Eaton Preserve, owned by Plainfield Park District, is a unique property along the DuPage River. Once a farm for over 150 years, it is now bustling with many activities and amenities like trails, a canoe launch, playground, volleyball and horseshoe courts, and popular Halloween Haunted Hayrides. The site retains its historical charm with remnants of the original farm buildings and a towering silo.

The primary goal of the project was to expand on the historic amenities and determine the best options for restoration, access, and re-use of the existing structures. The house’s original foundations were stabilized and used for raised planters. The toolshed was refurbished, with new roofing, gutters, and repairs to its structure. The remnants of the barn and silo underwent the most significant changes: the barn’s skeleton was partially rebuilt based on original plans, with a trellis added for community use. The barn’s floor, with original wall layout telegraphing through concrete, was repaired and preserved, defining an outdoor gathering space. Original barn doors were incorporated into the structure as a backdrop for photo opportunities. The adjacent silo received a new roof, a peek-a-boo window to the inside, and up-lighting that illuminates its exterior, making it the park’s most iconic feature, especially at night.

Photo Credit: Larry Kmiecik, Kmiecik Imagery