Streeterville Apartment

Firm: Kuklinski + Rappe Architects

Location: Chicago

General Contractor: Chris Carey + Company

The comprehensive interior renovation of this 60th floor Streeterville apartment was designed to serve the anticipated lifestyle of a soon-to-be-empty-nester suburban couple.

A former 1970’s bachelor pad, the original apartment favored closed off rooms that eclipsed views, multiple floor levels which impeded contemporary entertaining and ubiquitous mirrored surfaces which offended modern sensibilities.

The new design began by stripping the apartment down to its structure and relocating mechanical equipment & ductwork to increase perimeter ceiling heights. The floor plan was simplified to eliminate a convoluted entry sequence and to consolidate kitchen, dining and living spaces to fully exploit spectacular south and west views of the city. A millwork wall with a movable panel allows a new home office to be annexed to the living room and opens a secondary circulation path through the space. This simple reconfiguration allows the space to scale from the cozy activities of a couple, to hosting the immediate family, to easily entertaining a crowd.

Espresso-stained quartersawn white oak is a common element that is woven throughout the apartment. As wide-plank flooring, it alternates with travertine tile to subtly delineate spaces; as signature kitchen cabinetry, it is complimented by white cabinetry to balance and organize the space; as built-in wardrobes and sliding wall panels, its linearity emphasizes the horizontal and adds texture. And as slatted grilles, it adds interest to ceiling surfaces, while concealing lighting and ventilation.