Olympia Fields, a Rail Commuter Suburb of Chicago, is home of the historic Olympia Fields Country Club and an enclave of Mid Century Modern homes designed by some of the most significant architects of the time. Many of the homes were built in the planned neighborhood of Graymoor, conceptualized as a “residential park” by its developer Edward Gray.
Designed by the notable planner and landscape architect, Raymond William Hazelkamp, the neighborhood consists of 141 large lots with over 25 acres dedicated to common parks complete with two ponds connected by a wandering stream. The plan integrates wide and walkable winding streets that allow for expansive views between properties and onto the common property densely covered by oak and sycamore trees. This natural landscape was further emphasized by having utility lines buried and streetlights were eliminated to preserve the night sky. The master plan was envisioned with a helipad for easy commute to nearby Chicago and the ponds transitioned from summer swimming to ice skating in the winter.
Gray and Hazelkamp established an architectural review board to ensure a design rigor for each house. Today the homes designed by George “Fred” Keck of Keck and Keck, Edward Dart, Edward Humrich and others are being restored as they transition to second and third owners and the common land is being restored to feature sustainable landscapes.
Today Graymoor stands as a unique enclave of mid-century modern architecture and planning with many of the homes appearing in various architectural books illustrating their design and historic significance. The community is a rare example of harmonious fusion between the native landscape and progressive mid-century modern design.
THE AREA
Graymoor is part of Olympia Fields with strong connections and proximity to the town centers of Homewood and Flossmoor, several Metra Stations and several prestigious country clubs.
This area is committed to the education of its youth with Graymoor being part of the Homewood Flossmoor School district. This commitment is reflected in accolades bestowed upon its Elementary and Junior High School (District 161). Dedicated to excellence, the renowned H-F High School (District 233) provides the children of Graymoor excellence in academics, athletics, and fine arts. It is consistently named as one of the best High Schools in America.
Come and visit Graymoor located approximately 28 miles south of downtown Chicago.