"I love Residential Design because I get to connect with people on an intimate level, and improve the design of the spaces they use every day."

About Christina

I'm Christina Townsend, a licensed architect who's been transforming spaces since 2006. My journey began at Kansas State University's College of Architecture, Planning and Design, and took off in San Francisco with H+A Architects, where I worked on everything from affordable housing and civic projects to airports and interior design.

While I've enjoyed the diversity of large-scale work, my true passion has always been single-family residential design. There's something special about creating spaces where families build their lives and memories. That's why residential architecture is the heart of Townsend Design.

I'm based in Oak Park with my husband, two boys, and one very opinionated cat. Being a homeowner and parent myself gives me a unique perspective on what makes a house truly work for real life—not just look beautiful in photos.

My Design Philosophy

Great design is about more than aesthetics—it's about creating spaces that enhance daily life. I focus on functional improvements that make your home work harder for you, bringing in natural light to transform how spaces feel, incorporating building efficiency to ensure your home is comfortable and sustainable, and selecting timeless finishes that won't feel outdated in a few years. Modernizing systems and providing new technologies can enhance your home in meaningful ways. A reworking of interior space can sometimes be the answer when an addition is not possible.

The Chicagoland area is full of century-old homes, some of which I have had the pleasure to give new life. I understand the unique challenges that come with historic houses—from quirky layouts and outdated systems to hidden structural surprises. I know how to honor the character of older homes while modernizing them for contemporary living. My husband and I have worked over the years to update our own 129-year-old Four Square.

I don't have one particular design aesthetic. With each new client and home, I prefer to connect first and understand what you value and your design goals before beginning the design process. With this information, I can guide you through the design phase to reach your ultimate project goals and provide options that you may not have considered. Some projects work well with the addition of ultra-modern interiors, while others want balance and the character of old craftsmanship.

While I work on all aspects of residential design, I am fond of kitchen design, where function and beauty must come together seamlessly. The kitchen is often the heart of the home—from morning coffee to homework sessions to dinner parties—and getting it right can transform how your entire house functions.

Awards

Townsend Design is the recipient of a Historic Preservation Award from the Village of Oak Park Historic Preservation Commission, 2023

Let's Work Together

Whether you're dreaming of a renovation, planning an addition, or want to refresh your interiors, I'd love to help you explore what's possible for your home. Let's create a space that works for how you actually live. I am a full-service Architect, meaning that when you hire Townsend Design, I’m part of the entire project scope, from the initial design through Construction. I have great relationships with local Contractors and will help you connect with a GC that fits your personality and budget.

If you've already been in contact with another local interior designer, don't let that stop you from reaching out. I enjoy collaborating on projects and can offer assistance with permitting and challenges that occur when building in a Historic District.

Ready to get started? Contact me to schedule a consultation.