A charming Tudor Revival home on Wilson Avenue is turning heads for all the right reasons. Built in 1931, the residence at 4425 Wilson Avenue—now known as The Leuschner House—has been lovingly restored by current owners Brent and Shuan Knipfer, who purchased the property in 2018. Their work has preserved a beautiful example of 1930s architecture while honoring a piece of Downers Grove’s early history.
A Classic Tudor Revival
The house was completed in 1931, when the Tudor Revival style was all the rage—admired for its storybook charm and handcrafted details that evoked English country homes.The Leuschner House displays the best features of the Tudor Revival style: steep gables, half-timbering, arched doors, and a massive three-level chimney topped with a tall chimney pot. Built with limestone, brick, and cinder block walls nearly two feet thick, the home’s sturdy construction has helped it endure for nearly a century. Inside, beamed ceilings, plaster walls, and solid wood floors reflect the fine craftsmanship of the era.
Over the decades, the home passed through the hands of several families—including the Smiths, Schlibs, and Kays—each helping maintain its distinctive character and charm. Interestingly, the Leuschner House becomes the second of two Downers Grove’s Historic Homes that are located in Lisle Township.
Preserving History, One Beam at a Time
In 2024, the Knipfers undertook an extensive restoration that blended modern comfort with historic authenticity. Period-correct cast iron radiators were installed throughout the home, oak-pegged cedar gables were reconditioned, and a new Tudor-style exterior door was added to the side entrance.
They refinished stairways with oak flooring, created a master suite with a cast-iron tub, and completed two previously unfinished rooms. The home’s five bathrooms now feature period-style hexagonal tile, and the sunroom gleams with new oak floors.
Throughout the project, the Knipfers preserved original details such as wood beams, plaster ceilings, and wrought-iron hardware, while ensuring the home’s long-term structural stability. The limestone exterior was cleaned and tuckpointed, and new historically compatible windows were installed.
A Living Piece of Downers Grove History
Today, the Leuschner House stands as both a warm family home and a living piece of Downers Grove history—a shining example of the artistry and craftsmanship that defined the community’s early neighborhoods.
“The Knipfers have done a remarkable job of respecting this home’s history while making it shine again,” said a local preservation supporter. “It’s homes like this that keep our community’s character alive.”
The Leuschner House serves as a fitting reminder of Downers Grove’s rich architectural and cultural roots—and the importance of preserving them for generations to come.
Click to see the 4425 Wilson Avenue Historic Home Program Application.
Are you interested in preserving the history of your home? Visit https://dghistory.org/historic-home-program/ for more information.
The Downers Grove Historic Home Program is separate and distinct from the Village of Downers Grove Historic Preservation Program. The Downers Grove Historic Home Program is strictly honorary and does not limit the homeowner from making external alterations to the home. The program does not qualify homeowners for any type of financial incentives such as property tax assessment freezes or tax rebates.
