Interior Designer for a Spec Home
Our recent spec home transformation with a builder truly stands out amongst the many exciting projects we’ve recently completed at Studio MAK. The collaboration between us resulted in a stunning home that sold immediately upon completion.
A Race Against Time
As soon as we heard about this project, I knew it would be exciting. The builder had already begun construction, which meant we were stepping in later than ideal. However, at Studio MAK, we thrive on challenges, and this project promised to be just that – a test of our ability to transform a space within tight constraints.
Our task was clear from the start: transform an ordinary spec home into an extraordinary dream home. We knew that we would be working hand-in-hand with the builder to create a space that would captivate potential buyers, but the caveat was limited time and a fixed budget. Some elements, like the cabinetry, were also already set in stone… but as we believe in our studio, constraints breed creativity, and we were ready to prove it!
Setting the Stage
We were working with a spec home – a property built without a specific buyer in mind. Our client, in this case, was the builder, and our ultimate goal was to create a space that would appeal to a wide range of potential homeowners while still feeling unique and personalized.
The vision was to transform this spec home into a showstopper – a property that would stand out in the competitive Chicago real estate market. We wanted to create a space that felt both luxurious and livable, with thoughtful details that would make future homeowners fall in love at first sight.
Planning and Specifications
Our first step was to dive deep into planning and creating detailed specifications. We knew that clear communication and thorough documentation would be crucial to the success of this fast-paced project.
The Spec Book
We started by putting together a comprehensive spec book. This outlined our carefully curated color palette, which we designed to create a cohesive and inviting atmosphere throughout the house. We selected hues that would appeal to a broad range of tastes while still feeling fresh and contemporary.
Lighting was another crucial element we focused on in the spec book. We believe that lighting can make or break a space, so we put considerable thought into selecting fixtures that would not only illuminate the home beautifully but also serve as statement pieces in their own right.
Collaboration is Key
We didn't create this spec book in isolation. We worked closely with the builder and real estate agents, ensuring that our design choices aligned with their goals for the property. Their input was invaluable – the builder provided insights into what features had been popular in previous spec homes, while the real estate agents offered perspectives on what today's buyers are looking for.
This collaboration extended beyond just the design elements. We also assisted with marketing efforts, providing high-quality renderings and descriptions of the design features that could be used in listing materials. We wanted potential buyers to be able to envision themselves living in this beautifully designed space even before they set foot in the house.
Coordination and Documentation
With our vision established, it was time to turn our attention to the nitty-gritty details of bringing this design to life. This phase of the project was all about coordination and meticulous documentation.
Balancing Budget and Quality
Working within the builder's budget was a constant consideration. We had to be creative in our choices, finding ways to achieve a high-end look without breaking the bank. This meant leveraging our extensive network of suppliers and our knowledge of materials to source quality products at competitive prices.
We also made a conscious decision to work primarily with domestically available materials. This choice was driven by several factors: it helped us stay within budget, reduced potential delays due to shipping issues, and allowed us to support local and national businesses.
The Construction Binder
One of our key contributions to this project was the creation of a comprehensive construction binder. This binder became the go-to resource for everyone involved in bringing our design to life. It contained detailed floor plans, showing the layout of each room and the placement of key design elements. Elevations provided a visual guide for everything from tile layouts to built-in shelving designs.
But we didn't stop there. We also included specifications for every material and finish in the home. This level of detail ensured that everyone, from the builder to the various subcontractors, had a clear understanding of what needed to be done and how.
The Contract Binder
In addition to the construction binder, we created a separate contract binder specifically for the General Contractor (GC). This binder took our documentation to the next level, including not just what needed to be installed but exactly how it should be installed.
We provided detailed installation instructions for everything from flooring to light fixtures. We specified the exact height for pendant lights, the precise layout for tile work, and the correct placement for every outlet and switch. This level of detail might seem excessive, but we've learned from experience that it's these small details that often make the difference between a good design and a great one.
By providing such comprehensive documentation, we were able to ensure that our design vision would be executed exactly as we intended, even in our absence. It also streamlined the construction process, reducing the likelihood of errors or misunderstandings that could lead to costly delays.
Turning Obstacles into Opportunities
No project is without its challenges, and this spec home was no exception!
Design at the Speed of Light
To tackle the time restriction, we leveraged our experience and our well-established processes. We prioritized decisions that would have the biggest impact on the overall design and construction timeline. For example, we focused on finalizing the color palette and major material selections early on, as these choices would influence many subsequent decisions.
We also increased our communication frequency with the builder and subcontractors. Regular check-ins, sometimes daily, ensured that everyone was on the same page and that any issues could be addressed promptly.
Budget Constraints
Our solution was to identify key areas where investing in quality would have the biggest impact, and then find creative ways to save in other areas. For example, we knew that the kitchen and master bathroom would be major selling points, so we allocated more of the budget to these spaces.
The Quartz Compromise
A perfect example of our budget-conscious approach was our choice of countertop material for the kitchen. Initially, we were drawn to a beautiful Carrara marble Violeta for the kitchen countertops. It had a stunning veining pattern and would have added a touch of luxury to the space.
However, marble, while beautiful, comes with a hefty price tag and requires more maintenance than many homeowners aren’t willing to commit to. In a spec home, we needed to consider not just the initial wow factor, but also the practical concerns of future homeowners.
After some research, we found a quartz option – Calacatta Venus quartz – that mimicked the high end aesthetic remarkably well! This quartz option offered two advantages aside from being simply cost-effective:
Durability: Quartz is more durable than marble, resistant to staining and scratching, which is a big plus for many homeowners.
Low maintenance: Unlike marble, quartz doesn't require sealing or special cleaning routines, making it more appealing to a broader range of buyers.
Attention to Detail
What sets a Studio MAK design apart is our unwavering attention to detail.
While the architect had done a solid job with the basic layout, we noticed several areas where we could improve functionality and flow. The architect's plans followed building codes, but we knew from experience that code compliance doesn't always translate to optimal livability.
We took a fine-tooth comb to the plans, identifying opportunities to enhance the home's usability. For example, in the master bedroom, we considered details like which side of the bed most people prefer to sleep on when placing nightstands and lighting controls.
In the kitchen, we rearranged the layout slightly to create a more efficient work triangle between the sink, stove, and refrigerator.
These might seem like small changes, but they're the kind of thoughtful details that make a house feel like it was designed specifically for the people living in it – even in a spec home.
Success and Outcome
All our hard work and attention to detail paid off in the most gratifying way possible – the home sold immediately, even before the final touches were complete.
The first potential buyer to visit the property fell in love instantly. They were so impressed with the design and finishes that they made an offer on the spot, even though the stone countertops hadn't been installed yet.
Another significant factor in the quick sale was our approach to staging the home. We hand-picked every piece of furniture and decor, creating a cohesive look that showcased the home's potential.
The centerpiece is a stunning island with a textured stone countertop, complemented by warm, wooden barstools that invite you to take a seat. The Calacatta Venus quartz backsplash with its unique veining adds a luxurious vibe, perfectly balancing the crisp white cabinetry that stretches up to the ceiling. The pendant lights overhead bring a soft, golden glow to the space, making it feel cozy yet sophisticated.
We wanted to blend the natural textures and clean lines here. A combination of plush and modern wooden chairs surround the dining table, creating an atmosphere that is both comfortable and welcoming. The neutral color palette of the space is carried throughout the space and it’s enhanced by the soft light pouring in from the large windows. This is the perfect ambiance for gatherings.
The eyes are immediately drawn to the striking modern four-poster bed, with its sleek black frame being a bold contrast against the room's soothing neutral palette. The warm wood tones of the nightstands and chairs bring in that earthy, natural vibe. The big windows let the Chicago sunshine pour in, making the whole space feel alive and peaceful. Oh, and that statement chandelier adds just the right amount of drama to this beautiful bedroom!
Hire Studio MAK
Our luxury interior designers in Chicago believe that every project, whether it's a custom home or a spec build, deserves the highest level of design consideration. This project proved that with creativity, collaboration, and a keen eye for detail, it's possible to transform an ordinary spec home into an extraordinary dream home that basically sells itself! Schedule a Consultation.
