'Windy City Rehab' Season 3: Alison reveals she's frozen her eggs amid work on restoration project
The sixth episode of Season 3 of 'Windy City Rehab' takes viewers out of Chicago - but not too far. When an expectant couple contacts Alison Victoria for help with a terrible floor plan, she jumps right in, ready to assist them to redesign their home and add those particular touches.
Unlike most episodes of 'Windy City Rehab,' this one did not include a refurbishment. This week's pair, Steve and Sarah Schmitt, paid $375,000 for a corner site in Evanston and while construction has already begun, the floor plan left the duo uninspired. That's when they dialed Alison's number. They thought that with a $1 million restoration budget, she might bring her hallmark style to their property.
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Alison intended to tidy up the main floor by converting the large bathroom into a powder room and relocating the fireplace, so it is not in a corner. Alison incorporated a banquet into the open-concept living area and kitchen after the Schmitts opted against a traditional dining room. Steve desired a beer area in the basement. The designer envisioned two brass doors replacing the single front entrance and blending beige stone and cedarwood with white siding and black window frames to enhance the appearance. Sarah discovered she was pregnant at some point during the project's 18-month duration, adding an essential deadline to the project's timeframe.
On a more personal level, Alison related her experience of freezing her eggs to remove the pressure to have a kid before she and her partner were ready. "I am trying to prepare for my future and going through all of this will hopefully be that insurance policy that I've worked so hard for," she explained. Dr Jeelani informed her after surgery that they were able to collect three eggs, but only one was viable. Alison consented when the doctor advised freezing 10 eggs to improve her chances.
Alison arrived a few months after the renovation was completed to check how the family had settled in. Steve and a very pregnant Sarah were enthused about the exterior's use of varied materials and how effectively the colors harmonized together. Inside, Alison enjoyed the way Ari integrated features from the mantel into his built-in shelves and cabinets. She particularly praised his woodwork on the sides of the kitchen island, which made it appear custom-built.
Steve put up his home brewing equipment in the basement, and he can now pour with taps constructed by Ari. The brewer even made a beer in her honor. Remodeling took nearly 18 months, but the Schmitts just spent 10% over their restoration budget, which amounted to $1.1 million. Alison believes they have no regrets about exceeding the intended budget.
To see Alison take on more client renovation projects, tune in to HGTV every Thursday at 9/8c for new episodes of 'Windy City Rehab.'
