Fabulous Contemporary Kitchen - Continued:

We photographed a contemporary home designed by Michelle Rohrer-Lauer last year, one of the most remarkable spaces we've encountered in nearly 30 years of architectural photography. In this kitchen, which we've featured before, we wanted to take a closer look at the mirror-like high gloss finish—something truly unique in our experience.

What stands out in Michelle’s work are the details. It's not just the overall design but the elements you appreciate when you get up close. The black and white high gloss finishes blend flawlessly with the stainless steel appliances and cabinetry, creating a sleek, cohesive look. The sculpted tiles, finished in high gloss white, add depth and dimension to the walls and cabinets, enriching the space’s texture and visual interest.

Below are just a few photos from the shoot that highlight these exceptional details.

 

Masterpiece Kitchen Design:

We continue to showcase the stunning first home recently photographed for Janet McCann, where her expertise truly shines in the kitchen design. This midcentury kitchen is a masterpiece of bespoke craftsmanship, featuring custom cabinetry with an exceptionally refined finish. The centerpiece is the elegant waterfall marble island, seamlessly blending form and function. Built-in pantry and appliances enhance the space's streamlined look, while bespoke bar stools and a breakfast table add both comfort and style.

This kitchen is not just beautiful but highly functional, perfectly suited for culinary preparation and entertaining. It is thoughtfully positioned between the dining room and family room, creating an open and inviting flow that complements the home’s midcentury charm. Every detail reflects careful attention to quality and design, making it a quintessential space for modern living. 

High-end Family Room by Janet McCann:

Recently, we spent an entire day shooting with Janet McCann, focusing on the exquisite family room from the first home we photographed. Janet and her team transformed this high-end residence with remarkable precision and creativity. Every element in the space was custom-made, including several furniture pieces and the beautifully crafted hardwood side cabinets, all designed by Janet herself.

The family room feels both comfortable and inviting while showcasing flawless execution in design. It serves as an ideal space for entertaining, seamlessly connecting to the bespoke kitchen, also a Janet McCann creation. Throughout the home, fine furniture, carefully selected wall art, and knotted rugs and carpets contribute to a rich, layered aesthetic. No detail has been overlooked, reflecting the high standard one expects from a designer of Janet’s caliber.

You Need a Good Team:

When we photographed this hotel bar just days before its grand opening, the space was far from ready—dust coated every surface, boxes were scattered throughout, and the furniture was still crated. Our assignment was to capture the entire hotel, from top to bottom, including the exterior. This situation underscored the importance of having a reliable team when traveling out of state for a shoot.

Our crew quickly uncrated, cleaned, vacuumed, swept, and expertly staged the bar area within a couple of hours. By the time I returned from photographing the pool, two perfectly composed, spotless shots were ready to go. We weren’t able to shoot from the opposite angle because that’s where the team had neatly stacked all unopened boxes and supplies, but the images we captured were strong and compelling.

This experience highlighted how essential teamwork is for the success of a commercial shoot. With everyone working efficiently together, we achieved excellent results despite challenging conditions, and we were all very pleased with the final images.

The Fast Food Interior:

An architectural photographer must possess the versatility to handle a wide range of assignments, from high-end estates and commercial properties to hotels, resorts, warehouses, and fast food restaurants. Regardless of the project’s scale or prestige, maintaining a consistent standard of quality is essential. The goal is to deliver exceptional, professional images that meet or exceed client expectations every time. Whether capturing grand, luxurious interiors or straightforward, utilitarian spaces, the photographer’s commitment to excellence ensures that every assignment reflects the same level of care, precision, and artistry. This consistency builds trust and reinforces the photographer’s reputation across diverse markets and property types.

Design as Art:

Every now and then you come across an interior designer who is in essence an artist.  Terri Weinstein is one such designer.  Terri’s use of color, texture and bespoke furniture, most of which she designs and has handmade is unmatched.  Flashing back here to a photoshoot from 2016, this high-end Chicago condo stands out as not only testament to artistic design, it is in itself a work of art.  

Remodeling a 1970's Hotel:

This Hampton Inn, originally constructed in the early 1970s as a Comfort Inn, once stood as the premier destination for business travelers and families seeking comfortable accommodations during their vacations. Back then, amenities such as a breakfast bar, an in-house gym, and a swimming pool made it a convenient and welcoming retreat between sightseeing and social visits.

Over the decades, like many hotels from that era, its appeal diminished, and it faced the choice between demolition or a comprehensive renovation. Fortunately, the new owners chose a full remodel rather than tearing it down. Today, both the interior and exterior have been completely transformed, reflecting a modern and updated aesthetic that rivals any contemporary lodging option.

We had the opportunity to capture the refreshed exterior alongside the newly designed interior spaces. Below are a few select images from the shoot, showcasing the hotel’s renewed elegance and functionality.

Grand Rapids Art Deco Makeover:

This Art Deco home in Grand Rapids underwent an extensive makeover by interior designer Jennifer Butler, and the results are truly captivating. What stands out most is the preservation of the original interior architecture. The charming small closets, pantry, and wine cellar—each framed by their signature arched doorways—transport you back to a simpler time, evoking a strong sense of nostalgia.

Jennifer’s thoughtful use of vibrant color adds renewed life and warmth to the space, making the home both energetic and inviting without overshadowing its historic character. As you explore the photos, the curved walls, ceiling arches, and flowing plaster accents come to life—distinctive features that define the Art Deco period so beautifully.

It’s refreshing to see these unique architectural details maintained rather than replaced by the stark, angular lines so prevalent in today’s interior trends. This careful balance between preservation and modernization makes this home a standout and a pleasure to photograph.

Michaelin & Kohlberg Showroom - Chicago:

Michaelin & Kohlberg Chicago Showroom – Since 1921, the finest in hand-knotted rugs. Showcasing exquisite craftsmanship from Turkey, India, Nepal, China, and Afghanistan, this showroom remains the premier destination for interior designers worldwide. These images capture a glimpse of the timeless luxury and intricate detail that define their collection. The consistent quality and artistry make Michaelin & Kohlberg a trusted resource for creating exceptional interior spaces.

Schmidke Construction - Design Studio:

This is the foyer entrance of the finest construction/design center I have ever seen.  More to come….

 

Commercial Wall Finishes:

The commercial interior designer faces a multifaceted challenge: creating spaces that are not only functional but also engaging and memorable for visitors. In commercial environments, every detail contributes to the overall experience, making thoughtful design essential. 

Take, for example, a recent hotel shoot. The attention to wall finishes throughout key areas such as the gym, hallways, and bathrooms highlights the designer’s skill in transforming these spaces. In the hotel gym, textured wall panels and vibrant color add a dynamic energy that complements the active atmosphere. Along the hallways, sophisticated materials and subtle patterns create a sense of flow and elegance, guiding guests seamlessly from one area to another. In the bathrooms, carefully selected finishes combine durability with refined aesthetics, elevating what is often a utilitarian space into one that feels both luxurious and welcoming.

These nuanced touches demonstrate how commercial interior design goes beyond surface decoration—each choice enhances the environment, leaving a lasting impression on clients and guests alike.