Project Scope Overview:

Renovation, expansion, and enhancement of an existing residence focused on creating a fully integrated four seasons living environment that increases year-round usable living space, improves entertaining capabilities, and enhances the overall functionality and value of the home.
The project will explore multiple design approaches ranging from a targeted four seasons room addition to a more comprehensive expansion strategy that may include family room enlargement, select interior improvements, and an optional second-floor addition to expand the primary suite creating larger closets, and office space. The design process will evaluate opportunities to create a bright, functional, and architecturally cohesive addition that feels original to the home while supporting the family's long-term needs and lifestyle goals.

Key scope elements under consideration include:

• Removal of the existing deteriorated patio structure and evaluation of replacement with a fully enclosed four seasons room addition
• New four seasons room designed to maximize natural light, views, and year-round usability through extensive glazing and architectural detailing
• Evaluation of extending the addition along the east side of the residence, potentially encompassing the full length of the existing frontage
• Study of multiple size and configuration options to determine the most appropriate scale, functionality, and investment level for the property
• Evaluation of a combined family room and four seasons room expansion strategy to create a larger, more integrated entertaining environment
• Preliminary planning for furniture layouts and flexible family living
• Optional second-floor addition to expand the primary suite and improve overall functionality of the upper level
• Evaluation of primary closet expansion opportunities
• Evaluation of potential home office expansion or creation of dedicated work-from-home space
• Study of potential terrace or outdoor access opportunities associated with second-floor improvements, subject to architectural feasibility
• Review of existing kitchen layout and evaluation of cabinetry reconfiguration opportunities to improve functionality
• Evaluation of living room fireplace and mantel redesign to create a more refined and architecturally cohesive focal point
• Preliminary review of ceiling heights, structural implications, and architectural integration between first-floor and second-floor improvements
• Preliminary review of zoning considerations, including corner lot setback requirements and overall development limitations
• Preliminary budget alignment and cost comparisons across multiple design approaches to support informed decision-making

Architect's Recommended Design Strategy:

The recommended approach is to begin with multiple schematic design concepts that explore varying levels of scope, investment, and architectural impact. Each concept will be accompanied by preliminary budgeting guidance and 3D massing studies to evaluate scale, proportion, architectural character, constructibility, and overall value.

Option A – Four Seasons Room Addition

Focus on creating a first-floor addition that transforms the existing patio area into a fully enclosed four seasons room with expansive glazing, abundant natural light, and strong connections to adjacent living spaces. This option will evaluate multiple sizing strategies, including a larger addition extending along much of the east side of the residence as well as more modest alternatives that may provide a better balance of functionality, scale, and investment. A derivative of this option may explore a hybrid approach that combines a partial family room expansion with a four seasons room addition to create a more seamless and integrated entertaining environment.

Option B – Second Story Expansion

Build upon the four seasons room concept by incorporating a modest second-floor addition focused on primary suite improvements, closet expansion, and dedicated office space. This option will evaluate opportunities to increase functionality and long-term value while remaining mindful of construction costs, architectural character, and overall return on investment. Likely to include a derivative illustrating efficient vs. expanded 2nd floor options.

Architectural Character:

The design intent is to create an addition that feels fully integrated with the existing residence while elevating its architectural presence and overall quality. Particular emphasis will be placed on proportion, roof forms, window composition, ceiling heights, material selection, and detailing so the completed project feels intentional, timeless, and original to the home.

Zoning, Structural & Consultant Considerations
The below items are often required on home additions and large remodels. They are not architectural services, but are often required by the village, city or county to obtain a permit. These items can be coordinated by the Architect, paid by the Client, see your agreement for details once Phase 1 is complete and the full scope is defined.

• Plat of Survey updated by IL licensed land surveyor
• Civil engineer consultant and grading and draining drainage/plans will generally be required for all additions.
• RESCheck energy compliance calculations, by HVAC contractor or engineer, coordinated by Architect.
• Structural engineer consultant may be required for atypcial spans, foundation conditions, large openings or glazed walls, etc. Typical prescriptive framing is included by Architect.
• Sprinkler design consultant if required by code
• Mechanical, electrical, plumbing engineer (MEP) may be required for more complex projects
• Geotechnical / Soils Engineer – if required by site or municipal conditions, soils borings

Project Timeline:

1–2 weeks – Site documentation, existing conditions review, and precedent development

2–4 weeks – Initial architectural concepts and estate design studies (Phase 1)

4–6 weeks – Design refinement, selected option development, and preliminary construction documentation (Phase 2)

2–4 weeks – Budget review, contractor pricing coordination, and scope alignment

1–2+ months (typical) – Permit review and approval, subject to municipal review timelines

Village Requirements to Obtain a Permit

• Appearance control commission is typical required for additions.