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This West Loop condo blends open loft living with character-rich design. Located in the historic Holden Block—an Italianate-style building designed in 1872 by Stephen Vaughn Shipman—this landmarked structure offers a rare glimpse into post-fire Chicago architecture. With its original Buena Vista limestone façade and exposed interior brick, the home provided a warm, tactile backdrop for a colorful and expressive kitchen renovation.

This was the third kitchen O’Brien Harris designed for this client, each one distinct from the last. For this space, the client wanted something entirely different—cool, colorful, and moody. The design team delivered with a custom blue-green painted finish, complemented by warm walnut accents and polished brass hardware.

The kitchen was intentionally edited down to its most essential elements. Open to the rest of the loft, it had to feel beautiful, efficient, and integrated. The walnut range hood with brass inlay becomes a centerpiece, echoed by a painted shelf above the sink, trimmed in brass. Glass cabinet doors reveal walnut interiors, offering a layered and tailored look. Premium appliances from Bertazzoni, Meile, and Sub-Zero are seamlessly integrated, while the Waterworks faucet and Waterworks hardware provide classic polish.

Beyond the kitchen, a dedicated coffee bar and separate great room bar carry the same material palette. The bar’s timber shelving was repurposed from an original mantel found in the unit, connecting past and present. O’Brien Harris also designed the cabinetry in the guest bedroom and primary bath, continuing the warm, contemporary look throughout the home.

Location: West Loop Chicago, IL | Custom Cabinetry and Kitchen Design: O’Brien Harris | Interior Designer: Goesling Group | Builder: MW Craftsman |  Photography: Ryan McDonald  |  Kitchen Cabinetry: Refectory with a Custom Painted Finish and Walnut Interiors | Published in House Beautiful