chicago

Universal Design in River North

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Katy and Brad are recent empty nesters who traded in their house in the suburbs for a new life in the River North neighborhood of Chicago. Downsizing and choosing a new home is tricky, but this couple had the additional obstacle of finding a place suitable for Brad’s unique needs. At the age of 40, Brad became unexpectedly disabled, losing his hands and feet. At home, he uses an electric wheelchair and needs accessible showers. However, Katy and Brad did not want to settle for everyday metal grab bars and plastic shower seats in their search. Instead they envisioned a contemporary, urban loft that did not feel like an institution.

Blue Pearl Stone collaborated with John Kelly Architects and Designer, Page Redding to develop such a design for this challenging and rewarding project. 

The newly renovated unit is located on the fourth floor of a converted factory building, complete with floor-to-ceiling views of the historic Merchandise Mart. The Mart’s façade provides a backdrop of weathered limestone and terracotta that serve as inspiration for matte-finished Artisan Grey quartz and honed Calacatta Apuano marble in the kitchen and living areas.

Merging industrial concrete elements with elegant waves of milky white, grey, and taupe veined marble, the condo pays homage to its landmark surroundings, while distinguishing itself as a contemporary, yet warm and comfortable home. The table height bar and eating area, ADA compliant cabinets and stainless sink all allow easy access, while integrating a gracious corner marble bookmatched backsplash, shelves and lighting. In other words, the home is Universal, yet sacrifices nothing in its aesthetic.

“Our condo does not look like it was made for someone who uses a wheelchair,” said Katy. “It flows, and there’s room to move. This is the heart of Universal Design. It works for everybody.”

Take for example, the Master Bath. The walk-in shower, mitered sculptural bench, and floating vanities make it feel like a luxurious spa. But all these elements serve as important functions for Brad’s freedom of movement. The minimalist design of the low-maintenance Royal Blanc quartz shelving and ledges provide storage and accessibility and provide contrast to the high-durability Nero Erte porcelain floor tile. Each element complements another and works hard in both design and universality. 

Universal Design inspires new inclusiveness in design and architecture to address individualized needs for comfort, style and harmony for all.

Kitchen Interior with quartz counters and marble full high splashes.

Kitchen Interior with quartz counters and marble full high splashes.

Bi-level Kitchen Bars in marble and quartz

Bi-level Kitchen Bars in marble and quartz

Shower Area with Sculptural Quartz Bench, elongated Powder Subway Brick, Hexagon Penny Rounds and Nero Erte Floor Tile.

Shower Area with Sculptural Quartz Bench, elongated Powder Subway Brick, Hexagon Penny Rounds and Nero Erte Floor Tile.

Master Bath Overview with Royal Blanc Quartz Counters, Columns, and Accessories, with Nero Erte Matte Porcelain Tile

Master Bath Overview with Royal Blanc Quartz Counters, Columns, and Accessories, with Nero Erte Matte Porcelain Tile

Marble, Quartz and Tile by Blue Pearl Stone Photography by Tony Soluri

What to Bring When You Visit Blue Pearl

What to Bring When You Visit Blue Pearl

Our job as design professionals is to listen and help you make the best decisions, and in order for us to assist you the best way we can, we need to learn about you and your project in as much detail as possible. To make your job easier, we have compiled a checklist for you to use and peruse, so you can come and see us fully equipped. 

New Arrivals

New Arrivals

We are excited to share with you some of our latest arrivals that include these fifteen beautiful marble, granite, quartzite and specialty slabs.

Natural Stone: Not a Game of Perfect

Natural Stone: Not a Game of Perfect

Here at Blue Pearl Stone, we are yet to see a perfect slab of natural stone. This is not because of some mystical curse or an outlandish series of mishaps. Natural stone, by nature, is always imperfect. 

Quartz vs. Quartzite

Quartz vs. Quartzite

Both quartz and quartzite are great for kitchens and bathrooms. But with any stone, the question is not about which material is better. Rather, the question is which stone is more suited for your needs.

New Arrivals - July 26, 2016

New Arrivals - July 26, 2016

We are delighted to share with you a sampling of our latest eye-catching arrivals that include these nine gorgeous marble, granite, quartzite and soapstone slabs.