26_0119_DMAC Vol 5 by DMAC Architecture & Interiors

Our Story

This is more than a book—it’s a celebration of thirty years of ideas imagined, designed, built, and lived� It’s a reflection on the spaces we’ve created and the emotions they continue to evoke� Because at DMAC, design isn’t just what you see—it’s what you feel�

Founded in Chicago by Dwayne MacEwen, DMAC was born from a vision: to craft spaces with meaning, and has since grown into a multidisciplinary studio where architecture and interiors are conceived as one—each informing, elevating, and challenging the other�

We believe that when disciplines converge, the result is more than the sum of its parts� It’s a design language that carries through every element, creating spaces that feel intuitive, cohesive, and unforgettable� Our most recognized work reflects this integrated approach, where every detail speaks to a greater whole�

We’ve never been interested in trends or formulas� Our portfolio spans the country and beyond from golf resorts, lifestyle clubs, luxury hotels, airport lounges, wellness centers, restaurants, casinos, and spas to furnishings, fixtures and custom objects� But categories have never defined us� What unites our work is a deeper intention: a commitment to designing experiences that inspire, endure and resonate long after you’ve walked out the door�

We design with curiosity, clarity, and conviction� We listen closely, collaborate openly, and challenge the expected in pursuit of something memorable and meaningful�

Thirty years in, we’re thinking deeper/bolder, designing louder, and creating with purpose and edge�

Here’s to the next chapter�

AMERICAN AIRLINES ADMIRALS CLUBS

• American Airlines Premium Lounge Brand Standard

• Admirals Club DCA, Washington National Airport, Washington, D.C.

• Admirals Club DEN, Denver International Airport, Denver, CO

In developing American Airlines’ new brand standard for their premium lounges, we introduced the “Pavilion in the Park” concept—a narrative-driven design that offers a reprieve from the airport noise and connects guests to the world-class brand through a wellness and hospitality-driven guest experience� The concept was piloted at two locations: Washington National (DCA) and Denver (DEN)� DCA was the first to open and has since earned multiple design and industry awards� DEN recently achieved LEED Gold certification�

The new 14,500-square-foot Admirals Club at DCA draws inspiration from the journey itself—the landscapes we fly over and the unexpected moments along the way� Within, warm woods, custom features nodding to place, and curated seating provide a sense of comfortable luxury� Lighting further aligns with the astronomical clock to help guests adjust to time zone shifts�

The journey begins at the concourse, where branded cues and glimpses of the lounge lead travelers to the club entrance� A sculpted stone alcove with a red stripe marks the transition from terminal to club, while a softly backlit AA wing carved from stone echoes D�C�’s iconic monuments and museums�

The DCA club is anchored by two main spaces: the Lounge Pavilion and the Dining Pavilion� Each has its own identity but shares a cohesive palette of materials, furnishings, and design elements� The Lounge Pavilion features tall wood slats, a central fireplace, and smaller lounges for quiet or shorter stays� The Dining Pavilion, defined by vertical white tubes and a wood lattice canopy, feels open and welcoming� Every detail is designed to adapt to guests’ needs, preferences, and comfort, delivering a personalized experience�

INSPIRED OBJECTS

Jet EngineBar Detail

The bar counter surface draws inspiration from the aerodynamic form of jet engines, with its ends curving gracefully downward in a 90-degree turn� The edge profile is proportional to a quarter of a jet engine’s radius, creating a dynamic visual effect� As the counter sweeps downward, the material transitions from warm wood to a bronze finish, marking the curve with a subtle yet striking detail, inviting discovery and adding a touch of elegance�

INSPIRED OBJECTS :

Fresnel Lens Light Pendants

Pendant lights in the Dining Pavilion feature globe shades inspired by the Fresnel lamps that illuminate airport runways, essential for navigation safety� Like the Fresnel lens, each of the twelve globes is crafted with subtle, shallow angles, enhancing brightness and creating a warm, inviting ambiance throughout the space�

INSPIRED SPACES : Dining Booth Art

To add depth and texture, the backdrop to the dining booths evokes a dreamlike sequence of national monuments

A custom wallcovering features etched views of these iconic structures, enhancing the sense of place In front of the wallcovering, a custom metal screen die-cut with the American Airlines wing logo connects the design to the brand identity Together, these layered elements create a rich, dimensional effect, blending storytelling with visual interest

INSPIRED OBJECTS :

Moonlight Ceiling

A defining feature of the In-Between Lounge—a transition space designed for brief, tranquil stays—is a recessed ceiling with custom panels perforated by delicate, narrow slits Backlit, these tiny sparkles create a pattern that mimics moonlight shimmering on water, infusing the space with a calming, serene atmosphere This subtle, luminous biophilia acts as a visual marker, distinguishing this space from other areas in the club and aiding in intuitive wayfinding

INSPIRED OBJECTS :

AA Logo Side Table

Custom side tables are inspired by the AA wing logo Made of steel with a circular base and table top, the vertical flange is offset from the centerline similar to where the diagonal points of the wing would intersect an imaginary circle

INSPIRED OBJECTS:

Martin Luther King Jr. Side Table

Inspired by the Martin Luther King Jr Monument, a custom pair of side tables complement lounge chairs positioned at the entry to the Lounge Pavilion, aligned with a central hearth Each table is hand-chiseled from a solid block of cast concrete, its textured surface reflecting the stonework of the monument itself The concrete block is encased in a dark, rolled-steel frame with concealed connectors, achieving an understated elegance that blends strength with refinement

INSPIRED OBJECTS :

Column Cover Details

Columns are clad in wood and shifted at 5 feet to create a horizon line from anywhere in the Club� Soft light illuminates the shift line where a combination of up and down light supports guest wayfinding� An embedded red stripe placed on the North corner of the column adds further orientation and reference to navigation�

INSPIRED OBJECTS :

Runway Floor Lamp

Inspired by the onboard view just before touchdown, when the illuminated landing strip comes into sight, this floor lamp adds an elegant touch to the Lounge Pavilion� Its oil-rubbed bronze base angles upward, evoking the descending perspective of a plane approaching the runway, while a linen shade provides a warm, residential feel� Positioned between seating groups along the window wall overlooking the apron, these lamps create a cohesive, inviting atmosphere that connects the lounge’s interior to the airfield beyond�

INSPIRED OBJECTS :

Word Dome Light Fixtures

The light domes in the Quiet Lounge draw inspiration from the iconic Capitol dome, serving as symbols of reflection and reverence Excerpts from historic speeches delivered at The Mall were selected, cut from metal, and crafted into three sculptural cones As light passes through the cut-out phrases, their shadows are cast onto the ceiling, inviting a sense of quiet contemplation and evoking the feeling that “if these walls could talk,” they would tell stories of the past

INSPIRED SPACES : Infinite Book Shelves

Recognizing the high-profile guests frequently passing through DCA Airport, a private lounge was thoughtfully designed for VIPs Drawing inspiration from the Library of Congress—a timeless symbol of America’s historical and cultural legacy— an “infinite wall” of books serves as the focal point of the lounge’s alcove To honor literature across time, the covers have been removed from each book, representing volumes past, present, and future The exposed spines offer a unique, personal touch, allowing dignitaries to leave their signatures, transforming the wall into a living archive that evolves with every distinguished visitor

INSPIRED OBJECTS :

Cherry

Blossom Infinity Walls

Two infinity landscapes of cherry blossoms add to placemaking, inspired by the beautiful springtime in the city Strands of custom hand crafted pink blossoms are hung in a sequence inspired by sheet music of The Star Spangled Banner

INSPIRED OBJECTS :

Reception Art Screen

A custom, floor-to-ceiling double-sided art screen greets guests upon arrival in the Club’s reception lobby Crafted from wood slats inlaid with laser-cut mirrored shapes, the screen presents a dynamic visual: one side displays the American Airlines logo, while the reverse features an image of the American flag Visible from the terminal, the flag side aids in wayfinding and invites guests to begin their brand experience even before entering the lounge This striking installation seamlessly blends artistry with functionality, setting the tone for the space

THE CONCOURS CLUB

Miami, FL

Located adjacent to the Miami-Opa Locka Executive Airport and just 15 miles from downtown Miami, The Concours Club redefines motorsport luxury This 80-acre campus, masterplanned and designed by DMAC, blends precision engineering with elevated hospitality to create a world-class racing and lifestyle destination

Anchoring the campus is a 2-mile circuit, complemented by a series of architecturally refined facilities These include a 30,000-square-foot, clean-room-quality maintenance building, 48 private garages with integrated loft spaces for entertaining, an outdoor comfort station with a 420-foot solar shade structure, and a sophisticated clubhouse offering 5-star dining and event spaces

The architecture draws inspiration from motor sport, focusing on precision, materiality, and experiential design Setting the stage, the members-only entrance is a sensory journey: the street pavement turns to cobblestone, palm trees frame the driveway, an ultra modern guardhouse of wood and stone welcomes guests, and custom light bollards are spaced to evoke speed and guide visitors to the main gate From a fuel station that becomes a moment where your car never looked so good to the bespoke sculpture capturing the sound of the track, every element embodies the passion and elegance of high-performance design

INSPIRED OBJECTS :

Eleven Turns Sculpture

The creation of Eleven Turns was driven by a singular question: What does the sound of the track look like? Inspired by 65 site visits in one year to The Concours Club, we became deeply attuned to the circuit’s rhythm, able to identify a car’s location by sound alone Hearing founding member Hélio Castroneves drive the circuit was especially transformative—his precision and calm mastery turned speed into elegant choreography Using sound recordings of Castroneves’ laps, we sought to translate the auditory experience into physical form

Sketching with eyes closed while listening to the recordings, the circuit’s eleven turns were translated into abstract shapes These initial sketches informed the creation of a wire model, shaped into a continuous loop to represent the uninterrupted flow of motion The model was 3D scanned and digitally refined, ensuring the geometry mirrored the precision and energy of the driving experience

The final sculpture, composed of 211 feet of custom powdercoated pipe, twists and winds through space Precision-welded and suspended by tension cables, it captures the energy and control of the driver-machine relationship, embodying the pursuit of the perfect lap Eleven Turns transforms the intangible sound of speed into a tangible, dynamic form

INSPIRED OBJECTS : Spoked Ceiling Feature

Inspired by the spoked rims of racing cars, the Clubhouse’s private dining room is defined by a striking custom ceiling sculpture composed of wooden strips arranged in a dynamic radial pattern Carefully angled and spaced, the strips evoke a sense of motion and speed—most powerfully experienced from below while dining—creating an immersive focal point that blends precision engineering with sculptural elegance

INSPIRED OBJECTS : Light Bollards

The arrival sequence sets the tone for the high-performance racing resort, delivering a memorable first impression rooted in motion, precision, and anticipation Custom-designed light bollards flank both sides of the drive, with spacing that subtly increases to create a sense of acceleration Horizontal bands of light skim the pavement, mirroring the speed and energy of racing, while concealed uplights on the reverse side illuminate the palm canopy overhead This layered composition of light, rhythm, and landscape builds momentum toward the entry gates, offering guests a curated and immersive introduction to the world of performance-driven luxury

THE VILLAGE SUPPER CLUB

Delavan, WI

The Village Supper Club, a beloved Wisconsin institution for over 55 years, was saved from demolition by a local couple dedicated to preserving its legacy Nestled along Lake Delavan, the 8,400-square-foot renovation breathes new life into the supper club tradition, offering a space that feels both familiar and timeless

The expansion and redesign pay homage to Wisconsin’s supper club culture, blending elegance and warmth to welcome guests in anything from suits to shorts The exterior, featuring a sophisticated mix of vernacular stone and wood, is anchored by a vertical, asymmetrical hearth inspired by Wisconsin-born Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin Inside, the amphitheater-like dining room guarantees a perfect view for every guest Visitors pass through a low-slung entryway into an expansive dining space where the ground falls away, revealing a breathtaking lake view through a 26-foot wall of glass

The interior design merges comfort and luxury, using warm wood finishes, weathered fieldstone, tufted green upholstery, woodland-inspired blue wallcoverings, and modern chandeliers A custom metal-mesh oval shelf above the bar creates a shimmering focal point, while salvaged elements from the original building add layers of emotional depth Even the restrooms bring a touch of whimsy, with playful wallpapers and black-and-white mosaic tiles

Outside, a wraparound deck and event patio offer lakeside dining and entertainment, complete with fire pits and another monumental stone hearth This lakeside “front door” creates an inviting space for boaters and guests to gather, dine, and enjoy live entertainment The Village Supper Club’s revitalization is a tribute to its rich history, ensuring it remains a cherished destination for generations to come

PRIVATE LAKE HOUSE

Union Pier, MI

This 6,000-sf, 5-bedroom residence was designed as a serene retreat, offering modern comfort and space for multigenerational gatherings Nestled on a dune overlooking Lake Michigan, the home’s west-facing façade captures breathtaking views of the beach, rippling water, and stunning sunsets The design masterfully balances privacy and immersion in nature, blurring the lines between indoors and out

Approaching from the east, a freestanding wood-slat screen forms an intimate courtyard leading to the entrance Through the slats, glimpses of the lake hint at the stunning views beyond A textured brick wall, framing the courtyard, adds a dynamic element as snow collects on its ledges during winter This brick feature continues into the foyer, creating a seamless connection between the outdoor and indoor spaces The panoramic lake views draw you through the great room and onto the tiered patio, perfect for enjoying the natural surroundings

Upstairs, the second-floor landing doubles as a gallery for the owner’s photo art collection, illuminated by clerestory windows for soft, indirect light This space also serves as a hallway connecting the bedrooms and master suite On the third floor, known as “the treehouse” for its views of a towering cottonwood, a family room with floor-to-ceiling windows opens to a rooftop terrace, adding extra space for entertaining

The property’s west side, covered in native dune grasses, includes a meandering footpath leading to the beach At the water’s edge, a repurposed shipping container serves as a beach box, clad in ash to match the house, with large triangular eaves forming a shaded porch

DOC B’S RESTAURANT

Indianapolis, IN

This upscale casual restaurant design echoes the microchain’s commitment to excellence Drawing inspiration from local culture, the design fosters community while offering yearround outdoor dining that embraces the city’s resilient spirit

A seamless indoor-outdoor connection is central to the design A glass wall floods the interior with natural light and ensures transparency, while a black metal-frame canopy shelters the patio Adaptive elements like brand-yellow shades, retractable screens, hedges, low wood fencing, and a glass fire pit create warmth and texture while maintaining open sightlines

Inside, warm neutrals, layered lighting, and bold accents create relaxed sophistication A Venetian plaster alcove offers intimate dining, while dark upholstery contrasts with oak tabletops Brand-red bar stools energize the black granite bar, and a dramatic 36-foot kitchen window connects diners to the culinary experience

Situated in a mall, the restaurant features two entrances: a wood screen and biophilic wall from the retail corridor, and patio lighting with a glass fire pit from the parking lot Oversized signage echoes classic Midwest billboards, reinforcing its local roots

DMAC launched the Doc B’s concept in 2015 and has since expanded its distinctive design and brand identity to markets nationwide, including:

• Chicago, IL (Walton Street)

• Chicago, IL (Grand Street)

• Austin, TX

• Cary, NC

• Clearfork, TX

• Coral Gables, FL Dallas, TX

• Ft Lauderdale, FL

• Tampa, FL

HATCH DISPENSARY

HATCH DISPENSARY WHEELING

Wheeling, IL

Hatch is an immersive wellness-focused retail experience, designed for both seasoned and canna-curious customers Transforming a 5,800-square-foot former restaurant, the hospitality-driven design blends natural materials, upscale furnishings, and custom details to create a warm, inviting atmosphere A flex lounge supports community events, education, and staff training

Navigating strict dispensary security regulations, the design turns challenges into opportunities A controlled entry opens into a light-filled space, where full-height windows with custom translucent film in branded green hues filter daylight while ensuring privacy

Efficiency drives the layout, minimizing staff steps and optimizing customer flow for seamless quick-pickup, fast checkout, and full-store visibility Curated displays, biophilic elements, and intuitive wayfinding further elevate the experience, redefining the dispensary as a welcoming, stigmafree destination that merges hospitality and wellness

GRADUATE HOTEL EVANSTON

GRADUATE HOTEL

Evanston, IL

Steps from Northwestern University and the shores of Lake Michigan, the Graduate Evanston radiates timeless charm, deeply rooted in the college town’s vibrant culture The renovation of this 119-key hotel—formerly The Homestead— masterfully blends vintage character with contemporary comfort

Built in 1927 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the building presented a rare opportunity to honor its heritage while reimagining its interior While the historic façade remained untouched, the interior received transformative updates Circulation flows were streamlined, accessibility enhanced, and functionality redefined across the ground floor, guestrooms, and corridors

DMAC introduced intentional, visually compelling solutions to modernize HVAC, plumbing, fire protection, lighting, and electrical systems Former apartment kitchens became spacious guestrooms, while other spaces were upgraded to meet ADA standards Every detail was approached with respect for the building’s storied past, balancing its grandeur with the thoughtful warmth Graduate Hotels are known for

GRADUATE

HOTEL

BETRIVERS | PPG PAINTS ARENA

Pittsburgh, PA

In 2018, DMAC redefined the sportsbook experience with an innovative BetRivers lounge concept, seamlessly blending live action, perfect sightlines, and upscale hospitality into a dynamic, high-energy space Building on its success, we pushed the boundaries of sports betting and venue design, partnering with Rivers Casino, Rush Street Gaming, the Pittsburgh Penguins, and PPG Paints Arena to create a groundbreaking 5,000-square-foot BetRivers Sportsbook Lounge As one of the first in-arena sportsbook lounges, it revolutionizes the fan experience with premium 100-level club seating, merging the thrill of live sports with real-time betting in an electrifying, immersive setting

Accessible from the mezzanine pedway, the lounge makes a bold statement with a metal-mesh canopy supported by heavy columns, showcasing BetRivers’ signature branding Inside, a spacious bar, framed by a deep soffit, offers highdefinition TVs broadcasting a variety of games Clad in black finger tile and warm wood finishes, the full-service island bar complements high-top tables and a drink counter with unobstructed views of both the rink and screens

A few steps from the bar is a tiered VIP section with custom leather club seats equipped with personal drink tables and charging stations An illuminated knee wall encircles the seating, adding a dynamic visual element visible throughout the arena This lounge is the ultimate fusion of sports and entertainment, where fans can engage with live action both on the ice and from within the lounge

BETRIVERS CASINO LOUNGES

Multiple Locations

• Chicago, IL

• Philadelphia, PA

• Pittsburgh, PA

• Portsmouth, VA

• Schenectady, NY

Since 2009, DMAC has designed food & beverage venues, entertainment spaces, and gaming floors for Rivers Casino— beginning with the LEED Gold-certified flagship in Chicago and most recently the Green Globe-certified location in Portsmouth, Virginia� In 2018, as sports betting was gaining popularity, DMAC explored the brick-and-mortar sportsbook experience with an innovative concept for the BetRivers lounge brand� Centered on hospitality, the design focused on perfect sightlines, 360-degree views, acoustic performance, and upscale comfort for an immersive, high-energy environment�

The BetRivers concept was tested, refined, and successfully rolled out across multiple locations, proving its adaptability and appeal� At the same time, DMAC extended the concept beyond casinos and into sports arenas� As strategic partnerships formed with the NHL’s Pittsburgh Penguins and Philadelphia Flyers, the BetRivers lounges were reimagined at PPG Paints Arena and the Wells Fargo Center—bringing heightened energy and engagement to the heart of the live sports experience�

Key to the concept’s success was creating a brand standard flexible enough for site-specific adaptations� Each lounge uses a freestanding architectural framework that establishes a strong presence on the gaming floor or arena while staying open and connected to the surrounding action� The framework is distinguished by metal mesh finishes and a deep transom for large screens� A long, pill-shaped bar sits at the center with access from all sides, while VIP zones feature custom club seating with built-in drink tables and charging stations for added convenience�

From casinos to arenas, BetRivers lounges set a new standard in sportsbook design, seamlessly blending gaming, hospitality, and the energy of live sports into one unforgettable experience�

MIDTOWN ATHLETIC CLUBS

Multiple Locations

• Chicago, IL

• Bannockburn, IL

• Palatine, IL

• Rochester, NY

• Montreal, QC

DMAC is leading the transformation of Midtown Athletic Clubs, location by location, beginning with the rebranding and expansion of its flagship in Chicago Once known as the largest tennis club in the country, the Chicago location was reimagined into the nation’s largest lifestyle club, setting a new standard for health, wellness, and community This bold repositioning redefined Midtown’s identity and launched a design vision that now extends across its national and international portfolio

At each subsequent location, DMAC continues to elevate the Midtown brand by integrating new programming, turning each into a full-service lifestyle destination

Bannockburn, IL: Expanded to 119,000 square feet, this resortinspired club features a skylit atrium lobby, wood finishes, and a spacious lounge Upgraded fitness zones include an indoor turf field, HIIT areas, and an expanded café—all designed to prioritize wellness, natural light, and easy navigation

Palatine, IL: This 46,000-square-foot renovation reflects Midtown’s evolving focus on holistic wellness The design introduces boutique fitness studios, state-of-the-art pickleball courts, and The Library—a hybrid coworking and social lounge A raised café offers views into active spaces, while details like the custom bookcase in the lobby pay homage to Midtown’s tennis roots

Rochester, NY: This 66,000-square-foot renovation was tailored to suit the club’s close-knit community The redesign introduces boutique fitness studios, spa-inspired locker rooms, and an elevated café lounge with a fireplace and custom wood-lattice ceiling, creating a comfortable gathering space that fosters the club’s strong sense of belonging

From flagship to local club, DMAC is reshaping Midtown clubs into vibrant, multifunctional destinations—each one rooted in community and designed to adapt with its membership

MIDTOWN ATHLETIC

Chromium

Chromium is a full-service signature restaurant located within Midtown Athletic Club and Hotel in Chicago The 220-seat venue includes a private dining room, bar, lounge, and an outdoor poolside café With its variety of seating options, Chromium feels like an extension of both home and office—seamlessly complementing the fitness club and hotel experience

Positioned at the heart of the club on the main fitness floor, Chromium connects visually and functionally to the communal lounge known as the “landing pit” and to the expansive outdoor pool deck From the landing pit, guests are welcomed into the restaurant through an entryway defined by a partial wall of green and wood blocks Inside, custom leather seating blends traditional dining and casual lounge areas, paired with solid wood tables for upscale comfort

A wall of glass floods the space with natural light and frames views of the outdoor pool The dining room is anchored by a full-service bar at one end and a refined private dining room at the other, featuring custom wood cabinetry for an added touch of elegance

INSPIRED OBJECTS : Landing PIt Trellis

A 40-foot custom trellis soars above the monumental stair at Midtown Chicago, guiding guests from the reception lobby to the “landing pit,” the club’s central communal hub More than a striking architectural feature, the trellis honors the club’s legacy by incorporating salvaged materials from areas removed during demolition Infill panels, crafted from original oak lockers and a copper fireplace hood, are arranged in a jewel-like pattern and accented with touches of bronze mirror, symbolizing a reflection of the past within the new

The trellis screen spans 40 feet in length and 20 feet in width, assembled from 8-foot modules with bolted connections and installed on-site To support the 5,000-pound structure, an intricate scaffold was constructed and custom hang points were located in the ceiling to suspend it Seventy-three Edison lamps—representing 70 years of Midtown’s legacy across three generations—are threaded through the openings, adding a warm, floating glow that balances the trellis’s scale with a sense of lightness

As other Midtown clubs undergo renovation, each features its own custom version of the trellis in the lobby, continuing the tradition of honoring the club’s history through design

INSPIRED OBJECTS :

Yoga Tree

Initially designed to be a 3-story building, the Midtown Chicago’s program evolved during construction adding two more floors The decision required a change from concrete structure to steel framing with diagonal bracing that would support the taller building As a result, two columns and a diagonal brace were embedded within the Yoga space, forcing architects to come up with a solution to this new challenge How to transform these intrusive structural elements into a meaningful design feature?

A Bodhi or Wisdom Tree in Buddhism represents the place of Buddha’s enlightenment Inspired by the symbolism, the steel columns and bracing were clad in strips of repurposed plywood, dressing the trunk in up to six different wood species to provide layering and texture� Branches naturally grow out into limbs, stems and twigs for a delicate balance in space, blurring the boundaries between art and architecture

The Yoga studio is a mystical place The walls float with indirect lighting above and below, creating an aura of timelessness, and the Bodhi Trees take you to another world With a quiet presence, the trees settle the mind and fade into the space

Due to its popularity as an experiential feature, it became a signature design element in subsequent Midtown renovations

Bannockburn, IL

Palatine, IL

Rochester, NY

CHICAGO RIVERWALK EXPANSION

300 South Riverside Plaza, Chicago, IL

In a post-pandemic era, cities face renewed challenges and opportunities to reshape urban life The proposal envisions Chicago’s West Loop as a hub of connectivity, sustainability, and culture by extending the iconic Riverwalk through 300 South Riverside Plaza and turning its “front door” toward the South Branch of the Chicago River

This innovative design integrates a new emergency egress stairwell for Amtrak’s Union Station redevelopment into a larger plan for urban greenspace By repositioning the stairwell, the proposal transforms underutilized space into a terraced, pedestrian-friendly landing, seamlessly connecting street-level to the riverfront Featuring folded concrete paths, lush green columns, and backlit screens, the design creates a vibrant urban plaza that celebrates Chicago’s architectural and natural beauty

The Riverwalk concept layers public and recreational spaces, offering a pedestrian quay, public docks, and amenities like outdoor dining, pop-ups, and water taxis Its flexible design accommodates cultural events, fitness activities, and community gathering spaces, making it a lively social nexus Blending modern infrastructure with thoughtful placemaking, the design exemplifies sustainable urban innovation, redefining Chicago’s relationship with its river and setting a precedent for cities worldwide to embrace adaptable, human-centric design

RC SUPPLY COMPANY

Rivers Casino, Des Plaines, IL

RC Supply Company, the newest signature restaurant at Rivers Casino, brings an upscale yet casual dining experience with a menu inspired by locally sourced ingredients, curated cocktails, and premium Chicago brews Guests are welcomed from the gaming floor through a metal-mesh screen into a cozy bar lounge with a glowing skylight This lounge serves as a transition to the main dining room, where white pendant globes hang from a wooden canopy, creating an intimate ambiance The dining space is framed by custom art walls made from repurposed kitchen wares, furniture, and fixtures, adding texture and connecting to the brand’s story

Behind the art wall is a private dining room that serves both the restaurant and an adjacent VIP Lounge, featuring velvet curtains, a fireplace, and bands of black and white wall tile Despite a tight budget, the design team transformed the former buffet space into an 8,800 square-foot versatile dining venue The layout optimizes staff efficiency with strategically positioned bar and kitchen areas while creatively repurposing existing materials to reduce costs and minimize waste

HILTON O’HARE HOSPITALITY SPACES

INSPIRED OBJECTS : Hyphae Chandelier

Inspired by the hidden world beneath an apple orchard—now O’Hare International Airport—the custom light chandeliers known as “Hyphae” reflect the unseen networks that connect and sustain life Hyphae, threadlike filaments linking tree roots, organically support cellular communication and collaboration, symbolizing this shared space This concept reinforces a dynamic environment where ideas flow and engagement thrives

MEETING ROOM at HILTON O’HARE

O’Hare International Airport Chicago, IL

Hilton’s innovative meeting rooms at O’Hare International Airport redefine conference spaces for today’s hybrid work environment Transforming a 2,600-squarefoot windowless venue beneath Terminal 2, the design converts a pedestrian tunnel into a dynamic, multifunctional space A full-height glass wall showcases an illuminated interior, creating visibility from the busy pedway and activating the space 24/7 with Hilton’s presence

Designed for flexibility, the layout supports various configurations for purposeful, in-person gatherings Instead of seeing its underground location as a limitation, the design leverages it as an opportunity—using strategic lighting, open sightlines, and adaptable furnishings to enhance functionality

This adaptive reuse project sets a new standard for modern meeting environments, optimizing both guest experience and operational efficiency By transforming an overlooked space into a high-value asset, Hilton reinforces its leadership in innovative hospitality solutions

MOUNT MORIAH MASONIC TEMPLE

Great design doesn’t age— it adapts.

MOUNT MORIAH MASONIC TEMPLE

DMAC Architecture & Interiors

Evanston, IL

At a busy intersection just north of Chicago, the former Mount Moriah Masonic Temple Lodge 28 reflects deep cultural and architectural significance Designed in 1929 by Walter T Bailey—Illinois’ first licensed African American architect—the building was created as a space for civic and social gathering Its classically detailed façade, distinctive herringbone brickwork, and matching interior parquet floor showcase Bailey’s thoughtful coordination of material and form, blending structural simplicity with lasting beauty

Nearly a century after it was built, DMAC approached the former Lodge not with the goal of restoring it to the past, but of reimagining its future The second-floor meeting hall became the firm’s design studio, where the original parquet floors remain a focal point and natural light now floods the space through expanded window openings A once-forgotten rear façade was redefined as a “second front”—activated with a large plate-glass window, a hangar-style door opening to the backyard, and brick-weave screens that invite friendly interaction with the neighborhood On the ground floor, former office partitions were removed to create an open, flexible gathering space that engages the street, while a rear gym can be reconfigured into an event space that extends outdoors In 2024, the triangular back lot was transformed from a dirt patch into a shaded patio and parking area, paved with permeable pavers and softened by a grove of trees and native grasses

This adaptive reuse honors the building’s original purpose while allowing it to evolve with its community By preserving Bailey’s vision and reinterpreting it for a modern design studio, the project shows that great design endures—not by standing still, but by adapting with purpose and creativity

HOTHOUSE PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

Bronzeville, Chicago, IL

Set against the backdrop of a quintessential Chicago neighborhood, where the clatter of trains and the hum of motors weave through ivy-draped brick buildings, and old trees stretch skyward, you’ll find the new HotHouse This isn’t just another performance space; it’s a sanctuary—a haven glowing with inspiration, inviting you into a safe, welcoming retreat where you can unwind and reconnect

More than another performance space, HotHouse is a haven, a home glowing with inspiration; welcoming visitors into a safe zone where they can let go and unwind HotHouse beckons all to retreat into her cool gardens and warm interiors filled with images, movement, smells, sounds, tastes and textures that celebrate and sing the songs of diverse cultures from around the world

Deeply rooted in the area’s history, HotHouse honors the Bronzeville community and its significance to Chicago’s Black community during the Great Migration Once a vital junction where workers boarded trains to the stockyards, this historic connection now inspires a new journey Today, HotHouse stands as a cultural beacon, revitalizing the neighborhood with art, music, and inclusivity—celebrating the past while shaping a vibrant and equitable future

COMMUNITY WORK Missing Middle

MISSING MIDDLE ROWHOUSE

Chicago, IL

In response to Chicago’s “Missing Middle” challenge, DMAC radically reimagined the rowhouse block with a focus on intentional design over mere density Inspired by the cadence of musical composition, the project introduces a deliberate “rest” — a striking gap in the façade that punctuates the street’s rhythm like a well-timed pause in a symphony

This dynamic void isn’t just empty space—it’s a burst of light and air that transforms the urban canvas Bathed in sunlight and open to the sky, the gap becomes a flexible stage for possibility It can flourish as a lush green retreat, evolve into a vibrant community gathering spot, serve as a sprawling canvas for murals, or transform into an intimate performance area where culture and connection come alive

In this visionary design, residents are not mere occupants but co-creators of their environment They are invited to infuse the space with their own stories, molding a neighborhood that’s as dynamic, colorful, and unique as the lives within it