BREATHING NEW LIFE INTO HILLHAVEN

By 2019, we had completed two small homes in Woodland Foothills and felt a growing sense of responsibility—and momentum. That’s when an opportunity came up that would reshape our approach to housing: the chance to redevelop the former Hillhaven Assisted Living Facility just east of Grand Marais.

Hillhaven had been vacant for years. The building was over 4,500 square feet with 10 bedrooms and 6 bathrooms, and despite its potential, it sat on the market with no interest. Most saw it as a liability. We saw it as a foundation.

Working with the owners, we secured a contract-for-deed purchase with a one-year grace period to begin redevelopment. To finance the project, we took out a commercial note to cover the seller’s mortgage and backed a line of credit using personal vehicles and equipment. We weren’t taking the safe route—we were all in.

After securing a Conditional Use Permit from Cook County, we got to work transforming the space into six long-term rental apartments. The clock was ticking, and the task was massive. But with the help of skilled subcontractors and our dedicated in-house crew—including the late and legendary Bob Spry, whose creativity and craftsmanship were essential—we pulled it off.

By the 11th month, the apartments were complete and all six units were occupied. Three of those original tenants still live there today.

Hillhaven was a turning point. It showed us what was possible when you look past the surface of a building and focus on the potential it has to serve a community. It also showed us the importance of separating the building side from the housing side of our work.

That’s when we created Hestia Unfolded, a name inspired by the Greek goddess of home, hearth, and the sacred fire. A name meant to carry the values of warmth, shelter, and belonging into every future project. (And yes, the “H” is silent.)

Hestia isn’t just a successful renovation—it’s a symbol of what can happen when local builders lean into risk with purpose. It’s also proof that redevelopment can be just as impactful as new construction, especially in rural areas where underused buildings are more common than available land.