Lake Front Walk

Free associate, for a moment, on this place: Milwaukee. If you’re anything like me, you might think only of Brewers and beer, of Laverne and Shirley, and of Happy Days gone by. But last week, after a quick trip north from Chicago to Milwaukee to visit family, and a late afternoon walk along the leafy streets on the city’s East Side, I’m changing my tune. Some of the tony neighborhoods overlooking Lake Michigan look something out of a time capsule, planted firmly in the era of the Vanderbilts and Astors, of artisans and craftsmen, when houses were constructed with integrity and entertaining was a way of life. Here’s the view from high on a bluff looking out at the lake and the shore below.

1. Walking along the lake, Jaithan and I saw so many houses that were beautiful in uniquely different ways. This one I loved for the strong symmetry, the elegant topiaries, and the pretty dentil molding above the door.

2. This house, though not symmetrical, still feels well-proportioned. I like that the ivy is maintained to keep it from looking too, well, Grey Gardens.  

3. This house I love because it feels so masculine and regal. The mix of materials—copper, wood, limestone, brick and iron—could have been a bit much, but they come together beautifully, don’t they? So many new mini-mansions try to recreate the look of stately homes like this, failing spectacularly in the process.

4. Awnings have such old school charm. Add a black and white stripe, and they suddenly feel so modern. The limestone façade I think is pretty as well.

5. A painted white house, red geraniums and the flag front and center—it doesn’t get more all-American than this!

6. The color palette on this house we both thought looked so chic. Can’t you just imagine walking through that door into some fantastic cocktail party with a slew of voguish guests nibbling on crab cakes and sipping champagne?

7. This house reminds me of the Vanderbilt estate in Hyde Park, where I went to culinary school. I love the double archways, the landing on the approach, and the greening of the copper over time.

8. And how stately is this brick house with its double archways and terracotta columns? The doors are beautiful as well, pairing wood with wrought iron in such an unexpected way.  

9. This is definitely a favorite. The lead glass work and outdoor hanging lantern I think are gorgeous. I also like how the wrought iron mimics the design of the windows. The natural wood is a nice contrast to the brick and paint as well. 

10. This last one we both thought looked so charming. I love the trimmed hedges, the vines growing up the front, and the elegant shape of the traditional Tudor door. The color of the window trim, too, reminds me of the butler's pantry  in our own, much more modest, farmhouse in the country.

And what about you? Which one do you like?

Comments

[Elizabeth Evans]

Hi, Eddie,

My name is Elizabeth Evans, and I grew up in the painted white "All-American" house in Milwaukee that you show on your site.

My family and I were so excited to see our home mentioned here! My parents bought that house over thirty years ago and have been fixing it up ever since. Truly a labor of love (the house turned 114 yrs old this year)! As for my brother, sister and I, we can't imagine having grown up anyplace else. We're so glad you liked it!

Thanks and all best,

Elizabeth

[Heidi B.]

Thank you for the lovely post about my home town, Milwaukee. I was born at St.Mary's hospital on that beautiful lakefront, so it is part of my DNA.
I get to visit only once or twice a year, but when I do I always drive north on lake drive from the art museum and take in all of the beautiful sights.

[Rachael Anne]

I have to say number 6 because those are fairly exact to the colors I have marked to paint our house this fall. Number 4 would be next. We currently have the old metal awnings, but will be replacing them soon as well. I love the look of awnings. In my neighborhood of older ranch homes, we are one of a few that have them. I've always pictured awnings as the eyelids (with perfect long curled lashes, of course) to windows.

[Lisa]

Awesome Vanderbilt mention. I've lived in Hyde Park since I was seven, and my house is right near the lower gatehouse on River Road. I love taking walks there (just made a picture post of the scenery!)

Milwaukee is gorgeous! Those houses are just lovely. I love the second house, the ivy is like frosting on the cake.

[Renae]

These homes are all so lovely, but my favorites were #2 for the ivy growing on it and it could be in many cities that I have lived in including New Orleans, Atlanta and the DC/Georgetown area. #5 is so "all American", just love that porch. #6 is stately...lovely. #7, for all of the things you mentioned...just beautiful. What a great walk you had. I've never been to Milwaukee, who knew it was this gorgeous?
Blessings...

[Jamie Goldberg, AKBD, CAPS]

I'm just now reading the book American Wife, which takes place in this part of the country. Thanks for putting pictures to text. The book, by PREP author Curtis Sittenfeld, is a fictionalized autobiography of Laura Bush, relocated from Texas to Wisconsin. I will, henceforth, be picturing your beautiful photos when reading about her Midwestern White House!

[jane b]

Thanks for the memories. While attending UW-Milwaukee as a theater major I HAD to take a "speech" class. Speaking from the diaphragm and all that.

We had to walk down to the lakefront to what the professor called "JUUUliet's Bawher" (bower), a small stone balcony. There we had to repeat over and over, "the rain in Spain stays mainly on the plain". Speaking from the diaphragm of course.

[Evelyn Weiss]

I love them all! Each one has such character and most remind me of period homes in our beautiful Hudson Valley!

The photography and descriptions are perfect. Thanks.

xoxo
Evy

[Katie]

Oh! Far and away...the painted white "All-American" one! It just makes me want to have a porch party! ;o) But, let me tell you...that last one with the beautiful door...is that a screen door on it, too???? I'm in AWE of that...

[.amanda.]

oh that architecture! who knew!>?

[christy suny]

I could move directly into house #2! What a lovely walk! I just love looking at beautiful old homes - what a delight.
Christy

[LindsB]

I love #6 the gray gets me everytime. But they are all just amazing- what a fun trip!

[stacy di]

#2! I have a little *thing* about ivy growing on houses...and I love the circles too...what great houses.

[suzanne hill]

I'm with you! The elegant front door with the fan light above and the lantern hanging down says TRADITION and draws me in like a magnet!

[jerusalem]

black & white awnings are always so striking and great, so of course I love that one. But I am also a sucker for ivy covered houses, so number 2 is a fav as well!

[Mona from Toronto]

I love number 5 - maybe because it's summer and the white and red are so fresh.

The details on the windows and mouldings are so charming. I could picture myself relaxing on the veranda and drinking Port before going to dinner!

I would paint the front door - red or a modern cobalt blue to add some punch!

[sophiedahydesigns]

Something about white houses and awnings! I've been reading about your trip to Scott's-I am so jealous!! Reminds me, we need to make a trip!

[Annie]

Thank you for representing Milwaukee in such a grand way. I live here and never take for granted the beautiful architecture that surrounds us. ~Annie

[Karena]

Love #1, great picks though, I could certainly live with several others. I have not visited this fine city yet!

[Tracy Holland]

Number 5 is the warmest of the group but they all have so much character! Walking or driving around looking at houses has always been a favorite thing to do. Every city has at least one neighborhood where you can play "pick and choose" and lust after the way houses used to be built. Thanks for showing us one of Milwaukee's. And to CJ I totally agree on your "best of" movie homes!

[Geri]

#4 reminds me of what I love about Paris...the awnings, the little iron balconies, attractive roof line...so picturesque.

[Ralphie]

Hi Eddie,

I had the pleasure of spending more than a week in Milwaukee several years ago and found the city delightful. It was in the spring and the neighborhoods were "picture perfect” The homes I saw and visited were so beautiful, much like the ones in your post. The home in picture 5 looks American as apple pie, beautiful! Isn’t America beautiful? Great post! Thanks Eddie
Ciao.

[Charla @ For the Sake of Time]

Eddie - I believe that home number two with the ivy is my favorite. I enjoyed this post because we are trying to decide on a color for our double front doors. We live in a wooded area so I am not sure black would be the best but I do love a black front door. This post gives me a lot to think about. As always, thank you for all you share.

Charla

[Vanessa Johanning]

I am so happy you came to Milwaukee!... I know many of these homes, I wish I could have taken you to some of my clients houses for Garden tours also! I love Whitefish Bay, Mequon, and River Hills because they all have awesome private estates... you would swoon!

Come Back for Summerfest! ( The worlds largest music festival!!! Country jazz rock blues reggae...)This july!
I am going to see no doubt and gwen!!!

Come and visit anytime! I will give you both a ride on my Harley! LOL
Vanessa Johanning
RhinestoneContessa.com

[Alicia]

Yours...its true, I'm more of a cozy than stately girl.
And the first thing is Laverne & Shirley.
12345678 schlemeel, schlemozzle.....

[abby jenkins]

I can see you guys living in any of those homes! How grand!

There are a lot of hidden treasures driving around Chicago G.

[cj]

Kinda reminds me of "Father of the Bride" house which is one of my favorite movie houses. Others would be North by Northwest, the modern one at the end, all the Woody Allen movie apartments and houses, all the Kate Hepburn houses. Sorry I got sidetracked but a good blog like yours gets me to thinking that way!

[Jan Jessup]

Hi, Eddie--
Milwaukee is a favorite city of mine, after making many trips there to approve color while printing the Calico Corners catalog. The homes you photographed are wonderful--and equally wonderful are some of the grand corporate office buildings downtown that appear to be thoroughly grounded in their stone facades and hefty architectural details.

Also, you didn't mention the fabulous Milwaukee Art Museum designed by Santiago Calatrava with its brise soleil "wings" on top that open and close. The museum has become the symbol of the city. There are also great music festivals all summer long on the lakefront--and great restaurants all over town. Milwaukee is definitely worth a visit!
Best,
Jan Jessup

[Barbara Nieder]

I love #10. Because you have taken your picture up closer, I can imagine it large with a young family living there. The kids will slam that screen door as they run out to play.

Or, I can imagine the house small with a stone facade and an unusually high thatched roof. I can see myself dusting and peeking out at the interesting two men who are taking a picture of my pretty home. Can you see me waving at you? Come in for a cup of tea.

[Kathy :)]

Loved the white house with the American flag...I must say :)

Nice post Eddie

Kathy :)

[alice]

Those awnings add so much personality! I love how pots of flowers on the steps can make a large home so inviting. Looks like a great walk!

[Kary Gonyer]

Hi Eddie....OMG..I love them all..and love your comments..all so true. But my favorite is the white one with the geraniums and flag...i hope they have a clothesline out back..and maybe just a small garden..tomatoes turning red..just in time for 4th of July..and perhaps some corn just beginning to tassel.
And how about a big plate of lemon cucumbers ..just picked from the garden for supper tonight.

[hanako66]

my goodness, what stunning homes! I think that I love #2 best:)

[Ann]

I don't think there could be any more "American" home than the one with the flag. White, geraniums, clipped lawn, front porch, all in perfect repair. It speaks of home, of pride and of "the way we live". My eyes mist up at the dignity of it. Thank you for the great pictures. Ann

[yansy]

I love all the pics. What an amazing place.

[Jennifer]

I am a huge fan of Tudor style and love the last house! We were in Asheville, NC over the weekend and I saw so much of this style in the Asheville community of Biltmore Forest. I've always wanted an old stone manor to restore.

I agree with you, I think of Laverne and Shirley also when Milwaukee is mentioned. It does have some lovely old homes. Glad you enjoyed your visit!

Jennifer

[Bette]

Oh my blog...I'll take one of each please...I can't choose a favorite (just like shoes) they all fit!
The details, landscaping, colors, stone, iron etc. Great post thanks a million!

Bette

[Felice]

Lovely!
These homes reminded me of a book I used to get out of the library all the time as a kid. It was called "The American Home" and it was house fronts from all over the country and at different times of the year.
Thanks for the tour and the memory--and as always for all the inspiration!

[Joyce]

Hi E and J!

I like 5 and 8 both would make a great canvas for a beautiful porch dinner party.

Eddie you gave me a chuckle of your vision of MKE- you are a hoot. LOL...

I still owe you some photos will hopefully get them to you soon.

Hugs,
J
xoxo

[Karen - The Last Detail]

One of the reasons I love living in New Orleans...unparalleled architecture. These houses are stunning.

[Jamie Tulchin]

They're all so beautiful. My personal favorite is #8!

[Anne]

Hey, if I knew you were coming I'd have taken you to lunch! We've got really good eats here. And thanks for showing off some of the great homes of my city.

[Shandell's]

#10 is my favorite, I love brick houses and the color gray. This has both. Milwaukee has amazing architecture.
XO

[fred]

Beautiful houses. I do think, however, the correct term for the block detail above the door on the house in photo 2 is actually "dentil" molding, not "dental tooth."

[sheista]

Thanks for the tour!
#5

I love the carriage style, victorian nods ~reminds me of Petoskey and my own town, and, like you, the American feel.

[viera]

I love them all. Australian architecture is so different. Yours are so solid, I can feel history and tradition from them.
Thanks
XX
V

[Linda Crispell]

I love any home that looks like Madeline's boarding school with Miss Clavell!

[Adam]

love #7

[Terri]

Gorgeous homes! It is astonishing what wonderful homes one finds in often-overlooked cities. There is good taste hiding everywhere. I love the home with the dentil moulding but my favorite was the grey one with the reddish door. Elegant! I see homes like this and wonder "who gets to live there??"!

[Sarah's Fab Day]

Oh they're all so lovely. But #2 is clearly my favorite (I think it reminds me of my grandparents old house) with #5 coming in second.

[Granny Smith Green]

So glad you two had a wonderful trip. My favorites, oh, so hard to choose. I'll go with 2 and 9. I'm quite traditional and these two feel the most comfortable to me. Isn't that what's really important? How does your home make YOU feel?

Always enjoying your blog!
GSG

http://GrannySmithGreen.blogspot.com

[Jen]

I'm a native Milwaukean and LOVE the East side. I could drive around and look at homes there forever!

I think I like the color palate on #6, and the door on #9 the best, but I'd gladly take any of them!

[Deborah]

They're all such beautiful homes, but my favorite is the last one. A bit more casual than the others, but unique and I especially like the blue trim. Deborah

[seleta]

The last image is my fav. Although your words describing the ambiance of your fresh surroundings were poetry...before I even saw the pictures! As always.

[my notting hill]

The first one and the painted white house with the porch - love that one! Thanks for the tour!

[ABCOroville]

1,5,6, and 9 are my favorites. I could live in any one of them very comfortably. They do command an amazing view. Love beautiful architecture.

[Megan]

I went to college in Milwaukee and loved walking up Lake Drive into Shorewood. It would be beautiful house after beautiful house! I have seen some adorable little houses in Whitefish Bay as well.

[Erin]

Hi Eddie! I love them all. I grew up in Shorewood - just North of Milwaukee and these houses remind me of home...I'm a little bit home sick after looking at these. Thanks for sharing. Erin

[patricia]

Love them all, they look so solid, and full of stories. I love no.9, that gray home, looks so chic. Thanks for the tour!

[Rhon]

Number 10 wins! I love the pale stone with the climbing vines and the front door is to die for - I love that little arch at the top. The soft blue window trim and the floral arrangement in the window are just perfection!