One of my favorite parts of being a business owner in the design industry is having a workplace that is my second home and feels like it. 2025 marks ten years in business, and what better way to celebrate than giving our Chicago studio a little refresh? I’ve loved this studio ever since I laid eyes on it in 2021. Originally home to Drehobl Art Glass, a Chicago stained glass company since 1919, the space feels rooted in history and very inspirational. Everyone who steps in the door is taken with the original architecture and molding.  When we moved in, I was so excited to honor the history while breathing new life into the space with a renovation which included a powder room, brand new kitchen and custom cabinetry design library & more. I’ve loved settling into this studio on Lincoln Ave. I’m nostalgic looking back at the transition!

Chicago Design Studio Redesign

Recently, I’ve felt more and more confident to go all in on what I love and I knew it was time for our studio to truly reflect that. With so much of our design philosophy rooted in embracing the “storied” and “lived in” aesthetic, it makes sense the studio evolved organically. After antique sourcing trips to Michigan and Round Top, Texas, some of my most loved vintage pieces have found a home in our studio. Notedly the sideboard and chandelier in the conference room. Petite Danish chairs (likely by Alfred Christensen) flanking the entry mirror and French butcher block table back by the kitchen. A lively mix of our vintage rugs, artwork and mirrors creates an underlying elegance even with their imperfections.

I spent almost a year designing my Mediterranean Reverie wallpaper collection with  Isidore Leroy and there was no question it needed to be part of our studio. And… once we saw it up we made a spontaneous decision to paint the kitchen from black to blue. Like I said… I’m feeling more confident to go all in and I’m so glad we did! 

 

Centered by Design’s Design Principles

1. Architectural Details

The core of Centered by Design’s identity lies in the preservation of historic architecture. Some designers will start with a mood board heavily rooted in their personal aesthetic, we do the opposite. During our initial walk-throughs, we try to “listen” to the house. Letting the architecture lead our inspiration and responding to it as a jumping off point. That said, we never miss a chance to play up beautiful architecture. The original milwork in our front meeting room is a daily inspiration for the team. Our Boiserie Moderne paper was heavily influenced by the moldings.

 

2) Pattern Mixing

Most textiles fall within the following categories: florals, geometrics, stripes, textures, and abstracts. Now that your palette has been defined, try selecting a different print from each of these categories, all within your palette. I like to start with my “hero” print, the one I can’ live without and build from there. The studio has a lovely mix of vintage rugs, upholstered chairs, window treatments, wallpaper, and… of course, the smattering of fabric samples in client schemes always on our island and inspo boards. Read more about pattern mixing in this Journal Post.

 

3) Creating Layers

A layered home doesn’t happen overnight. While we love to source unique furniture and accessories for our clients, we encourage them to continue to add layers over time. No room is complete without them. Piles of design books, styling pieces like vases, mirrors and artwork keep our space feeling like home.

 

4) Natural Light

Natural light dramatically effects the feeling of a space, As designers, the amount, source and angle of natural light is one of our first considerations in the design and building process. We embrace our front room as our core meeting space. The natural light and collaboration are essential to our design process.

 

5) Storytelling

We believe our homes tell a story, not only to visitors but to your own family. What is the story you want to write for your life? Being thoughtful about the story you want to tell, will help you enjoy your home to the fullest. The goal is to evoke a sense of belonging. I want my team to feel inspired in their workspace and for client’s to feel at home when they come in for meetings. The history the space and blending of old and new and honoring personal pieces is key to making a space feel “storied”.