A Look Inside R. Kelly’s Newly Sold Chicago ‘Chocolate Factory’ Mansion

R. Kelly’s former home has changed hands over the years, with the latest owner being one of the Isley Brothers. Now that it’s sold again, let’s take a peek inside!

R. Kelly‘s former suburban Chicago home, which was once dubbed the “Chocolate Factory,” has been sold once again. Located in the Olympia Fields Country Club, the mansion was built in 1997 by the “I Believe I Can Fly” R&B singer, but he lost it in 2011 due to foreclosure.

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However, from 2004 to 2010, the home and studio was where the disgraced R&B singer churned out a myriad of his hits. But it was also allegedly one of the locations he used to conduct abusive behavior.

As reported by CNN, the sprawling home was allegedly where Kelly’s female guests had strict rules, requiring them to stay in their rooms until told they could leave, have their IDs copied upon entry, and would have to sign nondisclosure agreements. Some of the guests were allegedly as young as 16 years old.

The last owners the home were Rudolph Isley of the Isley Brothers and his wife, Elaine, who spent years trying to renovate the space as it was severely ruined when they purchased it in 2013. Despite their best efforts and with Ronald’s passing in 2024, it was time to finally part ways with the home, leading Elaine to sell it for the low, low price of $1.6 million.

And if you’re curious to see what the home’s looks like nowadays, keep reading to find out!

The Isley Estate

Screenshot: Youtube.com

In 2013, R. Kelly’s Chocolate Factory became the Isley Estate, as it was bought and renovated by Rudolph Isely of the Isley Brothers and his wife. The couple bought the property for over $500,000, today it is listed for over $3 million.

The Foyer

Screenshot: Youtube.com

This home has a wood-beam theme, making it look like a cabin. You will also notice a love for the classic color combination of red and white. This is definitely not a modern color palette.

Sports Court

Screenshot: Youtube.com

The Isley Estate has an outdoor sports court compatible with basketball, tennis, and pickleball.

Bedroom

Screenshot: Youtube.com

The mansion has six bedrooms, with many rooms accessible via elevator or the multiple staircases. Can you spot the basketball theme going in this room?

Dining Room/Kitchen

Screenshot: Youtube.com

If you’re hosting Thanksgiving dinner, you’ll be in luck with this 20-seat table.

Dining Room/Kitchen

Screenshot: Youtube.com

This kitchen has all of the up-to-date stainless steel appliances. Also, they made sure to tie in the all-white cabinets for their love of the color white throughout the rest of the home.

Massive Garage

Screenshot: Youtube.com

This huge garage can hold at least six cars, but can also keep up to nine!

Theater Room

Screenshot: Youtube.com

Although you only see eight chairs in this photo, there are a total of 17 chairs in this all-red theater room! Also, why are there so many of the same photos on the wall?

Library/Office Space

Screenshot: Youtube.com

The Isleys forced more red into this home, continuing the red carpet in this office with matching red books.

Retro Diner

Screenshot: Youtube.com

To add a bit of fun to the home, there’s a retro diner-themed kitchen. Again, with red decorations.

Living Room

Screenshot: Youtube.com

This entertainment space features album covers of the Isley Brothers on the walls.

Jungle-Themed Pool House

Screenshot: Youtube.com

As if this home couldn’t be more ostentatious, there is a two-story jungle-themed pool hall that looks like a water park. It has a treehouse, hot tub, waterfall, and more.

Jungle-Themed Pool House

Screenshot: Youtube.com

How do you even come up with the idea for a pool house like this?

Indoor Gym

Screenshot: Youtube.com

No need to leave the house for a gym session! The mansion comes with a gym room that has an elliptical and weight machines.

In-Law Suite

Screenshot: Youtube.com

An in-law suite is also included on the property.

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