If you’re searching for an upscale suburban retreat that combines modern living with small-town charm, you’ll want to explore Lochshire of Barrington. Located 40 miles northwest of Chicago, this thoughtfully designed townhome community offers more than just a place to live—it’s where sophisticated architecture meets vibrant community life. While many know Barrington for its historic downtown and excellent schools, Lochshire stands apart with its distinctive blend of luxury amenities and strategic location. As property values continue to rise in this sought-after development, there’s much more to discover about what makes this community truly special.

Key Takeaways

  • Lochshire of Barrington is an upscale townhome community located 40 miles northwest of Chicago, offering three models ranging from 600-1,350 square feet.
  • Property values have increased steadily, with median sale prices rising from $235,500 in 2021 to $285,000 in early 2024.
  • The community features modern architectural design while preserving Barrington’s historic charm, with proximity to Baker’s Lake Nature Preserve.
  • Residents enjoy access to excellent schools, downtown boutiques, restaurants, and convenient Metra service to Chicago.
  • Monthly rentals range from $2,050 to $2,500 furnished, with limited availability due to only three sales annually since 2021.

Location and Community Overview

Nestled at the intersection of Hillside and Queens Cove, Lochshire of Barrington stands as a well-established townhome community just west of Northwest Highway. You’ll find yourself just 40 miles northwest of Chicago, which means you can escape the city’s chaos while staying close enough to pop in when you’re craving some urban action.

Let’s be honest – you’re getting the best of both worlds here. The community was built in two phases (because apparently, good things take time), with the first homes popping up in the late 1970s and the second wave rolling in during the mid-2000s. Currently, there is just one home available at $219,900. The vibrant downtown area offers residents an array of boutique shops and local restaurants to explore.

You’re looking at a cozy population of 10,722 in the Village of Barrington, which means you won’t have to fight through crowds just to grab your morning coffee. The entire Barrington area spans a whopping 90 square miles, giving you plenty of room to breathe and explore.

And if you’re thinking about commuting, you’re in luck – there’s a Metra station nearby that’ll whisk you away to the city whenever you need to remind yourself why you chose suburban life in the first place.

Architectural Design and Home Features

The architectural character of Lochshire of Barrington emerges through three distinct townhome models, each designed to fit different lifestyle needs.

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Located at the intersection of Hillside and Queens Cove, this community offers convenient access to nearby amenities.

You’ll find the cozy Hillshire, perfect for singles or couples who hate maintaining basements, with its efficient 600 square feet of living space.

For those who need more room to spread out, there’s the Grandshire and Lakeshire models – both featuring full basements where you can hide all that stuff you swear you’ll organize someday.

Let’s be real – these aren’t your grandmother’s historic Barrington homes with their stuffy colonial vibes.

Built in two phases (late 1970s and mid-2000s), these townhomes offer a more modern take on community living.

The Lakeshire, the big kahuna at 1,350 square feet, gives you plenty of space to host those mandatory family gatherings.

And here’s the kicker – Northwest Property Management actually allows pets, so you won’t have to secretly smuggle in your furry friends like some kind of animal-loving ninja.

With Baker’s Lake Nature Preserve nearby, you’ve got plenty of space to walk that dog you’re allowed to have.

Property Values and Monthly Costs

Smart investors have kept a close eye on Lochshire’s steady property value growth, with median sale prices climbing from $235,500 in 2021 to $285,000 in early 2024.

You’ll find properties ranging from $62,900 to $350,000, giving you plenty of options whether you’re looking to snag a bargain or flex your financial muscles. Properties are attractively priced from $349,900 through the local MLS system.

The rental market’s been on fire too – and not just because of those fancy granite countertops everyone’s obsessing over. Monthly rents shot up from $1,650 in March 2023 to $2,050 by mid-2024, though they’ve cooled slightly to $2,025 by year-end.

If you’re thinking of going all-in with a furnished rental, you’re looking at $2,500 monthly for a sweet 2,200-square-foot setup that’ll make your friends jealous. Just don’t forget about that $3,000 security deposit – yeah, they’re not messing around.

Here’s the kicker: with only three sales per year since 2021 (except for 2022’s ghost town performance), you’d better move fast when a property hits the market.

These babies don’t stick around long, especially with those high-end finishes and that finished basement that’s basically begging for your home theater setup.

Living in Lochshire

Designed with both comfort and community in mind, Lochshire of Barrington offers a diverse mix of townhome living across three distinct models: the cozy Hillshire at 600 square feet, the spacious Grandshire at 1,100 square feet, and the luxurious Lakeshire spanning 1,350 square feet.

The area hosts thriving local businesses that contribute to its vibrant community atmosphere. You’ll love the freedom to roam with your four-legged friends – yes, both cats and dogs are welcome here! The students here benefit from a forty National Board certified teaching staff. The location is pretty sweet too, sitting right where Hillside meets Queens Cove, with some killer nature spots nearby.

Let’s talk about what really makes this place shine – you’re getting access to one of Illinois’ most kick-butt school districts. Check out these bragging rights:

  • A whopping 12 National Blue Ribbon Awards
  • Teachers who actually know their stuff – 90% have master’s degrees
  • Ranked #1 Unit School District in Illinois (take that, competition!)

Whether you’re catching rays at Baker’s Lake Nature Preserve, getting pampered at Ben E Salon Spa, or just enjoying your full basement (sorry, Hillshire folks), life at Lochshire isn’t just about having a place to crash – it’s about living somewhere that actually feels like home.

Nearby Attractions and Parks

Residents of Lochshire enjoy an impressive array of nearby attractions and parks, with options ranging from sprawling nature preserves to historic cultural venues.

You’ll never run out of outdoor adventures with spots like Langendorf Park, where you can splash around in the pool or perfect your golf game on the par-3 course. And if you’re feeling particularly antisocial, the peaceful trails of Cuba Marsh are perfect for avoiding human contact while pretending to exercise. For nature enthusiasts, the nearby Anderson Japanese Gardens in Rockford offers a serene escape. While exploring the area, visitors can discover Arlington Heights’ charm through its quaint downtown streets and local boutiques.

Want some culture? The Catlow Theater‘s got you covered with its Prairie School architecture and film screenings – because nothing says “I’m sophisticated” like watching indie films in a historic building.

The Barrington Art Festival lets you pretend you understand modern art while stuffing your face with local food. For history buffs (or parents desperately seeking educational activities), the Barrington History Museum offers exhibits in restored Victorian houses.

And when you’re tired of being cultured, you can always escape to Six Flags Great America – because sometimes you just need to scream your head off on a roller coaster to feel alive.

Development History and Progress

While today’s Lochshire bustles with modern amenities and attractions, its roots stretch back to humble beginnings in the 1830s when farmers first settled the Barrington area. You wouldn’t recognize the place back then – just farmland as far as the eye could see, until the Chicago & North Western Railway showed up in 1854 and changed everything.

The real drama kicked off in 1957 when locals got fed up with all the cookie-cutter developments popping up nearby. They weren’t about to let their slice of rural paradise turn into another concrete jungle, so they incorporated Barrington Hills with a ballsy 5-acre minimum zoning requirement. Take that, developers!

Since its establishment in 1977, Lochshire has grown into a vibrant community that perfectly suits families, professionals, and retirees alike.

Here’s what makes Lochshire’s evolution truly remarkable:

  • From Victorian mansions of wealthy Chicago bigwigs to today’s luxury townhomes
  • Part of the larger Barrington area’s strategic growth through BACOG
  • Maintains its upscale character while offering modern conveniences

Today’s Lochshire perfectly balances its historic roots with contemporary living. You’ll find all the modern perks you’d expect – granite countertops, hardwood floors, attached garages – while still enjoying that distinct Barrington charm that’s been carefully preserved since the 1800s.

Community Amenities and Lifestyle

Life in Lochshire offers a perfect blend of small-town charm and modern convenience. You’ll love showing off your slice of paradise, nestled right by Baker Lake, where you can escape the daily grind and soak in those killer views. The six-unit building provides an intimate residential setting that enhances the community feel.

And let’s be real – having easy access to three major highways means you won’t be stuck in this quaint bubble unless you want to be.

You’re not just buying a home; you’re buying into a lifestyle that’ll make your city-dwelling friends jealous. Walk to the train, restaurants, and shops like you own the place (because technically, you do).

The community parking lot’s so pristine, it’s practically begging for your car to claim a spot. When you’re feeling fancy, strut over to Barrington’s White House for some high-brow cultural programs – or don’t, because you’ve got options.

The historic district‘s architecture is enough to make any design buff drool, and the outdoor recreational spaces are perfect for when you need to pretend you’re actually going to start exercising.

Between community events and cultural programs, you’ll have more social opportunities than excuses to stay home.

Final Thoughts

You won’t find a better mix of modern living and suburban charm than Lochshire of Barrington. Whether you’re drawn to its perfectly manicured grounds, the three killer townhome designs, or the fact that you’re just far enough from Chicago’s chaos to breathe, this community’s got your number. Let’s be real – with property values climbing and amenities that’ll make your friends jealous, you’d be crazy not to contemplate making Lochshire your next home base.