The historic Holden Block in Chicago’s West Loop was the unlikely backdrop for a two-bedroom, two-bath condominium. Two homeowners, driven by a desire to preserve the space’s character while updating it for modern living, sought the expertise of Goesling Group, a multidisciplinary design studio, and O’Brien Harris, a bespoke cabinetry firm. This loft, a treasure trove of industrial charm, had been its owners’ sanctuary for years, but years of patchwork updates and flooding events left it in dire need of a thorough transformation. It was not enough to simply patch up the building; the homeowners needed a deeper vision, one that could reconcile expressive design with architectural integrity. The team at Goesling Group, led by principal designer Sarah Goesling and director of design Becca Goesling, listened intently to the homeowners’ aspirations. Their brief called for a bold yet deeply personal renovation that honored the building’s scars and transformed the space into a soulful retreat. Rather than erasing the past, the team chose to weave it into a rich tapestry of textures, colors, and tactile finishes, creating a home that was both timeless and emotionally resonant.

The Kitchen: A Centerpiece of Warmth and Resilience

The kitchen, the heart of the home, was the project’s anchor. O’Brien Harris, the bespoke cabinetry firm, collaborated with Goesling Group to craft a space that was both refined and custom. The result was a composition of textures and colors, with deep blue-green lacquer cabinetry, walnut interiors, and brass hardware. The kitchen was designed to evoke a sense of warmth and comfort, with a sculptural hood that draws the eye upward and marble countertops and half backsplash that create a seamless finish. In this beautiful space, the homeowners can imagine themselves hosting dinner parties, with the restored 19th-century fruitwood trestle table at the center. Paired with vintage Danish chairs and a teak sideboard, the setting feels warm, grounded, and flexible. Behind the bar area, the team uncovered original brick walls hidden behind drywall and restored the surface, letting the building’s history frame moments of everyday beauty, including a glass-and-brass shelving system sourced from Urban Archaeology.

The Living Room: A Sanctuary of Warmth and Intimacy

The living room, a haven of warmth and intimacy, is anchored by a salvaged mantle, a ruby velvet sofa, and reclaimed timber. The custom bar, clad in marble, adds a touch of sophistication, while the fireplace, a quiet focal point, features a mantle salvaged from a friend’s home and refinished to fit. This space is a testament to the power of integrating vintage and repurposed materials in a way that feels elegant and modern. The bedroom, too, is a masterclass in layering history, personal objects, and tactile finishes. Hand-printed Morris & Co. wallpaper, velvet drapery, and vintage walnut nightstands from the 1950s create a lush and quiet environment, where the owners can retreat and recharge.

The Primary Bathroom: A Space of Timeless Elegance

The primary bathroom, reworked to accommodate structural updates, features a custom walnut vanity, Calacatta Michelangelo stone, blue-green glossy subway tiles, and unlacquered brass fixtures that will age over time. This space is a perfect example of how timeless materials can be used to create a space that is both elegant and enduring.

The Guest Bathroom: A Bold and Vibrant Space

The guest bathroom, too, is a testament to the power of bold design, with graphic tile and a vintage walnut dresser converted into a vanity. This space is a vibrant and unexpected surprise, injecting a punchy hit of pattern into the room.

About the Designer: Goesling Group

Goesling Group is a multidisciplinary design studio that brings a layered, curious perspective to every project. Led by principal designer Sarah Goesling and director of design Becca Goesling, the team transforms insights into intentional, highly personal design. From kitchens to full-scale brand concepts, their collaborative process ensures each client’s vision is not only heard but also elevated. The Homes We Love

Conclusion

The story of this historic loft in Chicago’s West Loop is one of resilience and renewal, as the owners, with the help of Goesling Group and O’Brien Harris, transformed a space torn apart by time and history into a soulful retreat that honors its industrial roots. By embracing the imperfections and scars of the building, the team created a home that is both timeless and emotionally resonant, a haven that captures the spirit of its inhabitants. This transformation serves as a testament to the power of collaboration, creativity, and a clear vision, and provides valuable insights for those designing their own historic homes, reminding us that the best results come from embracing the complexity and uniqueness of a building and its history, and weaving that story into the fabric of our lives.