I hope I’ve grown much wiser over the years, when I was younger I didn’t understand you shouldn’t force a square peg in a round hole. I suppose you can with some effort; but is it worth it? Probably not. Most of my enduring client relationships have come from happy accidents or some type of serendipity. I came to meet these lovely people by chance over 10 years ago. At the time I was getting over a professional disappointment. This potential client had recently moved to the Chicago area from New York, they had some things already, but needed a little bit of everything. Was this kismet? Time would tell…
Entry Foyer: the massive transformation consisted of new limestone flooring, a custom lantern, altar table, new staircase and runner.
I typically don’t show before and after photos, but in this case I feel the project deserves some attention due to the massive transformation the client’s home saw over the years. Unfortunately, I will never get to finish this particular residence, my lovely clients recently relocated to another part of the United States. Needless to say we will begin again when they are ready, but in the meantime, I thought you might like to see this project.
Living Room: we reused the client’s chesterfield sofa and round table from their original Foyer incarnation, the rest of the furnishings are custom made for the client.
It didn’t take much time to build a rapport with this young couple, it became abundantly clear they were hungry for a beautiful environment. Extra brownie points for the client; they were kind, (wow, what a concept) had an adorable, daughter and a gorgeous golden retriever.
Kitchen and Breakfast Room: Everything had to go; or did it? We reused the pendant lights and table, the existing chairs were reupholstered. New window treatments, runners, custom stools, countertops and backsplash. The existing cabinetry was refinished in situ. I don’t recommend this unless you have a masterful painter, we created a striated driftwood finish glazed with a protective clear coat to minimize potential chipping.
The Bar: once there was a dreary alcove no one loved, the mandatory glow-up lightened, brightened and gave the love and attention it needed.
Dining options abound: the formal dining room received new chairs, custom window treatments, bespoke runner, and faux slate walls. The client’s existing table base was refinished, and the chandelier was reused. Another view of the kitchen.
Many improvements greatly enhanced the spec house, my client was the second owner; they understood the need to invest heavily on the infrastructure including lighting upgrades, bathroom renovations, floor refinishing, custom window treatments, furniture and two significant landscaping projects which cost a king’s ransom. Fortunately my client’s took their time for many reasons. Creating a handsome home is akin to running a marathon, it’s physically taxing not to mention draining on relationships and your bank account. Did I mention quite invasive? It’s such a joy when the workers are gone and you end up with a home you love! Ask my clients!
Below are a few more spaces that received significant TLC
The dogs approve too!
I may have a little more snow on the roof now, but I’m still bursting with creativity! Hopefully you’re inspired to proceed on a new project with us. Give me a call and we’ll give you a home you never imagined!
A world full of love, like yours, like mine, like home~
~Ken
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vzlPge4he0E&list=RDvzlPge4he0E&start_radio=1
