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The Journey Begins Early in my career, I landed what I thought was my dream job as a Senior Designer at a boutique design firm. We had incredible clients, a wonderfully creative team, and the kind of projects that pushed us to think differently every day. It was the type of studio where everyone knew what everyone else was working on, and every project felt like an opportunity to create something unique. To my former boss, Frank, who still follows along with these newsletters

When you think about commercial real estate, the term Class A buildings often comes up. But what exactly makes a building earn this prestigious designation? Having spent much of my career designing workplace environments—including serving as Design Manager for the amenity transformation at Chicago's 71 South Wacker while at Gensler—I've seen firsthand how the definition of a Class A building has evolved beyond location and aesthetics. Today, the most successful Class A proper

What Bathroom Renovations Actually Cost in 2026— and the Decisions That Matter Most By Adina Hall, R.A. | Architect + Interior Designer Bathrooms are the smallest rooms in the home, yet somehow one of the most emotionally loaded and complex spaces that we design. People dream about them for years.The oversized shower. The vanity with enough storage so the countertop isn’t covered in products. The soft lighting at night. The heated floors on a freezing Chicago morning. The fee

Renovating a kitchen can feel like stepping into a maze without a map. You hear numbers tossed around, but what do they really mean? How much does a kitchen remodel cost in 2026—and what are you actually getting if you spend more or less? As an architect and interior designer, I’ve led countless kitchen renovations in Chicago and beyond. The most imporant decision we make is the layout. Are we keeping the appliances in place or do we need to make strategic changes to improve

When it comes to transforming a house into a home, the magic is always in the details. I’ve always believed that a well-designed space is a lot like a beautiful story—it has rhythm, intention, and a natural flow. It welcomes you in, supports your daily life, and quietly reflects who you are. Whether you're balancing a demanding career, raising a lively household, or embracing the calm of an empty nest, your home should support your life with ease and grace. Thoughtful design

And just like that, we meet again in 2026. As I sat down to prepare my annual design outlook, I had an unexpected realization: this year feels less about what’s new—and far more about what lasts. At least for us at Adina Hall Design. I find myself asking different questions. What truly makes a difference? What is enough—enough to shift behavior, to bring contentment, to support our daily rituals, to feel proud? How do our environments support who we are today—while carrying u

Renovating a Victorian farmhouse is equal parts love story and puzzle. These homes hold layers of history — tall windows that once framed prairie sunsets, original woodwork carved by hand, and quirks that only time can create. But updating one for modern living takes more than a coat of paint. It takes vision, respect for craftsmanship, and a plan that balances beauty with practicality. If you’ve fallen for a Victorian (and who could blame you?), here’s how to revive its soul

When it comes to commercial office design , productivity isn’t just shaped by lighting, furniture, or floor plans — it’s rooted in the...

The truth is, the best homes aren’t designed overnight. Those drool-worthy photos you see in Architectural Digest and Luxe Magazine ?...

Great design doesn’t happen by chance—it’s the result of a clear, collaborative process that balances creativity, technical precision, and your personal story.

Transforming your home shouldn’t feel like solving a Rubik’s cube blindfolded. But for many people, it does. Between layout choices,...

In a city like Chicago—where food is a love language and kitchens are made for gathering—our boutique interior design firm specializes in...

The world of interior design is always evolving, and 2025 is set to be a year of bold innovation and refined comfort. Whether you're...

With the right colors, lighting, and accessories, your home can be transformed into a welcoming haven, inviting your guests to enjoy.

As busy moms continue to seek kitchens that are as stylish as they are functional, open-concept kitchen designs are increasingly popular. Bl

With remote work becoming a part of daily life for many, our homes have turned into multifunctional hubs where we work, relax, and sometimes

First and foremost, Mid Century Modern (MCM) style is more than just a design trend; it's a reflection of your personality and story so you

We are excited to share our Design-Build Fast Track Bathroom Renovation program that redefines the way we transform bathrooms!

We were approached by our repeat client (Project 3 of 4 to date) to design a new home for himself and his new girlfriend (now wife)....

Although the bathroom is a small space compared to the rest of the home, it is easily the most elaborate project to tackle.