kitchen hearth  -  3-flat to single family de-conversion

roscoe village, chicago  Illinois    Completed 2016                                                                                                  

The Kitchen Hearth Project involved the de-conversion of a typical Chicago masonry 3-flat in Roscoe Village to a single family home.  The central theme of the project was placing the kitchen at the physical center of the home and eliminating redundant spaces. Living spaces were consolidated to maximize function in the small footprint. Bar seating replaces the need for an breakfast table. The original formal living room became the new dining room while the kitchen at the back of the home became the family room and mudroom entry. The new wood burning fireplace is placed on the back wall. This allowed us to split the space into a distinct family room and entry space and made access to the seating convenient and free flowing.  

The wood framed back stairwell was removed which allows for 10 more feet of backyard and a flood of light penetrating into the space. Some of the original details, such as the wood newel stair posts, second floor wood doors and door knobs were reused, while the new eclectic selections compliment the original building style while creating a modern yet warm feel. 

On the second floor, careful planning allows for a master suite, additional bedrooms and a home office. Stacking the laundry in a closet and creating a nook for linen storage adds convenience without sacrificing space.  

Contractor: PO Construction
Photography: Matt Mansueto