Custom homes and remodels where historic review can shape the plan.
Hinsdale, IL
Building in a village with two National Register historic districts
RL Builders builds custom homes and high end remodels in Hinsdale, a village where the median home value for 2015 to 2019 was $969,219 and the downtown is described as little changed despite many teardowns.
On a Hinsdale job Frank is on site every day, and you deal with him directly. References and tours of finished RL homes are available on request.
County
Cook and DuPage Counties
Population
17,395 (2020)
Permits
What clients say
Homeowners on working with Frank
Frank and his team built our dream home through COVID, and the quality has been exceptional. Years later he still checks in seasonally and stays a call or text away, which is rare and appreciated.
Julie Morris, homeownerFrank handled our kitchen renovation and we could not be happier with the final project. He was on site every day, used skilled craftsmen, and made what could have been stressful feel easy.
Homeowner, kitchen renovation
What to know before building in Hinsdale
Hinsdale's Community Development Department handles building permits, zoning requests and entitlements such as Planned Development, Variances and Special Use applications. The permit list includes new homes and garages, additions and grading alterations. The village reviews plans for building code and zoning compliance, then inspects, and approved plans must be built as approved unless the village signs off on changes first. Effective August 1, 2026, every building permit submittal must include an electronic file along with the paper documents.
The biggest variable is the address. Downtown Hinsdale, the Robbins Park Historic District and scattered landmarked homes can carry extra submittals and reviews. Owners of local landmarks or homes in Robbins Park need a Certificate of Appropriateness from the Historic Preservation Commission before new construction, demolition or exterior changes. Its decision is binding for designated landmarks but only advisory for other buildings inside historic districts. If it denies an application, you have 15 days to appeal to the Village Board.
Downtown and the Robbins Park district east of downtown are both National Register historic districts. The Assistant Director of Community Development is the staff liaison to the Plan Commission and the Historic Preservation Commission, and the Building Commissioner is liaison to the Zoning Board of Appeals. If your house is old, find out whether it's landmarked before you assume a teardown is the path.
RL coordinates the permit package and lines the plans up with what the village and its commissions require. See custom homes and home additions.
Sources: Hinsdale permits, Hinsdale Community Development, Hinsdale historic preservation, alteration and demolition, Hinsdale, Illinois (Wikipedia)
Services
What we build in Hinsdale
Custom Homes
New custom homes on your lot, typically $1M to $3.5M, finished in under a year for homes up to 10,000 sq ft.
Upscale Remodeling
High end kitchen, bathroom and main living remodels with the owner on site every day.
Complete Renovations
Whole home renovations that rework layout, finishes and systems as one project.
Basement Build Outs
Finished basements from framing through final trim, built to last below grade.
Additions and Extensions
Bedrooms, baths and living space that match the house and look original.
Specialty Projects
Fire restoration, demolition and select commercial build outs.
Projects
RL projects near Hinsdale
All the Bells and Whistles
A Mediterranean inspired estate of more than 10,000 sq ft with 6 bedrooms, 10 bathrooms, a home theater and indoor and outdoor pools. Built start to finish in under a year.
Homer Glen Ranch
A custom ranch home in Homer Glen with durable materials, clean detailing and covered outdoor areas. Completed in 2018.
Brick Estate Home
A two story brick custom home with a finished walkout lower level and a multi level outdoor living setup with a covered patio and deck.
FAQ
Building in Hinsdale: questions
Does RL Builders build in Hinsdale?
Yes, we take on custom homes and remodels in Hinsdale.
Do I need historic approval to build in Hinsdale?
If you own a local landmark or a home in the Robbins Park Historic District, yes. You need a Certificate of Appropriateness from the Historic Preservation Commission before new construction, demolition or exterior changes.
What format do Hinsdale permit submittals need?
Effective August 1, 2026, all building permit submittals must include an electronic file in addition to paper documents. Plan for both when the drawings are ready to go in.
Is the Historic Preservation Commission's decision final?
It's binding for designated landmarks and only advisory for other buildings inside historic districts. If the Commission denies an application, the applicant can appeal to the Village Board within 15 days.
Planning a build in Hinsdale?
Call (708) 301-0700 or send a few details, and Frank will talk through your lot, budget and timing.
