Nestled in Lake Forest, DGI Forest Home is where timeless elegance meets fresh creativity. With a completion date targeted for July 2025, this project marks an exciting new chapter for our clients as they leave the bustling West Loop for a serene, family-friendly retreat.

In partnership with Northworks Architects and SH Builders, we’ve poured thought into every detail—from cabinetry and interior finishes throughout the house to handpicked furniture and decor pieces. The result? A home that’s as warm and inviting as it is effortlessly sophisticated.

This design is the perfect marriage of minimalist and family-focused. A neutral palette layered with rich textures, a blend of classic and modern styles, and unexpected details that surprise and delight. The client’s love of clean lines and timeless silhouettes provided the perfect foundation, while bursts of abstract artwork commissioned for the home adds an unexpected splash of personality.

Whether it’s the seamless pairing of existing treasures with new, custom-crafted pieces or the thoughtful, minimalist details infused into every room, this home promises to be both comfortable and luxurious. And we’re just getting started—read on to discover how each space tells a unique story.

Current Home Progress

FOYER

The foyer sets the tone for this home with its understated elegance and functional design. Framed by a striking arched portal, the foyer sets the tone for the house with paneled accent walls concealing hidden coat and sports equipment closets. An overall minimal design is made functional with sculptural Apparatus sconces and custom benches offering both beauty and practicality. Tailored to match the home’s design, the benches add a personal touch with their customized size and wood stain.

Beyond the arched doorway, a curated display of artwork greets visitors, elevating the entry further. Flanking the artwork are sleek credenzas that provide both storage and style, while mirrors thoughtfully placed reflect the art, enhancing the welcoming atmosphere.

KITCHEN

The kitchen, was designed with the clients' love for closed storage at the forefront. They prioritize a clutter-free environment, and our challenge was to balance functionality with their storage needs. Both side walls are equipped with floor-to-ceiling cabinetry, incorporating hidden appliances and a discreet pantry door. A hidden coffee bar and fridge/freezer seamlessly blend into the design. The aesthetic is minimalist yet functional and family-friendly, with the focus on the woodwork rather than the hardware, and the fixtures are kept simple to maintain clean lines. Soft, organic sculptural shapes in the kitchen stools provide a subtle contrast, complementing the space’s refined minimalism.

FAMILY ROOM

With plenty of space for a generous layout, we prioritized comfort and style. The custom sectional, featuring two chaises, ensures everyone has their own cozy corner—perfect for the kids who each want their own spots.

A custom, oversized coffee table complements the room’s scale and is stained to match the surrounding cabinetry. The fireplace ties in design details from the kitchen, while doors open to the covered patio, seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor living.

BREAKFAST ROOM

Right off the kitchen, this is the space where the clients will be spending mornings together before kicking off their busy days. Classic furniture pieces, like Churner chairs with a warm walnut finish, set the stage for a cozy, inviting feeling. The artwork adds a playful yet subdued touch, with pieces by Brian Wills bringing in a bit of whimsy and warmth. And of course, our client’s dream piece, the Shape Up chandelier by Roll & Hill has its moment to shine!

craft room

Tucked away past the breakfast nook and laundry room, this creative escape was designed with the clients’ kids’ artistic energy in mind. A wall of floor-to-ceiling cabinetry keeps all their craft supplies organized, while a central storage piece provides easy access to everyday essentials. Each child has their own desk, complete with display shelves to proudly showcase their creations.

We also added thoughtful touches like 5-inch-deep niches for drying pottery or displaying their latest masterpieces. To inspire even more creativity, the walls feature the same wallpaper from our office’s conference room which is magnetic, perfect for pinning up artwork and ideas. With two doors leading to the outdoor space, this room is as functional as it is fun—a true dream space for budding artists!

dining room

Positioned just off the kitchen, the dining room presented a unique challenge since it is a key circulation space but we also want it to feel like a cozy, inviting room. To maintain an easy flow, we skipped the area rug and opted for a dining table with minimal, clean details that feels right at home without overwhelming the space. Floor-to-ceiling drapes on either side soften the room and bring a sense of warmth, balancing the abundance of wood used for the flooring, ceiling, cased openings, and furniture. The beauty of our renderings, is we are able to study different finish options for the table and chairs in order to pick the one that fits best. Above, you’ll see four different wood combo options that we studied.

The sculptural Apparatus Trapeze light fixture is a true centerpiece, adding an artful touch to the room. Visible from every angle, it perfectly complements the space while making a striking statement.

living room

In another space with high traffic flow and a tricky long and narrow layout, this living room called for some creative solutions. The clients envisioned it as their go-to hangout spot—a game room for family time and the perfect place to watch football. To accommodate the need for 3-foot walkways all around, we carefully selected furniture that balanced functionality with comfort.

Our clients drew inspiration from a trip to Vail, CO, where they fell in love with ultra-comfortable recliners. Incorporating these into the design created inviting seating areas while honoring her vision. The room also features existing artwork by Anne Coons, which we’ve commissioned a complementary sister piece to complete the look.

study

This study is a perfect blend of function and refinement, designed as the ultimate home office. While one of our clients works from home full-time, the other often uses the space on evenings and weekends, making it essential to accommodate both of their needs. Storage was a top priority, so we integrated sleek cabinetry and open shelving to keep everything from printers to office supplies hidden but easily accessible.

The design strikes a balance between practicality and elegance. Clean, minimal lines are paired with soft, tailored touches, creating a serene and welcoming atmosphere. Tall windows flood the space with natural light, complemented by drapery that adds a touch of warmth. A pop of brass in the light fixture introduces subtle sophistication, while the shelving’s interval detailing mirrors the kitchen, creating a harmonious flow throughout the home.

primary suite

With its long layout, the room required creative solutions to balance functionality and aesthetics. The fireplace became a focal point, with the bed strategically centered on it, flanked by two 32-inch nightstands for symmetry. A light and airy palette sets the tone, enhanced by textural details like applied molding along the bed wall and beams wrapping the ceiling to celebrate the height of the room.

The clients were passionate about including a canopy bed, and we made it work by choosing a Scandinavian-inspired design to maintain the light and airy aesthetic. Adding warmth and connection to the home’s exterior, the fireplace features the same brick used outdoors, creating a serene and cohesive environment.

BASEMENT: REC ROOM & MEDIA ROOMS

The basement and rec room are designed as the ultimate play and relaxation zones for the kids and family. The game room’s focal point is a wall of cabinetry featuring a candy display, a kitchenette and hidden doors leading to the media room. The rec room is all about fun, with a ping pong table, climbing wall, monkey bars, and a gaming gallery wall, plus a lounge area and rope swings for relaxation. The media room offers a more laid-back atmosphere, with seating behind the custom, oversized sectional, a large TV, and fun graphic artwork, all tied together with a minimalist design for the ultimate family hangout.

Conclusion

DGI Forest Home blends timeless design with fresh creativity, from its rich textures and neutral palette to the mix of custom pieces and meaningful artwork. Each room flows seamlessly, balancing modern style with classic charm, while personal touches bring the home’s story to life. We’re excited to see this project continue to evolve into a space that perfectly combines family, style, and comfort!

INTRODUCING: DGI FOREST HOME