Modern Georgian
Interiors by Morgante Wilson Architects ~ Construction by TomKal Construction ~ Landscaping Design by Kettelkamp & Kettelkamp ~ Photos by Werner Straube Photography
A thoughtfully reimagined 1920s Colonial home blends the charm of its Arts and Crafts heritage with a fresh, transitional design approach. The client’s vision was to brighten the interiors and create a seamless connection to the outdoors.
Location
Wilmette, Illinois
This renovation reimagines a classic 1920s Colonial home, originally rooted in a heavy Arts and Crafts aesthetic, into a bright and airy transitional retreat. The client’s vision was to open up the home—both visually and physically—to the outdoors, creating a seamless connection between interior and garden.
A key design move involved relocating the centrally placed fireplace, which had previously obstructed views of the backyard. By shifting it to an interior wall, we unlocked the full potential of the rear façade. In its place, a full-height glass NanaWall was installed, folding away completely to merge the family room with a new screened porch addition. The porch itself features retractable floor-to-ceiling screens, allowing the entire space to open to the surrounding gardens.
Inside, Morgante Wilson designed custom cabinetry with a symmetrical, grid-like pattern that echoes the home’s transom windows and aligns with the rhythm of interior and exterior fenestration. Above the kitchen island, a sculptural ribbon-shaped light fixture was selected to complement the organic veining of the natural stone countertops, adding a soft, fluid contrast to the home’s architectural geometry.
A custom star light fixture complements the organic curves of the spiral-oval staircase and the asymmetrical dome with an off-center skylight creates a truly immersive and celestial experience. The interplay of natural light from the skylight and the artificial “stars” from the fixture must give the space a magical, almost ethereal quality—especially at night.
We’ve redefined the connection between interior comfort and outdoor living. This thoughtfully designed home features a screened porch that flows effortlessly from the living room to the backyard and pool, creating a harmonious blend of architecture and nature.
A retractable NanaWall system serves as a dynamic divider between the living room and the porch, allowing the space to transform from cozy and enclosed to open and expansive in seconds. For added comfort and versatility, individual drop-down screens are discreetly integrated between the concrete columns, offering protection from the elements while preserving views and ventilation.
This design exemplifies our commitment to elegant functionality, where every detail enhances the way you live, entertain, and relax.