areas. The living room is focused on the whimsical tiles of the fireplace, while functioning oak pocket doors open to an adjoining family room. The foyer also flows into the dining room, which offers an oak built-in hutch for serving and space to accommodate 10 for dinner. A practical half bath has been added and the large light-filled kitchen offers plenty of prep space, cookbook/display shelving, oak cabinetry and views overlooking a great backyard - a verdant space for entertaining on warm summer days. Heading up the skylit stairs there are five bedrooms, a study and two full baths. These spaces can be used in a variety of ways - sleep, study, work or play. The layout permits expansion of the bathrooms if so desired, and the added convenience of a second stairway leading back down into the kitchen. The laundry room, a full bath, recreation room, two large storage rooms, and the mechanical room are located in the basement. The house has a new air conditioner and furnace, some new windows, added insulation, work done to the gutters and downspouts, and the tear-off roof was completed in 2006 and is re-silvered every 5 years. Located within walking distance to the University of Chicago and the Laboratory Schools, 5543 Dorchester is near the best the community has to offer: restaurants, grocery stores, Metra and the lakefront parklands are just steps away. Come for a visit, you may stay long enough to write the next chapter of this home's amazing history.