Hinsdale hears case to designate R. Harold Zook home and studio at KLM Park as local landmark

Trustee Burns introduced agenda item 6i, a request by the Hinsdale Historical Society to designate the R. Harold Zook home and studio (now sited at KLM/Catherine Leaghey Park) as a local landmark.

The presenter summarized the building's history: constructed in 1924 as the personal home and studio of architect R. Harold Zook, moved to KLM Park in 2005, and listed as a contributing structure in the Robins Park Historic District and in local reconnaissance surveys. The packet included interior floor plans, photographs and historical context. The board noted the Historic Preservation Commission held a public hearing Oct. 1 and voted unanimously (6'0to'0) to recommend local landmark designation under section 14-3-1 of the Hinsdale Village Code.

Carrie Rozick of the Hinsdale Historical Society spoke in favor of designation and outlined a proposed capital campaign and adaptive reuse concept called "Zook Commons," which the society described as a community gathering space, museum and cafe serving park visitors and nearby amenities. Trustees and residents asked questions about square footage and timeline; Rozick said the society expects a two-year fundraising and building timeline from funding to occupancy. The item was discussed but not acted on; trustees were informed it will return for further action consistent with the village's zoning and historic preservation procedures.