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Holiday House Walk

Julieta and Ray Meyer's beautifully modern home juts out of the land, in striking contrast to the 32 acres of restored Illinois prairie and dense forest that surround this minimalist masterpiece. Constructed of concrete and galvanized steel, this home's sharp, almost brutalist, exterior is pocked with ample windows, that fill the home with natural light and beautiful views. As you walk through the open design of the main floor, you'll notice that, despite the home's traditionally minimalist aesthetic, there are still plenty of Christmas decorations. The most formal tree is featured front and center in the main floor, there are also a number of other smaller trees scattered throughout the home. One is themed after the colleges their children are attending, and another focuses on nature. In addition to an impressive collection of designer furniture and decor, the house features passive solar and geo-thermal systems that greatly reduce it's environmental impact, providing yet another reason to experience this architectural marvel in person.

By Ryan Searl

Julieta and Ray Meyer's beautifully modern home juts out of the land, in striking contrast to the 32 acres of restored Illinois prairie and dense forest that surround this minimalist masterpiece. Constructed of concrete and galvanized steel, this home's sharp, almost brutalist, exterior is pocked with ample windows, that fill the home with natural light and beautiful views. As you walk through the open design of the main floor, you'll notice that, despite the home's traditionally minimalist aesthetic, there are still plenty of Christmas decorations. The most formal tree is featured front and center in the main floor, there are also a number of other smaller trees scattered throughout the home. One is themed after the colleges their children are attending, and another focuses on nature. In addition to an impressive collection of designer furniture and decor, the house features passive solar and geo-thermal systems that greatly reduce it's environmental impact, providing yet another reason to experience this architectural marvel in person.

Next up, is Brittany Brandt and Tyson Ely's American Craftsman style home. Built in 1998, this hidden treasure is nestled among homes in the Pebble Creek Drive cul-de-sac. Immediately upon arriving at Brand and Ely's home, you'll notice this Craftsman's beautiful wrap around porch is already dressed up for the season. Beyond the spacious entryway, you'll find a family room with 18 foot high vaulted ceilings, an open layout kitchen and ample holiday decor. Walking into the living room, your eyes can’t help but be drawn to the gorgeous, 12-foot Christmas tree and the brick gas burning fireplace. Garland drapes the mantle and is finished with the hanging of the family stockings. Going down into the fully finished basement, you will be greeted by a wooden banister wrapped in garland. As you walk your way down the stairs, you will see a uniquely crafted, wooden Christmas tree decorated in red and black. This work of art was crafted by Keith Kopelman, the father of the host, Thad Kopelman.

Ken and Donna Iverson's “French County” style home boasts beautiful arches, both inside and out, including an 8-foot arched cherry front door with beveled glass sidelights. You'll find lots of old world elements inside the home, Transom windows above the French doors, 6 inch base boards throughout the main level and coffered cherry paneling on a 15 foot vaulted ceiling. The Grandfather clock in the foyer was a wedding gift from Donna’s parents. The German cuckoo clock in dinette area was a gift from them as well. The Iversons were also able to put a coffered ceiling in basement bedroom, using extra trim and transom left over from construction. A vintage bar built, by Ken’s father in the late 60’s, inspired the tiki bar on the lower level, while a desk and dresser he made decorates a space under the stairs.

Tim and Julie Applegate's spacious, open layout, two-story highlights Tim’s skills as a carpenter and Julie’s appreciation for detail. As you enter the foyer, you'll be struck by beautiful lighted greenery lining the upstairs balcony, and a large tree, covered in inherited ornaments. The neighboring family room features a nine-foot tree, a beautifully decorated hearth and a grand fireplace, above which is hung a piece of art celebrating Tim’s love of flying. Moving upstairs, you'll find a newly renovated bathroom, reminiscent of a luxury hotel. In the nearby reading room, there's a roaring double-sided fireplace and built in bookcases, crafted by Tim. As you leave this beautiful home, be sure to pay a visit to the wonderfully spacious kitchen at the center of the home, the setting for many of the Applegate's family functions.