Perfectly situated in downtown Chicago on Michigan Avenue, the homeowner chose to renovate rather than move. The kitchen and master bathroom were outdated and didn’t provide adequate storage. A bar height counter stretching from the wall to a column, closed off the kitchen and made it feel cramped. The bathroom was covered in outdated and cold, dark granite.

A neutral color scheme in shades of gray was chosen to give the space an airy, modern feel. The cabinets and countertop were removed, but the column had to stay. To integrate the column, cabinets and counter wrap around it providing extra storage as well as a spot to eat and entertain guests.

Light gray painted cabinets coupled with a dark gray quartz countertop set the tone. The backsplash tile is reminiscent of wallpaper and adds pattern among the flat panel doors and solid color countertops. A previously underutilized hallway to the right of the column now houses a stackable washer/dryer, cabinets, a serving counter, and a dog feeding area.

The master bathroom was renovated in similar shades of gray. A glossy gray floating vanity is set against a beautiful wall of tile. A luxurious soaking tub is surrounded by crisp white tile and has a storage niche at one end. Now this Michigan Avenue apartment is magnificent: modern, light, bright and functional.