DEER PARK & CHICAGO, IL —
Some homes have a certain air about them. And this new-build home is no exception, exuding the charm and Old World style of a French countryside chateau.

Indeed, local custom home builder JP McMahon Builders created a breath of fresh air in the Windy City with the help of James W. Livingston, CKD, who designed the kitchen.

The project marked Livingston’s first collaboration with JP McMahon. It was completed just a few months ago, notes Livingston.

“The client gave us creative control and a large space to work with… The approximate size of this kitchen is 18'x30'. The large expanse of the kitchen warranted a large, central island to seat at least four people,” recalls the designer, whose firm, Livingston Kitchens, is located in Chicago, IL.

A second showroom, designed by Livingston, is set to open in Deer Park, IL in early 2007. He’s also owned and operated Smartrooms, Inc., another Chicago-based showroom.

Carte Blanche

Having received carte blanche to design the new home, the builder devised an apropos design aesthetic for the interior and exterior: “French Countryside Chateau.”

“It is the overall design theme of the home, [so] it was important to bring the exterior design elements into the home.

“[Therefore], the design renders many themes from the exterior of the home that were brought into the interior architecture,” notes Livingston, whom the builder trusted to carry it through to the kitchen – which is located just off the family room of the home.

“There’s about a 12' opening that connects them. The family room incorporates some of the same elements of wood and stone, [like on the] fireplace,” describes Livingston.

“It is always important to create functionality and flow from room to room. The style, flow and feel within the spaces are key factors in designing any room that is open to family or other rooms,” elaborates Livingston.