Shooting Dunkin :

There are times when an architectural photographer must engage with the ordinary, as seen in the case of this Dunkin' Donuts. At first glance, it may appear typical, yet upon closer inspection, the meticulous building presents a pristine exterior, with landscapes that are thoughtfully curated and a parking lot that is impeccably maintained.

Having photographed countless fast-food restaurants and coffee houses, the difference in ownership pride is easily recognizable. The owner, Vishal Vaghani, clearly understands that appearances matter, and this commitment begins with the exterior of the building. 

Surprisingly, this building is over 30 years old, yet it maintains a pristine appearance, just like all of his locations. 

Shooting Solberg Manufacturing Offices:

I met with Key Interiors designers  Debby Hill and Katherine Ehninger on-site as they walked me through transformation of this office/manufacturer.  The redesign included the  foyer/reception and waiting area, as well as the second-level conference rooms and offices. A highlight of the project is the large, comfortable break room designed for relaxation and socialization, where employees can enjoy lunch, coffee, or an after-hours bourbon.

The design elements implemented are both functional and aesthetically pleasing, reflecting a balance between professionalism and comfort. The foyer and reception area set an inviting tone for visitors, combining elegance with a welcoming atmosphere. The conference rooms and offices feature smart layouts and stylish furnishings that enhance productivity while maintaining an upscale feel.

Key Interiors’ attention to detail is evident in every corner, from the choice of colors to the selection of materials. This project not only meets the practical needs of the client but also elevates the overall experience for everyone who enters these spaces. Below are some of my favorites.

Shooting West Loop Dental:

This project showcases the remarkable potential of a commercial design/build firm, even within a compact space. Interior designer Dana Maynard-Tatge expertly crafted a contemporary atmosphere that emphasizes professionalism while maximizing every inch available. The design reflects a Modern European aesthetic, characterized by soft, calming color choices, sophisticated wall coverings, and elegant wood accents.

The thoughtful integration of design elements creates a serene environment that stands out in the dental office sector. Every detail contributes to the overall ambiance, making this space not just functional but inviting as well. This office truly exemplifies the high standards of design and efficiency achievable in commercial space, which is what you can expect from a design/build firm like Key Interiors. 

The Rear View:

While the rear view might not make it into a marketing brochure, it plays a vital role for builders and architects involved in the project. On this hotel assignment, we were instructed to focus solely on the front area and pool. However, we made the decision to capture the rear exterior as well, which the builder appreciated. The rear view not only completed the portfolio but also provided valuable insights for the builder’s future projects. The image turned out exceptionally well, showcasing the comprehensive nature of our work and the importance of every angle in architectural photography.

Chicago Hotel Exterior:

It's wonderful when you receive an assignment and you have the luxury of time to get the shots you need. Case in point, we photographed this Chicago hotel remodel for a commercial builder, and we didn’t need to worry about shooting on opening day. The hotel never closed. Since our home base is in the Chicagoland area, finding the right time to photograph a dusk exterior was much easier.  

Here we were shooting with a drone from the mid-town loop and a medium format camera from the Congress Parkway bridge.The final shots turned out as expected and we were able to get both the same evening.  It helps to have a good team!

Cobalt Blue - Morning Dawn:

Often when you receive an assignment, your time is limited. Sometimes, because of scheduling or a venue opening, you simply can’t go back.

Such was the case here. We were assigned to photograph a hotel on opening day. The assignment was interior and exterior. As luck would have it, it stormed all night and was raining when we arrived at 4:30am. We had a team with us to clean and stage the interior which we started on immediately.  

My goal was to get an exterior shot as soon as the rain let up.  

About 40min later, the rain stopped and I went out to setup a quick composition. I could see the sky clearing and I fired a shot just as cobalt blue was covering the sky before dawn.

 

A Childerns Retreat:

We loved shooting this bespoke children’s bedroom, complete with everything a young toddler would need. Exciting safari-like accents, a huge toy box, properly sized furniture, and calming teal tones make this the perfect place to play or sleep. Yes, that is a blackboard wall; who doesn’t love to play with chalk?  

Some favorites below:  

• Safari Accents: Playful motifs enhance the adventurous spirit of the room, creating an engaging environment for exploration and imagination.
• Toy Box: The spacious toy box not only keeps the room organized but also adds a charming touch to the decor.
• Properly Sized Furniture: Each piece is thoughtfully selected to ensure comfort and safety for little ones, encouraging independent play and learning.
• Calming Teal Tones: The soothing colors provide a serene backdrop, ideal for both vibrant play and restful sleep.
• Blackboard Wall: A fun interactive feature that invites creativity, allowing children to express themselves freely with chalk.

This thoughtfully designed space is a perfect blend of functionality and whimsy, catering to the needs of a growing child while also serving as a delightful retreat.