Brynn Olson Design Group crafts a seriously sleek yet functional Gold Coast retreat for jet-setting empty nesters.
In the living room, a custom sectional sofa with nailhead detailing upholstered in grey fabric from JF Fabrics along with a marble nesting coffee table fabricated by Blue Pearl Stone (both designed by Brynn Olson Design Group) are complemented by Bernhardt Mica swivel chairs upholstered in Maria Flora fabric.
The Clients
Splitting their time between Southern California and Chicago, a pair of empty nesters sought a fresh, inviting retreat for their frequent visits to the city. They turned to interior designer Brynn Olson of Brynn Olson Design Group to renovate their dated three-bedroom Gold Coast condo, reworking the layout to better suit their on-the-go lifestyle. With two grown children nearby, they envisioned a home to unwind and entertain during the holidays, with plenty of room to host family as well.
“SoHo 1961” by Josh Young makes a bold statement in the library, complemented by a brass and mesh custom grille by UK Grilles and striking custom paint that enhances the room’s dynamic aesthetic.
The Priority
After following Olson’s work on social media, the clients initially reached out for a simple refresh of their furnishings. But after a walkthrough, their vision quickly expanded into a complete gut reno. The goal was twofold: to update the 13-year-old space and improve its livability and resale value. Key areas of focus included a full kitchen overhaul, the addition of a fireplace in the living room, a chic wet/ dry bar and a total transformation of the bathrooms, with particular attention to the primary bath. While the clients were careful not to “over-improve the unit,” explains Olson, they wanted the space to reflect a truly luxurious sensibility.
A custom ivory channel tufted banquette upholstered in Wolf Gordon vinyl along with a NOIR Katana oval dining table in black metal and the original artwork “Lineage” by Laura Naples complete the dining room.
The Challenge
Ensuring that the small space felt spacious, practical and luxurious was a primary obstacle for Olson’s team. To achieve this, the team maximized every inch, transforming a small side room into an entertaining area with a bar and bookcases and adding plumbing for a fully functioning wet bar. “We went for a big design in this small space to bring the client’s request to reality,” Olson explains. An antique mirror across from a large window reflects light to enhance the sense of space, while rich colors, unique metal details, and a bespoke polished brass etagere showcase the barware. Instead of a formal dining room, a multipurpose dining area adjacent to the kitchen was created, with a custom banquette that accommodates 8-10 people around an oval table.
The Details
“There was much attention to detail when it came to the interior architecture,” Olson notes. “Our team installed custom baseboards, crown molding, and a door surround while also updating the original doors by painting them black and adding hardware that felt like jewelry. We created archways and added a fireplace with a custom surround, too. As a firm, we like to pay special attention to lighting by adding sconces and ceiling fixtures for beauty and ambiance. The inclusion of added gallery-like lighting throughout highlights and enhances the display of original artwork.”
The study impresses with a Made Goods Lindsey Wood veneer desk accented by the work “Black White Texture” by Etsy artist Megan Qiu.
Ballard Designs’ Intaglio in Gold Art prints (I, IV and V), Pottery Barn’s Layton upholstered bed and an Everly pendant in Natural by Palecek make for a chic guest bedroom.
The Outcome
Upon completing the project, Olson greeted the clients at the front door with fresh flowers and a mimosa toast; their delighted reaction were a testament to the transformation. Shares Olson, “It’s a deeply rewarding experience to witness clients’ emotions when unveiling their finished spaces.”
Photography by: WERNER STRAUBE
