Tucked inside the landmarked Holden Block in Chicago’s vibrant West Loop, a historic 1872 loft has been quietly bearing witness to time. It has weathered decades of change, survived multiple floods (including a dramatic Christmas Eve pipe burst), and endured countless patchwork fixes. But today, thanks to a masterful full-home renovation by Goesling Group and bespoke cabinetry firm O’Brien Harris, the 1,250 sq. ft. condo has stepped into a new era—one that celebrates its story while embracing modern soul.
From Scars to Soul: A Story-Driven Transformation
The homeowners were first drawn to the space for its bones: soaring ceilings, exposed brick, and an undeniable sense of character. But beneath the surface lay a host of challenges—water damage, outdated layouts, and a lack of cohesion from years of mismatched updates.
Instead of erasing those imperfections, designers Sarah and Becca Goesling leaned into them. Inspired loosely by Fleetwood Mac’s “Songbird,” the design approach was quiet, rhythmic, and resilient—favoring timeless materials and emotionally resonant choices over trendy statements.
Their philosophy?
“Let the building guide you. Keep what’s worth keeping. Add what matters most.”
Kitchen: Where Craftsmanship Meets Character
The kitchen became the anchor of the renovation, a place where beauty meets practicality and history finds its voice.
- Cabinetry: Custom-made by O’Brien Harris, finished in a deep blue-green lacquer with walnut interiors and brass hardware.
- Countertops & Backsplash: Seamless marble spans the surfaces, enhancing the room’s sculptural quality.
- Centerpiece: Instead of an island, a restored 19th-century fruitwood trestle table grounds the space—paired with vintage Danish chairs and a teak sideboard.
- Statement Details: A sculptural brass-trimmed hood draws the eye up, while original brick walls—previously hidden—were lovingly restored to frame the space.
“The result is a room that feels just as right for weeknight takeout as it does for a long, candlelit dinner with friends.”
Living Room: Layers of Warmth and Memory
In the adjacent living space, material storytelling continues with rich textures and reclaimed pieces:
- Bar Area: Clad in marble, with reclaimed timber shelves and a bar cabinet by O’Brien Harris.
- Sofa: A plush ruby velvet piece from Roger & Chris invites you to sink in.
- Fireplace: The mantle—salvaged from a friend’s home—was refinished and reimagined as the room’s quiet focal point.
Here, the past isn’t just preserved—it’s personalized.
Bedroom: A Lush Retreat with Vintage Soul
The bedroom is a study in softness and stillness, grounded by vintage elements:
- Wallpaper: Hand-printed Morris & Co., a nod to timeless British design.
- Furniture: 1950s walnut nightstands from 1stDibs, paired with an Article bed.
- Textiles: Velvet drapery adds depth and a touch of romanticism.
This space whispers, rather than shouts, luxury.
Primary Bathroom: Glossy Meets Organic
A complete reconfiguration allowed for both structural upgrades and visual harmony:
- Vanity: Custom walnut by O’Brien Harris.
- Stone & Tile: Calacatta Michelangelo counters, and blue-green glossy subway tile from The Fine Line.
- Fixtures: Unlacquered brass from Waterworks and Kallista, designed to patina beautifully over time.
This bath marries function and form in an effortlessly timeless way.
Guest Bath: A Punch of Pattern and Personality
Small but mighty, the guest bath makes a bold statement:
- Vanity: A vintage mid-century walnut dresser converted into a sink base.
- Tile: Hand-painted starburst tile from Fireclay extends from the floor into the shower.
- Mood: Artistic and architectural, without losing warmth.
It’s a perfect reminder that bold design works at every scale.
Design Takeaways for Your Own Historic Home
Thinking about renovating a historic space? Let this project be your north star:
Key Lessons:
- Let the building guide you: Work with its strengths, don’t fight its quirks.
- Honor imperfections: Scars can become your most beautiful design details.
- Layer with intention: Use vintage, bespoke, and handcrafted elements to tell your story.
- Make it personal: The most soulful homes reflect your past, passions, and patience.
About the Designers: Goesling Group
Led by Sarah and Becca Goesling, Goesling Group is a multidisciplinary studio built on storytelling, craftsmanship, and curiosity. Whether they’re designing a kitchen or a full home renovation, their approach is collaborative, thoughtful, and deeply personal—resulting in spaces that feel as soulful as they are stunning.
“We love integrating vintage and repurposed materials in a way that feels elegant and modern versus rustic.”
FAST FACTS
- Location: Chicago, IL – West Loop
- Square Footage: 1,250 sq. ft.
- Design Team: Goesling Group (interior design), O’Brien Harris (cabinetry)
- Style: Industrial, soulful, personal
- Project Type: Full condo renovation
- Historic Landmark: Holden Block, built in 1872
Final Thought
This West Loop loft isn’t just a beautiful home—it’s a living memory. It shows us that with the right vision, care, and craftsmanship, even a weather-worn space can find new life. Sometimes, the best design stories are the ones that evolve slowly, through chaos, challenge, and yes—occasionally—burst pipes.
So the next time your home throws a curveball, remember: the interruptions may just become the best part of your story.
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