Design Happens

Raise your hand if you want to live in a luxurious apartment in Trump International Hotel & Tower with fabulous views of the Chicago skyline, the Magnificent Mile and the Chicago River. Did everyone raise their hands? I certainly did. Well, I’m happy to report that the agonizing wait is officially over. As of today, August 18, you can enter twice daily (once on HGTV.com and once on FrontDoor.com) for your chance to win HGTV Urban Oasis 2011, a grand-prize package valued at more than $750,000. And just in case you didn’t know, the grand-prize package includes stunning interior design by HGTV’s Vern Yip. I’m envious of the future winner already.

When I first took the Urban Oasis 2011 virtual tour, I figured it would be a cinch to pick my favorite room since the square footage of this apartment is smaller than, say, HGTV Dream Home or HGTV Green Home. I was completely wrong. Don’t let the size fool you. This one-bedroom and one-and-a-half-bath apartment boasts such a gorgeous detailed interior that it’s impossible to take your eyes off the incredible design work in every room, from the contemporary light fixtures to the powder room’s sleek black-and-white tilework. Check out my two favorite rooms in this top-notch urban apartment and then tell me what you think.

Living Room With a Small Dining Area

In addition to the contemporary decor and interior elements of the living area, I’m head-over-heels for the city views. When you’re at street level in a city like Chicago, the constant traffic, roar of the “L” trains and throngs of pedestrians feel so hectic. But from the 35th floor of the Urban Oasis 2011 apartment, the city will always appear calm, friendly and anything but chaotic. And this stunning view can be seen from almost every room (the foyer, kitchen, dining area, living area and master bedroom). The living room not only serves as a living room but as a miniature home office, dining area and conversational seating/bar area, too. Even though it’s a true multifunctional space, it never once feels cluttered, busy or “too much.” Excellent work, Vern.

Master Bedroom With Guest-Ready Sleeper Sofa

I love the serenity and tranquility present in the master bedroom. A calming color palette and soothing textures serve as an escape from all the hustle and bustle of city life. I think nap time would easily become a daily event if I could snuggle up in that cozy canopy bed. And with all your friends fighting to visit your new digs, within the master bedroom there’s a sleeper sofa that gets an even better look at the skyline than the master bed itself.

Amazing, huh? I shared my favorite aspects of Urban Oasis 2011, so what are yours? Do you love the kitchen appliances? The dining room chairs? The hand-painted walls in the master bedroom?

Tell us in the comments below. (We can’t wait to hear what you have to say.)

But first, go enter the sweepstakes, and remember to do enter every day – once on HGTV.com and once on FrontDoor.com.