Developers Atlantic Residential and Focus have selected Morgante Wilson Architects, an architectural and interior design firm, as the interiors partner for a new development in Aurora, Illinois, that repositions a portion of the Fox Valley Mall as luxury rental housing.
The development team is repurposing the site of a shuttered Sears store and its adjacent parking lot into Lumen Fox Valley, which will feature approximately 300 luxury apartments ranging from studios to three-bedroom units. The Morgante Wilson team is designing the common and amenity spaces, including a two-story lounge, a private dining room and parlor, a game room, a fitness and yoga studio, an outdoor pool, a sundeck, and grilling stations.
“Increasingly, renters in the suburbs want and expect a level of amenities that’s on par with what they would find at a luxury apartment towers in the city,” said Elissa Morgante, co-founder of Morgante Wilson Architects, based in Evanston, Illinois. “That expectation extends not only to the programming in terms of offerings that enhance their lifestyle but also the aesthetic of these spaces. We’re working with the developers to create a design concept that will contribute to the unique character of this property and its surroundings, and speak to prospective renters. The design will create flow between the amenity areas from one space to another, creating both opportunities for shared social experiences as well as small group gatherings.”
Morgante Wilson Architects also is selecting the finish package for the units, including selections for kitchens, baths, and flooring.
“The flavor of Lumen Fox Valley will be warm, contemporary, and timeless, so we’re curating high-quality materials in a sophisticated palette, including quartz countertops, beautiful cabinetry, and luxury vinyl plank flooring,” she added.
Lumen Fox Valley, which is slated for completion this fall, was designed by Torti Gallas + Partners and HKM Architects + Planners. Focus is the general contractor, and USAA Real Estate provided financing for the development.
