After a lengthy property search, a full penthouse floor of a Chicago high-rise was discovered that afforded 360-degree views, 11-foot high ceilings, and a double height space looking south to the city. The space was gutted to a shell condition, awaiting the new interventions.
The owners’ brief was: ‘A home we love, have pride in, and feel comfortable in, with the ability to entertain graciously with simple elegance.’
Lifelong collectors, the brief included also finding space for numerous pieces of mid-century (to present day) furniture, sculpture, art. It was to feel comfortable for the couple and their dog, their immediate family, and philanthropic events for 75 people.
A custom spiral staircase winds up to a mezzanine where the owners can access their expansive two-story bookcase. The geometric perforated metal panels reflect the home’s industrial aesthetic which is inspired by the owner, whose father was a machinist. This is complemented by a thin, smooth segmented walnut handrail.
Inspired by design visionaries, Jean Prouve and Pierre Chareau, whose innovative, movable, machined elements made transformable spaces; sliding perforated steel panels effortlessly convert large open spaces into intimate, sheltered environments. These machined and patinaed steel fabrications seamlessly integrate with the home’s extensive collection of mid-century to contemporary art, sculpture, and custom-crafted wood furniture.
A non-directional end-grain walnut floor provides a visual weight and durable surface for the large gatherings that take place. Plastered perimeter walls accommodate art display, while perforated metal, slatted wood, and floating fabric planes deliver effective acoustic absorption.
Additional Images
General Contractor: JDL Development Corporation
Owners Construction Advisor/Manager: Peter Seigel
Structural Engineer: Halvorson and Partners
Furniture Pieces: Glazebrook Woodworking
Millwork: Paoli Millwork
Acoustical Consultant: Threshold Acoustics
Lighting Design: Mitchell Cohn Lighting
MEP: BES Engineering Systems
Interiors: Wheeler Kearns Architects (Sharlene Young, founder of Symbiotic Living)
Photography: Tom Rossiter