5455 W 1425 S

Two distinctive residences grace the beautifully landscaped grounds. Once a working dairy, this 7.6-acre property was converted to a country retreat in 2010. The 2 bed / 1.5 bath main house, designed by Connor Historic Design of Vermont, reflects the elegance of an 1840s Greek Revival farmhouse while incorporating modern comforts. The living room centers on a classic Rumford fireplace, perfect for the holidays and snowy evenings while French doors open to a large screened-in porch, where summers can be enjoyed. Like a vintage New England home, a barn-style wing is attached directly to the main residence which houses a 3-car garage, paneled with cedar shiplap reminiscent of a genuine dairy barn. Above the garage is a whitewashed cedar-paneled loft, currently serving as a writer's studio and guest suite. The main house features exquisite custom woodwork, handcrafted cabinetry, and random-width pine plank floors with hand-forged nails and grass cloth wallpaper. The full-height basement offers expansion potential. The Guesthouse was built by the current owner's great-great-grandfather in 1895--using walnut timbers harvested from the forest--and is a jewel box of design. Fully upgraded in 2015, the renovation blended historic features such as the original nickel door hinges, with contemporary amenities including custom-milled woodwork, Missoni and sisal carpeting, Clarence House wall coverings, and a striking black-marble bathroom. The home features 2 bedrooms, a sleeping loft, and 1.5 baths. The grounds of Longview are designed for beauty in every direction. Lawns give way to wooded meadows with a variety of seasonal perennials and groves of hardwood trees. Wildlife abounds, enhancing the sense of living in harmony with nature. Whether enjoyed as a private retreat, multi-generational getaway, or inspiring venue, Longview offers a rare combination of history, architectural character, and natural beauty. Located near Valparaiso and just 70 miles from Chicago.