Something old and something new – two things brides-to-be are told to bring to their nuptials for good luck. They’re also something guests of the 37th Annual Housewalk will anticipate at this year’s four-home tour on Friday, September 9th.
“We've got a wonderful blend of newer homes and older homes – some with newer additions – to truly encompass this year's theme: ‘Something Old, Something New,’” said Publicity Chair Rebekah Sheasby.
The annual Housewalk, hosted by the Service League of Crystal Lake, will have two showings: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. More than 1,000 people attend this much-anticipated event every year, and big crowds are expected again this year.
Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 on the event day. Advanced tickets are available at www.slcrystallake.org, from Service League members and at the following Crystal Lake establishments: Around the Clock Restaurant & Bakery, Countryside Flower Shop, Dalzell & Co., 1776 Restaurant, Twisted Stem Floral, Wickham Interiors, and Yours & Meyn Simply Designed.
This year as part of the Housewalk, enter a raffle to win one of four Pandora bracelets – each with a house charm (donated by Dalzell & Co.) – along with cash prizes. Plus, the Service League is proudly selling lovely glass holiday ornaments with the Service League logo.
“We have many generous sponsors of the Housewalk this year. Local businesses, including restaurants, are offering discounts to be used in conjunction with purchasing a Housewalk ticket,” Sheasby said.
Everyone Benefits
Housewalk guests get so much out of viewing these dynamic homes so kindly shared by local homeowners. They serve as inspirations for those looking for everything from fresh home interior ideas to unique landscape solutions.
With $21,000 raised for the Service League’s charities last year, the community also greatly benefits from the Housewalk.
“The Housewalk is the Service League's largest fundraiser of the year,” Sheasby said. “Proceeds from the Housewalk enable the Service League to provide local families in need with emergency assistance, food, shelter and clothing, as well as scholarships for deserving area high school students.”
Without the generosity of so many organizations and individuals, “We simply could not put together this huge undertaking that is so vital to the Service League's fundraising efforts,” Sheasby said. “The Service League has been in existence for more than 80 years, and operates with only 45 members. Everyone has a job, especially with an event this large. A special thanks to this year’s chairpersons Lynda Mauro and Sandi Moss. ”
Home Profiles (see flip book for full-impact tour of Housewalk homes!)
Icon Building Group (Downtown Crystal Lake)
This historic Victorian built in 1874 was once home to the Teckler Family of Crystal Lake. Beautifully restored, this home features original hardwood floors, pocket doors and decorative moldings. Throughout the years, two additions have been constructed. The first incorporated a fully restored kitchen with a backsplash of reproduction ceiling tin. The second added a 15-foot ceiling with a two-sided masonry fireplace to the living area.
The Burns Home (Turnberry)
Designed by the homeowner and built 15 years ago, this beautiful home is tastefully decorated and features a new swimming pool, an inviting basement with bar area and movie theater, and an old English phone booth with an antique porcelain boot collection in the entryway. Beautiful and intricate decorating details make this west side home an ideal fit for this year's Housewalk.
The Hulbert Home (Ridgestone)
Recently built, this luxury home is located on the north side in the newer Ridgestone neighborhood. Features include a stunning kitchen with an antique wash finish on custom maple cabinetry. The finished basement showcases a state-of-the-art theater room and a custom-made, hand-painted wine cellar – perfect for entertaining!
The Wise Home (Downtown Crystal Lake)
Truly a special home, this cozy Cape Cod boasts a spacious back yard and professional decoration throughout. Traditional flair mixed with warm colors make this home warm and inviting. The children's bedrooms are precious, along with a basement playroom –full of creativity and sunlight to inspire every child's dreams!
Housewalk at a Glance
Service League of Crystal Lake’s 37th Annual Housewalk
Friday, September 9, 2011, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.; and 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Tickets: $20 in advance; $25 on event day
For more, visit www.slcrystallake.org.
