clock menu more-arrow no yes mobile

Filed under:

Unusual Kenwood mansion designed by Egyptian architect lists for $1.2M

New, 1 comment

“It feels like you’re in a different country”

Photography courtesy of Chicago Home Photos

Featuring a unique blend of both modern and Mediterranean elements, this striking Kenwood mansion isn’t your average South Side home.

Built in 1973 by noted Egyptian architect M. Momen of Momen Architects & Consulting Engineers, the six-bedroom, five-bathroom residence is one of four similarly designed homes along the 1100 block of East 49th Street.

According to neighborhood folklore, the homes were originally commissioned by Nation of Islam leader Elijah Muhammad, who lived in the large mansion across the street at 4855 S. Woodlawn Avenue. Listing agent Jessie Pinkham of Ultimate Realty Group, however, says she hasn’t been able to verify the claim.

The home and its neighboring siblings feature tan-colored brick facades.

“The home is simply amazing,” Pinkham told Curbed. “It feels like you’re in a different country. Everywhere you look there are archways and sunlight.”

Highlights of Momen’s 4,500-square-foot design include a sunken living room with a diamond-patterned mahogany ceiling, a two-story family room that opens to a skylit second-floor gallery, and a front staircase illuminated by a colorful stained glass window.

The eclectic modern-meets-Mediterranean home at 1154 E. 49th Street is currently listed for $1.2 million. It last sold in 2010 for $510,000, according to public records.

The sunken, arch-lined living room is topped by a detailed carved wood ceiling.
The family room atrium gets plenty of light thanks to an overhead skylight.
This art-filled staircase faces a two-story geometric stained glass window.
The central four-part skylight has a striking angular design.
The master suite—one of six bedrooms—connects to a solarium through an arched doorway.