23 Wildwood, Mt Vernon, IL

Designed in 1968 by noted architect Jack Goldman, a founding partner of FGMa, this home served as his personal residence and creative retreat. Goldman, who trained under Eero Saarinen, went on to design hundreds of buildings across the Midwest, many award winning. For decades, the home, located a short walk from the nationally recognized Goldman-Kunze sculpture park, welcomed a rotating group of influential artists, sculptors and creatives, establishing it as a quiet cultural hub set within its wooded surroundings. Upon approaching the home there is a natural embrace as the sidewalk leads to the covered breezeway. Turning to the left is an expansive view into the house through an enormous window. To the right the eyes are drawn through the carport to the deck and finally spilling into the backyard with firepit and beautiful wooded expanse. The effect creates an oasis that pulls the outdoors in and the indoors out. A testament to the Frank Loyd Wright design philosophy of “embrace and release”. Flooded with natural light, the two-story foyer leads upstairs to the open-concept living room, where a minimalist black fireplace serves as a striking focal point-adding warmth while subtly defining the living and dining spaces. A full wall of windows frames the surrounding woods, while a thoughtfully designed overhang provides shade from the afternoon sun, enhancing comfort throughout the main living areas. The retro-inspired kitchen features natural wood cabinetry, butcher-block countertops, and a well-considered layout for both everyday living and entertaining. The sink is discreetly positioned out of view from the dining area, while an oversized window and coffee bar offer a moment of pause. Ample storage includes a walk-in pantry. Storage is seamlessly integrated throughout, including a hallway lined with warm, burnished wood doors that keep everyday essentials close yet out of sight. The primary suite offers a private retreat, complete with an attached balcony and a spacious en-suite. Generous in scale, it offers flexibility in both function and design, with a large walk-in closet that completes the space. The lower level includes three additional bedrooms, each oriented to capture views of the surrounding landscape and provide a strong connection to the outdoors. Additional living space unfolds with a family room adjacent to the pool table-ideal for gathering and entertaining. This level also includes the laundry room, additional storage, and mechanicals. Finally, the epoxy covered carport that opens to the woods doubles as a covered outdoor living / entertaining space. When touring this extraordinary home, take your time-walk through more than once, take in the setting, and don’t forget to look up. The ceilings are just as thoughtful as every other detail.