Former Beach Boy Brian Wilson's Home for Sale
Brian Wilson's former home has just hit the market at an asking costs of $1.49 million. The former Beach Boy recorded most of his 1998 album Imagination at the St. Charles, Illinois estate, and the studio he used to do so is still on the premises.
Sprawling over 6,500 square feet, the house features 5 bedrooms â€" including two master suites â€" 6 full baths and 2 half baths. The listing agent, Betty Theisen-Placek, describes the community as "very quiet, without being too removed from the rest of the neighborhood."
Theisen-Placek suggests it is this tranquility that drew Wilson to the area originally. Much of Wilson's life was spent in the public eye, beginning with his Beach Boys fame in the 1960's. This Crane Road Estates subdivision was an ideal location for him to escape from public scrutiny. "He was comfortable here," Theisen-Placek said, "because no one bothered him." Here he could relax in his pool, take a walk through the garden or read a book in the library with no interruptions.
The home had many famous visitors including Paul McCartney, Sean Lennon and Eagles' legend Joe Walsh. It's fascinating to think about all the musical history that has been made in the home - one wonders what unreleased gems were recorded on the property. Wilson had the basement dug down another 7 feet in order to accommodate the recording studio as well as a mixing room, kitchenette and office space. According to the listing agent, the crooner used the kitchenette and lounge to entertain many guests. 
Imagine mixing with your family in the space Wilson used to welcome Paul McCartney!
In addition to the large room and historic music studio, the home also boasts a grand staircase in the entry which leads to the second floor bedrooms and baths. Behind the staircase, visitors are greeted by a wall of windows that overlook the pool and pond.
The library, solarium and workout room offer additional spaces to relax and rejuvenate. The beamed cathedral ceilings, cherry wood kitchen and brick fireplaces add a touch of luxury that anyone, rock star or otherwise, can appreciate.
Click below to see a full photo tour. All photos courtesy of Betty Theisen-Placek.
The home is set back off the road and surrounded by mature trees.
Guests are greeted by a grand stairway and open, airy foyer.
The open kitchen is perfect for entertaining.
The family room boasts a beautiful brick fireplace, high ceilings and views of the pool.
The home also features a dining room perfect for formal dinners.
The master bedroom has its own working fireplace.
The attached master bath features another fireplace and double pedestal sinks.
The recording studio where Brian Wilson recorded 1998's "Imagination."
"Wouldn't it be nice..." to own a piece of rock n' roll history?
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Ilyce R. Glink is the author of several books, including 100 Questions Every First-Time Home Buyer Should Ask and Buy, Close, Move In!. She blogs about money and real estate at ThinkGlink.comand The Equifax Personal Finance Blog, and is Chief Content Strategist at RealtyJoin.com, a community for real estate investors.