As we enter this exciting back to school season, we’re reminded of one of the main reasons our clients decide to move to the western suburbs – the exceptional options for education. Schools are often one of the first topics of conversation as we begin lot searches for clients, and we are fortunate to be surrounded by communities with fantastic public and private institutions. Our clients for this build had already fallen for the small-town charm of Wheaton and Glen Ellyn. With young children in tow, they wanted to design a new home for their family and put down roots in a community where they could see themselves living for many years to come. We partnered with them to find a beautiful property in a private pocket of Glen Ellyn that was walkable to town and just two blocks from an award-winning elementary school.
INTRODUCING SUNSET AVENUE
Our clients had always dreamed of custom building and spent years curating a collection of remarkable inspiration for their forever home. We were grateful to be chosen as their partners as they embarked on their build journey and were thrilled to jump in to bring their vision to life. Come along as we give you a behind-the-scenes look at their home design process!
An inherently special aspect of custom building is the ability to design the view that you arrive home to each day. Our clients held a deep affection for the traditional architecture that characterizes the idyllic historical towns along the Northeast, and they looked to this influence as they designed their Midwestern home. They felt it important to choose materials with longevity that would endure for years to come, and we selected James Hardie horizontal and shake siding for its style and durability. Thoughtfully placed window boxes and shutters add a lovely finishing touch to this classic exterior.
We worked with the unique layout of this property to design a floor plan that would efficiently accommodate the spaces this family was hoping to include in their new home. Their vision borrowed inspiration from beloved center-hall colonials, featuring definitive spaces in the front part of the home and a more open, inviting layout in the back. A side-load garage was incorporated into the front elevation to take full advantage of the expansive backyard in this 200 ft+ deep lot.
Much like the exterior, the interior design of this home feels steeped in tradition as timeless finishes and custom millwork carry throughout. In the kitchen, creamy white cabinetry pairs with natural wood tones to create a gathering space that feels elegant but also warm and welcoming. Our clients shared inspiration images of spaces featuring a contrast of light and dark stone and we look forward to seeing this influence reflected as we move into countertop selection. The kitchen opens into a window-filled breakfast nook and a spacious family room. A practical butler’s pantry cleverly connects the kitchen and dining areas, incorporating painted cabinetry in a moody blue or black hue.
The second level of this home features four bedrooms and two bathrooms. The primary suite encompasses a private wing of this floor and the master bath rivals a five-star hotel, boasting a luxurious soaking tub and shower. Warm white cabinetry is paired with rich marble tones and brass fixtures. Down the hall, the kids bathroom is classic with a touch of whimsy, featuring brass fixtures with blue and white accents. A bright and airy laundry room is cleverly placed between kids bedrooms. This home is complete with a finished basement boasting an additional bedroom/office flex space, exercise room and recreation room.
We look forward to sharing more progress updates on this build, so stay tuned on our social channels to follow along. This fall will be filled with project kickoffs for new builds in Elmhurst and Downers Grove, as well as home tours of finished builds in Downers Grove and Hinsdale. If the new school year has you thinking about a move, we are happy to partner with you to identify a community that is the right fit for your family. Contact us today to get started bringing your dream home to life.
