Transform your home with ABLAZE Design Group, a premier Design-Build firm offering everything from designs and renovations to painting, decorating, cabinetry, and shades. Explore our downtown Highwood store for home goods and expert services that will elevate every corner of your home.
March is here, and with it comes our special Home edition—our 5th issue! We’re thrilled to bring you another installment filled with inspiration, expertise, and heartfelt connections.
They say home is where the heart is, and we couldn’t agree more. Whether it’s the cozy nook where you sip your morning coffee, the kitchen where laughter fills the air, or the backyard that holds endless memories, home is our sanctuary. In this issue, we shine a spotlight on local experts who bring passion and knowledge to creating spaces that are not just beautiful, but truly feel like home.
Our main feature showcases the talent behind the bones and beauty of the North Shore—from luxury home builders to remodelers and designers. You’ll also find some spring cleaning tips from a master organizer and a cheat sheet from Tom Gorges with @properties on how to stage (or just spruce up) your home.
We also want to take a moment to express our gratitude to our incredible partners. Your support makes this publication possible, and we are honored to work alongside you in connecting local businesses with our wonderful community in the most personal way possible. Our mission has always been to provide quality content that informs, inspires, and uplifts—and that wouldn’t be possible without our contributors and readers like you.
So, as you flip through these pages, we hope you find fresh ideas, expert advice, and maybe even a little extra motivation to make your space the best it can be. After all, home isn’t just a place—it’s a feeling. Here’s to celebrating the spaces we cherish most!
Warmly,
March 2025
PUBLISHER
Keely Conrey | keely.conrey@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Amelia Levin | amelia.levin@citylifestyle.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Amee McCaughan | amee@ameemccaughan.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Grace Caira | grace.caira@citylifestyle.com
MARKET SUPPORT MANAGER
Sehar Uddin | sehar@stardigitalmarketing.org
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Tom Gorges, Brooke Milton
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley
AD DESIGNER Josh Govero
LAYOUT DESIGNER Lillian Gibbs
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Jean Franczyk, President/CEO, Chicago Botanic Garden, and Chris Hall at the Lightscape Preview Party 2: Chicago Botanic Garden board of directors at the Lightscape Preview Party. 3: CBG Board Director Anne Loucks and David Loucks at the Lightscape Preview Party 4-7: Attendees at the Amdur Productions Galentine’s Day shopping event in February. 4: Laura Flis and Keely Georgelos at the Amdur Productions Galentine’s Market event in February. 5: Patricia Talbot and Mariya Williams-Oster at the Galentine's event 6: Cecilia and Bella Ziegler at the Galentine's event 7: Artist Danielle Scharf at the Galentine's event
business monthly
KidStrong To Open in Libertyville
Slated to open this spring at 1346 S. Milwaukee Ave., Libertyville, this kids athletic training facility will offer programs for children ages 1 to 11 that help build confidence, strength and independence through fun, science-based training designed by child development experts and led by expert coaches. Currently recruiting members. libertyville.kidstrong.com
Source Healing Menopause Workshop at SALT North Shore
Join Christie Jordan, founder of Source Healing, at 6 p.m. on March 13 at SALT North Shore (410 Green Bay Rd., Kenilworth) for Menopause: A Second Spring –Embracing Renewal and Growth. This workshop explores menopause through traditional Chinese medicine, highlighting wisdom, intuition, and spiritual awareness. Includes guided meditation and sound bowl session. Fee: $100. Register at sourcehealing.com.
Girl and the Kitchen Launches Customized Meal Prep Delivery
Girl and the Kitchen, a private chef service, offers restaurant-quality meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, all customized to meet individual and family dietary needs, considering allergies and all food sensitivities. Choose to have chefs craft the meals in your home, or for an additional small fee covering packaging and transport, meals can be prepared fresh and delivered directly to your doorstep. girlandthekitchen.com
FoodHaul™
ARTICLE BY BROOKE MILTON
How to Edit Your Home
SIMPLE STEPS TO DECLUTTER YOUR SPACES AND CREATE A MORE INTENTIONAL, STRESS-FREE LIFESTYLE
Milton, edit+design
If you’re not thinking about spring cleaning, it’s time to put it on your radar.
Start by taking a holistic view of your house, room by room, to see where you can edit. Space organization is life organization. Streamlining can absolutely influence less-healthy habits to create more intentional lifestyles. There’s an important connection between mental health and clutter. Stuff affects anxiety, depression, eating habits, focus, productivity, relationships, stress—everything.
Here are some steps to start your process:
There’s an important connection between mental health and clutter. Stuff affects anxiety, depression, eating habits, focus, productivity, relationships, stress—everything.
Brooke
Choose Need vs. Want
We need very little. Separating the two is a hard concept, though. Spend some time thinking about what’s important to you, in the physical sense. What you need day-to-day isn’t the same as what you want. Decide to surround yourself with only useful objects. Let go of the rest.
Start Small
Set small, attainable goals. Set a timer for 20 minutes and go to town on “editing,” whether it’s tackling a junk drawer or sorting through a stack of papers on a counter. Don’t let yourself get overwhelmed. You’ll be amazed at what you can accomplish in a short period of time. Seeing each project through to completion will give you the confidence you need for the next one.
Add and Subtract
If one comes in, one must come out. If you buy a new sweatshirt, for example, get rid of one or two. If you buy a new dress, get rid of one. Now. Don’t wait until your closet or drawers are stuffed. The idea of editing later becomes daunting.
Be a Conscious Buyer
Becoming a more conscious buyer goes a long way toward reducing your clutter. It’s a choice to “add to cart.” Next day delivery is certainly enticing, but I encourage you to be careful to not overbuy. Focus on household necessities before gadgets and gizmos. Toilet paper, garbage bags and shampoo take precedence over anything social media sneakily tries to convince you to buy.
Create a Routine
It’s much easier to keep up than to catch up, so establish a routine to edit your spaces on a regular basis. Grab a laundry basket and make the rounds— maybe once a week—tossing in anything that needs a home. As you sort through off-season clothing, get rid of anything you didn’t wear. Check food labels and toss out expired products from your pantry before heading to the grocery store. Recycle newspapers and magazines that haven’t been read. Once you find a rhythm that works for you, editing will become less of a challenge and more of a source of pride.
Brooke Milton is the founder of edit + design, a boutique interior design firm specializing in whole home organization and custom woodworking. She’s been proudly serving the North Shore since 2010. Learn more at editanddesign.com and @editanddesignco on Instagram.
De-cluttering and organizing on a routine basis helps reduce mental stress.
Vision Builders
The people behind the designs, buildings and beauty of the North Shore
ARTICLE BY AMELIA LEVIN
A North Shore kitchen designed by ABLAZE Design Group (credit: Betty NYC).
From century-old estates to sleek modern renovations, the North Shore is home to some of the most innovative designers in the industry. These professionals don’t just create beautiful spaces—they craft homes that tell a story, blending artistry with functionality. In this feature, we spotlight the creative minds shaping how North Shore residents live, from luxury builders and interior architects to expert remodelers redefining everyday spaces.
ABLAZE DESIGN GROUP: ELEVATING EVERYDAY LIVING
From humble beginnings as a painting company to a luxury design-build firm, ABLAZE Design Group has served the North Shore for 51 years. Founded by Howard and Miriam Lipsky as The ABL Group, the company is now run by their daughter Ava Markoutsas, her husband, George Markoutsas (CEO), and Ava’s brother, David Lipsky (CFO).
George and Ava Markoutsas and David Lipsky of ABLAZE Design Group
There’s also a love story here—Ava and George were high school classmates and friends while George worked for Howard, painting houses and learning the ropes in home remodeling. They reconnected after college and later married.
What put ABLAZE on the map was its 2015 selection to showcase designs at the prestigious Lake Forest Showhouse at John Hughes’ estate. “We had a bit of luck when another design dropped out, and we were able to step in and get the job done,” George Markoutsas says. “That allowed us to make great relationships, and all proceeds go to the Infant Welfare Society, so the work was for a great cause.” The firm was again selected for this year’s event in April.
ABLAZE takes a holistic approach to design, ensuring thoughtful, impactful investments. From reimagining kitchens as “lifestyle spaces” to transforming bathrooms into wellness retreats, ABLAZE blends luxury and practicality. The “one-stop-shop” for all things design also offers window treatments, flooring and more, and has a retail shop featuring curated items and gifts at its Highwood headquarters and showroom.
A spa-like bathroom designed by ABLAZE Design Group (Betty NYC).
ABLAZE Design Group works closely with clients to assess use and functionality of spaces, such as for this modern kitchen (credit: Ryan McDonald).
Brad Siman, owner of the one-year-old JS Construction, offering luxury home building and routine maintenance
“Our approach is deeply rooted in understanding how people live and what they need,” Markoutsas explains. “If a client wants to redo the kitchen and eventually the primary bathroom upstairs, we need to look at both spaces early on so we don’t move things that might affect what’s above or below.”
“We don’t just design cookie-cutter kitchens,” he adds. “Our focus is on communicating with clients to make their dreams a reality, handling everything so they can spend more time with their families.”
JS CONSTRUCTION: BUILDING AND MAINTAINING BEAUTIFUL HOMES
For Brad Siman, owner of JS Construction, building and maintaining homes isn’t just a profession— it’s a lifelong passion. Established in January of last year, JS Construction brings Siman’s decades of expertise in high-end custom home building to the North Shore and beyond. The “J” in the name represents his three sons—Jacob, Jameson, and Jackson—a tribute to family and the hope that one day, one of them will carry on the legacy.
Siman’s passion for the artistry of construction is evident in the projects he has completed, from working on iconic David Adler homes to remodeling residences once owned by Mr. T and Billy Corgan. “I love the challenge and uniqueness of custom work, but I also love working with different people,” he shares. “One of my greatest strengths as a general contractor is my ability to collaborate with designers, architects, plumbers, and electricians—blending different personalities and ensuring we’re all aligned. I take pride in helping interior designers by making their jobs easier because I truly understand the importance of fine details. I love bringing their designs—and my clients’ visions—to life.”
While luxury home construction is the cornerstone of JS Construction, the company also offers an exclusive home concierge program. This service provides “subscribers” with biannual home
“We take care of your home’s upkeep so you can focus on what matters most” - Brad Siman
inspections and maintenance by licensed and insured professionals. From drone-assisted roofing inspections to plumbing upkeep, HVAC cleaning, and even a dedicated day of professional painting, every detail of the home is meticulously maintained. “Your time—and the time you spend with family—is invaluable. We take care of your home’s upkeep so you can focus on what matters most while also preserving and enhancing its value,” Siman says.
TWICE THE MEASURE: FULL-SERVICE INTERIOR REMODELING
Dario Dobric, Serbian native, lived in Munich, Germany, where he completed construction trade school. Immersing himself in the construction field, he quickly became foreman for a residential renovation company and immigrated to the United States in 1999, reconnecting with family in Chicago. He started Twice the Measure, a home remodeling business, in 2003. His wife, Danijela, later joined him to manage projects for the all-referral-based company.
“We started with clients in the city and grew with them as they moved north and started families,” Dobric says. “Then they hired us again or referred their family and friends.”
Today, with about 10 employees between the Lincoln Park and Northbrook offices, Twice the Measure offers full-service kitchen and bath remodels, additions, and structural modifications.
New clients can book a consultation with Dobric or a team member to assess structural needs, review budgets, and select materials. “Clients can book a consultation to review ideas and see if they fit into an existing layout or not and how much needs to be modified,” Dobric says. “Do we need to expand the space to accommodate a bigger kitchen or keep it in the same format? Do we need to involve an engineer?” Those are the questions that need be asked.
Budgets are also important. “Before we start doing anything we make sure we have a budget in mind that we want to be at. It’s important to know you max spend amount and work backwards from there,” says Dobric. Twice
Dario and Danijela Dobric of Twice the Measure
the Measure works with various cabinet makers for custom cabinetry as well as stone manufacturers and flooring vendors.
Dobric and his team’s strong reputation for detailed work and follow-through has paid off.
“We’ve never had to advertise, all of our business has been from word of mouth, referrals and repeat business,” Dobric says.
CLOSETS BY DESIGN: PRACTICAL SOLUTIONS FOR PEACE OF MIND
When Jamie Trewartha and Paul Paluch took over the Closets by Design franchise in March 2020, they revitalized a company known for customized organization solutions.
From sleek closets and garages to functional home offices and Murphy beds, their North Shorebased team has transformed spaces into practical works of art.
“We have over 70 team members—25 of whom are designers living near clients—who care about creating great solutions and experiences,” Trewartha says.
The company’s Bartlett-based production facility ensures high-quality, locally made products with faster turnaround times.
Trewartha and his team also take pride in giving back, from installing secret closet panels for safe rooms to donating a $5,000 custom closet to a hardworking nurse during COVID-19.
“We don’t just design spaces—we create peace of mind,” Trewartha says.
“We don’t just design spaces–we create peace of mind.”
Jamie Trewartha (Left) and Paul Paluch (right), owners of Closets by Design serving the North Shore and Northwest suburbs
Photo credit: ABLAZE Design Group
DDK KITCHEN DESIGN GROUP: A FULL-SERVICE MERGER
In June 2024, two established names in home remodeling—DDK Kitchens and Design First— merged to create a powerhouse for full-service design and renovation.
Founded in 1978, DDK specialized in kitchen cabinetry, countertops, and design, while Design First, launched in 2006, focused on turnkey custom builds. The merger now offers a comprehensive design-build service under one roof.
“Historically, DDK focused on cabinets and countertops, while clients managed contractors for construction,” says David Bertucci, operations manager. “Now, we’re handling everything—gut renovations, wall removals, even additions—from initial design to final inspection.”
The merger enhances their offerings, combining DDK’s reputation with Design First’s all-inclusive approach. Clients benefit from a streamlined process, starting with in-home consultations, full project management, and expanded showrooms coming in 2025.
A modern living space outfitted by DDK Kitchen Design Group/ Design First Builders
David Bertucci, operations manager of the newly merged DDK Kitchen Design Group
A key advantage is that DDK owns and operates Ann Tucker, a local, custom cabinet maker. “We now deliver high-quality cabinets with much shorter lead times than major brands,” Bertucci says. “During COVID-19, some took up to 36 weeks. With our local partner, we’ve cut that time in half without sacrificing quality.”
With a new Wilmette showroom opening in 2025, homeowners will soon have even greater access to fullservice selections.
DDK Kitchen Design Group designers say soft whites are on trend for kitchens today.
Designers Dish
How Top Designers Are Bringing Wellness Into Kitchen and Bath Spaces
Wellness trends are making their way into homes as designers create clean, enriching spaces that support mental and physical health. Here are six kitchen and bath trends embracing a natural, wellness-focused approach.
1. Wet Bathrooms
Bathrooms are no longer just functional; they’re becoming wellness sanctuaries. “One of the best ways to solve your skincare woes is with steam and steam showers,” says George Markoutsas, CEO, ABLAZE Design Group. “It hydrates your skin, clears out toxins, and reduces the need for chemical products. It’s not just about looking great; it’s about feeling calm and inspired every time you walk in your space.”
2. Living Walls
Living walls are transforming kitchens and bathrooms by bringing nature into the home. “During COVID, people were craving a connection to nature ,and that hasn’t changed,” Markoutsas says. “We’re not just talking about adding some potted plants to your space; living walls are built-in features that create an organic focal point in kitchens or a spa-like atmosphere in bathrooms.” They also naturally filter indoor air, making them great for those with pets and allergies.
ARTICLE BY AMELIA LEVIN
3. Quartzite Countertops
“It’s not just about looking great; it’s about feeling calm and inspired every time you walk in your space.”
Quartzite is a natural stone gaining popularity for its beauty and resilience as a heat-resistant, scratch-proof, and stain-resistant material, making it ideal for high-use kitchens. “Iceberg quartzite gives you that elegant marble look, but without being actual marble, which is hard to maintain,” says Dario Dobric, owner, Twice the Measure. Unlike some imported quartz products, domestically-sourced quartzite doesn’t pose risks like VOCs or resin pooling, making it an attractive material for health-conscious consumers.
Photo credit: DDK Kitchen Design Group
4. Natural Wood Cabinetry 5. Noise-Reducing Elements 6. Modern Whites
Warm, natural woods are defining modern kitchen design, says Linda Larisch, senior designer, CMKBD, DDK Kitchen Design Group. “Light-stained woods, especially rough-cut white oak and walnut, are taking center stage, offering organic textures and timeless appeal,” she says. “Designers are moving away from bold colors, cherry and maple in favor of softer, lighter tones that exude a natural and airy vibe.” The 3/4-inch “skinny” shaker remains a top pick, often paired with soft whites, matte black, and honey gold accents.
“A silent kitchen is a kitchen designed to be quiet and reduce noise, which can help improve quality of life and well-being,” Markoutsas says. Soft-closing, handle-free cabinetry prevents slamming, while false ceilings, acoustic studs, and extra insulation reduce echoes. Built-in appliances, luxury vinyl tiles, and certain range hoods contribute to a quieter, more peaceful kitchen environment.
While some designers might say white is out, others say modern applications still give kitchens that mentally uplifting, bright feeling. “People are leaning toward warmer whites rather than the cooler, brighter tones—still within the white family,” says Anne Dempsey, designer, DDK Kitchen Design Group. “Additionally, more homeowners are open to mixing finishes, with base and upper cabinets in different colors or materials.”
Photo credit: DDK Kitchen Design Group
Photo credit: ABLAZE Design Group
Photo credit: ABLAZE Design Group
Stage it Right
5 Easy Ways to Refresh Your Home for a Successful Sale (or Stay)
ARTICLE BY TOM GORGES
Spring is the start of the housing market season, and if you’re planning to sell, making your home stand out is key. Today’s buyers, especially younger ones, want move-in-ready homes that don’t require a lot of work. Here are tips to get your house ready if you're selling— or just to refresh your space if you're staying put.
Declutter to Add Value
Clutter eats equity. Clear out oversized furniture, pack up personal items and let each room speak for itself. Buyers need to visualize their lives in the space.
Neutral Paint Goes a Long Way
If your walls feature bold or dated colors, a fresh coat of neutral paint works wonders. Whites and soft tones create a clean, modern feel that appeals to buyers.
Fix What’s Broken
Address small repairs before they become big red flags. Loose toilets, HVAC filters, or minor pre-inspection issues can scare off buyers or lead to surprises later.
Show Off the Space
Make rooms feel bigger by paring down furniture. For example, replace an oversized dining table with a smaller setup. Simple changes like this can make a big difference.
Let the Light In
Open curtains, clean windows, and maximize natural light. Bright, airy spaces feel larger and more inviting, leaving buyers with a positive impression.
Buyers want to walk in and feel at home. With a little effort, your house can be the one they remember— and the one they want to buy.
Tom Gorges has been a real estate professional on the North Shore for over 10 years with @properties, specializing in helping families transition from city living to the suburbs and assisting suburban owners in staging and selling their homes.
Photo: Tom Gorges, @properties
AGE GRACEFULLY: YOUR BEST SKIN AT EVERY DECADE
At Wild Moon Collective, we believe in aging beautifully and intentionally. Here’s how to keep your skin radiant in your 30s, 40s, and 50s with treatments tailored to your decade.
30s: Prevention & Hydration
Collagen starts to decline, so now’s the time to focus on hydration, sun protection, and early anti-aging treatments.
Best Treatments: Facials, Microneedling, Laser, Preventative TOX, and Medical-Grade Skincare 40s: Repair & Rejuvenate
Fine lines deepen, and skin elasticity begins to slow. Targeting collagen production and skin renewal is key.
Best Treatments: RF Microneedling, Lasers, Dermal Fillers, Scultpra, Chemical Peels, Facials, 50s+: Lift & Restore
Volume loss and skin laxity become more noticeable. Advanced treatments can restore firmness and hydration.
Best Treatments: RF Microneedling, Lasers, Deeper Peels, Sculptra, and Customized Facials.
No matter your age, Wild Moon Collective is here to help you embrace your beauty with expert care.
Created by Margarita Challenger, inspired by the vibrant flavors of her home region in Guanajuato, Mexico. After moving to Chicago’s North Shore suburbs, Margarita set out to bring the authentic taste of her roots to the community. For two decades, Guanajuato has celebrated Mexico’s culinary traditions with fresh, seasonal ingredients and timehonored cooking techniques, offering locals a true taste of Mexico.
Visit us for a great lunch or dinner at our Tacos Guanajuato location at 20771 N Rand Rd Kildeer, IL 60047
847.242.0501 | myguanajuato.com 1005 Green Bay Road, Winnetka, IL 60093 V@guanajuato_tequila
At DDK Kitchen Design Group, we go beyond kitchens—our expert designers and remodelers transform entire homes with sophisticated, high-end craftsmanship. From stunning kitchen renovations to full-home remodels, we create spaces that reflect your lifestyle and elevate your home’s value.
