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Name: Erica Lugbill and her husband, Justin
Location: Rogers Park — Chicago, Illinois
Size: 1,350 square feet
Years lived in: 2 — rented

When Erica and her husband, Justin, moved to Chicago two years ago, they chose Rogers Park as their home neighborhood for the same reason as many of us – lower rent for a bigger space. By moving to the far north side neighborhood, the Lugbills also scored a view of the lake from their contemporary lofted apartment.

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As transplants from South Bend, Indiana, Erica and Justin spent time looking at apartments in other neighborhoods but found that the spaces weren't large enough to contain their home and two separate office areas. After looking at smaller and more expensive apartments, the couple turned their sights on Rogers Park and found the perfect space in this apartment.

While the apartment is only 1,300 square feet, the high ceiling in this lofted space make it feel much larger. Justin and Erica both work from home and this apartment allows them to have two separate work spaces. Justin's desk fits in a scenic space off the living room (perfect for gazing at the view of the lake) and Erica has a desk in the master bedroom.

One of the things that delights me about this tour is that Erica isn't afraid of a little DIY. I've noticed that a lot of interior designers are very hands-off when it comes down to the nitty gritty of projects. This is clearly not the case with Mrs. Lugbill! While I was photographing the bedroom, Erica regaled me with the tale of painting the chevron stripe artwork that hangs above the bed. I could totally relate to the fact that a project that seemed so easy actually turned out to take much, much longer than anticipated!

Apartment Therapy Survey:

My Style: Contemporary

Inspiration: Nature, organic forms

Favorite Element: I love the large windows that fill the apartment with light and a beautiful view of Lake Michigan.

Biggest Challenge: The biggest challenge in designing our condo was making the whole condo flow from room to room while still defining and adding personality to each individual area.

What Friends Say: Friends always comment on my artwork- especially my personalized word art. They are always requesting pieces for their own home. They also compliment on how there is not one corner of my home I haven't thought about and how complete the condo feels.

Biggest Embarrassment: The dining room table- I am SO ready to get rid of it! It is a cheap piece that we bought as filler until we could afford what we wanted. I have future dreams of a custom designed clean-lined reclaimed wood table.

Proudest DIY: I created custom artwork throughout the home. I am always making new pieces and switching it out. I also did large horizontal metallic stripes in the kitchen as a renter-friendly way to add interest.

Biggest Indulgence: My John Robshaw shower curtain- I am in LOVE with it!

Best Advice: Keep your main furniture and design pieces neutral, and add color and interest through artwork, accent pillows, throws, and other small pieces. This way your space can constantly be changing and you will never grow bored of your environment. I love to keep my home fresh and inspired!

Dream Sources: Arteriors Home products, www.burkedecor.com, John Robshaw textiles, Lightology, Uttermost, Global Views, Worlds Away

Resources of Note:

PAINT & COLORS

    • Benjamin Moore: HC 111 Nantucket Gray
    • Benjamin Moore: HC 165 Boothbay Gray
    • various other browns and grays throughout the home

ENTRY

    • console table: Crate and Barrel
    • artwork: custom

LIVING ROOM

    • sectional: West Elm
    • accent chairs: SunPan Imports
    • bookshelves and media cabinet: Crate and Barrel
    • mirrored side tables: West Elm
    • artwork: custom

DINING ROOM

    • ledge shelving: Pottery Barn
    • glass bottles: West Elm
    • mercury glass decanters: Arteriors Home

BEDROOM

    • bedding: Target and West Elm
    • lamps: JC Penney, Cindy Crawford Collection
    • end tables: SunPan Imports
    • all glass desk lamp: Arteriors Home
    • mirrored corner cabinet: West Elm
    • flokati rug: Peerless Rug Imports

BATHROOM

    • decorative glass containers: Crate and Barrel
    • hammered metal tray: West Elm
    • guest bathroom shower curtain: John Robshaw Textiles

Thanks, Erica!

Images: Jason Loper

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