Nestled within the historic Holden Block in Chicago’s lively West Loop, a loft dating back to 1872 has been a silent observer of the passage of time. It has endured numerous transformations, survived several floods (including a dramatic pipe burst on Christmas Eve), and has gone through countless repairs. However, after a meticulous renovation carried out by Goesling Group in collaboration with bespoke cabinetry maker O’Brien Harris, this 1,250 sq. ft. condo has entered a new chapter—one that honors its past while welcoming a modern aesthetic.
From Scars to Soul: A Story-Driven Transformation
The homeowners were initially attracted to the property for its structural elements: lofty ceilings, exposed brick, and an unmistakable charm. Yet, hidden beneath its surface were numerous issues—water damage, outdated floor plans, and a disjointed feel due to years of inconsistent updates.
Rather than eliminating these flaws, designers Sarah and Becca Goesling embraced them. Drawing inspiration from Fleetwood Mac’s “Songbird,” their design philosophy was subtle, rhythmic, and resilient—prioritizing enduring materials and emotionally impactful choices over fleeting trends.
Their guiding principle was:
“Let the building guide you. Keep what’s worth keeping. Add what matters most.”
Kitchen: Where Craftsmanship Meets Character
The kitchen emerged as the stronghold of the renovation, a space where aesthetics meet functionality and history speaks.
- Cabinetry: Tailored by O’Brien Harris, featuring a rich blue-green lacquer finish with walnut interiors and brass hardware.
- Countertops & Backsplash: Elegant marble surfaces enhance the room’s sculptural essence.
- Centerpiece: Instead of a conventional island, a restored 19th-century fruitwood trestle table anchors the area, complemented by vintage Danish chairs and a teak sideboard.
- Statement Details: A sculptural brass-trimmed hood captures attention, while original brick walls, once concealed, have been lovingly restored to accentuate the space.
“The result is a room that feels just as right for weeknight takeout as it does for a long, candlelit dinner with friends.”
Living Room: Layers of Warmth and Memory
The adjacent living area continues the narrative of material storytelling with its rich textures and reclaimed elements:
- Bar Area: Wrapped in marble, featuring reclaimed timber shelves along with a bar cabinet designed by O’Brien Harris.
- Sofa: A luxurious ruby velvet piece from Roger & Chris that invites relaxation.
- Fireplace: The mantle—reclaimed from a friend’s house—has been restored and reimagined as a subtle focal point of the room.
In this space, the past is not only preserved but also personalized.
Bedroom: A Lush Retreat with Vintage Soul
The bedroom provides an oasis of softness and tranquility, anchored by vintage touches:
- Wallpaper: Hand-printed Morris & Co. wallpaper, a nod to classic British design.
- Furniture: 1950s walnut nightstands sourced from 1stDibs, teamed with an Article bed.
- Textiles: Velvet drapes contribute depth and a hint of romance.
This room whispers luxury rather than shouting it.
Primary Bathroom: Glossy Meets Organic
A complete redesign enabled both structural enhancements and visual coherence:
- Vanity: Custom walnut craftsmanship by O’Brien Harris.
- Stone & Tile: Calacatta Michelangelo countertops paired with blue-green glossy subway tiles from The Fine Line.
- Fixtures: Unlacquered brass fittings from Waterworks and Kallista, designed to develop an attractive patina over time.
This bathroom achieves a harmonious blend of function and aesthetics in an effortlessly timeless manner.
Guest Bath: A Punch of Pattern and Personality
Compact yet impactful, the guest bathroom delivers a striking impression:
- Vanity: A vintage mid-century walnut dresser repurposed as a sink base.
- Tile: Hand-painted starburst tiles from Fireclay extend from the floor into the shower.
- Mood: Artistic and architectural, yet maintaining warmth.
This space serves as a perfect reminder that bold design can shine at any size.
Design Takeaways for Your Own Historic Home
Key Lessons:
- Let the building guide you: Embrace its strengths and don’t resist its unique quirks.
- Honor imperfections: Flaws can transform into your most striking design features.
- Layer with intention: Incorporate vintage, custom, and artisanal elements to narrate your story.
- Make it personal: The most soulful homes reflect your history, passions, and perseverance.
About the Designers: Goesling Group
Headed by Sarah and Becca Goesling, Goesling Group is a multidisciplinary studio rooted in storytelling, craftsmanship, and curiosity. Whether they are designing a kitchen or undertaking a comprehensive home renovation, their approach is collaborative, thoughtful, and deeply personal—resulting in spaces that are both soulful and stunning.
“We love integrating vintage and repurposed materials in a way that feels elegant and modern versus rustic.”
FAST FACTS
- Location: Chicago, IL – West Loop
- Square Footage: 1,250 sq. ft.
- Design Team: Goesling Group (interior design), O’Brien Harris (cabinetry)
- Style: Industrial, soulful, personal
- Project Type: Comprehensive condo renovation
- Historic Landmark: Holden Block, established in 1872
Final Thought
This loft in the West Loop is not merely a beautiful residence—it is a living memory. It illustrates that with the right vision, care, and craftsmanship, even a weathered space can be rejuvenated. Often, the most compelling design narratives unfold gradually, through chaos, challenges, and sometimes—unexpected pipe bursts.
So, the next time your home presents an unforeseen challenge, remember: the interruptions could very well become the most cherished parts of your story.
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A champion of quality and authenticity, Emily delves into Australian-made products and their impact on global markets. With a focus on sustainability, she helps readers understand why these goods are leading the trade world.
