A Boldly Elegant Two-Level Chicago Lakefront Apartment Soars as an Ode to Maximalism

“Everything about this Metropolitan Tower apartment is maximalist,” says Craig Hogan of Coldwell Banker Realty in Chicago, “the views, the terrace, the two-floor layout and, of course, the sensational interiors by Debra Lucidi Chammas Designs.” The iconic art-deco landmark apartment tower (the first Chicago building with over 30 floors) is known for its luxurious amenities, including 24-7 door staff, elegant lobby, event rooms, fitness center, heated indoor parking and lake-view rooftop.

A resident-level-only elevator provides direct access to apartment 2501 on two levels and welcomes guests to a gorgeous foyer, where style and craftsmanship are immediately on display. Glossy limestone floors, coffered ceilings, polished woodwork and intricate moldings offer the first taste of what’s to come: an extravaganza of majestic and exceedingly comfortable design and unparalleled views. “Chicago has so many beautiful parks and so much green space, and of course the amazing lake, all set against the famous skyline. You can feel all of that when you walk into the apartment,” says the designer.

Each of the main living spaces is a work of art in itself, and yet they flow seamlessly and artfully from one to the next. With wraparound corner views of the city and Lake Michigan, the living room sits beneath a tall, deeply coffered ceiling. Inspired by her worldwide travels and the extravagant colors of nature, Debra Lucidi Chammas went for the maximum “Wow!” in each of the rooms. “The living room has a custom blue faux finish that mirrors the sky and the clouds, with four huge windows framing the views,” she says. Adding to the effect are a sculptural chandelier, a massive fireplace, a rainbow-like Kyle Bunting hide carpet, a Mediterranean blue Vladimir Kagan sofa, a golden vintage Italian settee, and a pair of fuchsia Barcelona chairs. It all “just looks like fun!” exclaims Chammas.

“I wanted the living spaces to feel like you were outdoors,” she continues, “thus the shades of blue seen in the dining room and the living room. The hand-painted Gracie wallpaper we put in the dining room is nature at its finest: a beautiful blue sky, birds, trees, and water.” The dining room’s 12-foot ceilings, curved piano alcove and opulent fireplace offer a flawless setting for memorable meals.

With another magnificent fireplace, the library/office is a study in fine oak woodcraft, from the coffered ceiling to the herringbone patterned floor. Two huge windows offer impressive views over the lakeshore green belt to the Buckingham Fountain and across the lake toward Michigan. The sublime chef’s kitchen, built-in casual dining area and service bar feature gorgeous Christopher Peacock cabinetry in solid walnut with signature hardware and hand-painted lacquer finishes.

A graceful, curving marble staircase descends to the lower level and the main terrace entrance. As Debra Lucidi Chammas notes, with nearly 1700 square feet of outdoor space, “There is really nothing else like it in Chicago. It is like a backyard in the sky with the most incredible views anyone could ask for.” The enormous terrace offers ample space for casual gatherings and glittering soirees, cocktail parties and tête-à-tête under the stars.

The en-suite bedrooms, also on this level, are lavish and enchanting. Two of the suites, including the primary, have gorgeous lake views, opulent cabinetry and every necessity for a personal retreat of immeasurable luxury.

There is also a dazzling floral-pink downstairs dressing room, which could serve as an extra bedroom, with three chandeliers, plus a sparkling under-stair wet bar and a laundry room.

“Maximalist décor is perfect for this apartment,” says Rodolfo Zavala of Coldwell Banker Realty in Chicago. “It’s a collage of colors and textures that highlight the beautiful lines of the architecture.” “Maximalism isn’t throwing everything and anything together,” Debra Lucidi Chammas adds. “It does take restraint and it can be incredibly beautiful without being over the top. Even my husband – who likes simple and clean lines – loves it!”

View the complete listing by Craig Hogan and Rodolfo Zavala of Coldwell Banker Realty in Chicago.

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