Smashing Pumpkins Corgan’s Lakeview mansion sold to the tune of $2.51 million

A lucky family had a very merry Christmas in 2024 when they became the proud new owners of Billy Corgan’s former Victorian-painted lady-style home. Built in 1904, this historic Lakeview property is known for its intricate architecture and timeless charm, making it a true sanctuary for the Smashing Pumpkins frontman.

Corgan purchased the home on Greenview Avenue in 1993, choosing the exterior color scheme that still stands today. When he moved in, he continued restoring the property to its former glory. The Lillie family, who bought the home from Corgan in 2001, added their own touches to the landmark residence as well.

After selling his Lakeview home, Corgan went on to buy a two-bedroom vintage condominium unit in the Gold Coast. Spanning the entire second floor of the historic Patterson-McCormick Mansion on North Astor Street, the mansion was built in the early 1890s by famed architect Stanford White as a wedding gift from Chicago Tribune editor Joseph Medill to his daughter, Elinor, and her husband, Robert Patterson. A large addition designed by David Adler was added in the 1920s.

The mansion was divided into nine condos in 1978, and Corgan purchased his unit in 2002, later selling it in 2013.

Billy Corgan, born in Lincoln Park and raised in Glendale Heights, has always embodied the spirit of Chicago. A Glenbard North High School honor student, Corgan immersed himself in the city's music and art scene before co-founding the Smashing Pumpkins in 1988. Their debut performance took place at The Avalon Nite Club in Logan Square.  

Corgan never strayed far from his Chicago roots. In 2012, he combined his love for art, culture, and music by opening Madame Zuzu’s Café in Highland Park, where he and his partner have lived since 2003 in a beautiful lakefront estate.

Corgan’s connection to Chicago continues to be strong. In 2022, he hosted a live-streamed benefit concert at his café to support the Highland Park Community Foundation’s recovery fund following the tragic parade mass shooting.

These days, Corgan is the president and owner of the National Wrestling Alliance and stars in a reality show called “Adventures in Carnyland.” The show follows his life as he juggles responsibilities with the wrestling organization, his rock career, and family life. With all these commitments, it’s impressive how he found time to invest in such unique properties across Chicagoland.

The stunning Victorian mansion in Lakeview continues to stand out, even after its December sale. The dramatic wraparound porch, curved glass bay windows, and gold-leaf numbers above the front door create an inviting entrance for all who visit.

The six-bedroom, 5,750-square-foot home includes four and a half baths, and a 1,200-square-foot deck on top of the three-and-a-half-car garage. A beautiful pergola covering the deck makes it perfect for entertaining or writing lyrics for the next big hit. "The house was beautiful and full of original finishes," said Doug Smith, the listing agent at @properties Christie’s International Real Estate.

Corgan bought the home for $455,000 in 1993 and sold it to the Lillie family in 2001 for $1.05 million. In December 2024, the home was sold for $2.5 million. While the new owners remain anonymous, one thing is clear: They are now the lucky owners of a piece of Chicago celebrity history.