Erin Konrath
Photographer
1904
Built in
Oak Park, Illinois
Our clients chose an old Victorian with a well-maintained, if stripped down, interior and an addition that didn’t quite make sense. They spent the first two years getting to know their home, which gave them plenty of time to realize all the ways the space could better work for them. The home had more space than their previous Oak Park home, but more isn’t always the fix. We began with the study, a blank slate with an odd layout. They wanted it all to add up — the 1990s addition working for 2025 (and beyond) and honoring the 1800s roots.
A Study in Dark Academia
The family first fell in love over their shared love of books. They dreamed of a study reminiscent of those fusty English countryside manors — a place where they could retreat to read and write. The option for dim lighting, a desire for a roaring fireplace where one didn’t exist (yet) and a need for a workspace that didn’t dominate everything.
We gave them permission to make a choice that was right for both the home and the way they wanted to live.A gorgeous vintage mantel with a new gas insert was complemented by custom built-ins. All choices made possible by the strategic decision to remove a handful of windows.
A much needed workspace is tucked away in the corner, office supplies nearly invisible thanks to the built-ins. It’s an ideal way to minimize distractions between our client and her ADHD while she works, and to hide the visual reminders of work when she’s relaxing and hosting.
When it came time to style the space, the built-ins welcomed their eclectic collection of books, mementos and art — bridging their future vision of the space with the many memories they’ve made. The result is a space for reading, working, entertaining, and retreat — lush, layered, and distinctly theirs.