Urban Dwelling
- Location Chicago, Illinois
- Design 1995
- Construction 1996
- General Contractor The Kissner Group
- Mechanical Engineer Fox Valley Engineering
- Furnishings Leslie Jones, Inc.
- Design Principal Thomas L Shafer AIA
- Project Architect Michael Wilkinson
- Photography Doug Snower Photography
Located in an elegant pre-war building on Lake Shore Drive in Chicago, this project consolidated two units into one, renovating them entirely. The apartment, with commanding views of Lake Michigan, was to be the new home for a young couple.
The 1920s unit had lost much of its grandeur and distinctive beauty over the years that required a restoration of its original character by re-establishing a language of plaster moldings and details. A new enfilade hallway provided linkage between the living spaces and afforded much needed storage nestled within the newly formed poche’ spaces. An oval was introduced, a spatial experience reinforcing the bead moulding in the grand living room ceiling, to retain a feeling of the past. All the bathrooms were completely reconstructed and updated, mechanically as well as aesthetically, yet still speak of an era gone by. A new kitchen, appointed with modern amenities, fits seamlessly into the architecture without compromising the conveniences of today.
Upon completion, the owners were able to use their collection of Moderne and Art Deco furniture throughout the apartment, juxtaposed yet complimenting the traditional details of their newly renovated home.