When two globe-trotters traded Seattle’s skyline for the Midwestern charm of a 1920s co-op apartment, they found more than just a new place to live—they uncovered a treasure trove of potential wrapped in layers of neglect. The apartment, located in a 1920s cooperative building, had seen better days. The previous owners had lived there since the early 1980s, and while the space was loved, it had been largely untouched for decades. With outdated electrical, makeshift repairs like duct tape around the windows, and a kitchen in such disrepair it had to be gutted before the new owners could even tour it, the apartment was nearly uninhabitable. But that didn’t deter these adventurous homeowners.
Designing with Character: Cory’s Vision
Enter SDG’s interior designer Cory Rodeheaver, whose appreciation for historic architecture and passion for thoughtful renovation made him the perfect fit for the project. When asked about this project, Cory said, “I love older homes because of the details they have that you don’t find today, especially in apartments. This home had character that had been neglected, and we were able to breathe new life into it.”
Preserving History While Enhancing Functionality
The design challenge was to preserve and honor the original character while making the apartment functional for modern living. Every surface and space was rethought and reworked, from the floors and radiators to the light fixtures and storage solutions. An essential part of the project was reconfiguring the layout to improve flow and create a proper entry, enhancing the livability of the space.
Maximizing Storage with Thoughtful Customization
Storage was a top priority for the homeowners, particularly for their extensive book collection. Custom walnut bookshelves were installed, a new closet was added to the primary bedroom, and another was created in the office. Even the bathroom got a clever storage solution: a dedicated closet for their cats.
Restoration of Original Features
Throughout the apartment, original features were preserved or restored wherever possible. The radiators were brought back to life, the original tile in the bathroom was maintained, and the cast iron bathtub was refinished to reclaim its classic charm. Windows were restored to their former glory, shedding natural light into rooms now brought back to life with intentional design and color.
Bold Wallpaper and Historic Design Influence
Speaking of color, this home was anything but timid. The homeowners embraced a bold palette and weren’t afraid to make daring design choices. Four rooms featured wallpaper, three of them in striking William Morris-inspired prints. These patterns reflect the Arts and Crafts movement and the transition into the Art Nouveau styles popular in the 1920s and 30s. The library, bathroom, and kitchen were especially vibrant, blending historical accuracy with fresh, contemporary appeal.
Smart Kitchen Renovation in a 1920s Co-op Apartment
The kitchen, once a crumbling afterthought, is now a chef’s delight. Designed with flow and function in mind, every element has its place. “I knew it didn’t have to be big,” one of the homeowners noted, “but it needed to be smart.” By turning a back room into a pantry and relocating the refrigerator, Cory freed up valuable space, transforming the kitchen into a model of efficiency. Heath ceramic tiles, chosen to reflect the homeowners’ personal collection, bring artisanal texture and depth to the backsplash.
Small Historic Bathroom Remodel with Modern Functionality
The bathroom also underwent a dramatic transformation. Originally in a state of disrepair, it now functions beautifully despite its small footprint. It features modern updates seamlessly integrated with the original aesthetic, creating a harmonious blend of old and new. “Every day getting ready in that bathroom is such a joy,” the homeowner said. “It’s small, but somehow it fits everything we need perfectly.”
Designing for Living and Entertaining
Entertainment was also an important consideration. The homeowners wanted a space that was not just beautiful, but welcoming. Each room was designed with intention, serving a distinct purpose while also contributing to the cohesive flow of the home. Whether it’s hosting dinner parties or curling up with a book in the library, every inch of this apartment is now fully utilized and deeply loved.
A Renovation That Honors the Past
These types of renovations truly inspire Cory: “Starting with a space that has history, that has stories to tell—there’s so much more to discover. We weren’t just designing an apartment; we were helping to tell the next chapter in its story.”
The result is a stunning example of how thoughtful interior design can bridge past and present. From restoring architectural details to selecting bold wallpapers that honor the period, this remodel is a love letter to the building’s heritage and a celebration of vibrant, modern living. The apartment now stands not just as a beautiful home, but as a complete, cohesive work of art—ready for its next hundred years.
Thinking about restoring a historic property? Contact us to bring your vision to life.
Now, meet the homeowners:
