Oak Park, 2019, Residential
Originally built in 1909, this historic home in Oak Park's Ridgeland Historic District was lessened by haphazard modifications over time, excessive energy bills, and a lacked flow and connection to the yard.
We provided a holistic design approach including architecture, interior design and landscape design - pursuing a selective demolition path in order to retain and honor historic details and character of the home. We listened to the house; explored, transformed and expanded historic design themes to create spaces that were new, modern, and functional. The end result is a peaceful, unforced coexistence of modern and historic styles.
Sustainability and energy efficiency were also important design drivers. We created a highly efficient home with a limited budget, resulting in a 68% reduction in year-over-year energy bills.
The project utilized a strategic Phased Construction approach that respected budget and culminated in the design of a garden with a series of outside rooms and paths connecting the home and homeowner to the yard.
Services:
Ellen Rothenberg, elsetime, 2015. Installation View, Sector 2337. Photo by Nathan Kirkman.