Located in Chicago’s Gold Coast, this two-story luxury penthouse was a blending of two different styles; his love of vintage rock and roll, along with her softer more feminine style. Floor to ceiling windows and large, open spaces, offered spectacular city views and provided the perfect opportunity to create drama in materiality. As the owners are part of Chicago’s liquor industry, a ‘killer bar’ was requested so we created a custom fluted wood Wenge bar, with dramatic marble countertops, and aged brass accents. A few more design standouts in this open area concept allowed for a statement chandelier in the dining room, a custom bed wall made of leather panels and walnut, alabaster sconces and a picture ledge to finish the wall perfectly. A modern penthouse customized in every way to fit our clients’ outgoing personalities and love of entertaining.

Located in Chicago's Gold Coast, this 4,000 s.f. two-story luxury penthouse offered spectacular city views and open living spaces. Our clients were both becoming empty nesters while planning their wedding as they started a new life together. They wanted a place to call their own that was a blend of both of their styles. With homes in other areas of the country, this home was to be unique to Chicago and representative of their lives here. As owners of local distilleries, the art of the cocktail hour became our overarching theme. We created the perfect place for entertaining from big soirees to intimate toasts for two.

Maximizing views while providing a comfortable interior was one of our primary challenges. We wanted to highlight floor-to-ceiling windows, a modern glass and steel staircase, and a sleek Italian kitchen. As the owners were part of Chicago’s liquor industry, a ‘killer bar’ was requested. It had to be functional but also fit into the formality of the Living Room where it would be located. We designed a custom bar with fluted wood, dramatic marble countertops, and aged brass accents. The open space of the dining room is punctuated by a statement chandelier. This selection was made to be appreciated from blocks away. A collection of tables is added to the living space to create a foyer experience but still keep your eye moving to the beautiful views as you enter the home.

The lighting opportunity in the kitchen wasn’t ideal with only one junction box. A custom fixture was designed that included multiple pendants to spread the light across the surface area without the expense of electrical modifications. For the Master Bedroom, the goal was to create a sensual oasis in a room full of hard lines. Two walls of soft draping window treatments provide a landscape offset by a dramatic custom bed wall. Soft leather panels, ribbed architectural millwork, alabaster sconces and a picture ledge finish the wall perfectly. A seating area for two gives them the opportunity to reconnect and recharge at the end of the day.

Team:
Interior Designer: Donna Mondi Interior Design
Photographer: Werner Straube
