Realtor Christa Edelen (Jackson) of Lou Realty Group always loved old houses. But when she and husband J.T. Edelen came across what would eventually become their forever home, Christa never imagined she would fall in love with a Gothic revival Tudor house. The abode’s construction began in 1926 and ended around 1932, a period known for its elegance. “One of the reasons we love this home so much is because it’s almost all original,” says Christa.

It was the setting that sold them. Two busy surgeons who found each other later in life were looking for a home to start their lives together. The large Creve Coeur lot featured a creek at the front of the property, a large pool in back and mature trees surrounding a 1950s ranch. “We loved it,” the wife recalls. “Other lots just didn’t compare.”

CITY OF ST. LOUIS, MO

Benton Park. Designated as a sustainable neighborhood in 2004, Benton Park was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2005. Most homes date back to the late 19th century, many with the original moldings, stained glass and fixtures intact. Century-old trees shade streets, and residents tend to maintain meticulous porches, lawns and gardens.

Soon to be empty-nesters, these longtime Wildwood residents had begun planning for their “forever” home. Topping their list of must-haves was the homesite. They wanted to stay in the same general area, and the site had to be private, scenic and suitable for construction. So, they began a search — in ever-widening circles, eventually coming across a gorgeous 6-acre tract in Wildwood that seemed ideal, but didn’t appear to be for sale.