Tower of dour

As we’ve seen in this space these past months, not all abandoned homes are created equal. Many are decrepit dumps that serve as homeless hotels in rundown neighborhoods. Others possess such a stately elegance that allowing them to deteriorate to the point where they must fall victim to the wrecking ball seems almost criminal. This week’s property fits firmly into the latter category. Located at the corner of Forest and Commonwealth, in a thriving, well-kept neighborhood, this brick beauty was built in 1905. Although no doubt Freudian in nature, the Abandoned House of the Week crew can’t deny a real affinity for houses with turrets, and this place has a real beauty. There’s something about the conical spire that harks back to knights of old and damsels in distress. At the moment, however, the only thing in distress is this lovely structure.

Curt Guyette is Metro Times news editor. Contact him at 313-202-8004 or [email protected]