John L. Nichols House

Step into the charming world of the John L. Nichols House, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Bloomington, Indiana. This historic abode, constructed in 1900, stands as a testament to the eclectic architectural vision of its namesake, John L. Nichols, the pioneering architect who left an indelible mark on the city. Though it no longer serves as a residence, the house continues to enchant visitors with its unique blend of styles and rich history.

The Life and Legacy of John L. Nichols

John L. Nichols, born in Bloomington in 1859, was a trailblazer in the architectural landscape of his hometown. As the first, and for many years the only, architect in Bloomington, Nichols played a pivotal role in shaping the city's skyline. His prolific career saw the creation of over 600 design drafts in 1908 alone, with many of his works adorning the Courthouse Square and other prominent locations across the city.

Nichols' architectural prowess was not confined to grand commercial buildings; he also had a flair for designing residential properties. Among his notable works is the Batman-Waldron House, an eccentric mansion that stands as a testament to his versatility. Nichols' residential designs often featured a harmonious blend of classicist architecture, Queen Anne Style, Neo-Romanesque, and Stick Style, resulting in a distinctive style that local historians have dubbed Free Classic.

A Glimpse into the Nichols House

The John L. Nichols House, located on College Avenue, is a quintessential example of Nichols' architectural ideals. Built as his personal residence, the house served as a showcase for his design philosophy and was extensively featured in his published collection of residential designs. Though Nichols only resided in the house for two years, it remained in his possession until 1905, when he sold it to the Indianapolis Southern Railroad.

The house's architectural charm lies in its unique layout and stylistic elements. The structure boasts an unusual floor plan, with a straight western side, a side wing on the eastern side, and pentagon-shaped northern and southern ends. The one-story building, complete with a basement, comprises five rooms and features a wood-frame construction with horizontal wooden planks. The original cedar shingle roof has since been replaced with a fiberglass roof, maintaining the gabled design except for the entrance veranda and the rear side wing.

Interior Elegance

Step inside the Nichols House, and you'll be greeted by an interior that exudes warmth and sophistication. The walls are adorned with oak and walnut paneling, while the floors are laid with cherry wood planks, creating an inviting ambiance. One of the standout features is the original fireplace, which still retains its historic hearth, offering a glimpse into the past.

Natural light floods the interior through several large windows, many of which are located in the pentagon-shaped ends of the house. These windows, characterized by their diamond-shaped panes, are a recurring motif in Nichols' designs, adding a touch of elegance to the space. The combination of casement and sash windows further enhances the house's architectural charm.

The Atelier and Related Buildings

Adjacent to the Nichols House is Nichols' atelier, a two-story structure that mirrors the style of the main house but with a simpler design. The atelier features an open floor plan and a straightforward construction, reflecting its utilitarian purpose. While the house underwent renovations in the 1980s to restore its original condition, the atelier was not included in these efforts and remains a testament to Nichols' diverse architectural repertoire.

In the nearby Prospect Hill neighborhood, you'll find a similar residential property on Rogers Street. Though not owned by Nichols, this house closely resembles his personal residence, showcasing the enduring appeal of his architectural style. Both houses feature horizontal plank exteriors and pentagon-shaped ends, highlighting Nichols' signature design elements.

Preserving History

The John L. Nichols House was added to the National Register of Historic Places on September 27, 1984, in recognition of its unique architectural style and its association with Nichols. The house also holds the status of Bloomington Historic Designation and is considered a key component of the Illinois Central Railroad and North College Historic District, as noted in the 2004 City of Bloomington Interim Report on historic preservation.

Today, the Nichols House serves as the office of a local law firm, continuing to be a beacon of historical and architectural significance in Bloomington. Its walls, steeped in history, tell the story of a visionary architect whose work continues to inspire and captivate all who visit.