ASTOR STREET RESIDENCE
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS 1997
A turn of the century residence designed by Pond & Pond in the landmark Gold Coast district has been given new life through contrast. Tax incentives called for the restoration of the rather dark Arts and Crafts house, while program dictated the increase of the building’s envelope.
The strategy for the project was to insert an airy, light filled steel and glass addition between the heavy masonry of the house and a two-story coach-house at the rear. This simple intervention creates a contrast between old and new, heightening the qualities and experience of each.
Interior Designer was R. Perlman - Designs. Photos by Steve Hall, Hedrich-Blessing. General Contractor was G. Wood Construction.
Facade
The front façade was restored, with landscape planters and iron gates that abstractly recall prairie grasses common to the Midwest. This natural prairie theme was carried through the original house, with mosaics, colors and literal pressings of grasses decorating the interior.
Rear Addition
A view of the steel and glass addition at the rear at night.
Coachhouse
The rear garden is paved in stone, and becomes a contained outdoor room anchored by an exterior fireplace embedded into the wall of the coach house.
Side Court
A collection of architectural fragments is installed in a narrow light court, with ferns below.
Dining Room
The original elliptically shaped dining room was restored.
Kitchen
The kitchen, as part of the addition, enjoys a two story perimeter and abundant natural daylight.
Living Room
The original living room, including the casework on the right, was rehabilitated.
Dining Room
Another view of the elliptically shaped dining room looking toward the street.
