100 W Main St. Suite 110. (Corner of Main St. and Veterans Way)
Happy Hour from 5pm to 6pm. Every day!
THE ABSOLUTE AGENDA
The first hints of autumn are in the air, and there's something for everyone! Home design, culture and the arts, fitness and plenty of fall fun for the whole family.
RESTORING CONFIDENCE
Far more than transforming clients' appearance, the team at We Grow Hair Indy is renewing confidence in both men and women.
CLARITY DELIVERED
Mental health care can feel complicated, but MindXScience provides clear and precise answers that bring relief.
HOME CREATORS
Meet the remarkable innovators and artisans of Central Indiana's thriving design and build community.
AUTUMN ALLURE
Step into autumn with easy layers and warm, relaxed tones at 8Fifteen.
WHERE INDY MEETS INNOVATION
This November, the Sun Shading Expo brings inspiration, industry connections, and the latest in sun shading and textiles to Indianapolis.
LEGACY REIMAGINED
At the Indiana Design Center, Open Gate Design maintains its spirit of small-town hospitality in its welcoming, experiential and memorable designs.
'ROUND THE TOWN
The Indiana Design Center is your one-stop source for planning, sourcing and dreaming up design perfection.
IGNITE THE WELLNESS WITHIN
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Editor-in-Chief
EDUARDO PEÑA
Managing Editor
JUSTYNA PEÑA
Assistant Editor MATTHEW HUME
Writer SUSAN SALAZ
Photography SARA ACKERMANN JES NIJJER GABRIELLE NOËL
Digital Marketing Intern JENNA MANTAS
Graphic Designer NICO PEÑA
Social Media Specialist CHRISTIAN PEÑA
Distribution NEWSTANDS/RETAILERS, DIRECT MAIL AND DIGITAL
Contact Us
INFO@ABSOLUTELIVINGMAGAZINE.COM
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SUBSCRIBE@ABSOLUTELIVINGMAGAZINE.COM
Comments & Feedback
EDITORIAL@ABSOLUTELIVINGMAGAZINE.COM
September 11–13
Home-A-Rama Westfield bagi.com/home-a-rama/2025
Tour luxury homes crafted by Indiana’s premier builders and designers during this three-day showcase. Each home highlights cutting-edge design trends, smart technology and curated interiors that inspire. Explore the artistry, meet the makers, and gather ideas to bring fresh sophistication into your own home.
Set against the beauty of Geist Reservoir, this annual race draws runners from across Indiana for a memorable morning of fitness and fun. Choose your distance, enjoy community spirit along the route, and celebrate post-race with live music and family-friendly festivities lakeside.
September 13
Noblesville Brewfest & Wine Garden Forest Park, Noblesville noblesvillebrewfest.com
Raise a glass at one of Hamilton County’s longest-running beer festivals. Sample pours from Indiana craft breweries and regional wineries, paired with great food, live music and lawn games. Proceeds benefit the Forest Park Aquatic Center— making this a can’t-miss event for beer lovers and community supporters alike.
September 17–20
Shakespeare in the Park Federal Hill Commons, Noblesville noblesvillearts.org
Enjoy the timeless magic of Shakespeare’s The Merry Wives of Windsor performed under the stars in a charming outdoor setting. This annual tradition blends classic theater with modern energy, drawing families, students and arts lovers alike. Pack a blanket, grab a picnic, and immerse yourself in live performance at its best.
September 19–20
Downtown Unseen & 38th Annual Historic Home Tour
Downtown Noblesville noblesvillepreservation.org
Explore Noblesville's historic roots during this two-day heritage weekend. Friday’s “Downtown Unseen” offers guided access to hidden corners of local architecture, followed on Saturday by the Historic Home Tour with a walk-through of preserved homes, vintage markets, live music and a Civil War walking tour option.
September 20
Chinese Mooncake Festival Midtown Plaza carmel.in.gov
Celebrate Chinese culture during this vibrant annual festival in Carmel. Featuring a dragon parade, traditional dance, live music and, of course, mooncakes, the event invites the whole community to experience cultural traditions in a festive, familyfriendly atmosphere that bridges heritage and community spirit.
September 27–28
Carmel International Arts Festival Arts & Design District, Carmel carmelartsfestival.org
For one weekend each year, Carmel’s Arts & Design District becomes a canvas for creativity. More than 100 juried artists display fine art across mediums, alongside dance performances, live music and interactive experiences. It’s a signature celebration of culture and community in the heart of Carmel.
October 3
Carmel City Center Oktoberfest Carmel City Center carmelcitycenter.com
Raise a stein at this lively Oktoberfest celebration in Carmel City Center. Enjoy German-inspired food and drink, polka and pop performances, dancing and a festive beer garden. With seasonal flavors and family-friendly fun, this event welcomes autumn with a joyful toast to community.
October 4
Potter’s Bridge Fall Festival
Potter’s Bridge Park, Noblesville hamiltoncounty.in.gov
Experience the beauty of fall along the White River during this annual family festival. Local artisans, craft booths, kids’ activities and live entertainment surround Hamilton County’s only remaining covered bridge. With crisp autumn air and vibrant scenery, it’s a quintessential Midwest fall tradition.
Restoring Confidence
Q&
Awith Darren Andrews of We Grow Hair Indy
At We Grow Hair Indy, Clinic Director Darren Andrews has helped men and women navigate the journey of hair restoration by guiding them through treatment options, answering their questions, and supporting them every step of the way for more than 20 years. What he finds most rewarding isn’t just the transformation in appearance, but the renewed confidence clients experience when results come in.
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Q: We Grow Hair Indy has become a well-known name in hair restoration. Can you share a bit about your history and the mission that drives your work?
A: We Grow Hair Indy has been dedicated solely to hair restoration for more than 20 years. What started as a local clinic with a passion for helping people with hair loss has grown into one of the most experienced and trusted practices in the Midwest. Our history is built on a commitment to always staying ahead of the curve, offering treatments that truly make a difference. At the heart of it all, our mission has never changed, because our experts started as clients too. Knowing personally what hair loss feels like, we aim to help people restore not just their hair, but their confidence and quality of life.
Q: What types of hair restoration solutions do you offer, and how do you determine which approach is right for each client?
A: At We Grow Hair Indy, we offer a full range of proven hair restoration solutions, including Multi-Unit Hair Grafting™, ARTAS Robotic FUE transplants, Laser Hair Therapy, PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) treatments, FDAapproved medications, and non-surgical restoration options. Every client begins with a personalized consultation, where we assess
the degree of hair loss, donor availability, lifestyle, and longterm goals. This allows us to create a customized treatment plan designed to achieve the most natural-looking and lasting results.
Q: Many people struggle with hair loss quietly for years. How can the treatments you provide make a difference both cosmetically and in someone’s confidence?
A: Hair loss affects more than appearance; it impacts self-esteem and how people feel in both personal and professional settings. By restoring a fuller, natural hairline, our treatments not only improve the way someone looks but also how they carry themselves every day. Clients often tell us that getting their hair back is life changing. It helps them look younger, feel more confident, and even changes the way they engage with others.
Q: Technology and techniques in hair restoration have made big advancements. What makes your methods different from what someone might find elsewhere?
A: With more than 17,000 hair restoration procedures performed, our team is among the most experienced in the country. We specialize in both Multi-Unit Hair Grafting™ (a procedure unique to us that allows for more grafts
in a single session) and the ARTAS Robotic FUE procedure, one of the most advanced robotic transplant technologies available. Most clients also appreciate that recovery is relatively quick, with many returning to normal daily activities within just a few days. This combination of exclusive techniques, advanced technology, and physician-led care allows us to deliver results that are thicker, natural, and long lasting.
Q: What sets We Grow Hair Indy apart as a trusted partner in someone’s hair restoration journey?
A: At We Grow Hair Indy, hair restoration isn’t just what we do, it’s all we do. Our focus is entirely on delivering the best possible outcomes for each client, men and women alike. From the first consultation through long-term follow-up care, our team is committed to supporting you every step of the way. Whether you’re just starting to notice thinning or have been dealing with hair loss for years, we have proven solutions to help you regain not only your hair but also your confidence.
Ready to learn more?
Visit wegrowhairindy.com/ absolute-living to schedule your consultation today.
By SuSaN Salaz
Clarity Delivered
5 Ways MindX Sciences Is Elevating Mental Health Care
When mental health feels complex, precision brings relief. MindX Sciences turns decades of research into practical tools—so patients and clinicians get clear answers faster.
1) What It Is
MindX Sciences is precision psychiatry you can use now: MindX One blood tests inform diagnosis and treatment, Life x Improve digital testing helps increase resilience, and the Life x Mind App helps track mood, stress and progress.
2)
Who It Helps
If you or a loved one has tried multiple medications without clarity, these tools help clinicians cut through trial-and-error and tailor care. “We think that people should be in charge of their own lives and (mental) health,” says founder Alexander B. Niculescu, MD, PhD.
3) Why It Works
Built on two decades of research led by Dr. Niculescu (psychiatrist and geneticist) at Indiana University School of Medicine, the platform brings biomarker science to everyday care—turning complex cases into actionable next steps.
4) Real-World Outcomes
Patients often move from “treatment-refractory” to stable, simplified plans—and move on with their lives. Physicians gain confidence, and MindX supports pharma development plus organizational programs in resilience and suicide prevention. As their promise puts it: Live. Happier. Longer.
Individualized Mental Health
Our mission, and the results of our science-based approach, are:
• helping objectively assess mental health and pain
• matching people to treatments that transform their life
• preventing (future) clinical episodes This leads to the ability to do something unprecedented in mental health: proceeding with confidence towards optimal outcomes, and taking charge of your life. Join the revolution!
mindxsciences.com
5) What’s Next
Rooted in Central Indiana and expanding globally, MindX is planning MindX Clinics—a streamlined model of care to ensure patients are seen, tested and healed. “After treating over 10,000 patients, I know what precise, personalized care can do—it transforms lives,” says Dr. Niculescu.
Explore the Life x Mind App, learn about testing, or connect for collaboration at mindxsciences. com.
Dr. alexaNDer NiculeScu
Houseworks Founder Ed Cheikh has shaped Indianapolis design for four decades with integrity, quality and quiet leadership.
By SuSaN Salaz
Forty years Forward
ed cheikh of houseworks
Curated with an eye for enduring design, impeccable function and uncompromising integrity, Houseworks has brought modern classic furnishings to Indianapolis for 40 years. As the showroom marks this milestone, we honor the legacy—built patiently, honestly and jointly with a loyal team and community.
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Step into Houseworks and you’ll find more than sleek sofas and sculptural tables. You’ll find a philosophy: modern classics never fall out of fashion, and today’s technology makes them even more livable. In the expansive showroom on East 82nd Street, low-slung silhouettes and clean lines coexist with quiet innovations. Think recliners with lumbar and head controls, beds with built-in charging, nightstands that pull forward to meet you, ceramictopped dining tables that extend smoothly without clunky leaves, all while shrugging off everyday life and looking good while doing it.
At the center of it all is a story that began in 1985, when owner Ed Cheikh opened Houseworks to bring the modern look he’d admired in Europe to a city that wasn’t quite ready. “In the beginning, we were ahead of our time. But I believed in the style and its longevity,” Ed says. That conviction never wavered. The aesthetic has remained true—modern classic, never a trend—while the function has evolved. “Modern classic is about form that withstands time,” he says. “What has evolved is the functionality. Technology makes it better, without changing the look.”
Ed’s steadiness comes by way of family and experience. The son of an immigrant entrepreneur, he learned early that integrity is the throughline of any long-running business. His own career in international marketing exposed him to the modern design scenes of London and Milan long before Indianapolis had a taste for
it. He brought that sensibility home and built it carefully. “You could take any of these pieces and put them in a room full of antiques,” he says, “and they’d make everything look better.”
That curatorial eye is matched by a commitment to quality that you feel when you sit—solid construction, proper materials and cushions that retain their shape. “You’re not going to have the cushions pancake out in two years,” Ed says. “These are pieces you can give your children.” Part of that quality comes from Europe, with sleek Italian lines from makers like Gamma and Calligaris, and part of it is proudly American. Houseworks showcases American Leather for customizable, U.S.-made sofas and chairs, and Ed has steadily expanded his focus on American craftsmanship, showcasing the best materials and construction.
If four decades have taught him anything, it’s that businesses are built on people. The Houseworks team is small by design, about ten professionals who listen first and guide with care, and their tenure tells the story. Brian McIntosh has been with Houseworks for nearly three decades, part of a staff known for knowledge, patience and follow-through. “We don’t just sell furniture,” Brian says. “We listen. We build trust. We make sure the piece you take home is one you’ll keep for life.” Many clients return again and again, first for a sofa, then a dining set, then a better mattress, always trusting the same faces to help them furnish each chapter.
That trust extends to the design trade. Houseworks is a collaborative resource
With long tenures and deep expertise, the Houseworks team has earned the loyalty of clients who return year after year—and now, generation after generation—for furnishings that stand the test of time.
Inside the Houseworks showroom, European elegance meets American craftsmanship in a collection of modern classics that balance timeless form with modern function, curated to live beautifully for decades to come.
for designers who value polished presentations, deep product knowledge, and access to pieces their clients will live with for years. Homeowners also rely on the team for space planning and selections. Design services often include a home visit with measured drawings and tailored recommendations, with a modest deposit applied toward the purchase. It is a small signal that the end goal is a home that works beautifully, not a one-off sale.
Of course, 40 years haven’t been a straight line. “I hate failure,” Ed says with a quiet smile, admitting that it often takes great sacrifice. Through recessions, booms and a pandemic, he has kept his hand on the wheel to insist on quality, serve the client and protect his team. “They’re like family,” he adds. “I probably work harder for them than for myself.”
If the early years meant educating a city, today’s Indianapolis feels different. It is more international in taste, more confident in mixing eras and styles, and more neighborhoods ready to lean into modern design. That turn is gratifying for a shop that has championed modern classics from the start. There are fresh reasons to visit the showroom, too, including reissued Milo Baughman icons built to original specifications but updated with today’s cushion technology, a growing selection of American-made pieces, and a showroom experience that lets you visualize custom upholstery in real time.
Over time, Ed has built lasting relationships with his vendors, many of whom he has known for decades. Those partnerships allow Houseworks to offer an intense level of customization. Nearly every piece in
the showroom can be tailored—sofas in dozens of configurations, chairs in hundreds of fabrics and leathers, dining tables with finishes chosen to suit each home. “That’s the beauty of working directly with trusted makers,” he explains. “We can give our clients the freedom to create something personal, while knowing the craftsmanship will hold up for years.”
Forty years on, Houseworks remains what it has always been, a benchmark. Not the loudest, not the flashiest. Simply the place you go when you want beautiful furniture that lives as well as it looks and a team that treats your home like their own.
Visit Houseworks at 4905 E. 82nd Street in Indianapolis. For more information, find them online at houseworks.biz and follow @indyhouseworks on Instagram.
One more full-circle note: this feature was photographed by Gabrielle Noël of GC Photography, Ed’s daughter and a third-generation entrepreneur, who has built her own creative business on the same lessons of integrity, consistency and relationships.
Creators of Home
Behind every remarkable home is a team of experts who bring vision, detail, and craftsmanship to life. This year’s collection of luxury home professionals showcases the breadth of talent shaping Central Indiana’s design and build community.
This month, we’re highlighting the innovators and artisans who elevate luxury living from the ground up. Stephen Goldberg of Goldberg Design Group creates custom homes defined by architectural integrity and timeless style. Builder Chris Carnell of Christopher Scott Homes elevates construction into art with creativity and precision. Stephen Moore of Chateau Kitchens & Home Remodeling transforms kitchens, baths, and full homes with vision, craftsmanship, and care. At THREAD Design Group, Amy Kreutz blends cabinetry expertise with full-scale interiors tailored to each client. Jason Barth and his team at The Premier Group choreograph smart home technology into elegant, intuitive living. Dave and Lyndie Wells of Inspired Closets Indianapolis design closets that bring order and beauty to everyday life. And Indy Custom Pools by Outdoor Environments Group transforms landscapes into multi-sensory environments for connection and retreat.
Read on to discover how each of these professionals is redefining luxury living—one detail, one design, and one home at a time.
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THE ARCHITECT
Goldberg Design Group | Stephen Goldberg, Founder
For more than three decades, Stephen Goldberg has shaped some of the most distinctive residences in Carmel, Indianapolis, and beyond. As founder of Goldberg Design Group (GDG), he has built a reputation for designing custom homes that marry elegance with integrity—spaces as technically precise as they are livable.
Goldberg’s passion for architecture began in childhood, sketching floorplans and walking through half-built houses with the curiosity of someone who already knew his calling. That early fascination evolved into a nationally recognized practice, named among the Top 100 Luxury Residential Design Firms in North America. From lake cottages to contemporary estates, his portfolio spans styles but never wavers in detail.
What sets GDG apart, Goldberg explains, is balance: “A lot of people can do beautiful, but what they don’t always do as well is the integrity of the structural design. Our plans are so complete and so well thought out that builders don’t have questions—and at the same time, the homes are designed for how people actually live.”
Whether guiding clients from lot selection through construction, or collaborating with builders and designers on show homes, Goldberg emphasizes both artistry and precision. “We question even the most basic assumptions in order to create the perfect home for each family,” he says. The result? Timeless residences where every line on paper transforms into a space meant to last generations.
Find Goldberg Design Group at 40 1st Street NW in Carmel, Indiana. For more information, visit goldbergdesigngroup.com and follow @goldbergdesigngroup on Instagram. Call (317) 582-1430 to set up a discovery appointment.
THE CUSTOM BUILDER
Christopher Scott Homes | Chris Carnell, Founder
Chris Carnell is more than a builder—he’s a craftsman who elevates construction into an art form. As the founder of Christopher Scott Homes, Carnell has spent nearly thirty years creating luxury residences defined by creativity, integrity and uncompromising standards. His work goes beyond assembling a house; it’s about shaping an environment where architecture, design and lifestyle converge.
“Even if a family comes to us with their own ideas, the question becomes, how do we elevate them? What can we add that makes the project unlike anything else in town?” he explains. That philosophy has earned Christopher Scott Homes a reputation as a trusted partner among clients and design professionals alike.
Carnell’s expertise lies in blending artistry with precision. His intricate knowledge of design and structural integrity ensures that every line and load is correct—while his insistence on top-of-the-line building materials and longstanding relationships with trusted trades guarantees a home built to last. Each project is approached with fresh
eyes, a respect for craftsmanship, and a willingness to push beyond convention. His team’s commitment to communication and collaboration means clients are supported at every stage, from early sketches to final finishes, creating a process that feels seamless rather than overwhelming.
“Being creative in construction—that’s my art form,” Carnell adds, describing the blend of vision and problem-solving that guides his work. The result is a portfolio of one-of-a-kind residences, each as unique as the families who call them home—timeless, refined, and built with a level of care that extends well beyond the walls themselves.
Experience Christopher Scott Homes in Carmel, Indiana. For more information or to schedule a consultation, visit cshomes.com and follow @christopherscotthomes on Instagram.
THE REMODELING EXPERT
AtChateau Kitchens & Home Remodeling, the focus is on transforming homes with craftsmanship, detail and service that goes beyond expectation. Led by owner Stephen Moore, the Carmel-based company has become one of Central Indiana’s premier providers of full-service remodeling. With a team of 28 full-time employees and more than 400 years of combined experience, Chateau Kitchens brings deep expertise to every stage of a project, from design conceptualization and cabinetry fabrication to installation and finishing touches. Kitchens and bathrooms remain their most-requested spaces, but the company’s portfolio extends to basements, offices, mudrooms and full-scale home renovations.
What sets Chateau apart is its collaborative process and dedication to the client experience. “Our goal is to bring both vision and precision to every project,” says Moore. “Homeowners come to us with ideas, and we guide them through the design process to create spaces that are as functional as they are beautiful.” In addition to remodeling projects, Chateau Kitchens
partners with custom home builders throughout Central Indiana, providing high-quality cabinetry and design services for new builds. Their showroom on Carmel Drive showcases a wide array of styles, finishes and layouts, allowing clients to explore options and envision how cabinetry can transform their spaces.
From start to finish, the Chateau Kitchens team prioritizes quality, communication and craftsmanship. Each project is approached with the same care as if it were their own home, a standard that has built the company’s reputation for excellence and lasting client relationships.
Visit the showroom at 301 E. Carmel Drive in Carmel or visit chateaukitchens.com online and follow @chateaukitchens on Instagram.
Chateau Kitchens & Home
Remodeling | Stephen Moore, Owner
THE TECHNOLOGY INTEGRATOR
The Premier Group | Jason Barth, CEO and Lead Designer
When it comes to merging technology with design, The Premier Group has established itself as an industry leader. Founded by Jason Barth in 1999, the Carmel-based firm has grown into one of the nation’s top integration companies. The firm specializes in four core disciplines that shape what they call luxury electronic lifestyles: enterprisegrade networks and Wi-Fi, integrated security and surveillance, curated lighting and motorized shading, and immersive audio/video environments. Whether it’s Ketra lighting that mimics natural daylight, nearly invisible speakers that fill a room with concert-quality sound, or fully automated screening rooms, Premier doesn’t just install technology— they choreograph experiences.
“We are a tech company, but we are really a creative design company,” Barth explains. Every detail is considered with aesthetics in mind, ensuring technology integrates seamlessly into the design of a space. This design-forward approach has made Premier a trusted partner for homeowners, architects and interior designers who want homes that are as intelligent as they are elegant.
What excites Barth most is how seamlessly technology can enhance everyday living when it is thoughtfully designed. From creating dramatic moods with architectural lighting to delivering concert-quality sound throughout the home, The Premier Group focuses on experiences that are both intuitive and lasting. “Luxury clients want systems that are simple, reliable and beautiful,” Barth says. “When technology disappears into the design of a space, that is when it truly elevates the way you live.”
Visit The Premier Group at the Ovation Experience Center, 12345 Old Meridian Street in Carmel. Learn more at premier-group.com and follow @premiergroupindy on Instagram.
THE POOL VISIONARY
Apool is never just a vessel for water. At Indy Custom Pools, the pool division of Outdoor Environments Group, it is treated as a vital architectural element that elevates and enhances the entire outdoor experience. “We believe that architecture should belong to the landscape—not the other way around,” says founder Chad Bruick.
That philosophy drives a holistic process that is unique in Indiana. Indy Custom Pools is the only company in the state with a fully integrated team of landscape architects and builders who design, construct and complete both the pool and its surrounding environment as one unified vision. The result is a seamless connection between water, land and lifestyle. Where every detail, from waterline to skyline, feels intentional and timeless.
Each pool is crafted to reflect the client’s lifestyle while enhancing the beauty of the property. By blending innovative technology with architectural precision and uncompromising structural integrity, the OEG team ensures that every design is as enduring as it is elegant. From the soothing sound of water to the
play of light across the surface, the pool becomes a multi-sensory centerpiece for relaxation, entertainment and connection. Pools by OEG are designed as true gathering places. They are settings where families connect, friends celebrate, and quiet moments of retreat feel as natural as the landscape itself.
What truly sets Indy Custom Pools apart is the focus on experience. “We don’t just create landscapes. We create environments,” Bruick explains. “Our work is about more than the view. It is about the memories made and the moments shared in spaces designed for living beautifully outdoors.”
Discover Indy Custom Pools by Outdoor Environments Group at oeggroup.com and follow @outdoorenvironmentsgroup on Instagram.
Indy Custom Pools by Outdoor Environments Group | Chad Bruick, Founder
THE CLOSET CURATORS
Inspired Closets Indianapolis | Dave and Lyndie Wells, Owners
Closets are no longer an afterthought in home design. Today, they are recognized as vital spaces that influence how people live and feel each day. “People are awakening to the power of a well-designed closet,” says Dave Wells, who owns Inspired Closets Indianapolis with his wife Lyndie. “I don’t think there’s another space in the home, other than possibly the kitchen, where sound design has a higher impact on your day-to-day level of contentment. You start and finish every day in your closet. How well it presents you with your clothing and accessory options has a huge effect on your level of positivity as you step into your day.”
For the Wells’s, closets are more than storage—they are personalized extensions of the home’s design, crafted to balance both form and function. “A home’s design is only as good as it is functional,” notes Lyndie. “Since you start and finish every day in your closet, it should be a space that makes your life less chaotic. The beauty
is the multiplier. If we can have a space that propels you into your day with a powerful sense of order, and is beautiful at the same time, that’s what I call good design.”
That philosophy has made Inspired Closets a trusted name for homeowners throughout Central Indiana. With thoughtful layouts, personalized details and attention to aesthetics, their team delivers spaces that are practical, elegant and life-changing. Better closets equal less chaos, which equals more contentment, explains Dave, adding, “When you experience it, you understand, which is why most of our customers don't stop with a single project."
Visit Inspired Closets at 598 W Carmel Dr, Suite C, Carmel. Learn more and schedule a consultation at inspiredclosetsindy.com and follow @inspiredclosetsindy on Instagram.
THE INTERIOR DESIGNER
THREAD Design Group | Amy Kreutz, CKD, Principal & Lead Designer
AtTHREAD Design Group, design is never onedimensional. Founder and lead designer Amy Kreutz believes the best interiors are layered, with every element working together to create a home that feels inspired and cohesive. Her philosophy is straightforward: each project should reflect the individuality of the people who call it home. Amy’s enduring commitment to residential design began with a focus in the kitchen and bath sector. Through the years she began to lean into her clients’ needs for assistance with designing more than cabinetry and countertops, extending to appliance education. Amy’s expanded approach to residential design took on a new face at the onset of starting her own business two years ago by offering more than that of a typical kitchen and bath designer.
Located in the 54th and Monon Shops, THREAD Design Group is surrounded by a community of fellow creatives and artisans. The design studio offers a setting that reflects the studio’s collaborative spirit and offers clients an environment that sparks inspiration. The showroom itself invites exploration, with tactile sample walls and curated displays that encourage clients to
explore while imagining how their homes might be transformed.
Kreutz guides each project as a discovery process. She encourages clients to explore new ideas and possibilities before refining every detail into a design that feels truly authentic. “We want our clients to push beyond their comfort zone, explore every possibility, and then return to the solution that feels uniquely their own,” she explains.
With more than 25 years of design experience, Kreutz has built a reputation for balancing artistry with practicality. By combining cabinetry expertise with comprehensive interior design, and by relying on premium materials and trusted trade partners, she creates interiors that are timeless, personal and beautifully crafted. THREAD Design Group has quickly become a name that stands apart in the Indianapolis design community.
Visit THREAD Design Group at 1057 East 54th Street, Suite K, Indianapolis. Learn more at thread-design.com and follow @thread_designgroup on Instagram.
Autumn Allure
Embrace the season in easy layers, warm tones and relaxed silhouettes.
8Fifteen’s fall favorites blend comfort with effortless style, every day.
8fifteen 815 E 65th St. Indianapolis, IN 46220
By SuSaN Salaz
Where Indy Meets Innovation
SUN SHADING EXPO NORTH AMERICA
November
5–7, 2025
| Indiana Convention Center
This November, Indianapolis will take center stage as Sun Shading Expo North America brings the global sun shading and textiles industries to the heart of the Midwest. More than a trade show, this experience is designed to spark ideas, foster connections, and equip local professionals with the tools to elevate their craft.
For luxury home professionals and designers, the Expo offers the chance to step away from day-to-day projects and immerse in a world of innovation. The show floor will buzz with new products, advanced
technologies, and the people behind them—like Lafayette Interior Fashions, a Lafayettebased brand showcasing its latest world-class designs just a short drive from home.
Education is at the forefront, with sessions crafted to deliver actionable insights. Renowned business coach and author of She Thinks Big, Andrea Liebross, who is based in Carmel, will inspire attendees to rethink growth strategies, while the keynote from LuAnn Nigara, host of the top-rated podcast A WellDesigned Business, will spotlight the power of collaboration in design.
Beyond the sessions, the value lies in the relationships built and conversations that lead to partnerships, projects, and possibilities. With the co-location of the Advanced Textiles Expo, attendees gain double the access, discovering crossover opportunities that touch interiors, exteriors, and everything in between.
For Central Indiana’s design community, Sun Shading Expo is more than an event—it’s a chance to see the future unfold right here at home. Attend free with code SSENA25ALM at sunshadingexpo.com.
Sun Shading Expo is heading to Indy!
JOIN THE ONLY U.S. SHOW WHERE THE INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR SUN SHADING INDUSTRY MEETS
At the Sun Shading Expo:
Co-located with Advanced Textiles Expo (formerly IFAI Expo) Absolute Living Magazine Readers Save!
You’ll find the newest products of exterior and interior sun shading systems, awnings, shutters and accessories, technical textiles, drives, and much more.
You’ll have unlimited networking opportunities to connect with your global peers.
You’ll also see the most innovative products from the leading suppliers – helping you stay on top of new trends and challenges.
Plus, you’ll walk away with the knowledge you need from the educational program. See author of She Thinks Big, Andrea Liebross, who’s based in Carmel, and keynote LuAnn Nigara, host of the A Well-Designed Business podcast, who will spotlight the power of collaboration in design.
By SuSaN Salaz
LEGACY REIMAGINED
Expanding Spaces and Visions at the Indiana Design Center.
Founded over a decade ago in Perkinsville, Indiana, Open Gate Design maintains a spirit of small-town hospitality in its design of welcoming, experiential and memorable spaces.
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Open Gate Design is turning the page on a milestone year with a soon-to-open, first-floor studio at the Indiana Design Center. The expanded space reflects the firm’s growth and its client-first philosophy. For owner and principal designer Michael Hansen, the move “feels like a natural next step.” It brings the studio’s history full circle, combining the inspiration of its earliest days with the elevated design direction that defines Open Gate today.
The firm’s story began a decade ago in Perkinsville, Indiana, where a small boutique on the White River attracted thousands of visitors each winter. Families came from across the region to explore its curated décor and immersive holiday displays, transforming the shop into a seasonal destination. That chapter was shaped in large part by co-owner and founder Julie Ricker, whose vision and dedication laid the foundation for what Open Gate has become. Hansen is quick to note that none of this would be possible without her influence, as well as the incredible team that continues to keep the many moving parts of the business in motion. The spirit of hospitality and magic they created in Perkinsville left a lasting imprint on the brand, shaping Hansen’s vision for how design should feel: welcoming, experiential, and memorable. While the business has evolved, those values remain at its core.
The new Carmel studio has been designed with intention, creating separate areas for retail and for the working design library, two experiences that will complement one another. Visitors will be able to browse a tightly curated mix of furnishings,
textiles, wallcoverings, and styling pieces. Prospective clients will see how concepts come together in real time. “We’ve created separate areas for shopping and for design. The expanded space also gives us room to collaborate more closely with clients,” Hansen says. “Ultimately, this move is about elevating the client experience while continuing to grow creatively as a team.”
That experience begins long before the install. Every project at Open Gate starts with conversation and discovery, followed by a tailored proposal and a planning phase that can include room boards, schematics, finish selections, and furnishings curation. Each step culminates in a polished delivery and reveal. The new showroom will enhance every stage, allowing clients to see and
touch materials and explore options with the design team’s guidance. It is all intentionally sensory. “The atmosphere should touch all the senses, the look of carefully curated pieces, the textures you want to reach out and feel, the subtle fragrance in the air, and even the music setting the mood,” Hansen says.
While the firm is best known for sophisticated residential interiors, Hansen emphasizes that Open Gate’s scope extends well beyond private homes. The team also designs commercial environments, from wellness to hospitality, applying the same creativity and rigor to programming, interior architecture, and furnishings. With an in-house architectural interior design team and strategic partnerships across the design community, the studio is laying groundwork for an even more seamless client journey. “Truly, anything is possible. If a client can dream it, we’ll figure out how to make it happen,” Hansen notes.
As Open Gate approaches its 10th anniversary this fall, the soon-toopen showroom will capture the balance between past and future. It will reintroduce the warmth and tradition that once drew holiday crowds, while offering clients a refined, luxury design experience. The new space promises to honor the legacy of Open Gate while setting the stage for its next chapter.
Find Open Gate’s new showroom on the first floor at the Indiana Design Center, or explore more at opengatedesign.com and follow @opengatedesign_ or @opengateshop_ on Instagram.
By SuSaN Salaz
’Round the Town
Design, Centered — Your Mini Guide to The Indiana Design Center
Home base for Indy’s best in interiors and innovation, the Indiana Design Center gathers showrooms, studios and services under one roof, so you can plan, source and style a dream home in a single stop. Stroll the first floor, head upstairs with a designer, and finish with brunch at Maple. Consider this your pocket guide to what’s inside.
Ferguson Home fergusonhome.com
From chef-worthy ranges to spa-like showers, Ferguson offers the latest in appliances, lighting and plumbing fixtures all in one sleek showroom. Knowledgeable consultants guide you through top brands, help coordinate finishes and simplify complex projects. Whether you’re updating a powder room or outfitting a dream kitchen, Ferguson makes the process inspiring and seamless.
Drapery Street draperystreet.com
Drapery Street specializes in custom window treatments that are as functional as they are beautiful. Discover interactive displays featuring automated shades, designer fabrics, and handcrafted drapery to fit any style or challenge. Their expert team handles design, measurement, fabrication and installation, delivering windows that transform light, enhance comfort and elevate the look of every room.
Julie O’Brien Design Group julieobriendesign.com
Julie O’Brien Design Group is known for blending timeless sophistication with livable comfort. Offering tailored packages for new builds, renovations or home refreshes, the studio creates spaces that reflect each client’s story. From carefully chosen palettes to innovative layouts, Julie and her team bring calm, creativity and concierge-level service to every stage of the design journey.
The Glass House Gallery
glasshousegallery.com
The Glass House Gallery redefines windows and doors with expansive glass systems, luxury hardware and bespoke European designs. From entryways to panoramic walls, their products bring natural light and modern elegance into focus. With a detail-driven team ensuring precision and performance, this showroom is a must-visit for homeowners seeking to blur the line between indoors and out.
Holder Mattress holdermattress.com
A family tradition since 1947, Holder Mattress still handcrafts two-sided mattresses designed for durability, comfort, and total customization—even round or oversized. In the IDC showroom, you’ll find options for every sleep style, plus curated bedding and furniture. With attention to detail and heritage craftsmanship, Holder Mattress ensures every night feels luxuriously restorative and completely your own.
Dare 2 Design
dare2designindy.com
Dare 2 Design is an interior design studio built on collaboration and creativity. Their team partners with clients to refine ideas, coordinate selections and manage the details of new builds from start to finish, serving as the link between you and your construction team. The result is spaces that feel effortlessly tailored and deeply personal—balancing bold vision with thoughtful execution.
Godby Hearth & Home helps homeowners create gathering spaces that are warm and inviting year-round. The showroom showcases fireplaces, inserts, shower enclosures and outdoor living essentials, paired with expert guidance on safety and specs. Whether you’re adding cozy character to a family room or upgrading a patio, Godby makes it easy to strike the perfect balance of function and style.
Godby Hearth & Home godbyhearth.com
Everything Home everythinghomedesigns.com
Everything Home simplifies the remodeling process by combining design and build expertise. Their IDC showroom offers curated vignettes that spark inspiration, while the team manages schedules, trades and installations with precision. From mood boards to final styling, they deliver spaces that blend beauty and practicality, ensuring every detail of your project comes together seamlessly.
Maple mapleindy.com
Inside the Indiana Design Center, Maple is the go-to spot for brunch lovers and design browsers alike. The menu features everything from cinnamon-apple waffles and shakshuka skillets to fresh, seasonal fare that’s perfect any time of day. Pair your meal with craft coffee or cocktails, relax on the year-round patio and enjoy a delicious break between showrooms.
Mitsch Design mitschdesign.com
With award-winning projects across multifamily, hospitality and senior living, Mitsch Design brings innovation and storytelling to large-scale spaces. At their IDC headquarters, the team integrates architecture, interiors and furnishings for a turnkey experience. Virtual reality previews, expert FF&E services, and a collaborative process make Mitsch a leader in designing environments that are functional, stylish and unforgettable.
