Property of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas C. McConnell, Kenilworth, Illinois | Architect: Jerome Cerny

For those who like traditional atmosphere without too much formality, a simplified, one-story house of American Colonial styling is just about right. This pleasant small home in Kenilworth, Illinois, is a good example. The owners, whose children are grown, wanted a compact house with few but relatively large rooms. They also wanted graceful details and a picturesque quality. On both counts, this U-shaped house is an unqualified success. The exterior is brick, painted a clear, sunny yellow, with gray shutters and white trim. The front door is recessed and centered between two bay windows. Inside, the study is to the left of the entrance hall, the dining room to the right. The living room, at the rear, faces a small garden. Off the master bedroom is a sitting room that doubles as a nursery for two young grandchildren who come to visit on occasional weekends and holidays. The kitchen, perhaps the most-used room in the house, has a barbecue fireplace in one corner. In the winter months, it is a friendly place for breakfast, lunch and Sunday night suppers. Throughout, the house has fine architectural details, and makes a back- ground in character with the antique furniture. It suits the owners far better than their former large house, for it combines traditional charm with modern housekeeping efficiency.

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source: House and Garden Magazine | December 1956