Twice as Nice

By Mark Loehrke
Appears in the January 2026 issue.

This new duplex offers high-end living—times two

The appeal of the duplex has long been the province of efficiency-minded trick-or-treaters: Two quick-hit points of contact with fewer steps expended.

But a newly constructed luxe option in Naperville likely will generate appeal for some buyers. Now on the market as both a combined eight-bed/10-bath unit at 715–717 N. Brainard St. for $2.575 million and, alternatively, as individual four-bed/five-bath residences (715 N. Brainard for $1.37 and 717 N. Brainard for $1.25 million), this blue beauty is aiming to make sure there’s a place at the luxury real estate table for the venerable but often underestimated duplex.

Among its features are custom cabinets, white oak flooring, and designer lighting found throughout the four floors of each home. While both units share the same basic layout—including a versatile third-floor space with vaulted ceilings, plenty of natural light, and an open layout that listing agent Lori Johanneson of @properties Christie’s International Real Estate calls her favorite area to show prospective buyers—each has its own distinct high-end finishes, with one side leaning toward light and airy, and the other favoring a bolder and more dramatic style.

Whether these fraternal twins ultimately end up selling as separate residences or as a combined unit for a multigenerational family is yet to be seen. But in either case, Johanneson is certain that the homeowner(s) will end up with a new appreciation for the possibilities of the duplex.

Photos: Emilie Procsal, Scarlet Cardinal Studios