A Beloved TV Landmark Is Now Just a Memory
If you grew up watching the ‘90s sitcom Family Matters, the exterior of the Winslow family’s house probably feels like home. Located at 1516 W. Wrightwood Ave. in Chicago, that charming two-story house was etched into viewers’ memories through every opening credit roll.
But here’s the heartbreaking truth: that house no longer exists. It was demolished in 2018 after a permit was granted in late 2017. In its place now stands a modern three-unit condominium building, officially ending an iconic piece of TV history.
From Sitcom Fame to Modern Real Estate
The TV Magic Behind the Address
Though Family Matters was primarily filmed on a studio set in California, this house played a key role in setting the show’s tone and feel. Those familiar shots of Chicago, combined with this cozy Lincoln Park home, helped ground the show in a real-life setting that viewers connected with.
Not Just a House — A Symbol of Family Values
It wasn’t just the physical appearance that mattered — the house represented the warm, relatable dynamics of the Winslow family. It was a place where life lessons unfolded, laughs were shared, and Steve Urkel left his unforgettable mark.
What Happened to the House?
Demolition Was Approved in 2017
In September 2017, the City of Chicago approved a demolition permit for the Family Matters house and the garage behind it. This decision shocked many fans and stirred debate in local communities.
Demolished in 2018 to Make Way for Condos
By 2018, the demolition was complete. Bak Home Development, the company behind the project, moved forward with a plan to build a three-unit luxury condo on the lot — a far cry from the humble, fictional Winslow home.
How Fans Reacted: From Outrage to Acceptance
The Internet Wasn’t Happy
When news broke, social media lit up with emotional reactions. Some fans were furious, calling it “a loss of culture” and “a modern tragedy.” Others simply expressed sadness that a piece of their childhood was gone for good.
Developers Tried to Show Respect
In an attempt to ease fan concerns, the developers included a tribute wall in the new condo’s lobby. Framed photos of the original house and cast members were installed to honor the show’s legacy.
A Look at the New Condos
Upscale Design Replaces Vintage Charm
The new building offers luxury units with features like:
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High ceilings
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Oak hardwood floors
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Heated master bathroom floors
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Steam showers
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Modern kitchens with high-end appliances
Clearly, this was built for today’s Chicago elite — not a fictional middle-class family from a 1990s sitcom.
How Much Do They Cost?
When first listed:
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A 4-bedroom unit sold for $1.29 million
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Two 3-bedroom units were priced between $825K and $950K
That’s a long way from the family-friendly vibes of the original home.
The Legacy Lives On
Tributes and Online Memorials
Though the house is gone, its image lives on in reruns, memes, fan art, and tributes online. Countless fans still share memories of watching Family Matters with their families, and for many, that home remains frozen in time.
What the House Represented
It’s not just about bricks and wood. That house represented a time when TV shows taught lessons, celebrated diversity, and made us feel like part of something bigger.
Should It Have Been Saved? A Cultural Debate
Some Say Yes: It Was a Landmark
TV historians and nostalgic fans argue that the house should have been preserved, much like other famous TV homes. It was part of pop culture, and once gone, it’s gone forever.
Others Say No: Cities Change
Developers and city planners, however, see it differently. Chicago is constantly evolving, and making room for new housing is part of that growth. The show, after all, wasn’t even filmed inside the house.
Other Famous TV Houses Still Standing
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The Brady Bunch House (California) – Renovated and still a tourist draw
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Full House House (San Francisco) – Frequently visited by fans
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Breaking Bad House (Albuquerque) – Now protected by the owners
Compared to those, the Family Matters house has become one of the few iconic TV homes that no longer exist.
Final Thoughts: Gone, But Never Forgotten
The Family Matters house may be gone physically, but the emotional connection millions had with it is very much alive. Whether it was Steve Urkel’s antics, Carl’s dad wisdom, or Laura’s teen drama, the show left a mark — and so did that house.
So next time you catch a rerun, take a moment to remember that sweet little house in Chicago. It may be gone, but it still feels like home.
FAQs
1. Is the ‘Family Matters’ house still standing?
No, it was demolished in 2018 after being approved for teardown in late 2017.
2. Where was the original ‘Family Matters’ house located?
1516 W. Wrightwood Avenue, Chicago, Illinois.
3. Can I visit the location today?
Yes, but you’ll find a modern condo building there now, not the original house.
4. Why was the house demolished?
The owners chose to develop high-end condos, citing renovation challenges with the old structure.
5. Was anything done to honor the house?
Yes, the developers installed framed photos and a small tribute to the show in the new building’s entryway.
