Cover Natural light floods the living room of this Chicago home renovated by Rockenbach Design Studio, which features distinctive arched shelves and couches with organic forms
Natural light floods the living room of this Chicago home renovated by Rockenbach Design Studio, which features distinctive arched shelves and couches with organic forms
1 / 1
Discover how Rockenbach Design Studio transformed this Queen Anne-style home in Chicago with elements of Japanese and Scandinavian design
Expansive yet intimate: that phrase was the touchstone that Dan Rockenbach used in renovating a Chicago home that was first built in 1886. Situated in the Lincoln Park neighbourhood, Rockenbach wanted to create a space that would grow with the client’s family over time.
Keeping in mind that the property was featured on the National Register of Historic Places, Rockenbach enhanced the home’s elegant features with an interplay of Japanese and Scandinavian designs. The Japanese philosophy of wabi-sabi or ‘less is more’ inspired Rockenbach to use natural materials and a neutral palette, creating the perfect backdrop for a couple to raise their two children amid the bustling city of Chicago.
A unique feature of the home is its blend of natural light with sculptural light fixtures, which add character to the space even during the daytime. One of the most notable light fixtures in the home is a custom pendant lamp by Filipino designer Mirei Monticelli, whose ethereal creations work in harmony with the sophisticated space.
In case you missed it: 7 modern interpretations of stained glass that will add light and wonder to your home
Natural flooding the living room, which features distinctive arched shelves and couches with organic forms
1 / 2
Upon entering the Chicago home, guests are immediately taken with the leather chandelier that juxtaposes leather swags with faceted glass beads. This sets the tone for the rest of the home, which features rustic elements that add warmth to the space. The expansive living room features a curation of pieces in beiges, browns, and whites over warm wood flooring. The nearby fireplace uses local Indian Limestone to keep the family feeling cosy on winter nights, complemented by arched shelves that echo back to the home’s original design.
Above A leather chandelier that adds further dimension to a space that layers different textures
A leather chandelier that adds further dimension to a space that layers different textures
1 / 1
Moving into the dining room, the space is grounded by a solid wood table, around which gatherings with family and friends take place. The soft, upholstered chairs are easy for guests to settle into, trading stories and sharing meals under the diffused glow of a calcite light fixture.
More from Tatler: Thermal bliss: 9 breathtaking European spas with stunning designs for your next wellness getaway
Above The warm and inviting kitchen with a marble countertop beneath exposed wooden beams
Above The powder room painted in a dark hue, Toucan Black by Benjamin Moore, and a Calacatta marble sink
The warm and inviting kitchen with a marble countertop beneath exposed wooden beams
1 / 2
Flowing seamlessly past the dining room is an archway to the kitchen, echoing elements of the shelves in the living room. This space blends elements of farmhouse style with exposed wooden beams, complemented by a barrel-vaulted ceiling inspired by the design of the Chicago Union station. Pendant lights above the kitchen island add a luxurious edge through materials like hammered metal and wire mesh.
A key element of Rockenbach’s design is exploring the contrast of light and dark, as seen in the powder room. The dark walls create a moody atmosphere complemented by the bold Calacatta marble sink that adds a layer of opulence to the space.
A hypnotic staircase adds sculptural charm to the home
1 / 3
At the heart of the home is a staircase that fills the room with natural light, leading one up to the second floor’s primary bedroom, bathroom and home office. Featuring neutral tones that echo the rooms of the first floor, the primary bedroom imbues classic silhouettes like the bed frame and side table with a modern twist.
Above Mirei Monticelli's custom piece on display in the primary bathroom
Mirei Monticelli's custom piece on display in the primary bathroom
1 / 1
In the attached primary bathroom, Rockenbach referenced mid-century design to create a sanctuary for the couple to unwind in after a long day. The custom vanity is crafted from light oak with accents of brass hardware, accompanied by framed mirrors with rounded edges. But the most striking feature of the master bathroom is the custom pendant lamp by Mirei Monticelli, a celebrated Filipino designer based in Milan. Her cloud-like, sculptural light fixture fills the space with a dreamy quality that elevates everyday moments in this tranquil room.
NOW READ
Home tour: A brutalist, sustainably designed London house with refurbished 1960s architecture
7 unique furniture colours that contrast with Mocha Mousse in your home
Credits
Photography: James John Jetel
About
Celine first read Charlotte’s Web at the age of five–and she hasn’t stopped turning pages since. Her favourite authors are Mona Awad and Nat Cassidy. Besides writing for Tatler, she listens to BTS and spends time with her family.
Work
Celine took up secondary education with a major in English, graduating from De La Salle University in 2023. She advocates for female empowerment through creative expression by writing for Tatler Homes.
For story leads or inquiries, you may reach out to her via celine.dabao@tatlerasia.com.
