Suzanne Glavin and Melinda Cahill of North Shore Nest craft a stunning lakeside escape for a client in Kenilworth.
In the living room, a Menil cocktail ottoman in Cowtan & Tout wool plaid paired with game chairs from Highland House and a Made Goods Demetrius entry table combine to create a sophisticated and inviting atmosphere.
The Clients
As owners of North Shore Nest (northshorenest.com), designers Suzanne Glavin and Melinda Cahill have built lasting relationships with many clients who have not only continued to enlist the duo’s services but have also made valuable referrals for new projects. That was the case with a recent client in Kenilworth: After purchasing a stunning home on a prime Lake Michigan property, the couple enlisted the Glenview-based designers to reflect their elevated style.
An Hermès cashmere blanket drapes chicly over a Lorraine right arm chaise in mohair fabric by Kravet in the family room, complemented by a Hickory Chair Diad drink table in the family room.
The Priority
“Our clients have exceptional taste, and we wanted to make their home reflect their style as if they had built it from the beginning,” says Glavin. While the size and layout of the home worked perfectly for the homeowners, the style was too “glitzy” for their taste. “When we first walked in, it felt cold and shiny,” Cahill recalls. “We kept saying we wanted to remove the ‘Vegas vibe.’ Vegas is fun when you’re in Vegas, but it wasn’t right for their home.”
The kitchen charms with custom Urban Electric Company pendants, along with Hickory Chair Windsor counter stools, which complement the existing cabinetry.
The Challenge
“If we had to say something was more challenging, it would be trying to salvage something brand new while making it look completely different,” says Glavin. “As we are all worried about our carbon footprints and what we put into landfills, we wanted to salvage as much existing material as possible.” Also, adds Glavin, the clients’ four sons had some ideas of their own for their spaces. “These boys were super creative and had their wish lists. We are always so impressed by young people who know how they want to live in their room, and their creativity is inspiring.”
A custom wall crafted by Upholstered Walls by Anne Marie, serves as the focal point in the primary bedroom, accented by a Radius nightstand by McGuire in natural cream.
The Detail
“One thing we learned from spending over a year at this home through different seasons is how the lake takes on many different personalities,” shares Cahill. “Sometimes, it shimmers a Caribbean blue; other times, it appears as a blue-gray with darker hues. In the depths of January, it can look very light, with parts frozen. We incorporated many of those tones and colors into our fabrics to create a connection with the outdoors surrounding the home.”
In the primary bathroom, a Made Goods Royce 16-inch side table in an antiqued mirror/gold metal finish takes pride of place next to an existing Waterworks bathtub, while a Mariah Hassock ottoman by Baker Furniture completes the space.
The Outcome
Sums up Cahill, “Our clients have a spectacular home that reflects their style, supports their lives and offers the luxury of enjoying Lake Michigan daily.” Adds Glavin, “We didn’t want to leave when we finished the house, and that’s when we knew we’d done our job.”
Latesta Studio’s custom Concentric pendant in antique pewter finish elegantly hangs above the custom Larchmont table by Baker Furniture and Carmel caned Dining side chairs.
“WE DIDN’T WANT TO LEAVE WHEN WE FINISHED THE HOUSE, AND THAT’S WHEN WE KNEW WE’D DONE OUR JOB.” –SUZANNE GALVIN
Photography by: DUSTIN HALLECK
