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The Art of Personalized Design at RS Design Studio with Randy Shingledecker
RS Design Studio, Inc. Randy started his career in architecture after graduating from the University of Illinois at Chicago, designing some of the city’s most talked-about restaurants. His passion for creating beautiful, functional spaces led him to further his education at Harrington College of Design, focusing on residential interiors. An Architectural Eye for Interiors Since then, Randy has helped clients transform everything from high-rise condos to historic homes and vacation properties across the country—always with an eye for detail and a commitment to making each space feel uniquely personal. Livable Luxury At RS Design Studio, Randy combines architectural structure with interior softness, balancing clean lines, warm materials, and subtle color palettes. His work reflects a quiet elegance that’s both sophisticated and livable. He incorporates flooring and wall products into his designs to add texture, comfort, and lasting quality. A Personal, Professional Approach Clients value Randy’s calm demeanor and collaborative process. Whether refreshing a single room, bathroom design, or transforming an entire home, he listens closely and brings clarity to each decision—making the design journey as smooth as the result is stunning. Bring Home the Style of RS Design Studio As our September Designer of the Month, Randy Shingledecker represents the best of Chicago interior design: expertise, approachability, and a deep attuned to his clients’ needs. Explore his latest installations, and connect with RS Design Studio to start a new design journey.
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Original, Timeless & Unique Jenami Designs
At Jenami Designs, great design starts with listening. This simple but powerful idea is the foundation of everything the studio creates. Led by Chicago-based designer Jennifer Kole, Jenami Designs is a boutique interior design firm that takes a personalized approach to create spaces that reflect its clients' story and style With a signature style that blends vintage charm with modern elegance, Jenami Designs creates interiors that are timeless, livable, and deeply personal. A Boutique Approach to Interior Design photo credit Heather Talbert Jenami Designs specializes in full interior design and home enhancement, including space planning, color and wallpaper consultation, also furniture, lighting and window design and specialty rug selection, custom built-in planning, and one-of-a-kind accessory selection. Here you can take a closer look at the Chicago Chic project. Blending Vintage Character with Modern Ease photo credit Heather Talbert With a focus on chic, vintage, and glamorous yet contemporary style, Jenami Designs collaborates with clients to make their homes exceptional. Find out the Lincoln Park Residence project here. Designed for Real Life photo credit Heather Talbert Jenami Designs is committed to creating environments that are as functional as they are beautiful. Jennifer works closely with each client to understand their lifestyle, routines, and priorities—ensuring that her designs not only look good but also feel good to live in. From family-friendly living rooms to serene primary bedrooms to thoughtful home offices, her work adapts to each client’s needs without compromising on style. She’s particularly skilled at incorporating both vintage treasures and modern conveniences, so homes feel soulful yet up-to-date. Jennifer’s approach is both intuitive and strategic. With a background in art and design, she has a keen eye for proportion, color, and flow—skills that allow her to edit thoughtfully and guide her clients with clarity and confidence. Transform Your Home with Jenami Designs photo credit Heather Talbert Working throughout Chicago and beyond, Jenami Designs brings a high-touch, collaborative experience to residential interior design. Whether you’re renovating, building from the ground up, or simply looking to refresh a space, Jennifer and her team offer creative solutions rooted in who you are and how you live. Her goal is never to impose a style, but to help each client uncover and express their own. With a focus on timeless materials, meaningful pieces, and well-balanced design, Jenami Designs helps create homes that feel beautifully lived in from the very beginning. Explore Jenami’s portfolio and connect today to begin creating a space that feels completely, confidently yours.
Diverse Styles + Connected Comforts: Get to Know Samantha Rose Designs
Samantha Rose Designs believes that the effort and care we put into ourselves should be reflected in our living environments. With their extensive experience in designing a variety of spaces and styles, they love exploring the interplay between warm and cool tones, while incorporating natural and organic elements. Creating Diverse Spaces and Styles Founder and Principal Samantha Marsh believes that no space or project is too big or too small to make a positive impact on daily life. She has a passion for exploring the dynamic balance between cool and warm tones, seamlessly integrating natural and organic elements. Sustainable Design Practices Samantha completed her Interior Design education at Western Michigan University and is a certified LEED Green Associate. Creating with Care Love and care are built into all of the work Samantha Rose Designs takes on. Committed to this philosophy, Samantha and her team are dedicated to designing stunning spaces that foster a sense of connection and comfort. Style Your Home with Samantha Rose Designs Samantha collaborates with residential and commercial clients across the United States. Explore her portfolio and get in touch with Samantha Rose Designs today.
Meet Sarah Schwuchow of Sarah Jacquelyn Interiors: Designing Layered, Livable Spaces with Heart
Sarah Jacquelyn Interiors – Chicago, IL Photo credit: Dustin Halleck (@dustinforest) At the heart of every great space is a great story – and Sarah Schwuchow, founder and principal designer of Sarah Jacquelyn Interiors, is a master storyteller. Through her layered, vibrant, and deeply personal interiors, she helps clients bring their unique visions to life while ensuring that beauty and function go hand in hand. Based in Chicago, Sarah’s full-service interior design studio has become a sought-after name for those who crave stylish yet soulfully curated homes. Thoughtfully Designed, Artfully Lived In Photo credit: Dustin Halleck (@dustinforest) Sarah Jacquelyn Interiors has earned a reputation for creating timeless spaces that reflect each client’s individuality. Whether it’s a cozy city condo or a spacious family home, Sarah approaches every project with a refined eye, a love for natural textures, and a knack for mixing eclectic accents with a contemporary foundation. What sets Sarah apart is her ability to strike the perfect balance – between color and calm, boldness and softness, form and function. The result? Spaces that not only look incredible but also feel unmistakably like home. A Full-Service Studio with a Personalized Touch Photo credit: Dustin Halleck (@dustinforest) Sarah’s design process is as thoughtful as her spaces. She guides clients from concept to completion, offering a wide range of services tailored to their aesthetic and lifestyle needs: Contemporary Meets Eclectic: Each space is uniquely composed, often featuring one-of-a-kind pieces, unexpected patterns, and curated collections that reflect the client’s personality. Layered and Functional Design: From textiles to finishes, Sarah thoughtfully layers each room to create visual interest and everyday comfort. Colorful Joy: Sarah is known for her confident use of color – whether through vibrant walls, standout upholstery, or joyful accents that brighten the space and the spirit. Client-Centered Collaboration: Every design journey is rooted in collaboration, ensuring the final result feels just right for the people living in it. About Sarah Schwuchow As the creative force behind Sarah Jacquelyn Interiors, Sarah brings creativity, clarity, and care to each project. Her ability to listen deeply and design with intention has led to strong, lasting relationships with her clients – many of whom return again and again as their lives (and homes) evolve. Connect with Sarah Jacquelyn Interiors If you’re ready to transform your space into something special, Sarah Jacquelyn Interiors is here to guide the way. Explore Sarah’s beautiful portfolio and learn more about her full-service offerings at sarahjacquelyninteriors.com. You can also follow her design journey on Instagram @sarahjacquelyninteriors for daily inspiration, behind-the-scenes moments, and a closer look at her signature style.
Floor and Wall Trends in 2025: The Surfaces That Shape Your Space
Whether you’re living in a historic walk-up or a modern condo, 2025’s interior design trends bring a perfect mix of timeless elegance and contemporary flair. From bold flooring statements to richly textured walls, Chicago homeowners are embracing materials that do more—more warmth, more texture, and more personality. Ready to transform your space? Here’s what’s trending in floor and wall coverings along Lincoln Avenue and beyond. Photo credit: Brock Lane Mettz, photographer: Jill Tiong, and Stylist: Natalie Fitz Floor coverings and wall finishes are far more than just final touches—they’re key design elements that influence the atmosphere and functionality of a home. So, what’s trending when it comes to dressing up your floors and walls? From rich wood tones to oversized tiles and sustainable textures, today’s surfaces offer beauty, practicality, and personality. Whether you're renovating a single room or reimagining your entire space, choosing the right materials is crucial. After all, every room has its own needs, and the perfect surface strikes a balance between form and function. Let’s take a look at the standout trends currently shaping homes, from bathroom tiles to bedroom carpets and beyond. 1. The Rise of Large Format Tiles and Stone Surfaces Oversized tiles are making bold statement in 2025, redefining how homeowners think about flooring and wall finishes. These large-format designs create a sense of spaciousness and seamless flow, especially in open-concept homes where continuity is key. One standout example is Cal Borgini, a marble-look porcelain tile that brings high-end elegance to any room. With its luxurious veining and polished finish, it works beautifully on both floors and walls, instantly elevating kitchens, bathrooms, and entryways. Beyond stone-look styles, there’s a growing appreciation for large-format parquet tiles. These combine the classic warmth of wood with the practicality of modern tile—durable, easy to maintain, and perfect for high-traffic areas. The larger scale minimizes grout lines, creating a more cohesive and visually expansive effect. Whether you’re going for sleek minimalism or understated luxury, oversized tiles offer a sophisticated canvas that enhances the overall design of your space. In Lincoln Avenue’s trend-forward homes, they’re quickly becoming a go-to choice for a polished, contemporary look. 2. Chevron Patterns Add Movement and Character Chevron patterns are trending for their dynamic design and vintage-inspired appeal. They bring a sense of movement to floors and walls alike. Brands like Home Carpet One are elevating this trend with collections like Cosmo Chevron, which combine bold design with elegant tones. Whether used in hardwood, tile, or woven carpet, chevron designs create a layered, tailored aesthetic that elevates interiors with subtle drama and enduring charm. 3. Luxurious, Eco-Friendly Carpets Make a Comeback Carpet is enjoying a well-deserved resurgence, thanks to sustainable manufacturing and rich, tactile finishes. Think natural wool blends in soothing earth tones and cozy textures that resemble handwoven Berber rugs. These eco-conscious carpets offer warmth and comfort in any space—from bedrooms and living rooms to home offices. A standout in this trend is Chatham Weave or Sikri Tapestry, a playful wool carpet featuring a chic abstract print. It’s hypoallergenic, sustainably made, and ideal for runners, kids' rooms, or anywhere that calls for a touch of softness and fun. 4. Earthy Paint Palettes Set a Calming Mood While Pantone’s Mocha Mousse stirs up a blend of rich softness, many homeowners are embracing grounded, earthy hues across their interiors. Think warm taupes, soft terracottas, and creamy browns—colors that evoke comfort, indulgence, and understated luxury. These shades create a welcoming backdrop, pairing beautifully with natural materials like stone, wood, and woven textiles. 5. Natural Stone with a Warm Twist Natural stone remains a go-to choice for floors and walls, but today’s styles lean warmer and more colorful. Yellows, reds, and even hints of green and blue are adding personality to kitchens, bathrooms, and feature walls. It’s a shift from the cold greys of the past to something richer—perfect for those seeking a unique, modern look with organic charm. 6. Wood Wall Coverings Bring Texture and Warmth While paint and wallpaper remain staples, wood wall coverings are carving out a niche for those who want something different. They’re easy to install, bring immediate warmth, and add architectural interest to any space. Take Deco, for example: a dimensional, wood-look tile that offers the elegance of fine marquetry. In a living room or commercial space, it adds depth and sophistication with its refined geometric design. Whether applied to a full wall or used selectively as a decorative panel, Deco introduces architectural interest and a layered aesthetic. It pairs beautifully with other natural materials like stone, linen, and metal, and fits seamlessly into a variety of design styles, from contemporary to classic. With wood wall coverings, your walls do more than just divide space—they express it. 7. Hand-made ceramic tile In a world increasingly filled with machine-made uniformity, handmade ceramic tiles offer something rare: character, individuality, and soul. These artisanal pieces bring depth and texture to interiors, celebrating the beauty of imperfection and the legacy of traditional craftsmanship. Meet Le Lacche—a handmade ceramic tile that brings artisanal charm and timeless elegance to any space. With its subtle glaze and gentle undulations, each tile in the Le Lacche collection tells a story, reflecting the human touch behind its creation. No two pieces are exactly alike, which is precisely what makes them so special. Ideal for use as an accent wall tile, kitchen backsplash, or bathroom wall covering, Le Lacche blends functionality with aesthetic appeal. Its slightly irregular surface catches light in unique ways, creating a play of shadow and sheen that gives depth to otherwise simple walls. The tile’s refined yet organic finish works beautifully in both residential and commercial spaces, whether you're creating a serene spa-like bathroom, a statement kitchen, or an elegant restaurant interior. Available in a carefully curated palette of rich, natural tones, Le Lacche complements both minimalist and maximalist designs. Whether paired with raw wood, polished marble, or matte metals, it adds a touch of warmth and old-world sophistication that elevates any project. In short, handmade ceramic tiles like Le Lacche aren’t just surfaces—they’re experiences. They invite you to slow down, appreciate craftsmanship, and make space for beauty in the everyday. In Summary From playful wool carpets and dramatic chevron floors to warm stone walls and earthy color palettes, surface trends are all about character, comfort, and authenticity. As design continues to embrace nature, texture, and sustainability, your walls and floors can do more than just complete a space—they can define it. Visit Our Showroom!
Discovering JP Interiors: Crafting Timeless Spaces with a Modern Touch
Discovering JP Interiors: Crafting Timeless Spaces with a Modern Touch Not pictured: Blaine Johnson Since 1991, JP Interiors has been at the forefront of interior design in Chicago, blending classic elegance with contemporary flair to create spaces that are both beautiful and functional. Founded by longtime friends Blaine Johnson and Karen Pearson, the firm has evolved from a shared passion for antiques and design into a full-service studio renowned for its meticulous attention to detail and personalized approach. A Legacy of Design Excellence JP Interiors has had the privilege of working on some of the most stunning homes across Chicago and beyond. Their portfolio showcases a diverse range of projects, from the refined elegance of the Lincoln Park Residence to the serene coastal charm of the Nantucket Coastal home. Each project reflects the firm's commitment to creating spaces that resonate with the client's lifestyle and the architectural context of the home. Comprehensive Design Services The firm offers a wide array of services tailored to meet the unique needs of each client: Renovation & New Construction: Transforming existing spaces or building anew, JP Interiors ensures every detail aligns with the client's vision. Interior Decoration: From furniture selection to color consulting, they curate elements that enhance the home's aesthetic. Custom Design Elements: Collaborating with skilled craftspeople, they offer bespoke millwork, cabinetry, and upholstery services. Their design philosophy emphasizes a harmonious blend of classic and modern elements, creating spaces that are both timeless and livable. Meet the Team Karen Pearson: Co-founder and Principal, Karen brings a discerning eye and a deep appreciation for design history to every project. Blaine Johnson: As Co-founder and Principal, Blaine's expertise in project management ensures seamless execution from concept to completion. Haley Pearson: Joining the team in 2017, Haley has quickly made her mark with several full renovations and new construction projects, bringing fresh perspectives to the firm's design approach. Connect with JP Interiors Whether you're embarking on a renovation, building a new home, or seeking to refresh your space, JP Interiors offers the expertise and dedication to bring your vision to life. Explore their portfolio and learn more about their services at jpinteriorschicago.com. For inquiries, you can reach them at info@jpinteriorschicago.com or follow their design journey on Instagram @JPInteriorsChi.
Creating A Color Palette For Your Home
When talking to potential clients I often hear, 'I want the colors in my house to flow' or 'I want my rooms to coordinate with each other'. However, it’s said the meaning is the same – you want the rooms and colors in your home to look good together, right? You want to create a color palette for your home. Luckily this isn’t as difficult as it might seem. Here are three tips to create a color palette for your home: Use Carpet Colored Palettes For Inspiration. Find a piece of art, a rug, pillow or a soap container that has colors you love. Use that as your initial guide for how you will create a color palette for your home. I designed my then 2-year old daughter’s room around a patterned piece of paper in a decorative soap box. I also designed her striped nursery wall around the logo of a bicycle company. Inspiration can come from anywhere, you just have to be on the look out. This gorgeous fabric was the inspiration for a family room project, design by April Force Pardoe Interiors. NEUTRALIZE Select a neutral color for your palette. Think tan, grey or white. This color will be your go-to neutral for all rooms. To keep things from getting boring you can use lighter or darker versions (value) of that neutral and suddenly you have neutrals. SHOW YOUR PERSONALITY Select two to three colors from your inspiration and use those colors to add variation to your palette. Let’s say you select orange and green. You would then use those colors and values of those colors throughout your rooms. The ratio of neutral to color will determine the feel of the spaces (more neutrals = calm and more colors = energetic). Blue is the personality color in this family room with a neutral base, design by April Force Pardoe Interiors. If you love having a neutral-only palette for your home, don’t feel like you need to add additional colors. Use a variety of textures within your neutral tones to add visual interest. Or, if one “personality” color is enough for you (versus 2 – 3) go ahead and do that! This is a palette for your home, so go with what you love. A variety of blues against an otherwise neutral palette can be a lovely palette. Once you create a color palette for your home, use it as a guide when you add new pieces to your home. This doesn’t mean you can’t add additional colors into your home, but think of this palette as your main palette or guide. Keep small color sheets of your colors in an envelope in your purse so when you are out shopping you know what colors to look for (and what colors to avoid!). For example, you can opt for a warm dark color palette, or a brown and gold color palette. The bonus of using one palette throughout several rooms or an entire home is that you can easily swap accessories and furnishings from room to room and everything will coordinate beautifully! April Force Pardoe is an independent interior designer and owner of April Force Pardoe Interiors, a residential interior design company in Howard County, Maryland.