A Breath of Fresh Air

Captivated by the allure of waterfront living, Ben and Trudi Allen make their home at Windrivers Condominiums on a breathtaking Illinois property located  “where the rivers meet.” Located at the exact confluence of the Mississippi and Illinois Rivers and situated on the National Scenic Byway, the development is a must-see community on the way to Grafton along the scenic Great River Road that leads to the quaint, historic town.

The Allens’ condominium is one of the eye-catching homes in a fabulous development that invites a second look with the peaceful, soothing allure of the water – an enticing feature that the family loves, with their Sea Ray Cruiser docked nearby.

The charming home welcomes family and friends with window-filled, open spaces that lead to splendid views of the water and nature’s overflowing beauty.

Trudi’s flair for and love of interior design is immediately apparent in the art-filled entryway that exudes eclectic charm, anchored with a touch of the tropics.

Intimate seating areas in the great room, adjacent sitting room and breakfast nook are flooded with a fresh, sea-touched palette, and shades of aqua blue prevail. The home's light, airy rooms create the perfect sense of calm and balance for the Allens' busy lives.

When they're home, the comfortable, “kick your shoes off and stay a while” appeal -blends their casually polished and stylishly designed indoor and outdoor living spaces seamlessly. Theirs is a harmonious, family-centered home and lifestyle – where you're likely to find grandchildren cuddling up for a story on a comfy sofa, running barefoot outdoors with the family dog, Maddy, or waiting for a ride in the boat with Grandpa.

The couple happily admits that the family fell in love with the location and all subsequently moved to Grafton. They've developed a strong connection to the Illinois community – just a short distance from St. Louis – and a passion for the town's revitalization. The family volunteers their time within the close-knit community; Betsy was an alderwoman, and Ben is currently serving as City Attorney.

“We lassoed our kids, and they've taken over management and ownership of our family businesses,” says Ben with a smile.

Their children, Peter and Gina Allen and John and Betsy Puent, help manage other Allen projects – the popular Loading Dock Restaurant, two guest houses, and a monthly flea market. Their future plans include development of a small boutique inn and spa at the confluence of the rivers. And, a small marina will complement the Windrivers Condominiums and Inn.

From the home's spacious terrace, the views of the palisade bluffs, rivers and small nearby islands evoke a relaxed, open-air lifestyle that beckons visitors to the area, including feathered friends. “It's like watching a movie with ever-changing scenery, with the riverboats, cruisers, ski boats, glide planes and all types of wildlife – eagles, herons, pelicans and gulls – gracing the backdrop,” says Trudi.

“From the middle of November until the middle of March, the eagles land in the trees from about 7 a.m. until sundown, and then the pelicans come from March through May. It's wonderful.”