Lakeview Apartment

Chicago, Illinois

This historic apartment building was designed in 1925 by noted Chicago architect Howard Van Doren Shaw. The residence is one of the building’s eleven original single-floor apartments, each 7,500 sf in size.

The project was the complete remodeling of the apartment, which sought to maintain the historic feel of the spaces while meeting the demands of contemporary living.  To achieve this, key historic spaces such as the living and dining rooms were maintained and restored, while back-of-house spaces were completely gutted and replanned.

In the historic library, the limestone bay and window surrounds and steel casements were reconstructed and original terrazzo floors restored. Original oak paneling was ebonized for a more contemporary look.

The entry gallery’s vaulted plaster ceiling and cornice were reconstructed, matching exactly Shaw’s original unique design. New marble flooring in a dynamic dark and light pattern was designed for the space.

Historic finishes, including wood trim, ornamental plaster, quartered oak flooring and terrazzo were restored and replicated as necessary.

Back of house spaces were gutted and replanned, with modern, open layouts and rich finishes that help to unify the overall apartment design.

The kitchen and bathrooms were completely replanned with new millwork and stone slab finishes.

New double hung windows with insulated glazing units were designed to match the historic sash exactly. New systems for HVAC, plumbing, electrical and information technology are integrated seamlessly throughout the apartment.  

Credits

General Contractor: Centaur Construction Company, Inc.

Interior Design: Suzanne Lovell Inc.

Lighting Design: Randy Burkett Lighting Design

Photographer: Tom Rossiter