Over and Over Again by MJM Design Group 

This was a very interesting project which actually started some 20 years ago.  The client was a single, successful attorney whose taste was quite eclectic; but simple and austere.  The home itself was as interesting as the client. Located in what was at the time a very up and coming area of Chicago called Bucktown, the property lot size was only 18′ wide on the outside which left the interior at 16’6″ wide.  The home sits on 6 levels complete with skylights and a Mondrian style window at the top level of the home, which happens to be the master suite.

Before - Chicago Project

At the time I was not allowed to paint or refinish the flooring. We were basically just furnishing the home. I was also stuck with cold metal aluminum mini blinds. The client opted for a sleek modern stainless steel table base and glass top. The only place left to warm the space was in the choice of the dining chairs and the fabrics selected. 

Fast forward 20 years and the home had been purchased by a couple of empty-nesters from the suburbs of Chicago. My past client was reluctant to sell any of her prized furnishings to the new home owner, so once again I got the chance to redo this home. This was a first in over 30 years of design! The same home twice!  Twenty years later to boot! 

After - Chicago Project

This time I was able to paint, refinish the floors to a rich charcoal and change out all the window treatments as well. The new dining room was selected with a pair of matching dining room tables which when expanded doubles the seating capacity from 8 to 16.  The addition of warm wood tones on the chairs as well as rich fabric colors and a wool striped area rug with leather trim really softened all the wood and pale gray walls.

After - Chicago Project

Travel up 7 steps to a completely updated look for the living room. Once again we stained the flooring to a rich charcoal gray and refinished the mantel a lighter tone. The addition of a cherry entertainment cabinet in the Mondrian style compliments the MBR window and really finished off the space.  A pair of 2 toned lounge chairs with a circle motif on the backs of the chairs was the inspiration for the custom designed wool area rug. The chrome nail heads make what could have been stuffy chairs gleam with a modern day twist.  A 6ft wide Aubergine leather ottoman is great for putting your feet up or serving drinks without having to worry about spills. The daybed sits against a natural and gray grasscloth which reflects the fireplace in the hand carved 5′ x 9′ mirror. The daybed is done in charcoal chenille with hand embroidered beaded rolled pillows and is great for relaxing or doubling as a bed for those extra overnight guests.  A hand made wool, Lurex and silk throw is readily available for those cold Chicago nights.

After - Chicago Project

This time I was able to cover the large wall of windows with a soft linen semi-sheer with stationary side panels of a loose eyelash fabric in lightweight wool. The cherry red walls are done in a custom tissue paper faux finish and feature original art by Picasso as well as other art pieces from local artists. What was once cold and uninviting is now is now warm, luxurious, and welcoming.

Win a $200 JCPenney Gift Card!

Tags: My Favorite Things

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