1404

This is an authentic tiny house built in 1903 by C. H. Wilson. Originally it was only 1000 square feet. It is like the two houses up the street to the west and, by looking at them, we can see the variations used by the builder, and the subsequent rehabs. This home is quite a bit smaller than the other two, and had a smaller front porch, which is visible on the Sanborn map of 1905. As mentioned in the introduction this land was once a part of the original Kransz farm that was subdivided in 1890. Many of the original wooden homes were built here in the first two decades after that sale. The front bay brought light into the living room but, when the porch was reconstructed, it was enlarged and square columns used. The originals may have been classical Greek columns. This interest in classical forms is noticeable all over the Chicago area, even on modest homes and two-flats. The front door is new, but the moldings surrounding it are original with the crown at the top.

The home has a gambrel roof, which is usually recognized as a barn shaped roof. This makes the second floor smaller, so the room sits under the highest part of the roof. The exterior of the home is currently covered in asphalt siding that has been painted. The original siding was narrow board wood siding. At the second floor level there are two windows facing the front, with three over one pane design.

Inside, the rehab included new flooring, which seems to match heart of pine flooring of the early 20th century with the two-toned colors. This can be seen throughout the house. The original baseboard moldings can be seen here, as well as the original moldings surrounding the doors and windows, but without the crowns at the top. There is a small reception area with closet, and then a walk through the living room opens into a back hall, with a staircase to the second floor and basement. The full bath has a unique shower and has been completely modernized. The tiles are the stone type in a neutral color.

This hallway opens into a beautiful rehabbed kitchen with maple cabinets that have a light gray-green stain. The counter tops are new and along with new appliances and an opening into an addition complete the transformation of the space. In the addition skylights have been added to capture more light in this small house. A table is centered in the area. Just off the back are sliding glass doors to the new deck and lovely yard.

The second floor contains two bedrooms, one at the front and one overlooking the backyard. The full bath at the top of the stairs has the stone type tiling on the floors and walls. The heart of pine flooring continues on the second floor. You may climb to the second floor but be warned that the staircase is a spiral with winding stairs, and may be difficult to manage.