Fresh perspective

The first residents in a condominium have an opportunity to stamp their identity on the apartment interior. And although the location of building mechanicals is often already established, there is plenty of scope for innovation.

Architects William Massey and David Hoffman say the key features of this Chicago Lakeshore Drive apartment are the views across Lake Michigan in one direction, and to the city in the other. The layout of the rooms is organized to frame these panoramas to best advantage.

Conceived as a completely circular space, the dining room rotunda was designed to maximize the panoramic views. In addition, concealed walnut cabinets in the passageways between the dining and living rooms, and dining room and kitchen, create deep portals that frame the view.

"Every entrance into the dining room and kitchen focuses on a separate slice of the view either the lake or the city," says Massey. "You get two distinct experiences as you move through the spaces."

Not surprisingly, the designers chose to make the kitchen a simple, refined backdrop. Pale green walls reflect the changing light conditions on the lake.

"We didn't want to enclose the space the white walls enable the interior to be a changing reflection of what is happening outside," says Massey. "For the cabinets, we wanted something dark and rich, but it was important that the kitchen didn't jump out at you."

Sleek walnut cabinets fitted the bill. With their simple stile-and-rail doors and book-matched grain, the cabinets provide a flush, uncluttered look. Their rich coloring is enhanced by White Moon quartzite countertops with a continuous grain.

"With their mitred corners, distinctive graining and soft color tones, the countertops and backsplash provide an ideal contrast to the rich walnut," says Massey.

To create a dramatic, solid centerpiece, the designers specified a three-inch countertop for the island. Perimeter tops are just over one inch thick.

Integrated appliances provide visual continuity in terms of the material palette, and help ensure the kitchen does not have a commercial look.

Functionality has not been compromised, however, especially as the owners like to entertain. The cabinetry features sophisticated drawer systems and incorporates a microwave drawer, tray storage, integrated garbage cans and a lazy Susan. There is also a separate well-equipped butler's pantry, and concealed pull-out pantries within the deep portals leading into the kitchen.

Story by: Colleen Hawkes