Think Inside the Box

By Mark Loehrke
Appears in the April 2025 issue.

This distinctive Glen Ellyn modern is more than meets the eye

The boxy, contemporary exterior of the house at 465 Carleton Ave. in Glen Ellyn (now on the market for $1.75 million) might suggest a cold, sterile feel within. From the curb, the home and parcel also may seem fairly modest at first glance. Neither of these snap judgments, however, holds up to further scrutiny.

As for the compact appearance, listing agent Lisa Cleaver of RE/MAX Suburban loves to see prospective buyers’ reactions when they discover that the home sits on a pennant-shaped lot that narrows on the street side, allowing things to spread out nicely in the back. It’s something they can take in clearly from the rooftop deck, which also happens to be one of her favorite features to show.

The interior, meanwhile, makes the most of all that hidden space. And while decidedly modern, it’s also warm and welcoming. Sure, there are plenty of sleek lines and state-of-the-art fixtures—see in particular the main staircase and accompanying light fixture—but there are also plenty of cozy touches throughout. From the reading nook and private balcony in the primary suite to the stone fireplace in the family room and the four-season sunroom (with heated floors, a vaulted ceiling, and floor-to-ceiling views of the backyard), there’s no shortage of creature comforts in this home designed by Chuck Seen of RS2 Architecture and built by Dennis Hanzel of DWH Construction.

Photos: Kelly Swartz Photography