The iconic Chicago-area home that served as the backdrop for the beloved holiday film “Home Alone” is undergoing a significant restoration to recapture its 1990s aesthetic. New owners are working to reverse a modern, minimalist renovation that had drawn criticism from devoted fans who felt the house had lost its original charm and character.
The property, located in Winnetka, Illinois, was purchased earlier this year for $5.25 million. The current renovation project aims to reintroduce the warm, vibrant interior that was famously depicted in the 1990 movie and its 1992 sequel. Project manager Scott Price expressed the vision to “bring back the warmth and just the love from the movie,” emphasizing the desire to recreate the inviting, family-friendly atmosphere.
This move comes after a substantial renovation in 2018, which transformed the house’s cozy and colorful interiors into a bright, starkly minimalist design. This dramatic shift was met with disappointment from many “Home Alone” enthusiasts, who argued that the update stripped the residence of its unique identity, so closely tied to the film’s enduring appeal.
While specific timelines for the interior work remain undisclosed, the project manager confirmed that some exterior modifications will also be undertaken. The grand residence, originally built in 1921, boasts five bedrooms, six bathrooms, and approximately 9,000 square feet of living space, featuring amenities such as multiple fireplaces, hot tubs, a wet bar, and a private movie theater.
The home’s exterior is instantly recognizable to millions as the McCallister family’s residence in both “Home Alone” films. Its enduring popularity continues to draw hundreds of visitors daily, often necessitating road closures during the holiday season to manage the significant traffic influx.-(2).jpg)
John Abendshien, who owned the house when it was used for filming, previously shared his initial enchantment with the property. He described being drawn to its abundant natural light and distinctive shape, admitting he “pretty much bought the house from the curb” in 1989 for $875,000. Despite occasionally feeling like he lived in a “fishbowl” as the movies gained fame, he characterized the period as a “blessing” before selling it in 2012 for $1.6 million.
The tale of eight-year-old Kevin McCallister’s ingenious defense of his home from burglars has solidified its place as a Christmas classic. Rewatched annually by millions, the grand McCallister house has become an almost universally recognized symbol of holiday nostalgia for generations of viewers.
The ongoing restoration reflects a growing trend where iconic film locations are preserved or reinstated to their original cinematic appearances, acknowledging the deep emotional connection audiences develop with these cinematic landmarks. This effort aims to honor the film’s legacy and provide a more authentic experience for fans.
