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Modern Mediterranean Full Home Renovation - LEED Certified Residence
Chicago, IL
Published on:
March 17, 2024 at 5:41:27 PM
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Photo Credit:
Photo Credits: Interior photos by Marcel Page Photography, Headshot by Forty Photography
Featuring:
CCS INTERIOR DESIGN GROUP
Specialty:
Residential and Commercial
Service Areas:
Illinois, international, and any state
Designer:
Cynthia Bolton-Smith
Website:
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Ignite Project Features shares the stories of design, home staging and real estate projects, from designers and real estate agents across the world, detailing project origins, insights, and details about projects that you might not learn elsewhere. Project Features is designed to truly highlight the creative genius of designers and agents worldwide.
Preserving Beverly's Neighborhood Charm - Mediterranean Restoration
Chicago, IL
Published on:
March 17, 2024 at 5:41:27 PM
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Thank you for joining us today. Before we dive into your latest project, can you share a little bit about yourself and your company?
In the heart of Chicago's vibrant design community, I, Cynthia Bolton-Smith, CEO and Principal Interior Designer at CCS Interior Design Group, bring a unique blend of luxury and elegance to every project. My journey, woven with personal tragedy and professional triumph, isn't just about crafting beautiful spaces; it's about redefining elegance through design. Originally pursuing a degree in Kinesiology, my path to interior design took an unexpected turn after the devastating loss of my son. Amidst the grief, I found my true calling, transforming spaces with a newfound sense of purpose. This shift wasn't just a career change; it was a leap towards healing and self-discovery.
So, I'm excited to get into the details of your latest project. Can you share a brief background and some context into the context of how this project came to be?
Our recent endeavor with the Beverly Community in Chicago, IL is a thrilling journey sparked by our client's distinctive vision of revitalizing their newly acquired historic home with LEED efficiency at the forefront, reflecting their steadfast commitment to sustainability. The opportunity arose when our client discovered us on Houzz and enlisted our expertise to bring their sustainability goals to fruition.
Now, if design were easy, anyone could do it. So, when you took on this project, what was the one major design challenge you knew was going to be an issue?
The task at hand was to modernize this 1924 Mediterranean architectural gem, spanning 2589 sq. ft., while preserving its historic charm and distinct character. Our mission was to seamlessly integrate modern elements while honoring its unique architectural heritage. One of our key challenges was to ensure sustainability and efficiency in our design approach. We aimed to create a space that not only embraced contemporary aesthetics but also adhered to eco-friendly principles. This involved navigating the delicate balance between preserving the home's historical features and incorporating sustainable design elements. Our client's goal was clear—to achieve LEED certification for their home. LEED, or Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, is a globally recognized standard for sustainable building practices. It presented us with an opportunity to implement innovative solutions that aligned with our client's vision of a LEED-efficient residence.
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So, now that we know what you were up against, can you share with us the vision you had for achieving your client's project scope and goal?
Our vision for achieving our client's project scope and goal was rooted in a deep appreciation for the home's historical significance and our client's commitment to sustainability. Our approach was two-fold: to seamlessly blend modern elements with the home's unique architectural heritage while prioritizing eco-friendly practices to attain LEED certification. First and foremost, we aimed to preserve the home's historical features and character, recognizing them as integral components of its identity. We meticulously assessed each detail, from the intricate moldings to the original flooring, ensuring that our design interventions complemented rather than overshadowed the home's inherent charm. Simultaneously, we sought to introduce contemporary elements that would enhance the functionality and livability of the space. This involved strategic space planning, innovative material selections, and the integration of energy-efficient technologies to align with our client's vision of a modern, sustainable home. Our goal was to create a harmonious balance between past and present, where the home's rich history could coexist with modern comforts and eco-conscious design principles. By meticulously curating every aspect of the renovation, we aimed to not only meet but exceed our client's expectations, delivering a space that seamlessly embodies their vision and values.
So, now you have the scope and vision. Walk us through your team of vendors, reps and specialists you leveraged to make this a reality?
Bringing our vision to life required collaboration with a diverse team of vendors, representatives, and specialists, each contributing their expertise to the project. First and foremost, we partnered with trusted vendors known for their high-quality craftsmanship and commitment to sustainability. From sourcing reclaimed materials to selecting eco-friendly finishes, our vendors played a crucial role in ensuring that every aspect of the renovation aligned with our sustainability goals. In addition to vendors, we worked closely with manufacturer representatives who provided invaluable insights into the latest eco-friendly technologies and products available in the market. Their expertise helped us make informed decisions about energy-efficient appliances, water-saving fixtures, and other sustainable solutions that were integral to achieving LEED certification. Furthermore, we enlisted the expertise of specialists in various fields, including architects, engineers, and LEED consultants, to ensure that our design solutions met rigorous standards while preserving the home's historical integrity. Their collaborative efforts and attention to detail were instrumental in navigating the complexities of the renovation process and ensuring its success. Overall, our team of vendors, reps, and specialists played a vital role in bringing our vision to fruition, demonstrating a shared commitment to excellence, sustainability, and innovation.
With each project, there are certain rooms or aspects of the design that we are especially proud of. What were some key features that you enjoyed the most?
There were several key features of this project that we're particularly proud of. One standout aspect is the seamless integration of modern amenities while preserving the home's historical charm. We took great care to enhance the functionality of the space without compromising its unique character, striking a delicate balance between past and present. Another highlight is the incorporation of sustainable design elements throughout the home. From energy-efficient appliances to eco-friendly materials, every choice was made with sustainability in mind. Achieving LEED certification was a significant milestone for us, and we're proud of the role we played in creating a home that prioritizes environmental consciousness. Additionally, we're thrilled with the transformation of the outdoor spaces. By reimagining the landscaping and outdoor living areas, we were able to extend the home's livable space while creating a serene retreat that seamlessly blends with the surrounding environment. Overall, it's the thoughtful combination of modern luxury, historical preservation, and sustainability that we're most proud of. Each aspect of the design contributes to a cohesive and harmonious whole, reflecting our client's vision and our commitment to excellence in every project we undertake.
Having the right team in place when things go wrong is vital. Can you share a specific issue that came up during the project? And how did you and your team solve it?
Navigating challenges is an inevitable part of any project, and having the right team in place is crucial for finding effective solutions. One specific issue that arose during the project was the discovery of unforeseen structural issues in the home's foundation. Upon further inspection, we realized that these issues would require immediate attention to ensure the structural integrity of the entire renovation. In response, we immediately convened with our team of architects, engineers, and contractors to assess the situation and develop a comprehensive plan of action. Together, we devised a strategic solution that involved reinforcing the foundation and implementing additional support structures to address the underlying issues. Our team worked tirelessly to execute the plan efficiently while minimizing disruptions to the overall project timeline. Through close collaboration and effective communication, we were able to overcome this challenge and ensure that the renovation proceeded smoothly. The experience reaffirmed the importance of having a skilled and dedicated team in place, capable of tackling unexpected obstacles with confidence and expertise.
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Design projects can easily become a money pit, without the right team. What design hurdle did you guys encounter? And how'd you solve it?
Design projects can indeed encounter unexpected challenges. One hurdle we encountered was sourcing unique, sustainable materials within our client's budget constraints. To address this, we diligently researched alternative suppliers and negotiated favorable pricing without compromising quality. Additionally, we optimized our design plan to prioritize cost-effective solutions while maintaining the project's integrity. Through proactive communication and creative problem-solving, we successfully navigated this hurdle and delivered a stunning result within our client's budgetary parameters.
This has been a blast sitting with you. If our readers wanted to work with you and your company, where can they learn more? And what would be their next steps?
It's been a pleasure speaking with you as well! If our readers are interested in working with us and learning more about CCS Interior Design Group, they can visit our website at www.ccsinteriordesign.com. There, they'll find detailed information about our services, portfolio of past projects, and client testimonials. For more updates and insights into our design process, they can follow us on Instagram at @CCSInteriorDesign. Their next steps would be to reach out to us directly through our website or contact information provided. We welcome inquiries from prospective clients and would be happy to schedule a consultation to discuss their project goals and how we can help bring their vision to life. Thank you for the opportunity to share our insights and experiences with your audience. We look forward to the possibility of collaborating with new clients and continuing to deliver exceptional design solutions.
CCS Interior Design Group
332 S. Michigan Ave. Ste, 121
Chicago, IL 60604
872-400-1096
Website: www.ccsinteriordesign.com
Instagram: @ccsinteriordesign
Facebook: @ccsinteriordesign
Linkedin: @ccsinteriordesigngroup
It has been such an honor to sit with you today. I look forward to sharing more of your projects with our readers.
It's been an absolute delight! I'd venture to say we've had more fun than a pillow fight in a fabric store. Excited to continue sharing our design escapades with your readers. Let's keep the creativity flowing and the excitement buzzing! Thank you sincerely for the opportunity to showcase our insights and projects. It's been a pleasure conversing with you, and we're thrilled at the chance to reach more readers through your platform. Looking forward to future collaborations and sharing more of our design journey with your audience.
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