Erin Konrath
Photographer
Architect: E.E. Roberts (1908)
Magner Architecture (2023)
Architect
1908
BUILT IN
Oak Park, Illinois
After a decade in their home, our Elmwood clients were more than ready to figure out how to integrate their love of entertaining, plenty of pets and a nod to mid-century modern all into a Prairie School home built by renowned architect E.E. Roberts. They also weren’t sure exactly what their style was or how to bring it to life. That’s just the kind of complex, many-moving-parts design challenge we love.
Prairie, Reimagined
The kitchen had space a-plenty. It just didn’t work or feel warm. Natural light floods in, so we brightened the space even more with blues and brass. It was all complemented by custom (and outrageously gorgeous) grain-matched walnut cabinetry and dark countertops.
Homes need to be purpose-designed. Everything we considered needed to stand up to a bevy of rambunctious dogs, a busy child and a robust calendar of social events. Over that we layered in color and style, working in their favorite pieces and highlighting their art collection.
Existing millwork, proportions, and material palette were maintained in a first floor living room, media room, entry and kitchen so it feels deeply integrated with the historic architecture. Then we generously and thoughtfully sprinkled the quirky personality of our clients like glitter.
The scale of the living room required furniture that fit. Healthy doses of pattern and color across the rooms were kept cohesive by repeating tones in unexpected ways. The family is known for entertaining, and now they can listen to their record collection by the fire with friends in comfort and style.