House & Home

Space is pretty tight on the North Shore, so when you do find the lot of your dreams, you want to do it up right.

Homes are the pinnacle of self-definition. At least those you plan to live in for years to come. When you’ve made a sizable investment in a piece of North Shore Chicago real estate, chances are you want to surround yourself with the decor that makes you most comfortable.

The beauty of living in North Shore Chicago Real Estate is that you can do this, without feeling as if you stick out like a sore thumb. The North Shore is home to just about every home style and tastes in decor imaginable – from Saltbox to sleek, Mission to modern, cottage style to a city feel.

What’s more, there is certainly not a shortage of design services at your beck and call. The North Shore is home many furniture boutiques, interior design firms, and remodeling specialists – all on top of their game, with knowledge of the latest trends in house and home.

Architects

Space is pretty tight on the North Shore, so when you do find the lot of your dreams, you want to do it up right. For an uber-custom experience, you may want to tap an architect for the ultimate in personalized home design. In Lake Forest, Swanson + Donahue have more than 35 years of experience in residential and commercial design. Becker Architects in Highland Park has been in the business of making dreams come true since 1982. Winnetka’s Clark and Associates has both commercial and residential experience, delivering quality projects for budgets large and small. In Evanston, Stuart Cohen and Julie Hacker deliver award-winning designs in residential architecture, from remodeling work to complete custom home design.

Homebuilding and Renovation

Ready to build? Chances are, the neighbors will frown on a do-it-yourself build – you need an expert when it comes to custom homebuilding and renovation projects. Fortunately, the North Shore is home to a wide variety of builders who can deliver quality work. Heritage Builders in Northfield specializes in top-notch luxury design in just about any style you desire, from tudor to colonial. Deerfield’s JMD Builders believes in involving their customers at every level of the project, with excellent communication and customer service as keys to their success. In Evanston, Benvenuti and Stein has a simple mission: “the desire to do creative, distinctive, high-quality work with the utmost attention to detail.”

Kitchen and Bath

Maybe you are new to the North Shore and bought an older piece of Chicago real estate in need of a makeover. Or, you’ve been here for years – and so has the linoleum on the kitchen floor. If you’re thinking of remodeling a kitchen or bath, there’s no shortage of area specialists that can help you with your project. Burmeister Woodwork in Lake Forest specializes in custom cabinetry for a look that’s all yours. Glencoe Kitchen/Design offers world-class design for sophisticated tastes. Evanston’s Karlson Kitchens is a family-run firm that’s been offering quality services in kitchen and closet design for two generations. In Glenview, Kitchens and Baths Unlimited can make your wish for a customized state-of-the-art kitchen or a luxurious bath come true. And in Northbrook, Architectural Additions Inc. has a lot to offer its clients when it comes to gourmet kitchen renovations.

Interior Design

Now that you’ve got your dream home, has it been a nightmare to come to an agreement on the interior design? Never fear – we’ve got your back. The North Shore is home to top quality interior designers that can meet your needs. In Glencoe, Missie Bender can breathe fresh air into your design, working with your home’s architecture. Wilmette’s Design Odyssey offers excellence in design with any project you can conceive – such as homebuilding, renovation, vacation homes and hunting lodges. Periwinkles in Winnetka is the key to colorful, whimsical interiors for your home here on the North Shore, your office or your vacation home. Evanston’s Interior Effects has been in the business of pretty since 1989, and Designs of the Interior has two locations on the North Shore -- Winnetka and Glenview -- offering superior interior design service.

Home Audio and Video Design

Home theaters have evolved from just a couple of Lazy Boys and TV trays into elaborate, luxurious rooms dedicated to a theater-quality experience without leaving your home. There are so many resources on the North Shore to create your personal retreat, with Glenview’s Abt the audio/video juggernaut. They can cover your every need when it comes to the latest in television and home theater technology. In Wilmette, The Big Picture offers a personalized experience with in-home consultation. And Highland Park’s Elite AV offers the latest in audio/video technology, lighting control and home theater.