Winnetka Home Design: Award-Winning Traditional Elegance

Having moved from Chicago to Winnetka with their young children, the clients envisioned their first home as a place that would bring joy to both them and to friends whom they would host there. To make that domestic dream come true, they turned to North Shore-based designer Emily Sturgess. “From the get-go, they were completely trusting of the process and my vision for their space,” says Sturgess. “We discussed the importance of the spaces being reflective of both husband and wife, and how it could feel comfortable for both small children and for formal entertaining.”

GP & J Baker’s Flora wallpaper in blue highlights the primary bedroom, while a Lexington Leanne chaise and an antique bureau from The Parson’s Nose set a classic scene.

Notes Sturgess of the finished project, “I am so proud of how this home beautifully honors its heritage and classic architectural details but feels fresh and approachable for the way we live today. The design is inherently traditional, but nothing is so precious that it can’t be sat on, lived in and truly enjoyed. I believe the layers of rich textiles, color and layered materials that flow seamlessly throughout the house reflect a feeling of warmth and sophistication.”

Sums up Sturgess, “After over a year of work, seeing the clients stand back to take it all in and begin to imagine their future life within those rooms was such a special moment for all of us—and when this dear client later welcomed their first child, I came back to design the nursery, which is the greatest stamp of approval of a job well done.”