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).
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.
“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 is more than just a job—it’s a lifelong passion. Launched just over a year ago, JS Construction brings Siman’s decades of experience in high-end construction to the North Shore and beyond. The “J” in the name stands for his three sons—Jacob, Jameson, and Jackson—reflecting his hope that one of them will take over the family business one day.
While luxury home construction is JS Construction’s core service, the company also offers a home concierge program. Subscribers receive twice-yearly inspections and maintenance by licensed professionals. From drone-assisted roofing inspections to plumbing upkeep, HVAC cleaning, and a day of professional painting, every detail is meticulously managed.
“Your time with family is valuable, so we work to keep your home pristine so you can focus on what matters most,” Siman says.
His passion for craftsmanship is evident in projects ranging from David Adler homes to remodeling residences once owned by Mr. T and Billy Corgan. “I love the challenge of custom work and working with different people,” he says. “One of my strengths as a general contractor is blending all the personalities—designers, architects, plumbers, electricians—to make sure we’re all on the same page.”
Twice the Measure: Full-Service Interior Remodeling
Dario Dobric, a Serbian native, completed construction trade school in Munich, Germany, after escaping the Bosnian War in the ’90s. He 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, Danijiela, 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 ten 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. Twice the Measure’s reputation for detailed work and follow-through has paid off.
“We’ve never had to advertise—our business is all word-of-mouth referrals and repeat clients,” Dobric says.
Leah Bolger: Blending Beauty with Form and Function
Leah Bolger’s journey to interior architecture is anything but conventional. With degrees in interior architecture, communication, and architectural history, she blends academic expertise with hands-on experience.
Her 15 years as a college professor teaching interior architecture—while actively working in the field—has shaped her unique design approach.
“My work is about more than just furniture or décor,” Bolger says. “I focus on the structure, the bones of the space. The architect creates the sandbox—then I get to play in it.”
From intricate staircases and custom kitchens to large-scale remodels, Bolger’s work fuses technical knowledge with artistic vision.
“Communication is everything,” she says. “It’s about understanding how people live, their goals, and what’s most important to them.”
Her projects range from elegant furnishings for a Waldorf property to complete gut renovations. Recently, she won a “Best Bathroom” award for a Chicago condo redesign. She also regularly presents on design and architecture at conferences like Design Chicago.
“Interior architecture is about crafting environments that function beautifully and feel deeply personal,” she 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 Shore-based 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
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 key advantage is DDK’s partnership with 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 full-service selections.
"We don’t just design cookie-cutter kitchens. Our focus is on communicating with clients to make their dreams a reality, handling everything so they can spend more time with their families.”
"I focus on the bones of the space. The architect creates the sandbox--then I get to play in it.”