The Farmhouse at Riegel Farm — SEEK Design + Architecture

The Farmhouse
at Riegal Farm

Location: University Park, Illinois
Year: 2023
Size: 1,880 sq ft
Status: Under Construction
Category: Adaptive Reuse, Commercial, Office
Services: Architecture, Interiors

Originally constructed in 1908, Riegel Farm stands as a remarkable piece of University Park’s history. Once a cornerstone of the area’s development, the farm played a pivotal role in shaping the community, with new homes built nearby that remain occupied by generations of residents. Today, Riegel Farm takes pride in being one of the few farms purchased from the Sears & Roebuck catalog that still stands in Illinois, making its preservation a project of both historical and cultural importance.

One of the buildings on the site is a 1,880 sq ft farmhouse. The renovation preserves the integrity of the existing wood structure while entirely replacing deteriorated finishes, windows, and doors, both inside and out. Every design decision carefully balances respect for the building’s historic character with the need to create a functional, inviting space for contemporary use. The renewed farmhouse will serve as a versatile venue for events, meetings, workshops, or communal activities.

For University Park, a village defined by its sense of close-knit connection and resilience, this renovation is an act of renewal and investment in the people who call this village home. It enhances the safety, accessibility, and aesthetic appeal of the farm. It restores pride and purpose to a site once forgotten, reminding the community of its heritage.