MCM Borneo

Located in a quiet Chicago suburb, this 1968 mid-century home offered more promise than polish when our clients first came across it. Unsure if this home could truly be their dream retreat, they took a chance, knowing that with the right team, transformation was more than possible. With its beautiful mid-century bones, the home offered the perfect foundation. Leaning into those strengths, the design team embraced the home’s architectural elements by repurposing the existing stonework, preserving the original exterior lighting, and reimagining the original wall panels displayed throughout.

New windows blur the line between indoors and out, framing the tranquil panoramic views of the waterfront setting. The design team emphasized natural light and a functional layout throughout, creating a serene atmosphere that celebrates the surrounding landscape. Upon entry, what was once an interior water feature is now a sunken conversation pit inspired by the mid-century era, great for social gatherings. The area now features a built-in bench and a floor-to-ceiling bookcase that complements the existing wood paneling. We opted for a dramatic black ceiling in the main areas to create a seamless visual rhythm throughout the rooms. In the kitchen, we opted for a waterfall-edge at the island using a warm and cool-toned quartzite, a bronze-finished hood range with a whimsical midcentury-inspired pattern, a dimensional backsplash, and a custom breakfast seating area topped with a patterned seat and back cushion that infuses subtle color. The primary bathroom, with hand-selected stones alongside materials such as metal, walnut wood, and cast-stone composite sconces, reflects the vision of bringing the outdoors in. From finishes to furnishings, mid-century inspired details bring continuity throughout the home.

Through years of ongoing collaboration and a shared dedication, we created a thoughtful sanctuary for the clients. We preserved some key architectural details while introducing carefully curated selections. The goal of honoring the home’s history while enhancing modern livability was a top priority.