2,000 sq ft luxury condo transformation featuring open-concept kitchen with MSI waterfall countertop, three complete bathroom renovations, and new flooring throughout
Location: 1030 N State St, Chicago 60610
Timeline: 3 Months
Size: 2,000 SF
2,000
Square Feet
3
Bathrooms Gutted
12
Week Timeline
MSI
Waterfall Countertop
100%
New Flooring
Newberry Plaza Condo Transformation
Follow our progress as we transform this 2,000 sq ft Gold Coast condo into stunning modern luxury
□ Project In Progress
Final photos coming soon! Below are images from our ongoing renovation work.
Design Process 3D Renderings & Plans
Our design team created detailed 3D renderings and floor plans to help the clients visualize their new space before construction began.
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Kitchen Renovation In Progress
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Bathroom & Interior Work In Progress
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Construction Progress Updates
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Project Highlights
Open Concept Kitchen
Removed the wall between kitchen and living room to create a spacious, modern open floor plan perfect for entertaining.
MSI Waterfall Countertop
Stunning custom kitchen cabinets topped with a beautiful MSI waterfall countertop as the centerpiece of the renovation.
Three Bathroom Guts
Complete bottom-to-top renovation of all three bathrooms with new tiles, waterproof insulation, and modern fixtures.
New Flooring Throughout
Brand new flooring installed across the entire 2,000 square foot condo, unifying the space with cohesive design.
Gold Coast Condo Renovation - Newberry Plaza Complete Gut
This Newberry Plaza condo renovation at 1030 N State St represents one of our most comprehensive gut renovations in Chicago's prestigious Gold Coast neighborhood. I'm Viktor with Assembly Squad Remodeling LLC—we've completed 500+ renovation projects since 2013 (Illinois License #TGC098779, BBB A+ rating), with extensive high-rise condo renovation experience throughout Gold Coast and downtown Chicago.
The clients—experienced real estate professionals relocating from New York to Chicago—purchased this fantastic 2,000 square foot condo specifically for a complete transformation. They understood what was possible and had clear vision for the finished product: modern, open, and perfectly suited for Chicago living.
Opening Up the Kitchen: Wall Removal for Modern Living
The client's primary objective was creating an open concept floor plan by removing the wall between kitchen and living room. In high-rise buildings like Newberry Plaza, this requires careful structural assessment and HOA coordination.
After confirming the wall wasn't load-bearing and obtaining necessary HOA approvals, we removed the barrier that had closed off the kitchen. The transformation was dramatic—suddenly the condo felt twice as large, with natural light flowing through the space and clear sightlines from the kitchen to the living areas and windows overlooking State Street.
Custom Kitchen with MSI Waterfall Countertop
With the open floor plan established, the kitchen became the centerpiece of the entire condo. We installed custom kitchen cabinets designed specifically for the space, maximizing storage while maintaining clean, modern lines.
The showpiece: a beautiful MSI waterfall countertop that cascades down the sides of the island, creating visual drama and establishing the kitchen as the clear focal point. We selected MSI quartz for its durability, stain resistance, and stunning aesthetics—critical for clients who understand quality materials from their real estate experience.
A custom backsplash completed the kitchen aesthetic, tying together the cabinetry and countertops while adding texture and visual interest to the space.
Three Complete Bathroom Renovations
All three bathrooms received complete gut renovations—bottom to top, down to studs. This level of renovation allowed us to address everything properly: updated plumbing, new electrical, proper waterproofing, and completely fresh finishes.
Each bathroom received new tile throughout—floors and walls—installed over proper waterproof insulation systems. In high-rise buildings, waterproofing isn't optional; failures can damage units below and create significant liability. We use proven waterproofing methods on every bathroom renovation.
All new fixtures throughout: modern vanities, faucets, showerheads, toilets, and lighting. The clients selected contemporary fixtures that complement the overall modern aesthetic while providing practical functionality.
New Flooring Throughout the Condo
Brand new flooring was installed throughout the entire 2,000 square foot space. Consistent flooring across the open floor plan creates visual flow and makes the space feel cohesive and intentional.
In high-rise buildings, flooring installation must account for sound transmission requirements—most buildings have specific STC (Sound Transmission Class) ratings that must be met. We work with materials and underlayments that meet or exceed Newberry Plaza's requirements while providing the beautiful finished look the clients wanted.
Complete Drywall and Paint
The gut renovation included complete drywall installation and painting throughout the entire condo. Fresh drywall provides smooth, perfect surfaces—no patching over decades of previous repairs or settling cracks.
Professional paint application used premium products throughout, with color selections that complement the modern finishes and maximize the natural light available from the building's generous windows.
Complete Scope of Work
Complete gut demolition of 2,000 sq ft Gold Coast condo
Structural wall removal between kitchen and living room
HOA coordination and approval process
Custom kitchen cabinet design and installation
MSI waterfall countertop fabrication and installation
Custom backsplash installation
Primary bathroom complete gut and renovation
Guest bathroom complete gut and renovation
Third bathroom complete gut and renovation
Waterproof insulation systems in all three bathrooms
New tile installation throughout all bathrooms
All new bathroom fixtures and hardware
New flooring throughout entire 2,000 sq ft condo
Complete drywall installation and finishing
Professional paint application throughout
Electrical updates to code
Plumbing updates as required
All required permits and inspections
Working in Newberry Plaza: High-Rise Expertise
Condo renovation in Chicago high-rises requires specific expertise that differs from single-family home work. Newberry Plaza, like most Gold Coast buildings, has specific requirements: construction hours, elevator reservations for material delivery, noise restrictions, contractor insurance requirements, and detailed approval processes.
We've worked in dozens of Chicago high-rises since 2013 and understand these requirements. We coordinate with building management, reserve freight elevators appropriately, manage debris removal efficiently, and work within permitted hours. Our team respects building rules and neighboring residents—we're there to create beautiful spaces, not headaches.
Timeline: Three Months Start to Finish
This comprehensive Gold Coast condo gut renovation took three months from start to finish. The timeline included: HOA approvals and permits (2-3 weeks), demolition (1 week), rough mechanical work (2 weeks), drywall and framing (2 weeks), flooring installation (1 week), bathroom finishing (2 weeks), kitchen installation (2 weeks), and final details and punch list (1-2 weeks).
For a complete gut renovation of this scope, three months represents efficient execution. The clients, with their real estate background, understood the timeline was realistic and appreciated that we met it.
Investment in Gold Coast Living
Complete gut renovations in Gold Coast high-rises typically range from $150,000 to $350,000+ depending on square footage, finish selections, and scope complexity. This project—with custom cabinetry, premium MSI countertops, three complete bathroom renovations, and new flooring throughout—represented substantial investment in creating the exact living space the clients envisioned.
For clients relocating from New York, Chicago's Gold Coast offers exceptional value. The combination of lakefront living, neighborhood amenities, and relatively lower costs compared to Manhattan makes investment in quality renovation worthwhile—you're creating your ideal home in one of America's great urban neighborhoods.
Getting Started with Your Gold Coast Renovation
If you're considering condo renovation in Gold Coast, Streeterville, River North, or downtown Chicago, start by understanding your building's requirements. HOA rules, construction restrictions, and approval processes vary significantly between buildings.
Assembly Squad operates throughout Chicago's downtown and Near North neighborhoods as licensed general contractors (License #TGC098779) with 500+ renovations completed since 2013. We understand high-rise building requirements, coordinate effectively with management, and deliver quality renovations that meet both building standards and client expectations.
Reach out through our contact page to schedule a consultation. We'll discuss your vision, review your building's requirements, and provide realistic information about timelines, investment, and what's achievable in your specific situation.
Gold Coast Condo Renovation FAQs
How long does a complete condo gut renovation take in Chicago?
Complete gut renovations typically take 2-4 months depending on scope and building requirements. This Newberry Plaza project—2,000 sq ft with kitchen reconfiguration, three bathroom guts, and new flooring throughout—took 3 months. Timeline includes HOA approvals (2-3 weeks), demolition, rough mechanical work, finishing, and final details. We provide detailed timelines during consultation.
Can you remove walls in a Chicago high-rise condo?
Many walls in high-rise condos can be removed to create open floor plans, but it requires proper assessment. We first determine if the wall is load-bearing (most interior walls in concrete high-rises are not). Then we coordinate with your HOA for approval—most buildings require architectural drawings and review. At Newberry Plaza, we removed the kitchen wall after confirming it was non-structural and obtaining HOA approval.
What's the investment range for a Gold Coast condo gut renovation?
Complete gut renovations in Gold Coast high-rises typically range from $150,000 to $350,000+ depending on square footage (1,500-3,000 SF typical), finish quality, and scope complexity. Kitchen renovations run $45,000-$80,000+, bathroom guts $25,000-$45,000 each, and new flooring $15,000-$30,000 for 2,000 SF. We provide detailed line-item proposals so you understand exactly where investment goes.
How do you handle HOA requirements in Chicago high-rises?
We coordinate all HOA requirements: submitting renovation plans for approval, providing required insurance certificates, reserving freight elevators, adhering to construction hours, and managing debris removal. Every building has different rules—Newberry Plaza, for example, has specific requirements for floor covering and noise. We've worked in dozens of Chicago high-rises since 2013 and understand these processes.
What is a waterfall countertop?
A waterfall countertop extends the counter material down the sides of an island or cabinet, creating the visual effect of the stone "falling" like water. It's a premium design feature that creates dramatic visual impact and protects cabinet sides from damage. We used MSI quartz for this Newberry Plaza kitchen—the waterfall treatment made the island the stunning centerpiece of the open floor plan.
Why is waterproofing important in high-rise bathroom renovations?
In high-rise buildings, bathroom leaks can damage units below—creating significant liability and repair costs. Proper waterproof insulation systems beneath tile prevent water penetration into the structure. We install proven waterproofing membranes in every bathroom renovation, creating a watertight barrier that protects your investment and your neighbors below. It's not optional in high-rise work.
Do you work in other downtown Chicago neighborhoods?
Yes—we serve all downtown Chicago neighborhoods including Gold Coast, Streeterville, River North, The Loop, South Loop, West Loop, Lincoln Park, Lakeview, and Old Town. We have extensive high-rise experience throughout the city and understand the specific requirements of different buildings and neighborhoods. Our portfolio includes renovations in many of Chicago's premier residential buildings.
Can you work with my architect or designer?
Absolutely. We regularly collaborate with architects, interior designers, and kitchen designers on high-end projects. We can also provide in-house design services if you prefer a single point of contact. For this Newberry Plaza project, the clients had clear vision from their real estate experience, and we worked together to translate that vision into detailed execution plans.
More Chicago Condo Projects
Explore our other condo and apartment renovations throughout downtown Chicago
As a locally owned and operated Chicago business, Assembly Squad takes pride in serving the community we call home. Our team of Chicago-based designers, contractors, and craftsmen brings an insider's knowledge to every project we undertake throughout the city.
From luxury condos in Gold Coast to high-rises in Streeterville, we understand Chicago's diverse architectural styles and building-specific requirements. Our deep familiarity with Chicago building codes, permit processes, and HOA regulations ensures your project proceeds smoothly from concept to completion.
Ready to Transform Your Gold Coast Condo?
Licensed Illinois contractor with 500+ projects completed since 2013. We specialize in high-rise condo renovations throughout downtown Chicago with proven expertise in building requirements and luxury finishes.
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