The Custom Sleeper Sofas by American Leather® are the most versatile and comfortable sleeper sofas in the market. With multiple styles and configurations available, you’re sure to find the best centerpiece for your space.
THE ABSOLUTE AGENDA
Who says family fun ends after Labor Day? September abounds with celebrations of art and music, sports and culture, architecture and nature. Soak it all in.
NO SWEAT!
Perspire Sauna Studio combines elements of traditional sauna with medically proven benefits of infrared and red light therapy. Why sweat, when you can perspire?
SPIRIT AND EXCELLENCE OVER EGO
Chris Carnell of Christopher Scott Homes brings lifelong passion, technical expertise and a refreshingly collaborative spirit to creating luxury custom homes.
39 52 58
INTERIOR TASTEMAKERS
Four interior designers, each at the top of their game, bring distinctive perspective to their transformational work.
TRADE SPACE
As an established presence in the nation’s interior design industry, C.A.I. Designs is a welcomed new addition to central Indiana’s design scene.
'ROUND THE TOWN
Fall into fun with our curated guide to the region’s most spirited seasonal celebrations!
Editor-in-Chief
EDUARDO PEÑA
Managing Editor
JUSTYNA PEÑA
Assistant Editor
MATTHEW HUME
Writer SUSAN SALAZ
Photography
GABRIELLE NOËL ERICA PARKER
Graphic Designer NICO PEÑA
Social Media Specialist CHRISTIAN PEÑA
Distribution
Contact
INFO@ABSOLUTELIVINGMAGAZINE.COM
Subscriptions
SUBSCRIBE@ABSOLUTELIVINGMAGAZINE.COM
EDITORIAL@ABSOLUTELIVINGMAGAZINE.COM
AGENDA
By SuSaN Salaz
September
September 13-14
Carmel on Canvas Carmel Arts & Design District carmelartsanddesign.com
Watch art come to life at this annual plein air paint out, which transforms the Carmel Arts & Design District into an open-air studio. Observe artists creating masterpieces in real-time, participate in art activities, and purchase unique works. It's a perfect blend of creativity and community.
September 16-29 Indy Jazz Fest Indianapolis, Indiana indyjazzfest.net
Experience the smooth sounds of jazz at this annual celebration, bringing together local and national jazz artists for a week of soulful performances across various venues in Indianapolis. Enjoy intimate concerts, workshops, and jam sessions that showcase the best of this timeless genre.
September 20-21 Circle City Irish Fest Holy Rosary circlecityirishfestival.com
Celebrate all things Irish on the south side of downtown Indy at the 2nd annual Circle City Irish Fest—a lively event that brings a taste of the Emerald Isle to town. Enjoy live Celtic music, traditional Irish dance performances, and authentic food and drinks while supporting the reduction of hunger and illiteracy in Central Indiana.
September 20-22
St. George Middle Eastern Festival
St. George Orthodox Christian Church stgindy.org
Curious about Middle Eastern culture? Then don’t miss the St. George Festival, a family-friendly event offering Middle Eastern hospitality in the heart of Indianapolis. Savor authentic cuisine, browse unique handicrafts, enjoy traditional music and join in the Dabke on the dancefloor.
September 21
Broad Ripple Home Tour
Broad Ripple, Indiana broadrippleindy.org
Explore the charming neighborhood of Broad Ripple during this self-guided home tour. Get inspired by diverse architectural styles and creative interior designs that will leave you with great renovation ideas. Meet homeowners and experience the unique character of this vibrant community.
September 27
Swing 2024
Victory Field swingvf.org
Step back in style at Swing 2024, where guests dress to impress, benching the typical jeans and jerseys for 1930’s vintage chic attire. Walk the red carpet, strike a pose for your own baseball card and cut a rug on the infield dance floor to support Indianapolis Indians Charities.
September 28
Circle City Classic Tailgate & Fan Festival
Lucas Oil Stadium circlecityclassic.com
Get your game face on at the 40th Annual Circle City Classic, featuring North Carolina Central versus Norfolk State. This high-energy event celebrates football, music, and Black culture with live performances, mouthwatering tailgate fare and team spirit before the big game.
October 5
Brewfari
Indianapolis Zoo indianapoliszoo.com
If you love ZooBoo but want to indulge in local craft beverages without the kids in tow, check out the wildest Halloween party in town at Brewfari. This 21+ event gives you exclusive after-hours access to your favorite exhibits, along with psychic readings inside the dolphin gallery, roller coaster rides on the Kombo Coaster and live entertainment by DJ Lockstar in the Bicentennial Pavilion.
October 4-6
Hilly Hundred
Ellettsville, Indiana hillyhundred.org
Challenge yourself at the Hilly Hundred, a two-day cycling event through the picturesque hills of southern Indiana. Pedal through scenic countryside, quaint towns, and stunning fall foliage. With rest stops, live entertainment, and a supportive cycling community, it's an unforgettable weekend for riders of all levels.
WHERE ORGANIZATION MEETS
By Matthew
No Sweat!
Louise Hughes and Perspire Sauna Studio
Perspire Sauna Studio combines elements of traditional sauna with medically proven benefits of infrared and red light therapy. Why sweat when you can perspire?
What comes to mind when you think of a sauna? Perhaps you're the kind of person who seeks a sweat-soaked retreat, surrounded by half-clad strangers in an impossibly cramped space. Or maybe you think of a relaxing spa day, a well-deserved getaway, with a blisteringly dry heat and all the associated pampering. What if there were an easily accessible experience that combines the benefits of
traditional saunas with the medically proven benefits of infrared and red light therapy–and what if that experience also left you feeling, dare I say, pampered? Enter Louise Hughes, owner of Perspire Sauna Studio in Carmel’s Clay Terrace, with another location coming to Fishers District this fall. Founded in Costa Mesa, CA, in 2010, Louise explains that Perspire Sauna Studio takes a new approach to wellness, combining traditional sauna with clinically beneficial technologies of infrared (IR) and red light therapy (RLT).
Feeling strong and pain-free has always been important to Louise. As a lifelong runner, she’s always been curious about new technologies to help her run longer and recover more quickly. Louise first learned about IR sauna while prepping for her second marathon. “I was in my mid40s at the time, and recovery days weren’t enough for me anymore,” she recalls. “My functional medicine doctor introduced me to IR sauna, and I was immediately intrigued to learn more about it. I was sleeping better, my skin was glowing, I had more energy, and my muscle recovery times were improved.” Grateful for the benefits she was receiving, she longed to share this new technology with others. At the same time, she longed for an IR sauna environment that felt less clinical and better reflected the life-giving feeling that comes from a day at the spa. She found that warmth in Perspire Sauna
Studio. “I’d spent my career in IT consulting, operations and delivery, but I felt driven by my experience with IR sauna,” Louise tells me. “I wanted to own a business, to be passionate about it, and to do something that helps people feel better, and Perspire has been the way for me to fulfill this dream for the Carmel community.”
“Instead of superheating the room around you, and instead of steam, infrared therapy heats your body from within, penetrating into your cells to bring benefits to a wide range of health needs,” Louise says. Red light therapy has been shown to improve skin health, accelerate wound healing, and provide temporary relief from some chronic pain conditions. Infrared therapy reduces inflammation, promotes muscle recovery, offers pain relief, and may even improve heart function. “I have regular members who tell me that they don’t need to take their pain medication anymore or that their psoriasis has improved,” Louise says. She is careful, though, about overpromising. “Everybody is different, but I consistently see members with improvements in chronic pain, with speedier recovery of joints and muscles–and everyone always has a better night’s sleep after a session.”
After your first couple of visits, Louise and her team set your guest preferences. “Some guests like the red light, and others prefer having it off,” she says. “We also have
chromotherapy, with different colors offering different benefits, so we preset preferred colors and set the room to the desired temperature.” Guests also enjoy the option to watch TV, Netflix, Hulu, or YouTube during their sessions. “Each room is private with a TV on the wall,” Louise explains. “If a guest has a favorite show, we keep track of what season and episode they’re on and we have it cued up and ready to go.” Of course, some prefer the blissful sound of ocean waves or relaxing music–and some prefer complete, meditative quiet. “It’s your 40 minutes. We want people to feel remembered and stress-free.”
While Louise expected to enjoy owning a Perspire Sauna Studio and offering IR sauna to the community, she notes an unexpected benefit for her. Some of her guests come in for a recovery day, or to have some time to themselves, but others come in daily, recognizing the incredible difference that this is making in their lives and their treatment plan. “I had a guest who had just finished chemotherapy and signed up for regular sauna sessions,” she says. “She believes that an IR sauna routine will keep whatever had created cancer in her environment from coming back. You read about it, and you understand the research, but when members come in and share their stories, that’s where I’m truly amazed and inspired.”
Find Perspire Sauna Studio in Carmel at Clay Terrace, and look for the new location coming to Fishers District on 116th later this fall. Follow each location, respectively, on Instagram and Facebook at PerspireCarmel and PerspireFishers, and visit them online at www.perspiresaunastudio.com/in/carmel and www.perspiresaunastudio.com/in/fishers.
spirit And excellence over ego
Chris Carnell of Christopher Scott Homes
By SuSaN Salaz | PhotograPhy By Gabrielle Noël | artwork By eduardo Peña
In the competitive world of luxury custom homes, Christopher Scott Homes stands apart with a refreshing philosophy: leave your ego at the door. Led by Chris Carnell, this distinguished builder combines lifelong passion, technical expertise and a collaborative spirit to create one-of-a-kind dream homes.
(promotional content)
The sun has barely risen over Carmel, and Chris Carnell is already juggling a dozen tasks— reviewing architectural plans for an upcoming project, consulting with a master carpenter about a custom staircase or meeting with clients to discuss the perfect placement of their future pool. By midday, he could be on-site, problem-solving with his team as they figure out how to integrate a complex structure into a home's design or collaborating with a vendor to determine the optimal arrangement of exterior stonework. All the while, Chris is studying new products and keeping an eye on the latest trends in high-end finishes and smart home technology.
This is a typical day for Chris, the founder and creative force behind Christopher Scott Homes, a luxury home builder that's redefining what's possible in custom residential construction. But Chris isn't just building houses—he's creating bespoke works of art that serve as canvases for his clients' dreams. "Not any one day is the same, just as no one project is ever the same," he explains. "Part of that is understanding your customer because the customer really drives the project." This philosophy results in homes that defy easy categorization. From sleek, modernist marvels to grand traditional estates, each Christopher Scott home is as individual as its owners.
These aren't your typical luxury homes. Chris and his team push the boundaries of residential design, incorporating elements more commonly found in lavish hotels or cutting-edge commercial spaces. "I really
like the idea of trying to bring the East and West coast to the Midwest," Chris says. "I also think about the higher-end design, as far as how people live and what they experience."
This innovative approach has its roots in Chris’s childhood in northern Indiana, where his father worked as a public high school art teacher. With a Master of Fine Arts degree from Notre Dame, Chris's father instilled in him an appreciation for creativity and craftsmanship from an early age. "Growing up, I spent a lot of time in my dad's classroom, making clay sculptures and jewelry," he recalls. And over summer breaks they built homes. These experiences, coupled with his father's eventual transition from art teacher and home building to full-time real estate in the Indianapolis metropolitan area, shaped the future for Chris, who was already sketching his future house plans as a teenager.
Despite this early passion, the path to becoming a luxury home builder wasn't direct. Chris graduated from Purdue University and began a career in software development in 1996. But the pull of construction proved too strong to resist. He began building houses on the side a year later, and by 2001, he had fully committed to his true calling.
Today, Christopher Scott Homes stands out in the field of luxury builders, not just for the quality of its work but also for its unique approach to the building process. Central to this is Chris’s philosophy: Leave your ego at the door. “There is no
Chris Carnell, founder of Christopher Scott Homes, specializes in creating custom luxury residences throughout the Indianapolis area and beyond. With 27 years of experience, Chris leads a tight-knit team, taking on only a few high-end projects each year. His innovative approach combines East and West Coast design trends with Midwestern sensibilities, resulting in truly extraordinary homes.
ego when it comes to building a project and working with customers,” says Chris, who wants everyone involved to understand that every detail, no matter how minute, is for the overall good of the project. This ego-free approach extends to every aspect of the business, from client interactions to relationships with subcontractors and vendors. "I also view a lot of our trades and subs as friends," he says. "I really approach it more as a
friendship, not just straight business, and loyalty means a lot to me." By fostering an environment of open communication and mutual respect, Chris has assembled a team of top-tier professionals who share his commitment to excellence.
For Stephen Moore, owner of Chateau Kitchens, the privilege of working with Chris for the past 15 years has been a rewarding experience. “Chris’s 'check your
The son of an art teacher-turnedhome-builder, Chris Carnell brings a lifelong passion to every project, blending creativity with precision. Pushing boundaries in luxury home construction while dedicating himself to realizing his clients' visions, Chris’s approach is evident in the thoughtful details and innovative designs of each Christopher Scott home, resulting in residences that are both functional and deeply personal.
ego at the door' philosophy creates an environment where collaboration thrives,” Stephen says, adding that this mindset encourages everyone involved—vendors, subs, designers—to work together with a shared focus on delivering the best possible outcome for the homeowner. “By setting aside personal agendas, the team can pool their talents and expertise, leading to more innovative solutions and higher-quality results.”
This synergy resonates with many others in the industry as well. Diana Dinges of Ferguson Enterprises says all of her interactions with Christopher Scott Homes are rewarding. “Their vision for creating beautiful homes ensures that each project is tailored to the client’s individual needs with a commitment to craftsmanship, innovative design and attention to detail,” she says.
Architectural designer Emily Handke of Emily Handke Design credits Chris and their work together for much of her construction knowledge. “He has helped me to learn how to not only design a luxury home but also how to build it the right way,” she says. Emily shares that Chris stands behind the work he does and ensures he is leaving all of his clients with a home he would be happy to move into with his own family. “His creative thinking on how to build unique and difficult-toexecute architectural details helps bring our wildest design ideas to reality,” says Emily, who feels fortunate for the opportunity to partner with Christopher Scott Homes as one of her preferred builders.
This collaborative spirit extends to the company's relationships with every industry
partnership and vendor relationship. Chris is not afraid to challenge ideas or suggest improvements, always with the goal of creating the best possible outcome for the client. "If there's something that might be a better way of doing it, and also might be even a way to save some money and still get the same result, we're vocal about trying to talk to our customers and give them proper guidance," he explains. He acknowledges that construction inherently has problems, but he gets excited about those problem-solving opportunities. "Being creative in construction—that's my art form,” he says.
For Chris and his team, industry camaraderie goes beyond the business, where they support causes close to their hearts and those of their extended professional family. This year, they rallied behind their long-time friends at Chateau Kitchens in PanCAN’s PurpleStride walk to end pancreatic cancer. "It's not just about building homes," Chris explains, "it's about building a community and supporting each other through all of life's challenges."
In an industry often driven by ego and accolades, Christopher Scott Homes exemplifies the power of humility and an unwavering commitment to quality. By leaving their egos at the door, Chris and his associates have unlocked a world of possibilities, proving that when you build with passion and purpose, excellence naturally follows.
To view the stunning Christopher Scott portfolio or inquire about getting started on your own home, visit cshomes.com and follow @christopherscotthomes on Instagram.
By SuSaN Salaz
InterIor TasTemakers
What is the role of an interior designer? Each of our featured designers brings a distinctive perspective, but all understand the work they do in transforming houses into welcoming homes.
Interior design is so much more than mere decoration—it's the art of creating and curating spaces that reflect our personalities, enhance our daily lives and tell our stories. In this issue, we spotlight four visionaries in the industry who are leaving their mark on the area’s design landscape. Amanda Lantz of Lantz Collective brings a legacy of artistic talent to her meticulously detailed, full-service designs. Jennifer O'Connor of Dare 2 Design stands out for her fearless approach, pushing boundaries while remaining deeply attuned to her clients' desires. Jamie Gauker of J. Gauker Interiors excels in the art of refurnishing, breathing new life into existing spaces with her transitional style. Heidi Woodman of Heidi Woodman Interiors uses her fine arts background to infuse her designs with a unique blend of whimsy and practicality.
Each of these designers brings a distinct perspective to their craft, yet they share a common goal: to create spaces that are not just beautiful but deeply personal and functional. Read on to discover how they're transforming houses into homes that reflect the essence of their inhabitants.
(promotional content)
Amanda Lantz
AmandaLantz, the creative force behind A. Lantz Design and Lantz Collective, has established herself in the interior design industry here in Indianapolis and beyond. Her passion for design was rooted at an early age, nurtured by her father—designer and artist Barry Lantz.
An Architectural Digest 2023 and 2024 featured design firm, Lantz Collective offers full-service, turn-key designs from its studios in Carmel City Center and Naples, Florida. With a growing team, an extensive library of resources, and the support of enduring industry connections, Amanda's approach is marked by meticulous attention to detail. "I believe that true beauty in design comes from not just the aesthetic but also the functionality of a space," explains Amanda.
Amanda's design philosophy is not just about creating beautiful spaces but about crafting personalized interiors that truly reflect her clients' lifestyles. "My inspiration comes from a blend of fashion, travel, and the ever-evolving design industry," she says. This multi-faceted approach
results in timeless, sophisticated spaces that are uniquely tailored to each client.
A recent project in Carmel exemplifies Amanda's expertise. Here, a spacious estate was transformed to accommodate a large family, with a redesign emphasizing the balance between comfort with functionality. “In the reimagined club room, we incorporated a card table, lounge chairs and a walk-up bar, turning it into the perfect spot for card games and social gatherings," Amanda shares. She also highlights the study, where she says they embraced the popular trend of color-drenching by enveloping the entire space in a warm, rich chocolate hue, thus allowing the client's personal collections to shine against a cohesive backdrop. This innovative approach is evident throughout the home, including the primary bathroom, featuring a custom-made wallpaper from an original Barry Lantz art piece on canvas.
As Amanda Lantz continues to make her mark in the design world, A. Lantz Design has elevated the standard of luxury interior design, creating spaces that are both uniquely beautiful and effortlessly functional. The A. Lantz Design team’s commitment to personalizing every detail ensures that their clients' homes are true reflections of their lives.
Visit Lantz Collective in Carmel City Center at 800 S. Rangeline Road, Veterans Way Suite 250, or find them online at lantzcollective.com and follow @lantzcollective on Instagram.
Lantz Collective // A. Lantz Design
Heidi Woodman
Heidi Woodman Interiors
Heidi Woodman's approach to interior design is a refreshing blend of artistry and practicality. With a background in fine arts, Heidi brings a conceptual lens to her projects at Heidi Woodman Interiors, creating spaces that are both collected and whimsical. "I'm not a fan of perfect interiors," she explains. "I prefer a lived-in space that tells a story."
Always pushing boundaries, Heidi's designs stand out for their unique combination of vintage pieces and contemporary elements. She incorporates trendy elements sparingly, often in easily changeable items, while maintaining a strong foundation of timeless design. Her inspiration comes from a variety of sources, including art, travel, fashion and nature.
Woodman's journey to interior design was unexpected. She initially pursued a conventional career in finance but left to follow her passion for art at Herron School of Art. There, she honed her skills in painting and sculpting, developing the unique perspective that now defines her design work.
At the heart of Heidi Woodman Interiors is a clientvision-first mantra. Woodman and her team of well-rounded designers work closely with clients to create storied spaces that reflect their lives and
dreams. "There is soul in everything I create," she says. "The homes I design for clients tell an artistic story—one that speaks directly to their lives." This approach is exemplified in a recent project: a historical Cape Cod home in North Carolina. This total gut job allowed her to breathe new life into an old structure, a challenge she particularly relishes. "Give me all the old homes," she enthuses. "They are my favorite."
Looking ahead, the firm is excited about upcoming projects in Miami, FL, and overseas in Ireland, as well as some yet-to-beannounced collaborations. With her unique vision and commitment to creating storied spaces, Heidi continues to make her mark in the world of interior design, one artfully curated room at a time.
Visit Heidi Woodman Interiors design and retail studio (Haus Love) at 5901 N. College Avenue in Indianapolis. For more information, find heidiwoodmaninteriors.com online and follow @heidiwoodmaninteriors on Instagram.
Jamie Gauker
J. Gauker Interiors
Jamie Gauker of J. Gauker Interiors brings to the community over 20 years of experience as an interior designer. Throughout that time, she has helped many clients with new home builds, renovations and refurnishing. Her favorite, however, is the refurnishing part.
"I love partnering with clients to refurnish and update their current spaces," Jamie explains. Her transitional style allows her to adapt to each client's unique taste, seamlessly blending different design elements to create a cohesive look. "My design style is really whatever's best for the client," she explains, adding that she will always push them to explore things that they wouldn't have known on their own.
“You should love your home,” says Jamie, whose approach is rooted in understanding each client's specific needs and desires. She begins with an on-site consultation to understand what each client is trying to achieve in their home—wanting to know what they like and dislike about their current space and furnishings. She will always discuss new layout options and give design ideas on what the space could become with refurnishing and renovation.
Jamie says, “If the bones are good, it is worth updating.” New cabinet hardware, lighting fixtures or a freshly painted island can dramatically transform a
kitchen. In living areas, she blends existing pieces with new elements, ensuring the space feels both fresh and personal. Jamie favors performance fabrics for durability and loves to add personality through patterned chairs, fun pillows and pops of color. "I'm not going to let you fail…I’m only going to show you good choices," she asserts, and emphasizes the importance of considering how changes in one room affect adjacent spaces, ensuring a harmonious flow throughout the home. Her ability to incorporate various design elements while maintaining balance and cohesion is a hallmark of her work.
With J. Gauker Interiors, clients can expect a stressfree refurnishing experience that results in distinctive design, done right. Every carefully selected piece and accessory harmonizes to tell the client's unique story, transforming spaces from merely furnished to flawlessly finished.
Visit the studio at 316 Rangeline Road in the Carmel Arts & Design District. More information can be found online at jgaukerinteriors.com and by following @jgaukerinteriors on Instagram.
Jennifer O’Connor
Dare 2 Design
In the world of luxury interior design, Jennifer O'Connor of Dare 2 Design stands out as a fearless visionary who pushes boundaries while remaining deeply attuned to her clients' desires. With over two decades of experience, Jennifer has built a reputation for creating homes that are both luxurious and deeply personal. "My focus has always been on my client's style," says Jennifer, whose versatility allows her to seamlessly navigate styles from contemporary modern to European elegance.
Drawing inspiration from her global travels, Jennifer regularly attends furniture and building shows across the world. Her recent trip to Ireland rekindled her love for rich colors and historical architecture, inspiring her to move beyond mere pops of color to fully immersing spaces in hue. "By traveling, I'm able to bring inspiration back to my clients here in the Midwest," she shares.
What truly sets Jennifer apart is her comprehensive approach to design. She relishes the opportunity to be involved from the very beginning of a project, collaborating closely with homeowners, architects and builders. "The ideal time to engage a designer is at
the beginning of a project when the architect is putting together the design of their house," Jennifer says. This early involvement allows her to mastermind each element of the home, ensuring a cohesive design where every component harmonizes.
Jennifer layers her designs with personality through captivating patterns and finishes—currently favoring sumptuous textures like velvets, mohairs and wools to create cozy, inviting spaces. But she believes that luxury goes beyond aesthetics; it's about improving lives through design. "I am passionately motivated to help people create spaces in their homes that increase their quality of living," she says. Through daring vision and unwavering commitment to client satisfaction, Jennifer and her team continue to transform homes into distinctive retreats, proving that when design fearlessly embraces individuality, the results are nothing short of extraordinary.
Dare 2 Design is located in the Indiana Design Center at 200 South Range Line Road in Carmel. For inquiries or to schedule a design consultation, visit dare2designindy.com and follow @dare2designindy on Instagram.
By SuSaN Salaz
Trade Space
C.A.I. Designs Now Open to Design Professionals
With an established presence throughout the nation's interior design industry, C.A.I. Designs has arrived in the vibrant Central Indiana design scene as a welcomed new addition, bringing with it a legacy of distinction and inspiration.
The showroom showcases the C.A.I. philosophy of inspiring creativity, offering a comprehensive range of products to complete entire projects. "We went floor-to-ceiling, offering products to really complete an entire project," Caminiti says.
Founded in 1995 by Joe Caminiti, C.A.I. Designs currently operates showrooms in Arlington Heights and Chicago, IL; Denver, CO; Troy, MI; and now Carmel, IN. "I've had the pleasure of traveling to Indiana for the last 30 years," Caminiti reflects, "and it has become very obvious that Indiana has a tremendous design community and a very active one that is very professional and committed to design." The latest showroom fills what Caminiti saw as “a void for a great place for designers to bring their clients to at the wholesale level.”
This trade-only resource stands out in the luxury interior design landscape due to its commitment to exclusivity. Selling only to industry professionals, the approach allows designers to confidently bring their clients to explore the collections while ensuring all sales will only ever go through them, never directly to the client.
But the benefits don't stop there. C.A.I.'s to-the-trade model allows them to showcase truly unique pieces. "Because we don’t sell to the masses, we can bring in vendors like Verellen and Alfonso Marina, that carry unique products that they would never, ever see in a retail setting," explains Caminiti. This gives designers the ability to offer their clients something truly special— pieces they'd otherwise have to travel to major design hubs like the Chicago Merchandise Mart or High Point Market to see.
The showroom showcases the C.A.I. philosophy of inspiring creativity, offering a comprehensive range of products to complete entire projects. "We went
floor-to-ceiling, offering products to really complete an entire project," Caminiti says, describing the company's evolution over the past three decades.
Recognizing the growing importance of lighting, C.A.I. has made a robust investment in this design element over the years. Each showroom features a lighting boutique and lighting specialists to help designers find just the right fit for ambient, accent or task purposes. This focus supports designers as they elevate their projects, adding that final touch that can truly transform a space.
While product range is important, staying ahead of trends also matters at C.A.I. In an effort to meet designer needs before they arise, Caminiti travels extensively, attending fairs in Paris, Milan, High Point and beyond, attending design events to see firsthand
new trends around the world in order to be the first to bring in exciting products. Yet, amidst the ever-changing world of design, they remain grounded in timeless principles. As Caminiti observes, "Good style, good scale and good design always sell, so as much as there are trends and innovations, you still need to look at the standard products that continue to sell and continue to be part of the interior design universe."
For luxury interior designers in Indianapolis and beyond, C.A.I. Designs is not just a showroom—it's a partnership, a resource and a catalyst for creating truly exceptional spaces.
Visit the C.A.I Designs Indianapolis Showroom in the Carmel Tech Center at 12232 Hancock Street in Carmel. For more information, find them online at caidesigns. net and follow @caidesigns on Instagram.
By SuSaN Salaz
’Round the Town
Autumn Adventures – Your Mini-Guide to Fall Festivals
Fall into fun with our curated guide to the region's most spirited seasonal celebrations. From pumpkin-filled nights to Bavarian delights, these festivals capture autumn's essence in every hue and flavor.
Pumpkin Harvest
Dull’s Tree Farm
dullstreefarm.com
September 21 – October 27
For a quintessential fall experience, Dull’s Tree Farm in Thorntown, Indiana, has it all. Enjoy hayrides, a corn maze, and good food throughout the season, including homemade apple cider donuts and apple cider slushies. On Saturdays, the pumpkin cannon shows offer great entertainment, and don’t miss the fireworks on October 19.
ZooBoo
Indianapolis Zoo
indianapoliszoo.com
September 25 – October 31
Enjoy a family-friendly Halloween adventure at the Indianapolis Zoo's ZooBoo. This annual event features trick-or-treating, games and activities, Halloween-themed animal encounters and more. October’s mild temperatures and later closing times on Fridays and Saturdays are a great combination to see more active animals and have a memorable visit.
Carmel International Arts Festival
Carmel Arts & Design District carmelartsfestival.org
September 28-29
Experience a vibrant celebration of creativity at the Carmel International Arts Festival. This two-day event transforms the Arts & Design District into an open-air gallery, showcasing works from over 100 juried artists. Enjoy live music, international cuisine and interactive art demonstrations. It's a perfect autumn outing for art enthusiasts and families alike.
Harvest Nights
Newfields
discovernewfields.org
September 29 – November 2
Step into a spooky spectacle at Newfields for the fifth season of Harvest Nights. This enchanting after-dark experience features glowing pumpkins, mesmerizing light displays, and seasonal food and drinks. Stroll through beautifully illuminated gardens and enjoy Instagram-worthy moments around every corner. It's a must-see fall spectacle for visitors of all ages.
Headless Horseman
Conner Prairie connerprairie.org
October 3 – 27
Brave souls can face their fears at Conner Prairie's Headless Horseman event. This immersive Halloween experience combines history with haunts, featuring a chilling hayride through the legendary Sleepy Hollow. Enjoy fall activities, storytelling, and encounters with costumed characters. It's a thrilling way to celebrate the spooky season in a unique historical setting.
GermanFest
The Athenaeum athenaeumindy.org
October 5
Celebrate German heritage at the Athenaeum's original GermanFest. This long-standing tradition offers authentic cuisine, beer gardens and live entertainment, from polka music to wiener dog races. With its blend of history and modern festivities, GermanFest provides a genuine taste of Germany in the heart of Indianapolis. It’s wunderbar!
Oktoberfest
Carmel City Center
carmeloktoberfest.com
October 3 – 27
Prost! Toast Bavarian culture at Carmel City Center's Oktoberfest. This lively event features authentic German food, a wide selection of beers and traditional music. Participate in stein-holding contests, enjoy folk dancing, and soak in the festive atmosphere. It's a perfect opportunity to experience a slice of Munich in central Indiana.
Historic Irvington Halloween Festival
Irvington Irvingtonhalloween.com
October 19 – 26
Experience Halloween like never before at the 78th annual Irvington Halloween Festival. This week-long celebration in historic Irvington features costume contests, a street fair and spooky home tours. Enjoy live performances, a masquerade ball and the famous Halloween parade. It's a beloved community tradition that showcases the neighborhood's unique charm and Halloween spirit.
Parke County Covered Bridge Festival
Rockville, Indiana coveredbridges.com
October 11 – 20
Step back in time at the Parke County
Covered Bridge Festival. This charming event is the state’s largest festival, featuring tours of picturesque covered bridges, local artisan crafts and delicious homemade foods. Enjoy live music, antique tractors and beautiful fall foliage. It's a perfect way to experience the nostalgia and beauty of rural Indiana.
Jack O’ Lantern Spectacular
Louisville, Kentucky jackolanternlouisville.org
October 1 – November 2
Louisville's Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular is a must-see seasonal event and worth the drive over Indiana’s southern border. This breathtaking nighttime display transforms Iroquois Park into an illuminated glow show with thousands of artistically carved pumpkins, themed vignettes, organic art and atmospheric music. It's an autumnal experience you have to see to believe.
