Modern Gut Rehab with Second-Floor Addition in Albany Park, Chicago

Homeowners in Albany Park, Chicago, sought to modernize their traditional property to create a functional and stylish living space for their growing family. By adding a second-floor addition, reconfiguring the layout to an open concept, and incorporating modern design elements, this gut rehab project transformed the home into a perfect blend of historic charm and contemporary comfort.

Why Did the Homeowners Decide to Remodel?

The homeowners in Albany Park, Chicago, decided to remodel their traditional home to better accommodate their growing family’s needs while updating its functionality and style. They wanted to preserve the historic charm of the property while embracing a modern design that offered a more open and practical layout. By opting for a gut rehab with a second-floor addition, they aimed to increase living space, enhance energy efficiency, and create a home that would seamlessly blend timeless elegance with contemporary comforts.

What Challenges Did We Overcome During the Remodel?

During the remodel of this Albany Park home, one of the primary challenges was preserving the historic charm of the original structure while integrating a modern design and functionality. Balancing the old with the new required careful planning, especially when adding a two-story rear addition that needed to complement the existing architecture. Upgrading outdated systems, such as electrical, plumbing, and HVAC, while ensuring they met modern building codes in a century-old property was another hurdle. Additionally, reconfiguring the interior to create an open-concept layout meant addressing structural limitations, such as load-bearing walls, without compromising the integrity or aesthetic of the home.

How Did We Achieve the Homeowners’ Vision?

We achieved the homeowners’ vision by meticulously blending the traditional character of their Albany Park home with the sleek, modern design elements they desired. The project began with a complete gut rehab to reimagine the space from the ground up, ensuring every detail aligned with their needs. By adding a two-story addition to the rear of the home, we were able to create ample living space while maintaining the architectural integrity of the original structure. The layout was redesigned into an open-concept floor plan, making the home feel spacious and inviting, while retaining subtle nods to its historical roots through thoughtful design touches.

To meet the homeowners’ functional and aesthetic goals, we incorporated modern amenities throughout the property. The kitchen was transformed with white shaker cabinets, quartz countertops, and stainless steel appliances, creating a bright and contemporary centerpiece for the home. The master suite was designed as a sanctuary, featuring a spa-like shower, a soaking tub, and a double vanity for everyday luxury. Behind the scenes, upgrades to the electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems ensured the home was as efficient as it was beautiful. These elements, combined with hardwood flooring, modern fixtures, and improved insulation, created a home that perfectly balanced the past and present, fulfilling the homeowners’ vision for a stylish yet family-friendly space.

How Has This Remodel Changed the Owners Lives?

This remodel has completely transformed the homeowners’ lives by providing them with a spacious, functional, and modern home that meets their family’s growing needs while preserving the charm they loved about the original property. With five bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms, including a luxurious master suite, the family now enjoys ample space for comfort and privacy. The open-concept layout has created a more inviting and connected environment for daily living and entertaining. Upgraded systems like electrical, plumbing, and HVAC ensure the home is not only beautiful but also energy-efficient and reliable. This transformation has given the homeowners a home that enhances their lifestyle while offering long-term value and peace of mind.