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.

Chalkboard Signage:

Typically, the breakfast bar isn’t the centerpiece in hotel photography, but this one stood out for its unique character. The signage, crafted with chalkboard paint, offers a versatile canvas that can be updated effortlessly by anyone skilled in sign writing or chalkboard art. The hotel staff embraced this feature wholeheartedly, showcasing impressive chalk artistry that adds a personal and dynamic touch to the space. This element not only enhances the visual appeal but also brings a sense of warmth and engagement to the hospitality experience.

A.W.E. Showroom - 2016:

Came across this shot of the A.W.E. showroom.  To good not to share.  

 

Shooting Egg Harbor Chicago:

We met the superintendent of the project on-site. This build-out had just recently been completed, and we were fortunate to capture our shots moments before the restaurant opened. The space itself was impressive, but what stood out even more was the superintendent’s dedication and hard work to ensure everything was shoot-ready. In less than an hour, we wrapped up and were on our way to another commercial shoot. Some favorites from this session are shown below.

Practical Kitchen Remodel:

Recent Photoshoot with Geno Benvenuti

This project focused on the lower level remodel of a mid-century home, blending practical improvements with stylish design. Walls were moved to open up the space, creating a more fluid and inviting layout. Custom built-ins provide ample storage, tailored perfectly for the family's needs.

The kitchen received a complete redesign, featuring beautiful handmade cabinetry and a spacious island that offers abundant storage. A standout feature is the coffee garage, and wine refrigerator thoughtfully integrated to keep the countertop clutter-free. The fireplace adds warmth and character, complemented by rich hardwood flooring that runs throughout the space.

Below are just a few shots from the shoot showcasing these carefully crafted improvements.

Master Wood Working:

We met up with Adi Selfollari of Architectural Wood Expressions back in 2016 at Trump Tower in Chicago to photograph a recent condo remodel. Adi and his team are master craftsmen, creating some of the most beautiful work you will ever see. All the cabinets, tables, and built-ins are handmade by A.W.E.

Take a close look at the catch light reflections—those highlights are real and not enhanced, a testament to the impeccable gloss finish on each piece. I have never seen anything quite like it before. Truly, if not the absolute best woodworking I’ve encountered, it is certainly among the top one or two.

Here are some of my favorites from that shoot.

Elegant Entertaining:

A recent photoshoot with interior designer Janet McCann showcased a truly unique dining room. The space is distinguished by a ceiling that opens up to a second-story balcony, creating breathtaking ceiling height and an impressive sense of openness. Janet capitalized on this architectural feature by designing a custom chandelier mounted on the second-story ceiling, which gracefully drapes down into the first-floor dining area.

To capture the chandelier’s full impact and scale, I had to shoot from the second level, providing a vantage point that highlights its dramatic presence. Beyond the lighting fixture, Janet designed all of the cabinetry as well as the dining table and chairs, ensuring every element of the room is cohesive and tailored.

This dining room stands out as a special space—luxurious yet welcoming—perfectly suited for elegant entertaining in a sophisticated atmosphere.