We create a close, collaborative relationship with our clients, guiding them through the pleasures and challenges of building. The site/context, the client's program and building codes are the raw materials for the design process. We shape these elements with experience, formal critique, and a poetic sensibility.
The firm was established in 1985 and specializes in unique private and public architecture. The projects range from large residential renovations and additions to country homes, to high-profile public and commercial commissions. Kathryn Quinn has been the Principal of her own firm since 1985 and has completed more than 350 projects, ranging from small residential additions to the remodeling of the Grand Concourse of Soldier Field.
Her architecture degree is from the University of Illinois in Chicago and has spent time studying abroad in Versailles and London. In recent years, her practice has expanded beyond the Midwest and she is currently registered in 16 states, having completed projects from NYC to Seattle.
The firm was established in 1985 and specializes in unique private and public architecture. The projects range from large residential renovations and additions to country homes, to high-profile public and commercial commissions. Kathryn Quinn has been the Principal of her own firm since 1985 and has completed more than 350 projects, ranging from small residential additions to the remodeling of the Grand Concourse of Soldier Field.
Her architecture degree is from the University of Illinois in Chicago and has spent time studying abroad in Versailles and London. In recent years, her practice has expanded beyond the Midwest and she is currently registered in 16 states, having completed projects from NYC to Seattle.
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The vernacular of the locale consists of industrial and agrarian buildings. Those styles would easily allow for a design that seemed as if it were added to over time, with distinctly different roof and room shapes, depending on their function. The building materials played a large role in creating an industrial feel for the house, consisting of wood and steel trusses, concrete, and galvanized steel.
Located in the Chicago Landmark District, the newly constructed home was a welcome addition to the existing neighborhood, harmoniously blending in with significant architectural features of the surrounding houses. The house was designed with a limestone foundation, brick facade, and zinc sheet metal cornices to resemble the idea of ornamental metal design that began to surface in the late 1800s within the Italianate style.
The depression-era vacation home received extensive exterior and interior remodeling, along with additions to expand the living space. The additions didn't drastically change the size of the house, rather, the spaces were redesigned to create more room. The front and back door entries were redesigned to include two mudrooms, providing extra storage areas and a shower in the back of the house for the children.
The client asked KQA to join her for a pre-purchase viewing of the single-family house that had been gut rehabbed in 2001 but needed further renovations. The exterior had an outdated facade of vertical metal panels and the circulation in the home was awkward. KQA removed the metal panels and gave the home a new look by adding horizontal walnut siding in order to provide a contrast to the otherwise vertical structure.
Designed in 1962 by Edward Dart, the home had undergone several well-intentioned improvements. The vintage living room's skylights were covered by plywood and fluorescent lights and the ceiling's dark stain visually brought the ceiling height lower and darkened the room. The homeowners approached KQA for a renovation of their 700 sq ft living and dining room.
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