Private Residence

A client-centric combination of two adjacent units in a landmark Chicago high-rise, fit with sweeping views of the lake and city.

The clients focus was seamless integration into one unit with accessible features for future aging in place.

A new floor plan was developed to improve the openness and flow of the space. A reworked entry sequence was created, offering an open view to the lake immediately upon entering, flooding the unit with natural light. Integrating a more open layout and selectively pushing openings between adjacent spaces to the perimeter created the opportunity for sweeping panoramic views of the lake and city.

The design brings together the form and detail of the original Holabird & Root façade while modernizing the curtain wall bays to fulfill retailer needs for today. In plan, the window bays return to their historic square-corner configuration. New curtain walls feature custom fin-profile aluminum mullions with large glass expanses to maximize the exposure of displays inside. The glass is split both horizontally and vertically according to the original elevations. The glazing itself is low-iron laminate glass offering little color or distortion and maximum strength for security impact resistance.

Custom millwork and cased openings define the newly proportioned boundaries between areas. Circulation galleries link private spaces to the more public spaces, while allowing maximum privacy for the residents. Bathrooms, kitchen, and support spaces were all designed to allow for maximum accessibility.  

Cohesive detailing unifies the spaces, while a warm, neutral color palette enhances a serene light-filled space.

This project was fast-tracked with renovations completed just nine months after initial concept. Key to achieving this was a team approach: working with the client to guide key decisions, providing high quality design documentation, and expediting the schedule to avoid delays with the Contractor.  

Chicago, IL
Construction Completed in 2016

DESIGN ROLES
Schematic Design
Design Development

DESIGN TEAM
Trina Sandschafer
Michael Prince