Building a house from scratch can be one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences, and HGTV’s Alison Victoria knows this firsthand. Her latest project, showcased in the series Windy City Rehab: Alison’s Dream Home, is a testament to her determination and vision. The process wasn’t easy, but the end result is nothing short of spectacular.

From Office to Dream Home: Alison's Bold Move

Alison took a massive leap when she decided to transform her 6,700-square-foot warehouse into a living space. Originally, this massive building was her office, but after purchasing it six years ago, she realized it had the potential to be so much more. “I started thinking, ‘What could I do with almost 7,000 square feet and 30-foot ceilings?’” Alison explained in an interview ahead of the show’s premiere. “How can I turn this into something that feels like a dream come true? And that’s exactly what I set out to do.”

It wasn’t just about creating a home—it was about designing a space that reflected her personal style and vision. “It still doesn’t feel real,” she admitted. “Even after all the planning and dreaming, standing in the finished space feels surreal.”

Read also:
John Travoltas Daughter Ella Bleu Rising Star Shines In Music And Acting

Overcoming Challenges: The Toughest Project Yet

Before she could even begin the renovation, Alison had to secure special approval to convert the office into a residential space. As she revealed in a clip shared on HGTV’s Instagram, this was no ordinary renovation. “This is by far the toughest project I’ve ever taken on,” she said. “I’m putting everything on the line—every dream I’ve ever had, every penny I could spend, and every hurdle I could overcome.”

The process was grueling, filled with moments of doubt and emotion. Alison confessed that there were times when she broke down in tears, overwhelmed by the challenges. But despite the setbacks, she remained committed to her vision. “I wanted to create something unique, something that Chicago has never seen before,” she explained. “When I’m done with this space, it will be unlike anything else in the city.”

Why Chicago? Alison’s Emotional Connection

At one point, Alison considered leaving Chicago altogether. “I was ready to go,” she admitted. “I’ve been through so much here, and it felt like it was time for me to move on.” However, the idea of transforming this space into her dream home reignited her passion for the city. “Now, I couldn’t imagine being anywhere else,” she said. “This place has given me a new sense of belonging.”

Her inspiration came from her travels across Europe, particularly her love for Italian architecture. “I wanted to bring a piece of the Italian coast to Chicago,” she explained. “French doors lead out to a massive courtyard that feels like you’ve been transported to the Mediterranean. It’s a space that truly reflects my style and my love for design.”

Today, Alison is overjoyed with the results. “Last night, I was sitting by the pool, looking up at the stars through the skylights, and I thought to myself, ‘I deserve this,’” she reflected. “All the struggles, all the hard work—it was worth it. This is my time, my moment, and I’m proud of what I’ve created.”