Reviving a 1920s Chicago Penthouse: A Masterclass in Historic Renovation
How architects balanced modern functionality with Art Deco charm in a Gold Coast landmark.
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1The Challenge
This 8,000-square-foot 1920s penthouse in Chicago's historic Gold Coast district had soaring Art Deco details but lacked modern functionality. The owners needed an eat-in kitchen, outdoor space, mudroom, and better flow for family gatherings. Original features like 15-foot ceilings and leaded-glass windows presented both preservation opportunities and technical hurdles for the Craig Company architects.
2Strategic Demolition
The team obtained a separate demolition permit to remove outdated spaces like a disused service kitchen and 1960s solarium while finalizing designs. This allowed early discovery of hidden structural conditions. Gray Salt Construction cofounder Molly Gray notes this approach saved time and helped navigate historic building constraints before full construction began.
3Kitchen Transformation
The new kitchen features pocket doors with hand-painted wallpaper panels that can open for an enfilade effect or close for privacy. A butler's pantry and limestone-clad terrace were added, doubling outdoor space. Architect Taylor Stein emphasized creating flexible zones that accommodate both family breakfasts and large dinner parties within the historic footprint.
4Invisible Upgrades
Modern systems were meticulously hidden: new HVAC ductwork runs behind original paneling, electrical conduits hide within restored moldings, and a TV disappears behind mirrored panels. The home now boasts a Crestron smart system controlling lighting, security, and climate while maintaining 1920s aesthetics.
5Material Restoration
Key historic elements were preserved including brass-and-glass laylights, wrought-iron railings, and wood paneling. Damaged trim was replicated using 3D modeling for rubber or wood replacements. The team added storm windows behind original leaded glass to prevent drafts while maintaining visual authenticity.
6Design Continuity
New architectural details reference the home's Art Deco roots—door casings mimic original molding profiles, terrazzo floors incorporate brass inlays matching historic bronze work. As Craig Company's Joan Craig explains in her book 'On Artistry,' such decisions require balancing historical sensitivity with contemporary needs.
7Lighting Innovation
Nathan Orsman designed a Lutron lighting system with nine dimming panels and smart shades, all concealed within restored fixtures. The original entry laylight was retrofitted with LEDs. This technological integration allows 21st-century convenience without compromising the home's vintage character.
8Preservation Blueprint
This project demonstrates how strategic planning (22-month timeline), selective demolition, and invisible tech integration can revitalize historic properties. The result honors Chicago's architectural legacy while creating functional family spaces—a model for urban preservation that avoids becoming a museum piece.