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Pillars House Tour draws a crowd
Head Docent Rose Ashby points out some of the features of the front porch of the Peterson home to Linda Nylen of Willow Springs, and Joanne Everett of Western Springs. | Jon Langham~for Sun-Times Media
Updated: June 22, 2012 8:38AM
A mini house tour turned out to be anything but small for Pillars, a local mental health and service agency.
On June 10, three unique homes in La Grange opened their doors and allowed visitors a peek at both modern amenities and historical renovations.
Pillars had previously held a larger version of the house tour for 13 years before taking a break last year. A clamor of demand brought it back this year as part of its month-long Party for Pillars fundraising event.
Local florists, including Maria’s Floral, Phillip’s Flowers and Sweet Pea Florist, spruced up the homes with fresh floral designs while B&K Designs staged small settings.
The Peterson’s home, which was featured on the first House Tour 13 years ago, took the stage again this year. The turn-of-the-century colonial revival in the Historic District offered a mix of traditional and modern appointments and includes what is believed to have been one of the first in-ground pools in La Grange.
Also on the tour was the Anisi home, a new construction design with a large wrap-around front porch, gourmet kitchen and workout room. The Brown home, also a new construction and resting comfortably on two large lots, boasted a stunning outdoor area including three different patio terraces and a waterfall.
Throughout the afternoon, the Pillars mission was never far from anyone’s mind. Each home hosted a volunteer who spoke not only about the features of the house but about the different aspects of Pillars as well, including child and family development, domestic violence and mental health.
“We tried to remind people not only are these beautiful homes but we’re here trying to help people who are living in these very different and very difficult situations,” said Colleen Mallon, director of special events.
