Wednesday, April 30, 2008

Open House . . . T8's Chicago 2 Flat Before and After



I've posted a few before and after photos in past posts, and I just received a request for a more complete set. I supposed I can't ask you to show me yours if I don't show mine.

When my 2 flat went on the market, I loved it immediately but after visiting and seeing its condition, passed on making an offer. The 1913 red brick building had endured years of neglect, but it boasts an extra wide floor plan (with a side entrance that frees up lots of living space), original built-ins, a formal dining room (I know they're out, but I love them), large sun porch, vintage charm and rental income from the upstairs unit (I'm not counting on social security and my retirement account seems to lose value every year, so this benefit gets more important with every passing day.)

Continued after photos . . .





Months passed, and although the market was smoking and everything else was selling, the building remained on the market. It began to seem like it was meant to be mine. And then it was.

My current goal is to continue to bring in items that make it more interesting and distinctive. I'm also craving color and frustrated at my deficiencies in this area. If you have ideas, I want to hear them.

Here are some "after" photos.

For a look at the before and after:

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4 comments:

Anonymous said...

Love you place. beautiful, detailed harmonious. Just great.

Mitsouko in Toronto

Tasha said...

Its absolutely gorgeous. A very nice mix of clean lines and details. I am incredibly jealous.

Anonymous said...

You've done a magnificent restoration, truly. You've effected a major improvement on every single space (at least, all the spaces photographed). Putting the archway between the front porch and living room was brilliant. I'm a former Chicagoan living in NYC, and seeing your 2 flat is making me ache to return!

What is the stone you used on the kitchen walls? Looks a little bigger than typical mosaic tile. Name and source please?

T8 said...

Thanks for the compliments. I'm really craving more color in the living room. Does anybody have any suggestions on some accent colors that will work with the sofa, dark blue chair and walls. I like the blue chair, but it doesn't really relate to anything in the room.

T8