This West Coast–Inspired Renovation Brings New Life to a Chicago Classic

When a family moved into this 4,700-square-foot American Foursquare in Chicago, they weren’t just looking to upgrade on space—they were ready for a home that felt as serene and sophisticated as their lifestyle. Built in 2009, the structure offered good bones and generous square footage, but the interiors felt dated and disconnected from their vision. That’s where designer Alissa Johnson came in, with a vision rooted in West Coast ease: think clean lines, creamy neutrals, and tactile materials that soften the home’s classic silhouette without stripping away its architectural charm. A few key changes (and a clear design perspective) transformed it into a space that feels both grounded and full of ease.

Design: Alissa Johnson Interiors | Photography: Heather Talbert | Styling: Darwin Fitz

West Coast Ease Meets Chicago Structure

While the home had generous square footage and a classic layout, the interiors felt heavy and out of sync with the homeowners’ vision. Alissa brought in a lighter, more relaxed perspective, working with a neutral palette, timeless patterns, and natural materials to shift the mood. The spaces feel lighter and more cohesive, with just enough texture and warmth to keep things grounded.

Timeless Materials, Thoughtfully Applied

The materials throughout the home were chosen with comfort and longevity in mind—nothing too flashy, just a quiet focus on quality and texture. Just off the powder room, a large-scale abstract piece by Wendover creates a moment of softness and scale. In the primary bathroom, cream-toned cabinetry and custom marble countertops set a serene tone, while the checkered marble flooring adds a sense of rhythm and structure. The shower is framed in a thick marble border—a detail that feels clean and considered, without overpowering the space.

Key Spaces Designed for Longevity

The updates throughout the home may be subtle, but they’re deeply felt. In the living room, a new marble fireplace anchors the space with clean lines and a sculptural silhouette. Over in the dining room, the Apparatus Cloud 25 Pendant floats above the table, its frosted glass globes and brass detailing casting a soft, diffused glow. The entry sets the tone with Phillip Jeffries’ Rivets Gold wallpaper, a textural backdrop that catches the light without demanding attention. And in the primary bedroom, a pair of Lawson-Fenning Stacked Box Nightstands in rich walnut brings warmth and weight to the otherwise serene space.

A Study in Neutral Layers

This home proves that a neutral palette doesn’t have to mean playing it safe. Alissa leaned into soft creams, warm grays, and natural wood tones, using variation in texture rather than bold color to bring each space to life. “With a preference for a subtle, neutral palette, we focused on timeless patterns, textures, and tones to create spaces that feel fresh and cohesive while remaining versatile for years to come,” she explains. Sculptural elements, like LES Collection’s Callas candle holders, and thoughtful brass accents add a layer of warmth and dimension, striking a balance between restraint and warmth.

Scroll through the gallery below to see more of this home and shop the look.