Chicago Sanctuary
Chicago Sanctuary
The clients had a clear vision: a private urban escape with enough open lawn for family activities and yard games, along with distinct spaces for gathering, entertaining, and quiet retreat. With two adjacent city lots to work with, they brought Chalet in to transform that potential into reality. Chalet's design solution makes the most of the generous footprint, organizing the landscape into a series of connected outdoor rooms that balance functionality and beauty. Three unique gathering spaces - anchored by an expanded fire pit patio and two additional patios designed by Chalet - are visually and physically linked by custom seating walls and inviting pathways, giving the family distinct areas to gather while keeping the landscape cohesive and flowing. To fulfill the clients' desire for a true retreat, Chalet designed a custom pergola at the north end of the garden. Its adjustable roof offers protection from sun and rain while opening up on cool spring and fall days - a flexible space that complements a sitting area at the west end of the property and encourages movement through the garden, revealing a variety of views along the way. In addition, privacy was a big priority, and Chalet addressed it on every side; existing fencing was repurposed and extended, and a new front yard fence and entry gate were designed to complement the home's modern architecture while meeting city requirements. Tall, narrow evergreen plantings provide year-round screening, texture, and color, while layered perennial and shrub beds deliver seasonal interest through both flowers and foliage. The result is a secluded urban oasis that feels far removed from the surrounding city — proof that with the right design, even a busy Chicago lot can become a sanctuary for every season.