Oct 29, 2024
This year’s Chicago Build Expo offered a fantastic platform for designers, architects, and builders to meet, sharing insights on the evolving landscape of design and construction. Three of our designers at Chipman Design Architecture attended the expo, each returning with unique perspectives on emerging trends, valuable collaborations, and inspiring products.
For CDA Designer Rachela Schabowska, a highlight of the tradeshow was connecting with Preview 3D, a Chicago-area company specializing in high-quality 3D renderings and virtual staging, particularly for Senior Living and Active Adult Communities. Preview3D’s visualizations, created with 3D Studio Max, allow designers to offer clients immersive tours, floorplans, and renderings that capture the essence of their future spaces. Given Chipman Design Architecture’s expertise in Senior Living design.
Senior Design Manager Meg Stevens attended Chicago Build with an eye toward interdisciplinary connections. For her, the event underscored the importance of uniting design vision with construction expertise early in the project lifecycle. A standout experience was a panel on hospitality design, where experts shared insights on project planning, budgeting, and sustainable practices. Meg reflected, “It was a powerful reminder that integrating design and construction from the start creates environments that are both beautiful and structurally sound.” This holistic approach allows designers to help create spaces that reflect high quality and cohesive aesthetics.
On the tradeshow floor, Meg explored materials and products that sparked new ideas for resilient, beautiful designs. From Virginia Tile’s durable surfaces to Worden Custom Millwork’s bespoke woodwork, exhibitors showcased elements that balance style and functionality. A notable standout was Bridgewood’s live edge tables, which bring natural elements into interiors, aligning with biophilic design principles. This trend resonates as more people seek spaces that foster a connection to nature.
Senior Designer Amanda Kosiba shared her thoughts from a panel discussion titled “Designing Inner Spaces: The Art of Interior Design.” The panel explored how interior designers can craft spaces with purpose and depth. Amanda emphasized that “Interior designers are storytellers” and noted that a narrative-driven approach positions designers as the “gatekeepers” of a project’s intent, maintaining design consistency throughout. Collaborating with contractors and builders is essential to ensure that even minor adjustments align with the project’s overall vision.
Amanda also observed a growing demand for neurodiverse spaces—designing with acoustics, lighting, air quality, and biophilic elements in mind to cater to different sensory needs. This trend reflects a shift toward user-centered design, underscoring the importance of creating environments that promote well-being and inclusivity.
An intriguing discussion emerged around AI’s role in interior design, sparking a range of opinions among panelists. While some see AI as a valuable tool for generating fresh imagery and mood boards, others expressed concerns about the technology’s reliance on pre-existing designs. Amanda captured this sentiment, remarking, "It’s only pulling from things that have already been created.” This balanced perspective highlights AI’s potential as an asset while underscoring the importance of original, human creativity.
Sustainability is about more than eco-friendly materials—it’s about creating spaces that prioritize energy efficiency, adaptability, and user well-being. Panelists emphasized understanding what sustainability means to each client, whether that involves reducing carbon footprints, supporting reusable designs, or incorporating health-forward elements.
This approach also emphasizes the longevity of designs: creating timeless, low-maintenance spaces that align with client values. There’s a growing recognition that sustainability should incorporate biophilic elements, natural light, and air quality—factors that support a healthy, immersive user experience. Engaging clients early in the process allows designers to align on sustainability goal sand ensure that every choice, from structure to finishes, contributes to a more sustainable and impactful project.
Chicago Build Expo2024 showcased the potential of cross-disciplinary teamwork and highlighted exciting possibilities through new technologies, innovative materials, and sustainable practices. From local talent like Preview 3D to insights on integrating user-centered design, the event provided our team with fresh ideas and reinforced the importance of collaboration. As Meg summarized, “By engaging with the construction side early on, interior designers can contribute to spaces that are not only functional but also beautifully designed and enriching for the end user.” This spirit of partnership and shared purpose is central to what we do, inspiring us to continue creating environments that are as functional as they are impactful.
Meg Stevens directs her creative senior living interiors team with a collaborative energy that engages design possibility in every project. It is at this intersection of strategic development and inviting interiors that Meg and her team thrive.
Developing a profound portfolio that spans more than a decade, Meg is recognized for her wide range of projects across the hospitality, senior living, and health + wellness sectors. The throughline in every design project Meg and her team undertake is the consideration of the guest and how they will interact with the space and how it will positively impact their lives.
At Chipman Design Architecture, Meg is charged with design management with a specialty in senior living communities, taking projects from conceptualization through completion. She is adept at developing the overall interior concept and designing specifically for seniors’ needs across care levels while developing the design direction, space plan and overlaying materials and finishes. Her management skills continue through construction documents and specifications, FF+E budgeting, design presentations, project installations and all client relations.
A featured speaker at Boutique Design New York (BDNY), Meg is a graduate of University of Indiana, receiving her Bachelor of Interior Design and is a LEED AP-licensed professional.
Amanda Kosiba attended Iowa State University and received her Bachelor of Fine Arts, Majoring in Interior Design. With over ten years of experience, Amanda brings a depth of knowledge from her background including Chick-fil-A, Puttshack and Chewy Vet Clinic.
As a brand specialist and former Prototype Manager for both Wyndham Hotels and La Quinta Inn & Suites, Amanda has extensive experience in hotel renovations, both branded and boutique. Being the Lead Interior Designer for Two Thirty-Five Luxury Suites, in Healdsburg, CA, Amanda was charged with creating a unique guest experience in each suite including custom case goods and rotating artwork from local artists.
From Concept to Construction Documents, Amanda’s talents are well-rounded with an innate eye for luxurious design and a comforting experience. Having a specialty in Specifications and Construction Documents, Amanda’s designs come to life.
An NCIDQ-licensed interior designer, Amanda received her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design from Iowa State University.
