Empty nesters are redefining their living spaces by embracing historic homes and personalized design, as seen in this Evanston, Illinois, Victorian restoration that balances coziness with sophistication for a new life chapter.
After raising two sons in their “starter home” just blocks away, an Illinois couple faced a common empty-nester dilemma: the house that once felt spacious now seemed oversized and outdated. Rather than simply downsizing, they chose a bold path—purchasing an 1886 Victorian near Lake Michigan in Evanston, a Chicago suburb, to create a “grown-up” home tailored to their evolved tastes [House Beautiful]. The result, designed by Isabel Schultz of Isabel Schultz Design, is a masterclass in blending historic restoration with contemporary living, offering a blueprint for anyone seeking a space that reflects their post-family identity without sacrificing comfort or style.
Why This Victorian Home Sets a New Standard for Empty Nesters
This project transcends typical renovation trends by addressing core empty-nester desires: spaces that foster relaxation, social connection, and personal expression. Schultz’s clients specifically sought a home where they could host cocktail hours, accommodate work-from-home zones, and gather for holidays—including local events like Lollapalooza—without the formality that often accompanies historic properties [House Beautiful]. The design philosophy centered on “elevating living without being too precious,” achieved through a rich color palette, vintage furnishings, and intentional art curation that tells the homeowners’ story [Isabel Schultz Design].
Key to the success was respecting the home’s history while injecting modern functionality. Schultz restored original Victorian-era radiators in the dining room and lounge, uncovering intricate arrow designs hidden under decades of white paint. Old newspaper clippings and layered wallpaper discovered during construction were preserved as tangible links to the past, proving that restoration can reveal as much character as new additions [Isabel Schultz Design].
Design Principles That Anyone Can Apply
Schultz’s approach offers actionable insights for homeowners at any stage. By leading with textiles and color stories, she created cohesive yet dynamic spaces that avoid trend-driven sterility. Here are the core strategies that made this project exceptional:
- Restore, don’t replace: Original trim, fireplaces, and radiators were refurbished where possible, maintaining historical integrity while meeting modern heating needs. Even non-working fireplaces were removed only to optimize furniture layout, demonstrating pragmatic preservation [Isabel Schultz Design].
- Embrace bold, personal color: From an oxblood kitchen with brass accents to a powder room featuring Christian Lacroix wallpaper, the home uses saturated hues to create warmth and drama. Schultz notes this allowed the clients to “play with pattern and art” in a way that feels authentically theirs [House Beautiful].
- Optimize small footprints: The kitchen, kept compact, features custom cabinetry from Trim Tech Designs to maximize storage without a separate pantry. This proves that efficient design can make limited space feel purposeful and luxurious [House Beautiful].
- Integrate multifunctional zones: The third-floor loft serves as a combined living, working, and sleeping area with dual vanities, addressing the need for flexible space in homes without basements. Heated floors in the primary bath combat cold Chicago winters, blending comfort with style [House Beautiful].
- Curate art with intention: A large painting by Jingqi Wang Steinhiser anchors the living room, while cat portraits from Victorian Creatures in custom frames by Alley Gallery add whimsical personal touches. Art was sourced from local fairs and artists, emphasizing community and individuality [Isabel Schultz Design].
Room-by-Room Insights: Where Function Meets Flair
Each area of the home was designed for specific lifestyle needs, offering templates for similar challenges:
- Living Room: An elongated layout accommodates multiple seating areas—a comfy sectional for family relaxation and a vintage-inspired corner with a sculptural Soho Home fixture for cocktail hours. The space balances casual comfort with elevated hosting [House Beautiful].
- Lounge: A wallpapered ceiling creates a cocoon-like retreat, perfect for unwinding with a martini or knitting sessions. Warm textures and a Patty Carroll Photography piece above the fireplace reinforce the cozy, storied vibe [House Beautiful].
- Kitchen: The oxblood cabinetry and checkerboard flooring make a bold statement, while optimized storage ensures every spot is “purposeful and rich in color.” The design avoids oversized appliances, focusing instead on a hardworking yet inviting space for two [House Beautiful].
- Dining Room: Pocket doors replicate 1886 originals, and a self-storing table accommodates large holiday gatherings. Playful artwork above the fireplace adds irreverence, showing that formal rooms can still reflect personality [House Beautiful].
- Primary Bedroom: Dreamy floral wallpaper from Ashley Woodson Bailey set the tone for a moody, cocooning space. A custom bouclé bed frame, striped pillows, and motorized shades blend luxury with practicality [House Beautiful].
Lessons for Your Own “Grown-Up” Home
This Victorian’s transformation underscores that empty-nester design is less about square footage and more about intentionality. Whether you’re restoring a historic property or updating a modern home, prioritize:
- Personal narrative over trends: Schultz’s clients shared a love of art and birds, influencing wallpaper choices and decor. Identify your core passions—be it travel, hobbies, or collections—and weave them into every room [Isabel Schultz Design].
- Dedicated zones for new routines: With remote work here to stay, carve out defined workspaces that separate professional from personal life. The loft bath’s dual vanities, for instance, accommodate simultaneous routines without conflict [House Beautiful].
- Local sourcing for uniqueness: From vintage furniture at South Loop Loft to custom pieces from Skokie Millwork, leveraging local craftsmen yields one-of-a-kind results while supporting community [House Beautiful].
- Embrace imperfection: Discovered newspaper clippings and layered wallpaper weren’t seen as flaws but as historical artifacts. Allow your home’s evolution to show its story, rather than aiming for sterile perfection [Isabel Schultz Design].
The greatest takeaway? A “grown-up” home isn’t about opulence; it’s about creating spaces that feel authentically yours, where every detail—from a cat-shaped lamp to a restored radiator—sparks joy and connection. As Schultz reflects, the freedom her clients provided to “touch every space” was the ultimate gift, proving that the best designs emerge from trust and shared vision [Isabel Schultz Design].
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