Karl Sponholtz
Age: 42
Chicago, Ill.
As a kid, Karl says his love of design was “there from the beginning.” By age 10, he frequently rearranged his parents’ furniture while they weren’t home and was mesmerized by building blocks and floor plans. Karl, who studied architecture at the University of Illinois in Chicago, has more than 10 years of practical design experience and says that he can excite people with his passion for design. He characterizes his personal design preferences as “ultra-modern minimalist,” but often completes traditional designs for his high-end clientele. As the youngest of six, Karl says he is extroverted, loud and loves to live in the moment.

Traditional Meets Modern Kitchen

For the kitchen renovation of this historic Adams-style home, Sponholtz tried to stay true to the history while providing all the convenience of a modern chef's kitchen.

Family-Favorite Sun Porch

This new sun porch quickly became the favorite room in the house, says Sponholtz. "I really wanted to let the outside in, and with heated bluestone floors, it can be enjoyed year-round!," he says.

Book-Smart Family Room

Built-in bookcases frame sunny French doors in this family room addition.

Custom Bathroom Cabinetry

Sponholtz designed a custom skylight to let light into this his-and-hers bathroom addition. The center glass cabinet stretches to the ceiling for ample linen closet space.

Georgian Kitchen Addition

Sponholtz designed this kitchen addition, including the custom cabinetry and paneling. "I wanted to give the traditional Georgian architecture a modern aesthetic — dreamy!," he says.

Beadboard Bathroom

The beadboard wainscoting adds texture and durability to this bathroom addition.

Federal-Style Backyard Remodel

To open up this federal-style home to the backyard, Sponholtz added large windows and French doors. White railings on the balcony overlook the new brick patio.