Manor of Fact
Behind every home, there’s a story waiting to be told. Manor of Fact explores the fascinating history, architecture, and secrets of extraordinary houses. From grand estates like The Breakers to quirky Spite Houses, each episode uncovers the people, events, and unexpected twists that shaped these remarkable homes. Whether you're a history buff, architecture enthusiast, or just love a good real estate story, each week will be a captivating journey through the most intriguing homes in history.
Manor of Fact
Episode 9 - The Home Alone House
In this episode of Manor of Fact, we step inside one of the most recognizable houses in movie history: the Home Alone house.
Tucked away on a quiet street in Winnetka, Illinois, this red-brick Georgian became a cultural touchstone after appearing in the 1990 holiday classic Home Alone. But behind the slapstick traps and Christmas chaos is a very real family home with a fascinating story shaped by architecture, Hollywood illusion, and the emotional pull of domestic warmth.
We explore how the house was chosen, how filmmakers transformed its interiors to serve the story, and which rooms were real versus built on a soundstage. You’ll hear how the home functioned long before the cameras arrived, how its value and meaning have evolved over time, and why this particular house continues to resonate so deeply with audiences more than three decades later.
This isn’t just a movie house. It’s a case study in how film shapes our ideas of comfort, family, and what “home” is supposed to feel like, especially during the holidays.
Because every house has a story to tell.
Some just happen to be booby-trapped.