Come discover the fascinating history of Sears Kit Homes constructed in Chicagoland from 1908 to 1942. What is the reason behind Downers Grove boasting an abundance of the kit homes? Despite the rash of teardowns in the Chicago area, some of these houses have managed to survive. Discover the Sears homes that remain in Downers Grove and neighboring communities, along with tips on how to recognize them. We are pleased to welcome back Lara Solonickne, a local expert and a well-received lecturer on this popular topic.

Be among the first to visit the Lytle Auditorium!

Now’s your chance to visit the Lytle Auditorium! “What’s that?” you might wonder. It’s the new building right across from the Belmont Metra stop in Downers Grove. You might remember it as the “Lego building” during construction, thanks to the multicolored Tyvek that made it look like a stack of Legos when seen from Belmont Avenue. For more details, visit their website: thelytleauditorium.com.

About the Presenter

Lara Solonickne is the creator of the Sears Homes of Chicagoland website www.sears-homes.com. She is an architecture enthusiast who enjoys uncovering the hidden stories behind old houses. She holds a degree from Northwestern University.

See the museum exhibit!

Be sure to also check out the Sears Kit Homes of Downers Grove exhibit at the Downers Grove Museum. Downers Grove has a great deal of confirmed Sears Kit Homes, 68 as a matter of fact. Many of the examples here in town have made it nearly to or exceeded the 100-year mark. This new exhibit will explain how these homes were ordered, delivered and built. The centerpiece will be framed examples of Sears Kit Homes that still stand in Downers Grove. Visitors can also explore original advertisements, floor plan options, and the prices people originally paid for these homes.

It’s a temporary exhibit so you’ll want to see it soon!

SOLD OUT!

To be added to the wait list:click here