https://tomleestudio.com tomleestudio Fri, 13 Feb 2026 06:39:44 +0000 https://tomleestudio.com en https://tomleestudio.com/Home Sat, 08 Apr 2023 18:30:08 +0000 tomleestudio https://tomleestudio.com/Home https://tomleestudio.com/Buddhist-Cultural-Center Sat, 15 Apr 2023 21:52:17 +0000 tomleestudio https://tomleestudio.com/Buddhist-Cultural-Center Buddhist Cultural Center Timeless and modern design meets Buddhist values in this new temple and cultural center on a suburban hillside. <img width="3638" height="2342" width_o="3638" height_o="2342" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/8ef1daecbf183c3e6f1f886a16991aa275ccdb48ba4a89d340b274e05c3767dc/site-01.jpg" data-mid="194483799" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/8ef1daecbf183c3e6f1f886a16991aa275ccdb48ba4a89d340b274e05c3767dc/site-01.jpg" /> “Harmony” serves as the conceptual framework for this current project on the boards. Fundamental to Buddhism, harmony is a value infused in this modern reinterpretation of a traditional Buddhist temple, with particular sensitivity to the community, nature, history of the site, and the environment. Architecture and landscape are designed together as a series of spatial conditions both inside and out. Careful attention is being paid to the interface between indoor and outdoor spaces to blur the distinction between architecture and landscape. <img width="2195" height="1645" width_o="2195" height_o="1645" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/18c4dc629a5936fc078434afa8d67b5e4ba339d2fa5166481c7cffa685436812/sketch-02.jpg" data-mid="194507375" border="0" data-scale="99" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/18c4dc629a5936fc078434afa8d67b5e4ba339d2fa5166481c7cffa685436812/sketch-02.jpg" /> <img width="2544" height="1546" width_o="2544" height_o="1546" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/82d69f74f544ab883281d266144abf7e182b05f94d558faab0e960722cdf9edb/sketch-01.jpg" data-mid="194483811" border="0" data-scale="74" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/82d69f74f544ab883281d266144abf7e182b05f94d558faab0e960722cdf9edb/sketch-01.jpg" />An existing single family home on the site will be demolished while an existing barn with heavy timber structure will be preserved and renovated. A series of additions will create new outdoor gardens while housing a new shrine hall, tea room, classrooms, offices, and living quarters. https://tomleestudio.com/Demeter-Millwork Fri, 13 Feb 2026 06:32:45 +0000 tomleestudio https://tomleestudio.com/Demeter-Millwork Demeter Millwork Conceived around the idea of the carve, Demeter Millwork’s new facility reveals how layered thinness creates mass, translating craft and structure seamlessly across scales. <img width="3000" height="1479" width_o="3000" height_o="1479" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/17632d758bef79eae54e425b09c59ae5c98e5b42e0e0552d1efc3d8a3beec813/demeter-nw2.jpg" data-mid="244832434" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/17632d758bef79eae54e425b09c59ae5c98e5b42e0e0552d1efc3d8a3beec813/demeter-nw2.jpg" /> A new advanced manufacturing facility for Demeter Millwork in Woodridge, Illinois, is conceived around the idea of the “carve”—a response to what we call the “carve hypocrisy,” the desire for both architecture and millwork to appear thick and solid despite being constructed from thin, layered assemblies. Drawing from the logic of plywood and precast concrete insulated sandwich panels, where laminated veneers achieve structural rigidity at widely different scales, the building expresses mass as the result of thinness. Through moments of subtraction and reveal, the architecture makes visible the layered logic that underpins both industrial construction and Demeter’s precise craft, operating seamlessly across scales. Daylight is strategically calibrated throughout the 54,000-square-foot facility, which includes 8,000 square feet of office space. Windows, skylights, and a north-facing clerestory illuminate the primary millwork shop floor, while areas dedicated to advanced robotics and CNC fabrication have limited daylight to protect materials and finishes from UV exposure. The bespoke office interior extends the carve concept inward, where millwork appears solid and monolithic at first glance but subtly reveals its layered construction upon closer inspection—quietly reflecting the discipline, precision, and material intelligence that define Demeter’s work. <img width="3101" height="1488" width_o="3101" height_o="1488" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/ff263789459a4561cca443753d1dd1de292dd4ca1810fbf3577a938e8f3ba691/demeter-sk5.jpg" data-mid="244837104" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/ff263789459a4561cca443753d1dd1de292dd4ca1810fbf3577a938e8f3ba691/demeter-sk5.jpg" /> Early sketches explore the idea that the new facility should be a place for people, with daylight and views and that to respect the neighborhood context, offices are placed to the north across from single family homes while loading is concealed to the rear across from a public works facility. <img width="2154" height="2763" width_o="2154" height_o="2763" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/b2b2bf405720e97856da9fb985f80ab1512a8b335d936a1fe6ab89093f3988f2/demeter-sk3.jpg" data-mid="244838078" border="0" data-scale="74" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/b2b2bf405720e97856da9fb985f80ab1512a8b335d936a1fe6ab89093f3988f2/demeter-sk3.jpg" /> <img width="3000" height="2000" width_o="3000" height_o="2000" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/9c0d0d5597096b6aecd6b0362f9f1d9c2423b9fa10d2b86ef32edfca189c8ad6/demeter-ne.jpg" data-mid="244832391" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/9c0d0d5597096b6aecd6b0362f9f1d9c2423b9fa10d2b86ef32edfca189c8ad6/demeter-ne.jpg" /> <img width="3000" height="2000" width_o="3000" height_o="2000" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/406003ec9ebf9de9ac2fe09ac89a45c9ff0e7e040e1cb6e3ed7808e6c1e4968f/demeter-nw.jpg" data-mid="244832432" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/406003ec9ebf9de9ac2fe09ac89a45c9ff0e7e040e1cb6e3ed7808e6c1e4968f/demeter-nw.jpg" /> <img width="3000" height="2000" width_o="3000" height_o="2000" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/215e28ad87fb5b4b5b166dda409a14ab8f3ed781c78391af163608f80c348795/demeter-detail.jpg" data-mid="244832387" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/215e28ad87fb5b4b5b166dda409a14ab8f3ed781c78391af163608f80c348795/demeter-detail.jpg" /> Varying window sizes break down the scale of the building while corresponding to specific program needs. A weathered steel corrugated cladding comprised of varying profiles lends further texture and scale. <img width="2878" height="2089" width_o="2878" height_o="2089" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/6ef8d85d197206564e0a9c9f4b0762534d61b9234a67537754e50b1329dbb94f/demeter-sk6.jpg" data-mid="244837105" border="0" data-scale="63" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/6ef8d85d197206564e0a9c9f4b0762534d61b9234a67537754e50b1329dbb94f/demeter-sk6.jpg" /> Corners were studied extensively as essential moments of the carve, most evident at the loading dock and area well where they reveal the thinness of layered materials. <img width="3000" height="2000" width_o="3000" height_o="2000" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/e56f4601578351264076cbfc6ea2666119c5b9cee02db7409226e36cbedc3faf/demeter-sw.jpg" data-mid="244832402" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/e56f4601578351264076cbfc6ea2666119c5b9cee02db7409226e36cbedc3faf/demeter-sw.jpg" /> <img width="3000" height="2000" width_o="3000" height_o="2000" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/05014c6b4cf5f06a85611e8737c657fe2b95623ea558646f517fa1793b505c72/demeter-south.jpg" data-mid="244832400" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/05014c6b4cf5f06a85611e8737c657fe2b95623ea558646f517fa1793b505c72/demeter-south.jpg" /> <img width="3000" height="2000" width_o="3000" height_o="2000" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/c6a3d6563164c046d98bb7cdd2a227d0d5fb270c07b26b24404bdf4acb1b5a55/demeter-int-warehouse.png" data-mid="244832389" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/c6a3d6563164c046d98bb7cdd2a227d0d5fb270c07b26b24404bdf4acb1b5a55/demeter-int-warehouse.png" /> <img width="3000" height="2000" width_o="3000" height_o="2000" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/2ae8835b50464d08f7a84a1cddce5d46d35be64d4503f9542e0e399e71a91bf3/demeter-warehousen.jpg" data-mid="244837852" border="0" data-scale="100" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/2ae8835b50464d08f7a84a1cddce5d46d35be64d4503f9542e0e399e71a91bf3/demeter-warehousen.jpg" /> <img width="3000" height="2000" width_o="3000" height_o="2000" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/bdaee0d25628a6a06985d1868a18951f42304bda201f5ebc60bcb967f6074142/demeter-warehousew.jpg" data-mid="244837855" border="0" data-scale="100" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/bdaee0d25628a6a06985d1868a18951f42304bda201f5ebc60bcb967f6074142/demeter-warehousew.jpg" /> Daylight is brought into the shop space via skylights, windows, and a north-facing clerestory. <img width="2000" height="1333" width_o="2000" height_o="1333" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/9c9f343b162d1d23e1d82a0f23d3ecd249f92b1f625c53239712f400d76fb4f8/demeter-lobby3.png" data-mid="244838607" border="0" data-scale="66" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/9c9f343b162d1d23e1d82a0f23d3ecd249f92b1f625c53239712f400d76fb4f8/demeter-lobby3.png" /> Millwork interventions throughout the office interiors are expressed both as solids whose thin layers are at times revealed when they are “carved” away. <img width="2000" height="1333" width_o="2000" height_o="1333" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/b4f5ed2dfde96c47ec02a12ae019a8ad155193b4f591783102d9553de5b74d14/demeter-lobby2.png" data-mid="244838606" border="0" data-scale="100" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/b4f5ed2dfde96c47ec02a12ae019a8ad155193b4f591783102d9553de5b74d14/demeter-lobby2.png" /> <img width="2000" height="1333" width_o="2000" height_o="1333" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/4985fdacfa961984e3f63166263c23946960e9a32b0b3f17c59858e0486cada9/demeter-lobby1.png" data-mid="244838605" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/4985fdacfa961984e3f63166263c23946960e9a32b0b3f17c59858e0486cada9/demeter-lobby1.png" /> <img width="3000" height="2000" width_o="3000" height_o="2000" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/8ca51a14b27088b53749a5f7d7a948159bf96855c9e524b465b565dbb8a88960/demeter-conf2.jpg" data-mid="244837827" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/8ca51a14b27088b53749a5f7d7a948159bf96855c9e524b465b565dbb8a88960/demeter-conf2.jpg" /> <img width="2000" height="1333" width_o="2000" height_o="1333" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/0b36973712ecf6838c1391873f60bd432ef7bc0f41ef2de880cddb8bc808ae50/demeter-kitchen.png" data-mid="244832390" border="0" data-scale="100" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/0b36973712ecf6838c1391873f60bd432ef7bc0f41ef2de880cddb8bc808ae50/demeter-kitchen.png" /> <img width="3000" height="2000" width_o="3000" height_o="2000" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/50c9e9235c4580d3495d145bc7cd58bad551167b89bf391f3f7f0dff59e5d9da/demeter-skylight.jpg" data-mid="244837849" border="0" data-scale="83" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/50c9e9235c4580d3495d145bc7cd58bad551167b89bf391f3f7f0dff59e5d9da/demeter-skylight.jpg" /> <img width="3000" height="2000" width_o="3000" height_o="2000" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/8488ff0c6af60becae243086c6cec34842f730726bf611a0c03ef3d85dac2ebe/demeter-openoffice.jpg" data-mid="244837847" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/8488ff0c6af60becae243086c6cec34842f730726bf611a0c03ef3d85dac2ebe/demeter-openoffice.jpg" /> <img width="3000" height="2000" width_o="3000" height_o="2000" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/fa767722661c0ff09bd9f95fe070f0f4bf6731a851e26c06922c889aa961c2e3/demeter-office2.jpg" data-mid="244838495" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/fa767722661c0ff09bd9f95fe070f0f4bf6731a851e26c06922c889aa961c2e3/demeter-office2.jpg" /> Custom felt ceiling baffles provide acoustic treatment, softness, and texture to the open offices throughout. &nbsp; <img width="3000" height="2000" width_o="3000" height_o="2000" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/68c37eaab93ec60b3fd15d0f29349a954c9e71b37bc90fda939ad8cdf2d52c24/demeter-conf2.png" data-mid="244832385" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/68c37eaab93ec60b3fd15d0f29349a954c9e71b37bc90fda939ad8cdf2d52c24/demeter-conf2.png" /> <img width="3000" height="2000" width_o="3000" height_o="2000" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/c8cf700502a7315253ba1ec277b46683fa7c7302083460fd0e19ea9aadacc19a/demeter-office2.png" data-mid="244832395" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/c8cf700502a7315253ba1ec277b46683fa7c7302083460fd0e19ea9aadacc19a/demeter-office2.png" /> <img width="3000" height="2000" width_o="3000" height_o="2000" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/7b6a689bd572017d1ec608543f5240196424026375fa8a84aa804ef0be2d8d7a/demeter-office.png" data-mid="244832394" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/7b6a689bd572017d1ec608543f5240196424026375fa8a84aa804ef0be2d8d7a/demeter-office.png" /> https://tomleestudio.com/House-With-A-Hole-1 Thu, 26 Oct 2023 20:24:10 +0000 tomleestudio https://tomleestudio.com/House-With-A-Hole-1 House With A Hole An existing three-story void within a 100-year-old house is transformed into the heart of a modern, sensous home in Chicago. <img width="3840" height="2160" width_o="3840" height_o="2160" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/b86293aaadf56a70f82a882eaf8e1e9f7623fd878bbe749df5baf5b8d1a26393/hole-render-02.png" data-mid="194992178" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/b86293aaadf56a70f82a882eaf8e1e9f7623fd878bbe749df5baf5b8d1a26393/hole-render-02.png" /> Collective childhood and travel experiences serve as the framework for this eclectic house renovation on the boards. A hybrid atmosphere for this renovation in Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood is informed by the intense daylight of Houston, vernacular courtyards and gardens of Paris, and the structural and resultant spatial rationality of Chicago. The existing three-story “hole” is transformed by a curved surface that serves as a canvas for any direct light emanating from adjacent windows and new circular skylight.&nbsp; The ground floor is bright, airy, and loft-like with its open plan in contrast to the reconfigured cellular bedrooms and primary suite on the second floor. A library and den bookend the north and south ends of the third floor with recreation room in the center, open to the hole below.Natural materials provide a calm and serene backdrop punctuated unexpectedly by color in select rooms.&nbsp; <img width="784" height="785" width_o="784" height_o="785" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/1407422c0430feb27718e75604be75a57abee381973d9b6c75cfaf0cd405dbb1/hole-render-05.png" data-mid="194992184" border="0" data-scale="74" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/784/i/1407422c0430feb27718e75604be75a57abee381973d9b6c75cfaf0cd405dbb1/hole-render-05.png" /> <img width="2715" height="1582" width_o="2715" height_o="1582" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/8da9571a6b3c5c7d20222de23cc9d47d9d4e586ebde3604b58d171cabe62ff46/hole-sk-01.jpg" data-mid="194992187" border="0" data-scale="65" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/8da9571a6b3c5c7d20222de23cc9d47d9d4e586ebde3604b58d171cabe62ff46/hole-sk-01.jpg" /> <img width="3840" height="2160" width_o="3840" height_o="2160" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/1d2a89970d366536e763df9fc18e6938a93630dcaf6b40ff6089d9dc2294acd1/hole-render-07.png" data-mid="194992186" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/1d2a89970d366536e763df9fc18e6938a93630dcaf6b40ff6089d9dc2294acd1/hole-render-07.png" /> <img width="3840" height="2160" width_o="3840" height_o="2160" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/69a07343b2b3194af83d78b4b7ca3129bb9cf05f604850317bbcdf87d8ee4038/hole-render-04.png" data-mid="194992180" border="0" data-scale="84" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/69a07343b2b3194af83d78b4b7ca3129bb9cf05f604850317bbcdf87d8ee4038/hole-render-04.png" /> <img width="3840" height="2160" width_o="3840" height_o="2160" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/29a3f4219de5735215f1490228145787c8b289686ff5aefcd6dc590a0e5ef672/hole-render-03.png" data-mid="194992181" border="0" data-scale="100" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/29a3f4219de5735215f1490228145787c8b289686ff5aefcd6dc590a0e5ef672/hole-render-03.png" /> https://tomleestudio.com/Leavitt-House-1 Wed, 25 Oct 2023 14:21:05 +0000 tomleestudio https://tomleestudio.com/Leavitt-House-1 Leavitt House Texture and layered outdoor spaces define this modern renovation of a 125-year-old home in Chicago. <img width="1453" height="1920" width_o="1453" height_o="1920" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/6c199cd6358d306d4b45810e31dbb5b6db9a47d1510261e1f26d31a8ffbe65e8/leavitt-tomharris-03.jpg" data-mid="241114582" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/6c199cd6358d306d4b45810e31dbb5b6db9a47d1510261e1f26d31a8ffbe65e8/leavitt-tomharris-03.jpg" /> Our clients sought to renovate their 1897 three-flat in Chicago’s Bucktown neighborhood to create a home that respects both old and new, with thoughtful connections between indoor and outdoor spaces. The historic authenticity of the home is preserved through the front façade. Intricate patterns of textured, white-glazed brick are preserved, while restored bay windows frame views to a newly landscaped garden. Embracing texture as a connection between old and new, a variegated standing seam zinc-clad addition introduces a modern character to the rear of the house, while also creating seamless transitions between interior and exterior spaces. <img width="866" height="838" width_o="866" height_o="838" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/ee0bf408c548e077cecde4dfe97f9929de9ac787bb29c14f620aaa8b45899569/leavitt-exist-02.png" data-mid="194818981" border="0" data-scale="95" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/866/i/ee0bf408c548e077cecde4dfe97f9929de9ac787bb29c14f620aaa8b45899569/leavitt-exist-02.png" /> Existing conditions <img width="524" height="650" width_o="524" height_o="650" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/2e9eaff7aef065a2093948762accba5da9d28c5e34fd923f350d3c0855ad37ab/leavitt-exist-01.png" data-mid="194818978" border="0" data-scale="56" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/524/i/2e9eaff7aef065a2093948762accba5da9d28c5e34fd923f350d3c0855ad37ab/leavitt-exist-01.png" /> Various diagrams exploring dialogues between “old vs. new” and “indoor vs. outdoor” were examined and tested. <img width="520" height="562" width_o="520" height_o="562" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/c9b2a4f28c0b7a933941b7338b3e0d96f9e34ba75dd5a8b9fb6e7483e63e7a02/leavitt-sk-08.jpg" data-mid="194819632" border="0" data-scale="71" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/520/i/c9b2a4f28c0b7a933941b7338b3e0d96f9e34ba75dd5a8b9fb6e7483e63e7a02/leavitt-sk-08.jpg" /> <img width="5054" height="2618" width_o="5054" height_o="2618" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/d8fa608a24206e8a3bfd13927a1305604c41643bba1097e14ec9651eb6eb541f/leavitt-sk-03-outdoor-space.jpg" data-mid="194819619" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/d8fa608a24206e8a3bfd13927a1305604c41643bba1097e14ec9651eb6eb541f/leavitt-sk-03-outdoor-space.jpg" />Exterior spaces are treated like outdoor rooms, each floor with its own corresponding outdoor space resulting in a series of terraced patios. Unique programmatic relationships lend various threshold conditions between inside and outside. &nbsp; <img width="4000" height="2500" width_o="4000" height_o="2500" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/3a49a74c86837ce7876ece37d2dc1e3cc328a23f59229d2bcdfcd87282d5671c/leavitt-render-06-axon.jpg" data-mid="194941632" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/3a49a74c86837ce7876ece37d2dc1e3cc328a23f59229d2bcdfcd87282d5671c/leavitt-render-06-axon.jpg" /> <img width="1567" height="1920" width_o="1567" height_o="1920" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/1592b65d16ee0ffbd43597055d5610eff8939df5cfa900d556baa5963c33b46e/leavitt-tomharris-02.jpg" data-mid="241114581" border="0" data-scale="100" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/1592b65d16ee0ffbd43597055d5610eff8939df5cfa900d556baa5963c33b46e/leavitt-tomharris-02.jpg" /> <img width="1519" height="960" width_o="1519" height_o="960" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/17130f35faed681ba9a7e894bca7da74f8ac6567ca4d8a54869cb624e00a0dff/leavitt-sk-04.jpg" data-mid="194819621" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/17130f35faed681ba9a7e894bca7da74f8ac6567ca4d8a54869cb624e00a0dff/leavitt-sk-04.jpg" /> <img width="1230" height="960" width_o="1230" height_o="960" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/623e568b081d75722dd51d40470340df34d973fdbd67e06ef5fd00ad13a78401/leavitt-sk-05.jpg" data-mid="194819625" border="0" data-scale="78" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/623e568b081d75722dd51d40470340df34d973fdbd67e06ef5fd00ad13a78401/leavitt-sk-05.jpg" /> <img width="2560" height="1728" width_o="2560" height_o="1728" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/a5a4554f3b4b729914d6f0c127734b6089ec746e775623b95d06b2da7eb085b8/leavitt-tomharris-04.jpg" data-mid="241114583" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/a5a4554f3b4b729914d6f0c127734b6089ec746e775623b95d06b2da7eb085b8/leavitt-tomharris-04.jpg" /> <img width="1527" height="1920" width_o="1527" height_o="1920" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/d61484f929123610cbed3e8b0ec7615b276ee9b433ebc20e90864bc82f53cd63/leavitt-tomharris-05.jpg" data-mid="241114585" border="0" data-scale="80" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/d61484f929123610cbed3e8b0ec7615b276ee9b433ebc20e90864bc82f53cd63/leavitt-tomharris-05.jpg" /> <img width="1241" height="1920" width_o="1241" height_o="1920" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/2e6c783b63f2b2a121d1819633d475024144a290898f154ec1c2ed316ab65636/leavitt-tomharris-06.jpg" data-mid="241114586" border="0" data-scale="100" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/2e6c783b63f2b2a121d1819633d475024144a290898f154ec1c2ed316ab65636/leavitt-tomharris-06.jpg" /> <img width="1006" height="782" width_o="1006" height_o="782" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/ef3d713430199c094596ad03d690889045dfa56ccb957645a72b32bdd9d2873c/leavitt-details-02a.jpg" data-mid="194963137" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/ef3d713430199c094596ad03d690889045dfa56ccb957645a72b32bdd9d2873c/leavitt-details-02a.jpg" /> Texture permeates every decision and selection in the home, from landscape to appliance hardware. <img width="370" height="604" width_o="370" height_o="604" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/b8a3f87240b74c724da35acb27e70f130c268173511bd62e9136544dcd0a23aa/leavitt-ext-08-pavers.jpg" data-mid="194818998" border="0" data-scale="66" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/370/i/b8a3f87240b74c724da35acb27e70f130c268173511bd62e9136544dcd0a23aa/leavitt-ext-08-pavers.jpg" /> <img width="1667" height="2500" width_o="1667" height_o="2500" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/95d8993f93525150453521984dd441e447108fff2ed7d3d079a6bdb3f68d4fbf/leavitt-sarahcrowley-14.jpg" data-mid="241114602" border="0" data-scale="72" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/95d8993f93525150453521984dd441e447108fff2ed7d3d079a6bdb3f68d4fbf/leavitt-sarahcrowley-14.jpg" /> <img width="1666" height="2500" width_o="1666" height_o="2500" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/eeefa3c1e7ba8ab529fcfe55a062c0a93768fa2707fc23e9f51460acde4fcfac/leavitt-sarahcrowley-15.jpg" data-mid="241114603" border="0" data-scale="72" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/eeefa3c1e7ba8ab529fcfe55a062c0a93768fa2707fc23e9f51460acde4fcfac/leavitt-sarahcrowley-15.jpg" /> <img width="1667" height="2500" width_o="1667" height_o="2500" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/a8b0d948f1cb5b9c0a45aa356bdaed8e89774072880c8be7bd2690cd0229a984/leavitt-sarahcrowley-12.jpg" data-mid="241114599" border="0" data-scale="72" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/a8b0d948f1cb5b9c0a45aa356bdaed8e89774072880c8be7bd2690cd0229a984/leavitt-sarahcrowley-12.jpg" /> <img width="1667" height="2500" width_o="1667" height_o="2500" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/bf4b7675be0f545ef50094afe50fbf72347133a9fbcbe4a2967915103ed2475a/leavitt-sarahcrowley-09.jpg" data-mid="241114596" border="0" data-scale="72" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/bf4b7675be0f545ef50094afe50fbf72347133a9fbcbe4a2967915103ed2475a/leavitt-sarahcrowley-09.jpg" /> <img width="1667" height="2500" width_o="1667" height_o="2500" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/3ab4e02a822d50c83f09fe0e4591bc0526d729149bf7a3bb678faac445523f30/leavitt-sarahcrowley-13.jpg" data-mid="241114601" border="0" data-scale="65" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/3ab4e02a822d50c83f09fe0e4591bc0526d729149bf7a3bb678faac445523f30/leavitt-sarahcrowley-13.jpg" /> <img width="1500" height="1100" width_o="1500" height_o="1100" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/f1db0041c14960f23ff32558eb719ac00f1ec1d9e0c66540c951694deb2902cf/leavitt-sk-01.jpg" data-mid="194819613" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/f1db0041c14960f23ff32558eb719ac00f1ec1d9e0c66540c951694deb2902cf/leavitt-sk-01.jpg" /> <img width="1500" height="1100" width_o="1500" height_o="1100" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/67b1b783a5d791c712251042dedee446d5c14e5e65b6cbbc27bd671d20467e72/leavitt-sk-02.jpg" data-mid="194819616" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/67b1b783a5d791c712251042dedee446d5c14e5e65b6cbbc27bd671d20467e72/leavitt-sk-02.jpg" /> Millwork interventions throughout the home create landmarks on every floor. <img width="2500" height="1667" width_o="2500" height_o="1667" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/2e85f15d41df109abb58a059d6c9f969323fdaf606fb17a35c9eb34cec75fbe8/leavitt-sarahcrowley-04.jpg" data-mid="241114591" border="0" data-scale="68" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/2e85f15d41df109abb58a059d6c9f969323fdaf606fb17a35c9eb34cec75fbe8/leavitt-sarahcrowley-04.jpg" /> <img width="1667" height="2500" width_o="1667" height_o="2500" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/202f00cb9f42fdb5934f2c80623f43728d17f5648182df736d795305a3aa7182/leavitt-sarahcrowley-05.jpg" data-mid="241114592" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/202f00cb9f42fdb5934f2c80623f43728d17f5648182df736d795305a3aa7182/leavitt-sarahcrowley-05.jpg" /> <img width="1667" height="2500" width_o="1667" height_o="2500" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/7bb647c29ec435d8aea25eb3d188b6a4956ef36dc4dcf10a25c4f3167a2cd718/leavitt-sarahcrowley-08.jpg" data-mid="241114595" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/7bb647c29ec435d8aea25eb3d188b6a4956ef36dc4dcf10a25c4f3167a2cd718/leavitt-sarahcrowley-08.jpg" /> Windows and doors create a range of different indoor to outdoor relationships. <img width="2500" height="1667" width_o="2500" height_o="1667" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/5b1565bc7fa1baf12981dbd7fce46f33d1203edeb7b6f7a98f5eb69844749257/leavitt-sarahcrowley-01.jpg" data-mid="241114588" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/5b1565bc7fa1baf12981dbd7fce46f33d1203edeb7b6f7a98f5eb69844749257/leavitt-sarahcrowley-01.jpg" /> <img width="1667" height="2500" width_o="1667" height_o="2500" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/5f148d97a8c40437b4b94a295054b6f4502006b4969fbd3e87d8864017779c74/leavitt-sarahcrowley-02.jpg" data-mid="241114589" border="0" data-scale="60" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/5f148d97a8c40437b4b94a295054b6f4502006b4969fbd3e87d8864017779c74/leavitt-sarahcrowley-02.jpg" /> <img width="1667" height="2500" width_o="1667" height_o="2500" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/32f6eb022f0c26b7eb983471693bedfc972ae6b7726e63f3d51049b8e0faaa23/leavitt-sarahcrowley-11.jpg" data-mid="241114598" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/32f6eb022f0c26b7eb983471693bedfc972ae6b7726e63f3d51049b8e0faaa23/leavitt-sarahcrowley-11.jpg" /> Photography by Tom Harris and Sarah Crowley. Styling by Brittany Sartin.Completed while with Eastman Lee Architects. https://tomleestudio.com/House-In-Three-Acts Fri, 13 Feb 2026 06:35:34 +0000 tomleestudio https://tomleestudio.com/House-In-Three-Acts House In Three Acts An 1888 historic limestone home in Bucktown unfolds in three acts, transforming its historic shell into a warm, sensuous modern interior for a young family. <img width="2567" height="1409" width_o="2567" height_o="1409" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/14a11dc106aa1a889bb39849441d2290437ef2c4fd8f1928f16571fbaa9a1551/caton-primary01c.png" data-mid="244826556" border="0" data-scale="87" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/14a11dc106aa1a889bb39849441d2290437ef2c4fd8f1928f16571fbaa9a1551/caton-primary01c.png" />Located in Chicago’s Bucktown neighborhood, this 1888 limestone home in a designated historic district has been reimagined with a warm, sensuous modern interior for a young family. Conceived in three acts, the transformation begins with an extensive renovation of the ground floor, where the public spaces, including the kitchen, dining, living, and family rooms, are reconfigured to support both everyday living and large-scale entertaining. These interventions recalibrate the proportions of the existing rooms while maintaining the enfilade quality inherent to the home’s original layout, preserving its historic rhythm even as the spaces are opened and modernized. The Second Act introduces selective interventions on the second floor, largely respecting the existing spatial organization, with the exception of a library that is carefully opened up using glass and steel doors to extend light and connection. A new open-riser rear stair, set within a double-height volume, draws daylight inward through windows framing the park beyond, while a new roof deck over the existing garage provides a private, contemplative space beneath the canopy of existing trees. The Third Act reshapes the attic into a serene primary suite, where a cacophony of angled ceilings is reconciled by a curving millwork wall and closet that form a sculptural alliance where they meet, defining a new spatial condition within the historic envelope. Throughout, a distilled material palette,&nbsp;inspired by the capiz shell—culturally and personally significant to the client— tempers the gravitas of the limestone shell, creating interiors that feel intimate yet expansive, through compositions of walnut floors and millwork, quartzite slabs, stainless steel, and sandblasted glass, unifying the home in a tactile, luminous calm. <img width="3000" height="2000" width_o="3000" height_o="2000" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/9ab124414595cdfd0caa674be76ca97daf470b414a2ccbc1e2f9a47f6f7de772/caton-butlers-north.png" data-mid="244826290" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/9ab124414595cdfd0caa674be76ca97daf470b414a2ccbc1e2f9a47f6f7de772/caton-butlers-north.png" /> <img width="3000" height="2000" width_o="3000" height_o="2000" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/dd7b3cfcf8c678a89afc42c6634cc007e98aab109e75ea799cb27019e10f4288/caton-butlers-north_closed.png" data-mid="244826289" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/dd7b3cfcf8c678a89afc42c6634cc007e98aab109e75ea799cb27019e10f4288/caton-butlers-north_closed.png" /> A hidden millwork door reveals a new butler’s pantry while framing an entrance to the new kitchen beyond. <img width="3000" height="2000" width_o="3000" height_o="2000" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/ddcf70ea918720a8875aadb3da4c3b6015860dff9c6a08047b7a47920c1b0ba4/caton-kitchen-south.png" data-mid="244826304" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/ddcf70ea918720a8875aadb3da4c3b6015860dff9c6a08047b7a47920c1b0ba4/caton-kitchen-south.png" /> <img width="3000" height="2000" width_o="3000" height_o="2000" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/e063c062c334e0a8869ed9261c81775fca02e4137407857fce37493fbbf36a41/caton-kitchen-west.png" data-mid="244826305" border="0" data-scale="81" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/e063c062c334e0a8869ed9261c81775fca02e4137407857fce37493fbbf36a41/caton-kitchen-west.png" /> <img width="3000" height="2000" width_o="3000" height_o="2000" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/eafb33632100b7b5aa764090a355a8c0e7cdb6043f3ce70fe224bff6a6e3acbb/caton-kitchen-east.png" data-mid="244826302" border="0" data-scale="80" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/eafb33632100b7b5aa764090a355a8c0e7cdb6043f3ce70fe224bff6a6e3acbb/caton-kitchen-east.png" /> A carefully expanded kitchen maintains the home’s existing spatial qualities with framed views to adjacent rooms, while opening it up to daylight and movement for entertaining and everyday living. <img width="3000" height="2000" width_o="3000" height_o="2000" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/cc2b5a287bca1932631e8c3da061c48b2a62bcb3cfa3f5ec8789cb40977abb40/caton-living-west.png" data-mid="244826314" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/cc2b5a287bca1932631e8c3da061c48b2a62bcb3cfa3f5ec8789cb40977abb40/caton-living-west.png" /> <img width="3000" height="2000" width_o="3000" height_o="2000" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/47f4efb3ccb9d464d4aef26e429c386dbd173d9c248c03f8523599dbf87ec5ca/caton-living-south.png" data-mid="244826313" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/47f4efb3ccb9d464d4aef26e429c386dbd173d9c248c03f8523599dbf87ec5ca/caton-living-south.png" /> <img width="3000" height="2000" width_o="3000" height_o="2000" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/87844bf41d1b488d782f4348492a3943aae082791cfa02aece6a75d647f0d89d/caton-living-north.png" data-mid="244826312" border="0" data-scale="75" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/87844bf41d1b488d782f4348492a3943aae082791cfa02aece6a75d647f0d89d/caton-living-north.png" /> <img width="1504" height="2000" width_o="1504" height_o="2000" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/80cd86e4bdc12cce05e261fe4a2230a8cac998a10533daf2a46807773c0fe2aa/caton-mudroom-southc.png" data-mid="244832349" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/80cd86e4bdc12cce05e261fe4a2230a8cac998a10533daf2a46807773c0fe2aa/caton-mudroom-southc.png" /> <img width="1504" height="2000" width_o="1504" height_o="2000" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/10cd07b63579a6962c901737fdda6755276db8e95cfa929be215bae59d50a1ab/caton-mudroom-northc.png" data-mid="244832348" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/10cd07b63579a6962c901737fdda6755276db8e95cfa929be215bae59d50a1ab/caton-mudroom-northc.png" /> <img width="3000" height="2000" width_o="3000" height_o="2000" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/d159746e9d74db884678f897ea2126ec5286ff7a4aa6a872c3003ce74d26388d/caton-mudroom-east.png" data-mid="244826315" border="0" data-scale="82" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/d159746e9d74db884678f897ea2126ec5286ff7a4aa6a872c3003ce74d26388d/caton-mudroom-east.png" /> The existing front bedroom is reimagined as a library with operable steel and glass walls and built-in millwork. <img width="3000" height="2000" width_o="3000" height_o="2000" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/385ba3966fde96e420cf92fc2b5effc8e1e20a5875b1a42b59f1776d2059b55d/caton-library-east_closed.png" data-mid="244826307" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/385ba3966fde96e420cf92fc2b5effc8e1e20a5875b1a42b59f1776d2059b55d/caton-library-east_closed.png" /> <img width="3000" height="2000" width_o="3000" height_o="2000" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/16d514997a84706311870ed74b59fb215aa9e00bc7cbdf4167380b6d8d6a3887/caton-library-north_closed.png" data-mid="244826309" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/16d514997a84706311870ed74b59fb215aa9e00bc7cbdf4167380b6d8d6a3887/caton-library-north_closed.png" /> <img width="3000" height="2000" width_o="3000" height_o="2000" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/492481e2e71d81e3bd4e3008f739b7912bd98539a0d4da2f1293571966e18aa0/caton-primarybath-east.png" data-mid="244826318" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/492481e2e71d81e3bd4e3008f739b7912bd98539a0d4da2f1293571966e18aa0/caton-primarybath-east.png" /> <img width="3000" height="2000" width_o="3000" height_o="2000" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/1c1936fba19ff1f8554ea82737954511f1df66ed3176f9690ae02df95fc4ad74/caton-primary01.png" data-mid="244826544" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/1c1936fba19ff1f8554ea82737954511f1df66ed3176f9690ae02df95fc4ad74/caton-primary01.png" /> <img width="3000" height="2000" width_o="3000" height_o="2000" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/0f23819fba5e3ae8f822b0200a1c3ddfc5874b133500055c1503a10761d43e0c/caton-primary04.png" data-mid="244826547" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/0f23819fba5e3ae8f822b0200a1c3ddfc5874b133500055c1503a10761d43e0c/caton-primary04.png" /> <img width="3000" height="2000" width_o="3000" height_o="2000" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/6b1fd266553093c93c5ffcc07f5101c1aad943169bfb3e203229252868a11b1e/caton-axon.png" data-mid="244826540" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/6b1fd266553093c93c5ffcc07f5101c1aad943169bfb3e203229252868a11b1e/caton-axon.png" />Selectively curved walnut-veneered millwork panels are added, wrapping the perimeter of the existing primary suite creating a sculptural alliance between wall and sloped ceiling. Storage is placed hidden within the interstitial space resulting in a new spatial order.&nbsp; https://tomleestudio.com/Offset-The-Vertical-Loop-2021-Chicago-Prize Wed, 12 Apr 2023 04:38:18 +0000 tomleestudio https://tomleestudio.com/Offset-The-Vertical-Loop-2021-Chicago-Prize Offset: The Vertical Loop A unique approach to historic preservation and adaptive reuse for Helmut Jahn’s James R. Thompson Center. <img width="1024" height="745" width_o="1024" height_o="745" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/12c638ea8f03bcf0873c09c191ecb86077a1d5c22033d43e870d4475c98e9647/r-thompson-center_01.jpg" data-mid="175037232" border="0" data-scale="100" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/12c638ea8f03bcf0873c09c191ecb86077a1d5c22033d43e870d4475c98e9647/r-thompson-center_01.jpg" /> Winner of the Chicago Architectural Club’s 2021 Chicago Prize The Thompson Center is an icon of Chicago’s architectural heritage and a unique and vital contributor to the city’s urban fabric. The abstraction inherent in the building’s creation, in both form and image, is an important example of postmodern architecture, and one deserving of preservation to reconsider its future use and role in redefining civic space in the Loop. A new thermal envelope is offset inboard in both plan and section from the existing curtain wall. This frees the existing façade from its responsibility (and need for repair) as a weather barrier. The removal of the existing vision glass panels and preservation of the original opaque curtain wall elements transforms an inefficient curtain wall system into a screen that acts as a shading device, while preserving the graphic qualities of the iconic façade. Users and the public are free to move about this newfound interstitial space throughout the building. <img width="2000" height="736" width_o="2000" height_o="736" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/0c8a73d0d7db9d80b4ba58a719fe9dc318a02cdc3b616ecf8e75620e644b1ac6/offset-diagram.jpg" data-mid="175037178" border="0" data-scale="100" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/0c8a73d0d7db9d80b4ba58a719fe9dc318a02cdc3b616ecf8e75620e644b1ac6/offset-diagram.jpg" /> Offsetting the public use of the building in section allows the ground plane to become a public park, open on all sides. This park becomes a gateway to what is a new vertical extension of the Loop, comprised of a mix of dynamic programs that gradate from public to private as one moves up the building. Zoned by floor, it affords the opportunity for small scale development in the heart of the Loop. <img width="2000" height="1472" width_o="2000" height_o="1472" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/b8ac0611ada88f3aac951aa1afa9f753e339a2a6bbd16552b15f3d41239e3088/section-with-text.jpg" data-mid="175037181" border="0" data-scale="99" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/b8ac0611ada88f3aac951aa1afa9f753e339a2a6bbd16552b15f3d41239e3088/section-with-text.jpg" /> <img width="2000" height="1398" width_o="2000" height_o="1398" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/5c773d834f0e5271e1eb6e3afb6fea3257770e479dd7c2e3dc44afbb1efa0e28/elevation.jpg" data-mid="175037167" border="0" data-scale="98" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/5c773d834f0e5271e1eb6e3afb6fea3257770e479dd7c2e3dc44afbb1efa0e28/elevation.jpg" /> &nbsp;<img width="1024" height="683" width_o="1024" height_o="683" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/57733e3313b3c61c9515180271b57d6e186ae9ffff1e98ce175c6c47e954171e/r-thompson-center_03.jpg" data-mid="175037236" border="0" data-scale="66" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/57733e3313b3c61c9515180271b57d6e186ae9ffff1e98ce175c6c47e954171e/r-thompson-center_03.jpg" /> FacadeVision glass panels are removed leaving behind the opaque blue panels, converting the inefficient and decaying curtain wall into a lightweight screen that shades and tempers the public circulation within. Offsetting the new internal volumes from the perimeter redefines existing floor slabs into shading devices while providing new public circulation space. <img width="2000" height="2533" width_o="2000" height_o="2533" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/310d6792cd10eada1c46c5a52edd41a0042d7d3da30b3f73584f0065e10048d3/typ-floor.jpg" data-mid="175037182" border="0" data-scale="76" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/310d6792cd10eada1c46c5a52edd41a0042d7d3da30b3f73584f0065e10048d3/typ-floor.jpg" /> Typical Floor PlanDevelopment zones radiate from the atrium providing small-scale opportunities for a mix of developments. Interstitial spaces become public circulation. <img width="2000" height="1658" width_o="2000" height_o="1658" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/faac27e96574ce37e24b833109997b6b5a2000cb186cd616b8b250e74485c788/concourse.jpg" data-mid="175037163" border="0" data-scale="78" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/faac27e96574ce37e24b833109997b6b5a2000cb186cd616b8b250e74485c788/concourse.jpg" /> <img width="2000" height="1654" width_o="2000" height_o="1654" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/d8511ed366dbca4caf5787ce0bf7cfb47f5218e883977e62041c55193da9e3ea/hanging-gardens.jpg" data-mid="175037173" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/d8511ed366dbca4caf5787ce0bf7cfb47f5218e883977e62041c55193da9e3ea/hanging-gardens.jpg" /> Hanging GardensPlanting beds along guardrails add the color green to the original abstracted red, white, and blue palette adapting the building from housing bureaucrats to a new, vibrant extension of the city.&nbsp; The gardens also announce structure’s newfound commitment to being a sustainable development. <img width="2000" height="998" width_o="2000" height_o="998" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/83d1191eae6ea46c1e41dbe8d5425b893f055ca2946a6d5aad9bd707ad66d7fc/wintersummer.jpg" data-mid="175037183" border="0" data-scale="83" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/83d1191eae6ea46c1e41dbe8d5425b893f055ca2946a6d5aad9bd707ad66d7fc/wintersummer.jpg" /> Roof PlaneThe roof plane becomes a series of vegetable gardens for residents and restaurants below. Operable louvers replace the existing glass roof over the atrium and are opened in the summer to promote cooling natural ventilation and closed in the winter to provide supplemental heating. <img width="2000" height="1896" width_o="2000" height_o="1896" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/fa495375a09cb1691459a53d04aa936e495879bf102845b48cf105e7be725c45/roof-axon.jpg" data-mid="175037179" border="0" data-scale="79" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/fa495375a09cb1691459a53d04aa936e495879bf102845b48cf105e7be725c45/roof-axon.jpg" /> <img width="2000" height="2858" width_o="2000" height_o="2858" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/64dfc451800a550831b2b502821c696819a5fd39d335781ca9d2057c4bbd1cc7/atrium.jpg" data-mid="175037159" border="0" data-scale="84" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/64dfc451800a550831b2b502821c696819a5fd39d335781ca9d2057c4bbd1cc7/atrium.jpg" /> <img width="2000" height="2481" width_o="2000" height_o="2481" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/5a4d16df43fd7eda8f9fbb83763e39ed8a5c779ccac4be9ef0c41cff3215ffee/ground-floor-plan-with-text.jpg" data-mid="175037171" border="0" data-scale="68" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/5a4d16df43fd7eda8f9fbb83763e39ed8a5c779ccac4be9ef0c41cff3215ffee/ground-floor-plan-with-text.jpg" /> Ground PlaneExisting retail on the ground floor gives way to a new urban park that comprised of a variety of spaces including a grove of trees to contrast the height of the atrium and covered outdoor seating areas. A gentle grassy hill rises from the old food court, providing a place to gather and serving as an unexpected gateway to the Loop for those arriving via L or subway. A new grand stair invites the public to the upper floors. Photos courtesy of Chicago Architectural Club. Completed while with Eastman Lee Architects. https://tomleestudio.com/Grayscale-Apartment Fri, 13 Feb 2026 06:38:37 +0000 tomleestudio https://tomleestudio.com/Grayscale-Apartment Grayscale Apartment An acid-etched mirrored glass volume anchors a minimalist Gold Coast pied-à-terre, organizing space through light, texture, and subtle materials. <img width="3000" height="2000" width_o="3000" height_o="2000" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/b34f7fcd7f72ddfbf10a3eac805adfed62935e48bb64e870a0b0068dd803701a/grayscale3.png" data-mid="244819409" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/b34f7fcd7f72ddfbf10a3eac805adfed62935e48bb64e870a0b0068dd803701a/grayscale3.png" /> In Chicago’s Gold Coast, a two-bedroom condo was transformed into a minimalist pied-à-terre anchored by an acid-etched mirrored glass volume that conceals the primary bath and closet while organizing the apartment into public and private zones. Positioned in dialogue with an existing exposed concrete column, the volume maintains a fluid spatial flow. A continuous wall of millwork discreetly houses mechanicals, closets, a guest bath, and the kitchen, while concealed light coves illuminate the space. The nearly colorless palette relies on texture, material, and the play of light across surfaces to create a calm, refined, and contemplative interior. <img width="3000" height="2000" width_o="3000" height_o="2000" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/12a0bd665454a481fc10d567479a7f1fde0a462d8bf0e1c9b3b081ee5d726488/grayscale1.png" data-mid="244819407" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/12a0bd665454a481fc10d567479a7f1fde0a462d8bf0e1c9b3b081ee5d726488/grayscale1.png" /> An existing concrete column is exposed and defines the dining area. <img width="3000" height="2000" width_o="3000" height_o="2000" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/244e675466e7dd1383e399440e322f975d11ff5a3a9e79d36bde5a568196ad6c/view-05---opA.png" data-mid="244819411" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/244e675466e7dd1383e399440e322f975d11ff5a3a9e79d36bde5a568196ad6c/view-05---opA.png" /> A millwork wall extends the entire length of the unit which features both eastern and western exposures.&nbsp; <img width="3000" height="2000" width_o="3000" height_o="2000" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/d0942572244919bd6ddcd517628e7570f8ad691e20a6dfc9bfe180172d423559/grayscale2.png" data-mid="244819408" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/d0942572244919bd6ddcd517628e7570f8ad691e20a6dfc9bfe180172d423559/grayscale2.png" /> &nbsp; <img width="3000" height="2000" width_o="3000" height_o="2000" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/f53ad78d4ebb0ba1d700ea4b1e0b35325d94ddc9984f6c9a1e7281860baffc85/grayscale4.png" data-mid="244819410" border="0" data-scale="91" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/f53ad78d4ebb0ba1d700ea4b1e0b35325d94ddc9984f6c9a1e7281860baffc85/grayscale4.png" /> A single opening leads to a semi-enclosed primary bathroom and concealed walk-in closet. https://tomleestudio.com/The-Clearings-Door-County Fri, 13 Feb 2026 06:39:44 +0000 tomleestudio https://tomleestudio.com/The-Clearings-Door-County The Clearings&nbsp; Three gabled volumes form a house along the forest edge, framing newly carved clearings as outdoor rooms in Door County, Wisconsin. <img width="1572" height="1048" width_o="1572" height_o="1048" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/ccd76a9c9634376375566c3fac13e958e4e9ec9e3528b83653ed8ffe6df16cfb/clearings-aerial.png" data-mid="244825191" border="0" data-scale="57" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/ccd76a9c9634376375566c3fac13e958e4e9ec9e3528b83653ed8ffe6df16cfb/clearings-aerial.png" /> The project, which is early in development, begins by carving a series of clearings into a dense forest, defining outdoor rooms for activity and repose. Along the edges of these newly formed clearings, three gabled volumes are arranged: a communal volume with public spaces, a private bedroom wing, and a large multi-car garage. Placing the buildings at the thresholds between forest and open space frames views into the clearings and fosters a quiet dialogue with the landscape, allowing the architecture to complement—and not overpower—the surrounding woods.&nbsp; <img width="3129" height="2300" width_o="3129" height_o="2300" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/a71ca7c4f45ed3beb484518e8380958bd5dcb81714d51aa8c762001f1350f90a/clearings8c.jpg" data-mid="244825344" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/a71ca7c4f45ed3beb484518e8380958bd5dcb81714d51aa8c762001f1350f90a/clearings8c.jpg" /> <img width="3129" height="2300" width_o="3129" height_o="2300" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/4a94268fcb558c9f33b29ba00a3ce598a4a93793b9aa9c25d12e0ded34f98e2b/clearings5c.jpg" data-mid="244825341" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/4a94268fcb558c9f33b29ba00a3ce598a4a93793b9aa9c25d12e0ded34f98e2b/clearings5c.jpg" /> <img width="3129" height="2300" width_o="3129" height_o="2300" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/c2730d5f17667a41bf27bc08d22cf8723395ce8838e174ae4cda07ae465f8b10/clearings2c.jpg" data-mid="244825338" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/c2730d5f17667a41bf27bc08d22cf8723395ce8838e174ae4cda07ae465f8b10/clearings2c.jpg" /> <img width="3129" height="2300" width_o="3129" height_o="2300" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/0b169d8eb4c2720b605487719b4f123a2edb05832fda78797defada5472b4e95/clearings4c.jpg" data-mid="244825340" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/0b169d8eb4c2720b605487719b4f123a2edb05832fda78797defada5472b4e95/clearings4c.jpg" /> <img width="3129" height="2300" width_o="3129" height_o="2300" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/7c6cf616a7a066ae4b6aafdfca98b1313676b60502cdb3c932f8ba10cc3b4e80/clearings3c.jpg" data-mid="244825339" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/7c6cf616a7a066ae4b6aafdfca98b1313676b60502cdb3c932f8ba10cc3b4e80/clearings3c.jpg" /> <img width="3129" height="2300" width_o="3129" height_o="2300" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/eb28b0a6b4a66bfe5b9ff67cfd3d600eb99f525f5410fb22577121730c7ad045/clearings1c.jpg" data-mid="244825337" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/eb28b0a6b4a66bfe5b9ff67cfd3d600eb99f525f5410fb22577121730c7ad045/clearings1c.jpg" /> <img width="3129" height="2300" width_o="3129" height_o="2300" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/524b79188c5fedc429c80d14d582eac8a303cbc5c3c3ebd3c4b3b24374777d60/clearings6c.jpg" data-mid="244825342" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/524b79188c5fedc429c80d14d582eac8a303cbc5c3c3ebd3c4b3b24374777d60/clearings6c.jpg" /> <img width="3129" height="2300" width_o="3129" height_o="2300" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/b7b0dcfe3b328ca6ce8278aa823c707215aeb81f26c81662519560ae31336da1/clearings7c.jpg" data-mid="244825343" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/b7b0dcfe3b328ca6ce8278aa823c707215aeb81f26c81662519560ae31336da1/clearings7c.jpg" /> https://tomleestudio.com/House-Of-Halls Sun, 22 Oct 2023 19:06:39 +0000 tomleestudio https://tomleestudio.com/House-Of-Halls House Of Halls Memories are preserved in this sentimental and serene transformation of a long-time family home. <img width="3800" height="2000" width_o="3800" height_o="2000" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/74561d31e57d340d1ea5c3600ce61d7739a043c1f79ad042977e0fa98d752080/interior-02.jpg" data-mid="194635997" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/74561d31e57d340d1ea5c3600ce61d7739a043c1f79ad042977e0fa98d752080/interior-02.jpg" /> A family desired a distinctly modern take on their 11,000 square foot home of nearly 25 years to better reflect their current lifestyle and aesthetic. <img width="2279" height="1542" width_o="2279" height_o="1542" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/c08880e107c578f95db81d58b0b1e9525e4d4f7af121e775fbdd531086a60133/houseofhalls-sk-16.jpg" data-mid="194641395" border="0" data-scale="95" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/c08880e107c578f95db81d58b0b1e9525e4d4f7af121e775fbdd531086a60133/houseofhalls-sk-16.jpg" /> <img width="2627" height="1938" width_o="2627" height_o="1938" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/e1d0788ff042ffd38aba809b321ed79ecbb0b696bdce3f38c2722e07c1f02a23/houseofhalls-sk-12.jpg" data-mid="194641391" border="0" data-scale="72" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/e1d0788ff042ffd38aba809b321ed79ecbb0b696bdce3f38c2722e07c1f02a23/houseofhalls-sk-12.jpg" />With a focus on arrival sequence and procession, the transition from exterior to interior is intentionally choreographed. Guests are greeted by a carefully composed series of dry laid stone walls surrounded by a garden landscape before entering the home. <img width="5100" height="3300" width_o="5100" height_o="3300" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/db484e9ac3638a8396c90e6420192a43e312c6605060aed92cc5179b90e6e77c/houseofhalls-sk-01.jpg" data-mid="194641384" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/db484e9ac3638a8396c90e6420192a43e312c6605060aed92cc5179b90e6e77c/houseofhalls-sk-01.jpg" /> <img width="5100" height="3300" width_o="5100" height_o="3300" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/3bd5b37307c4ad4157d4de7b108c2ce20b8cd6a174b4926584f4b92a0b260b2a/houseofhalls-sk-07.jpg" data-mid="194641386" border="0" data-scale="83" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/3bd5b37307c4ad4157d4de7b108c2ce20b8cd6a174b4926584f4b92a0b260b2a/houseofhalls-sk-07.jpg" /> <img width="5100" height="3300" width_o="5100" height_o="3300" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/5a100b8b738de25de8bf30b390492b085bf87c35fdd006776894f1dde9fccaf2/houseofhalls-sk-02.jpg" data-mid="194641385" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/5a100b8b738de25de8bf30b390492b085bf87c35fdd006776894f1dde9fccaf2/houseofhalls-sk-02.jpg" /> <img width="2872" height="2000" width_o="2872" height_o="2000" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/1d96220923cd9c09e0f2f78845936127463ddd8bbe91928a172491f832038386/interior-03a.jpg" data-mid="194641351" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/1d96220923cd9c09e0f2f78845936127463ddd8bbe91928a172491f832038386/interior-03a.jpg" /> Once inside, the spatial arrangement respects the existing structural grain of the house, while extending open living spaces into the landscape through framed views and transparency. <img width="3800" height="2000" width_o="3800" height_o="2000" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/ec5c02718d0fd45a165e9f3c8a1ee6ed1f780703c615bb6eb1ca9995e9627a83/interior-06.jpg" data-mid="194636001" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/ec5c02718d0fd45a165e9f3c8a1ee6ed1f780703c615bb6eb1ca9995e9627a83/interior-06.jpg" /> <img width="2623" height="1046" width_o="2623" height_o="1046" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/de43b0025c8cbcdf4638985514377b79b087d20422354b1f73fac60094ad4d12/houseofhalls-sk-09.jpg" data-mid="194641388" border="0" data-scale="100" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/de43b0025c8cbcdf4638985514377b79b087d20422354b1f73fac60094ad4d12/houseofhalls-sk-09.jpg" /> A connection to nature and the seasons is experienced throughout the home. Attention to craft and detail with the use of natural materials results in a calm and serene environment for living and entertaining.<img width="2316" height="1351" width_o="2316" height_o="1351" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/4bd92d55f1a43267d3ed3dde49e7356cf01a7a919a665f3b017b03648827caca/houseofhalls-sk-17.jpg" data-mid="194641396" border="0" data-scale="82" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/4bd92d55f1a43267d3ed3dde49e7356cf01a7a919a665f3b017b03648827caca/houseofhalls-sk-17.jpg" /> <img width="3800" height="2000" width_o="3800" height_o="2000" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/8841cddfd22acf11e56f6a307d3ec079cf77f1c53b7c4073170e83f2bdb60ea1/interior-05.jpg" data-mid="194636000" border="0" data-scale="100" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/8841cddfd22acf11e56f6a307d3ec079cf77f1c53b7c4073170e83f2bdb60ea1/interior-05.jpg" /> <img width="3800" height="2000" width_o="3800" height_o="2000" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/e3c44c968c56dd884e0f462d44a51dcb5765e302d64a8a9bf45c2be473b14bc5/interior-04.jpg" data-mid="194635999" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/e3c44c968c56dd884e0f462d44a51dcb5765e302d64a8a9bf45c2be473b14bc5/interior-04.jpg" /> <img width="2186" height="1665" width_o="2186" height_o="1665" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/7994789038867a567d42137a3835117411cfd08928961eaca25ec3183e8032b6/houseofhalls-sk-20.jpg" data-mid="194641399" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/7994789038867a567d42137a3835117411cfd08928961eaca25ec3183e8032b6/houseofhalls-sk-20.jpg" /> Floating millwork volumes of varying heights create an interior landscape of defined spaces while maintaining a fluidity of movement. <img width="3800" height="2000" width_o="3800" height_o="2000" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/01539e45c369a1986d53a04d892cfb81af387efc52627d785d281179f689b06b/interior-01.jpg" data-mid="194635996" border="0" data-scale="59" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/01539e45c369a1986d53a04d892cfb81af387efc52627d785d281179f689b06b/interior-01.jpg" /> Pivoting and sliding doors provide discrete privacy when needed but are otherwise hidden allowing light, views, and movement to flow through the space.&nbsp; <img width="3800" height="2000" width_o="3800" height_o="2000" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/9294d60f4f86e9d5f063f9d8ee4dfff3c8868d311c94dd846232ca56423442a4/interior-07.jpg" data-mid="194641352" border="0" data-scale="100" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/9294d60f4f86e9d5f063f9d8ee4dfff3c8868d311c94dd846232ca56423442a4/interior-07.jpg" /> Completed while with Eastman Lee Architects.