Gunder House

This north shore mansion, built in 1910, is part of Berger Park. I visited during Chicago Open House 2015, toured the three floors and learned a lot about its history. It was built for a pharmaceutical executive right on the lake, later transferred to a religious order, and then to the Chicago Park District to use for recreation and an art gallery. The result is a mix of wood paneled elegance, which remains from the original owners, and CPD modifications, including folding tables and chairs, meeting rooms and bulletin boards. All in all far better than having been torn down for development! It sits in a beautiful vest pocket park on the lake. Worth the visit, especially during Open House, when docents are present to explain the architecture and history. The Coach House and the Downey Mansion are right next door with similar tales of preservation and survival. You will find great Craftsman interiors and lots of oak in the Downey Mansion. This is a great spot to enjoy Chicago’s architecture and history.