When musicians talk about composition, they often mean sound. For Zach Filkins, lead guitarist of the Grammy-nominated band OneRepublic, composition also extends to architecture, proportion, and the lived-in elegance of a historic home reimagined for modern life.
Filkins has listed his extensively renovated residence in La Grange, Illinois—roughly a 30-minute drive west of downtown Chicago—for $3.75 million, marking the end of a deeply personal, 15-year chapter for the musician and his family.
According to property records reviewed by californialuxuryhouses, Filkins and his wife, Lindsay, purchased the home in 2009 for $445,000. What followed was not a cosmetic refresh, but a near-total architectural reinvention that transformed a modest early-20th-century house into a nearly 9,000-square-foot private estate.
A Historic Foundation, Rebuilt for Modern Living
Originally constructed in 1912, the residence began its life as a classic American Foursquare—an architectural style commonly found throughout La Grange’s historic district. While the home’s exterior footprint hinted at its heritage, the interior no longer reflected the scale or function required by the growing family.
After a series of early, hands-on improvements, Filkins embarked on a comprehensive renovation that began in earnest in 2016. The home was taken almost entirely down to the studs, preserving only portions of the original exterior walls. An expansive addition followed, effectively tripling the original square footage.
“We essentially encapsulated the original structure and rebuilt it from the inside out,” Filkins shared in a written statement. “The goal was to balance comfort for our family with classical detail inspired by old English and Mediterranean architecture.”
The result is a residence that feels both timeless and deeply intentional—one that honors its origins while fully embracing contemporary expectations of luxury.
Nearly 9,000 Square Feet of Thoughtful Design
Today, the home spans 5,398 square feet across three above-ground levels, with an additional 2,820-square-foot lower level that was largely excavated during the renovation. A heated and cooled three-car garage—an uncommon feature in the historic neighborhood—connects directly to a custom mudroom, bringing the total usable space to approximately 9,000 square feet.
“There are certainly large homes in La Grange, but this one exceeds expectations in both scale and execution,” listing agent Annie Harrington of @properties Christie’s International Real Estate told californialuxuryhouses. “It’s rare to find this level of volume paired with such careful attention to architectural detail.”
The main level unfolds in an open-plan arrangement, seamlessly connecting the living room, dining area, and family room. Multiple fireplaces anchor the space, while the kitchen—designed as both a functional hub and an entertainment centerpiece—features a large island, a pizza oven, a wet bar, and a dedicated wine refrigerator.
Interiors Inspired by a Life on the Road
Filkins credits years of touring with OneRepublic for shaping the home’s interior aesthetic. The couple drew inspiration from hotels and restaurants they frequented while traveling, including London’s Corinthia Hotel and New York’s Bowery Hotel.
“I’ve always been drawn to the layered maximalism of Ralph Lauren and traditional English interiors,” Filkins explained. “Even with all the detail, those spaces feel warm, familiar, and livable—and that’s what we wanted here.”
Throughout the home, rich materials such as walnut, marble, and custom millwork create a sense of depth and permanence. The design avoids trends, instead favoring craftsmanship and texture.
Private Spaces Designed for Both Rest and Creativity
The residence includes five bedrooms and six-and-a-half bathrooms, with the primary suite occupying a place of prominence on the second floor. The suite features two walk-in closets and a spa-like bathroom outfitted with walnut vanities, a marble double shower, and a soaking tub.
Below ground, the expansive basement reflects Filkins’ creative life. In addition to an exercise room and wine cellar, the lower level houses a home theater, a game room, a flexible bonus space, and a dedicated music studio that doubles as a library.
“The lower level was designed as a retreat,” Harrington said. “It’s both highly functional and incredibly personal—especially the studio, which speaks directly to who the owner is.”
A Move Driven by a New Chapter
Despite designing the home with long-term living in mind, Filkins says a major lifestyle shift prompted the decision to sell. The family is relocating to Michigan to pursue a long-held dream of owning and operating a vineyard and winery.
“After we were offered the opportunity to take over and rebrand an existing winery in Coloma, Michigan, it became clear that we couldn’t do it justice from Illinois,” Filkins said. “Leaving this home is bittersweet, but it’s time for the next chapter.”
Californialuxuryhouses attempted to reach the homeowner directly for additional comment, but no further response was received prior to publication.
Community Appeal Beyond the Home
Located in one of Chicago’s most desirable suburban enclaves, La Grange is known for its walkable downtown, strong commuter rail access, and a dining scene that rivals many urban neighborhoods. Residents enjoy convenient Metra service into the city, along with proximity to boutique shopping, acclaimed restaurants, and top-ranked schools.
“These community fundamentals are a big part of why homes here hold their value so well,” Harrington told californialuxuryhouses. “You’re getting architectural character, space, and lifestyle—without sacrificing access to Chicago.”