The idyllic landscape of this unique private residence once billowed smoke and bustled with factory workers as the site of a shale quarry and manufacturing plant, producing millions of high-quality "Albion" paver bricks over the first half of the 20th century.
Albion bricks were highly sought after for paving the streets and alleys of towns and cities throughout the Midwest. While the factory here closed after WW2, the original sales office building c. 1910 survives and was enlarged by its long-time owner into a unique custom home. The new rooms are designed to be an extension of the original building and to compliment its form and features. Decorative brick work is found throughout, paying homage to the estate's history.
To contrast the traditional nature of the original building, many of the new rooms feature strikingly modern features and finishes. Custom kitchen hoods, European-style casework, quartz countertops and hidden equipment cabinets give the interiors a contemporary feel. Hidden doors and custom maple panelling are featured throughout, including reclaimed maple wainscoting and stained glass from the owner’s childhood home.