Several years ago, when this Northwest suburban Chicago couple was contemplating a complete renovation and two big additions to their house, they had an epiphany. Why not bring home a taste of their favorite vacation spots? The challenge: how to make that work on a 7.5 -acre estate in the low-altitude Midwest?
They called on my team and I to achieve a balance between the extensive interior stone accents and aged woods they envisioned and softer, more refined, elements. Most of all, these clients wanted a very peaceful environment, almost a retreat, for themselves, their two junior high-age children and their extended family and friends. Because they have an open-door policy, they wanted their home to be gracious and casual enough that everyone feels like they can come in, kick off their shoes and just enjoy each other’s company.