A Chicago Townhome Gets The London Treatment
When what was meant to be a simple refresh of the residence with interior designer Anthony Michael turned into a major renovation, owner Bala Ragothaman took the opportunity to create the London town house-style home of his dreams. The 4,500-square-foot structure was built in 2016 and boasts four levels, including a rooftop deck.
From our first meeting, it was clear that his energy, attention to detail and view on eclectic contemporary style were ideally suited for my personality,” says homeowner Bala Ragothaman of interior designer Anthony Michael. “Besides, they were a full-service interior design firm that could wrap their arms around architecture, design, build and install–traits that turned out to be a blessing as the project took a turn!”
That turn was the discovery of mold by an electrician. So much mold, in fact, that the family had to vacate the home for two years of renovation work, a period in which Ragothaman’s marriage ended. Seeing the project through became a catharsis for the homeowner and his sons, and gave them the new beginning they needed.
“We started over with a brand new design, and guided Bala through creating a luxurious London town house feel,” says Michael.
The four-story home includes a lower level playroom and guest suite, a main level with the public spaces (living room, kitchen and family room), bedrooms on the upper floors and a rooftop lounge and garden.
“The house is calm when you want it to be, trendy when you want it to be and cozy when you want it to be,” says Michael of the design. “We absolutely love it,” adds Ragothaman, an avid cook who especially enjoys the kitchen. “We are proud to call it our home.”