Ravenswood

Alex Hinand moved into this “basic in a good way” Chicago rental apartment “with nothing but a coffee table” and “a promise to myself that I wouldn’t go into credit card debt to furnish this home.”

Kate makes an effort to avoid buying new things for her Chicago rental apartment, instead sourcing "items from thrift stores, antique shops, and second-hand marketplaces. About 80% of the things I buy come from these places, and I love incorporating historic designs into a very modern building."

This beautiful space also has tons of natural light, high ceilings, and built-in wood elements!

Each room has a beautiful, different vibe.

Every ounce of artist Hillery's place is dripping in warmth. There are stacks of cozy blankets to curl into and Mali the dog appears perpetually huggable.

It's the first time Sarah's lived solo...and she's LOVING it.

Name: Rebecca Crall & Eric Neagu (and Bailey) Location: Ravenswood; Chicago, Illinois Size: 1,400 square feet Years lived in: 5 years; rented Warmth. It’s the word that best describes the feeling you get the moment you step inside Rebecca and Eric’s Chicago apartment.

Name: Lauren Baker Location: Ravenswood; Chicago, Illinois Size: 927 square feet Years lived in: 10 months, owned From the moment Lauren opened the door, I knew this was going to be a fun tour. Lauren greeted me like an old friend, and her personal warmth and natural ease are evident throughout her home, as much of it is designed with one-of-a-kind pieces acquired through her relationships with local businesses and artisans.

Name: Jess Goodwin and Andi (Anderson Pooper) the corgi Location: Ravenswood — Chicago, Illinois Size: 750 square feet Years lived in: 1.5 years, renting What can you do with a 750 square foot rented apartment in a multi-unit building in the middle of Chicago? If you’re designer Jess Goodwin, a lot. Jess has transformed her apartment into a warm and inviting home that is filled with personal projects and smart solutions.

Jess’s Ravenswood Chicago rental is bursting with inspiring DIY projects, both from scratch and simple furniture upgrades. They fit together seamlessly with her overall natural and modern style. If you aren’t quite as handy or patient as Jess, check out her resource lists to source some similar ready-made items to add your home.