Captivating Chicago Apartment Makeover in White, Light and Natural Stone

Nestled in a busy neighborhood of Chicago, the Water Tower Flat was recently renovated by Alexis Bednyak Design and Searl Lamaster Howe Architects to give its new 3200-square-foot interior a bright, light-filled look. The challenge here was to keep out the excessive natural light in through the east and south sides of the apartment that hold large classic industrial-style windows. This was done by revamping the floor plan inside the apartment, re-distributing the light beautifully and ensuring that the light is regulated in a smart fashion. On the other hand, the long corridor at the entrance was previously dark and a touch claustrophobic while it feels cheerful and bright in it new avatar.

Living-room-of-revamped-Water-Tower-Flat-in-Chicago-with-contemporary-decor — Living room of revamped Water Tower Flat in Chicago with contemporary decor

Black-gray-and-stone-combine-to-give-the-revamped-interior-a-whole-new-look-217x155

Dark-cabinets-and-marble-countertops-fashion-a-kitchen-that-is-elegant-and-exclusive-217x155

Closer-look-at-the-kichen-shelving-along-with-the-posh-marble-finishes-and-backsplash-217x155

Color palette inside the apartment is largely neutral with white shaping the backdrop and light and dark grays providing visual contrast. A bright couch in blue brings color to the large living area while bookshelves and indoor plants add additional charm to the space. Smart design in the bedroom and bathroom also relies on neutrals with natural stone backsplash in the shower area along with a floating vanity in stone stealing the spotlight. Custom accessories, gallery wall and other sparkling brass accents complete an apartment makeover that is modern, exquisite and distinct. [Photography: Alyssa Rosenheck]

Gallery-style-long-corridor-inside-the-Water-Tower-Flat-in-Chicago — Gallery-style long corridor inside the Water Tower Flat in Chicago

Large-windows-bring-plenty-of-light-into-the-living-area-and-dining-space — Large windows bring plenty of light into the living area and dining space

Lighting-in-the-new-entry-corridor-drives-away-any-sense-of-lingering-darkness — Lighting in the new entry corridor drives away any sense of lingering darkness

Open-shelves-with-books-wall-art-and-accessories-add-color-and-contrast-to-the-setting — Open shelves with books, wall art and accessories add color and contrast to the setting

Stunning-use-of-dark-natural-stone-in-the-contemporary-bathrom-with-minimal-appeal — Stunning use of dark natural stone in the contemporary bathroom with minimal appeal

White-and-gray-contemporary-bedroom-filled-with-ample-natural-light — White and gray contemporary bedroom filled with ample natural light

The material palette of the apartment is a restrained combination of plainsawn white oak in natural, gray, and black open grain finishes; unlacquered brass; oxidized steel; matte black hardware; and various strongly veined stone slabs. Within the main rooms, crisp white walls stand in distinct contrast to accent elements in the palest of grays.