Alumni Bulletin 

Featured Alumni Project

Josh Mings (M.Arch '12) | Albany Park Basement Renovation | Chicago, IL | 2023 

Clients: Withheld | Size: 800 SF | GC: TBD 

Tasked with bringing light and gathering spaces to a basement that could be described as a warren of rooms, our design focuses on light and material as ornament to create a story. Past owners of our client’s vernacular Chicago worker cottage created a hodge-podge of rooms, which does not serve the client’s wishes for large gatherings with friends and family. Through selective demolition and the use of built-in millwork, new larger spaces are created – a combined living/dining area for gathering, and spare bedroom/office space for work or guests, and a revamped kitchen and bathroom.

Creating a story through light and materials we aggregated various inspirations – Scandinavian modernism, mid-century materiality, and light panel signage to create a design that speaks to our client’s interests and aesthetics. Medium-stained oak slats and millwork give warmth to an exposed concrete floor. Textured wall finishes give added depth and warmth to colors inspired by mid-century master Alexander Girard. Handmade ceramic tiling with natural variation adds depth and LED lighting screened by oak slats provides ambient lighting creating a warm, cozy, gathering space for our client and their friends and family.

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