Before & After – A dark 1970s house in Chicago gets a light-filled update

January 3, 2016

Periscope House in Chicago, Illinois, designed by Nicholas Design Collaborative

Photography by Van Inwegen Digital Arts

 

A neglected 1970’s house in Chicago, Illinois, was left to just rot away until Nicholas Design Collaborative, and a brave home owner, decided to do something about it.

 

Periscope House in Chicago, Illinois, designed by Nicholas Design Collaborative

Photography by Van Inwegen Digital Arts

 

Acting as a designer, builder, and developer on the project, Nicholas Design Collaborative started work on the property as a spec house, but the home was sold to the buyer based on renderings and floor plans, just 2 weeks after starting marketing efforts, and prior to the purchase of the land.

Periscope House in Chicago, Illinois, designed by Nicholas Design Collaborative

Photography by Van Inwegen Digital Arts

 

Once purchased, they set about updating and adding additional living spaces to the home, and bringing it up to current living standards.

Periscope House in Chicago, Illinois, designed by Nicholas Design Collaborative

Photography by Van Inwegen Digital Arts

 

Upon entering the gate in the brick wall, you’re greeted by a small front courtyard.

Periscope House in Chicago, Illinois, designed by Nicholas Design Collaborative

Photography by Van Inwegen Digital Arts

 

Next to the courtyard, large sliding double glass doors can be opened, making it easy for the interior and exterior spaces to become one.

Periscope House in Chicago, Illinois, designed by Nicholas Design Collaborative

Photography by Van Inwegen Digital Arts

 

Inside, a chandelier hangs from the double-height ceiling.

Periscope House in Chicago, Illinois, designed by Nicholas Design Collaborative

Photography by Van Inwegen Digital Arts

 

The living and dining spaces use rugs to help define the separate areas.

Periscope House in Chicago, Illinois, designed by Nicholas Design Collaborative

Photography by Van Inwegen Digital Arts

 

The living, dining, and kitchen areas all flow from one area to another.

Periscope House in Chicago, Illinois, designed by Nicholas Design Collaborative

Photography by Van Inwegen Digital Arts

 

The kitchen has a large central island with bar seating.

Periscope House in Chicago, Illinois, designed by Nicholas Design Collaborative

Photography by Van Inwegen Digital Arts

 

Wood stairs lead to the second floor.

Periscope House in Chicago, Illinois, designed by Nicholas Design Collaborative

Photography by Van Inwegen Digital Arts

 

The master bedroom has floor-to-ceiling windows, allowing plenty of light to flood the room.

Periscope House in Chicago, Illinois, designed by Nicholas Design Collaborative

Photography by Van Inwegen Digital Arts

 

Before & After

The back of the home received a colorful update.

Periscope House in Chicago, Illinois, designed by Nicholas Design Collaborative

Photography by Van Inwegen Digital Arts

 

The backyard is home to a landscaped yard and outdoor dining area.

Periscope House in Chicago, Illinois, designed by Nicholas Design Collaborative

Photography by Van Inwegen Digital Arts

 

The garage is located on the other side of the backyard, with it being accessed from both the rear lane and garden space.

Periscope House in Chicago, Illinois, designed by Nicholas Design Collaborative

Photography by Van Inwegen Digital Arts