
Three architecturally significant properties will be showcased at the June 23 Showhomes event.PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN S. ECKERT.
Who doesn’t enjoy a peek inside a historic mansion? Better yet, who doesn’t absolutely love the chance to peruse one of these gems when it’s been styled to the nines?
On Sunday, June 23, residents will get a chance to do just that and support worthy local charities at the same time. Barbara Bliss, franchise owner of Showhomes® North Shore-Barrington home staging company, is hosting “Cooler by the Lake,” an exclusive afternoon to showcase three architecturally significant residences rich with Lake Bluff and Lake Forest history. (Hint: These were the homes of some of the North Shore’s most prominent families.)
“This is the first time all three of these homes have been on the market at the same time, and each has a unique story,” says Bliss. “I’m excited to show the public three beautifully designed residences, all from a different era, from English Cotswold to turn-of-the-century Victorian to an awesome example of Classic Modernism right on the lake.”
To continue her own personal and professional mission to support local nonprofits, Bliss selected Roberti Community House’s Culinary Pathway Program and Bravo Waukegan as the recipients of 90 percent of the proceeds from the event’s $100 ticket price.

One of three architecturally significant homes included in the “Cooler by the Lake” event from Showhomes. PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN S. ECKERT
“Roberti Community House’s new culinary program is helping youth from Waukegan who are interested in learning more about being a chef, so having the students create our tasty goodies and beverages will be a great opportunity for them, and for the visitors to see their work in action,”she explains.“And Bravo Waukegan will have students who will play their instruments at these homes and will get great practice in playing. And the visitors should love them too.”
Since 1986, Showhomes has been transforming real estate with the concept of home staging. Properties that could otherwise have been seen by buyers as stale, lifeless or unappealing, Bliss and her team transform into fully furnished and inviting show homes.
The Sunday, June 23 event, which goes from noon to 4 p.m., is a chance to showcase what Bliss does, highlight local history, and raise money for charity, all at the same time. Transportation will be offered from the Lake Bluff Elementary School parking lot, by shuttle every 20 minutes, to all three Lake Bluff properties, where guests will enjoy refreshments and small bites with musical entertainment enhancing their experience at each home.
For more information, contact Barbara Bliss at [email protected] or call 847-247-9191.
Post a Comment