1. Jenny Brown

Not only does this talent tackle residential projects, she also has several commercial spaces to claim as well. Check out the fun vibe at Tortoise Supper Club for an example of her witty style.

2. Claire Staszak

Starting with the idea that every client has a unique style (but not everyone knows what that is!), Staszak designs homes to be a sanctuary as well as a beautiful and functional space.

3. Laura Tribbett

With serious cred from her New York days (she worked at both Thomas Juul-Hansen and Thom Filicia), Tribbett moved to Chicago and shortly thereafter founded Outline Interiors.

4. Wendy Labrum

This designer’s sweet spot seems to be creating a well-curated family home—some full-scale renovations, some new construction—that are highly personalized and the polar opposite of cookie-cutter.