From innovative bathroom remodels to exquisite custom cabinetry, our team knows how important it is to stay up-to-date with the latest design trends. Getting inspired by cutting-edge ideas and inspirations is key to delivering exceptional results in our work. This is exactly why we took our Client Connection and Design teams to visit one of the biggest and most well-known design conferences in the Midwest region. Now, we want to share the details of what we experienced and learned during this inspiring journey. Read on!
Here’s what we took away from this trip
Design Chicago, held at The Mart on September 25th and 26th, is renowned as the Midwest’s largest residential design conference. This prestigious event brings together leading interior designers, architects, and manufacturers to present the latest innovations in the industry. We attended courses on both Wednesday and Thursday and got to tour some awesome showrooms like Dacor Kitchen Theater and Brizo Chicago Suite.
Here are recaps of some of our team’s favorite sessions:
1. Coffee with Corey: The Future of Interior Design, Business, and Licensing
One of our favorite presentations was an engaging Q&A session with acclaimed interior designer Corey Damen Jenkins and Kim Scodro, principal of Kim Scodro Interiors, held at the Century | Hickory Chair showroom. Jenkins and Scodro delved into the complexities of furniture design and shared visionary perspectives on the future of the industry. They discussed how the use of patterns, textures, and colors can create spaces rich in detail and personality. The session ended with a book signing.
2. Origin Story: Lessons Learned When Launching One’s Own Firm
In this insightful panel discussion, Shannon Sharpe, Homes Editor of Luxe Interiors + Design, sat down with renowned designers Christopher Peacock, Bruce Fox, Brynn Olson, Karen Pearson, and Amanda Lantz. Hosted by Christopher Peacock, the conversation centered around their career evolutions and those defining moments that shaped their journeys in establishing their own firms. They shared valuable insights into the challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship in the design industry and offered inspiration for those who wish to forge their own paths.
3. Art of the Final Touch
This intriguing session at the Brizo Chicago Suite featured ELLE DECOR‘s Interiors Director Bebe Howorth in conversation with designers Jean Liu, Mike Moser, and Claire Staszak. The discussion explored how fashion fundamentally influences home design and the art of integrating details to achieve those recognizable, quietly luxurious, timeless interior designs. The designers talked about the role of intentionality and attention to the smallest details in creating refined environments that radiate sophistication.
4. Defining Luxury: The Meaning of ‘Luxury’ in Interior Design and Your Firm’s Practice
In this eye-opening panel, industry leaders Bruce Fox, Donna Mondi, Jennie Bishop, Kristen Ekeland, and Zach Hayes explored the multifaceted concept of luxury in interior design and how it applies to design practices. They discussed how luxury is understood, realized, and preserved across different settings, from residential to commercial projects. The panelists shared unique perspectives on the definition of luxury, evolving client expectations, and integrating these principles to create exceptional designs.
Our journey beyond the conference
Outside of conference events, our team also got to experience the vibrant culture of Chicago. We did some sightseeing at The Bean, savored the famous deep-dish pizza at Giordano’s, strolled along the river, and visited the Chicago Museum of Contemporary Art. Dining experiences at Hampton Social and Maestro’s Steakhouse added delightful flavors to the trip.
The Design and Client Connection teams are feeling refreshed, inspired, and so excited to bring everything we learned back to our clients and colleagues.
Looking for experts to help with your home improvement project in OKC?
At Ten Key Remodels, our team is now more inspired than ever to bring cutting-edge trends and design solutions to your home. Looking for experienced designers to help you refresh your living areas? Searching for perfect made-to-order cabinets to experience the full benefits of custom cabinetry? Maybe you need a reliable contractor for a high-end bathroom transformation or even a new room addition? We can help you with all of this and much more!
As a trusted company for custom cabinets, kitchen, bathroom, full-home remodels, design projects of all sizes and scopes, and a range of other solutions, we’re ready to bring any vision you have to life. With a qualified, experienced team dedicated to providing adaptable, innovative solutions, we proudly serve the Oklahoma City metro area and beyond.
From a wide range of services to flexible financing options, we can make sure that your project is handled with great care. Get in touch today for a free quote and initial consultation!