S3E2 - Everything Material, Stone and Surfaces

In this episode of Design District, we explore how art moves beyond the gallery and becomes part of the spaces we live in every day. Featuring Mike Miller of CI Design + Build, Emily Trausch of JC Licht, and artist Carlos Rivera, this conversation examines how artwork, photography, color, framing, and interior planning work together to create homes that feel personal, collected, and deeply connected to the people who live in them. From considering art earlier in the design process to understanding how commissioned pieces, paint color, natural light, and placement shape the way artwork is experienced, these experts share how art can bring meaning, depth, and visual impact into everyday spaces. About CI Design + Build CI Design + Build is a Chicago-based design-build firm specializing in full-service custom renovations and luxury residential interiors. Founded by Michael Miller, the firm brings together architecture, interior design, construction, furnishings, and art procurement to create highly customized homes from concept through completion. About JC Licht JC Licht is a leading paint, wallpaper, window treatment, and home décor resource serving the Chicagoland area. Known for its Benjamin Moore paint expertise and in-store design support, JC Licht helps homeowners and design professionals select colors, wallcoverings, fabrics, and custom treatments that bring a space together with intention. About Carlos Rivera Carlos Rivera is a Chicago-based artist and photographer focused on fine art, interiors, architecture, portraits, and visual storytelling. His work explores composition, light, place, and the way photography can exist both as artwork and as part of a thoughtfully designed environment.

In this episode of Design District, we explore how small kitchens can deliver just as much impact as larger spaces when every design decision is made with intention. Featuring Laura O’Brien of O’Brien Harris, Terese Poulos of Relic Design, and Gina Saran of Precision Stone Design, this conversation examines how custom cabinetry, thoughtful space planning, and strategic material selections work together to maximize both function and visual impact. From avoiding common layout mistakes to creating kitchens that feel elevated, cohesive, and highly livable, these experts share what it really takes to make a small kitchen work. About O'Brien Harris O’Brien Harris is a Chicago-based kitchen design firm specializing in custom kitchens and cabinetry. Known for thoughtful space planning and highly personalized solutions, the firm creates kitchens that balance beauty, function, and craftsmanship while reflecting each client’s unique lifestyle. About Relic Design Relic Design is a Chicago interior design firm that creates timeless, livable interiors that blend thoughtful functionality with a layered, collected aesthetic, helping clients create homes that feel both elevated and deeply personal. About Precision Stone Design Precision Stone Design is a premier stone fabrication and installation company serving the Chicagoland area. Working closely with designers, architects, and homeowners, the company specializes in custom stone applications that combine technical expertise, craftsmanship, and exceptional material selection for residential and commercial projects.

In this episode of Design District, we explore how technology and innovation are reshaping the design process—from early planning through execution and long-term livability. As tools, products, and smart systems continue to evolve, designers are navigating how to integrate them in ways that actually improve daily life—without overcomplicating the space. Featuring Scott Dresner of Dresner Design and Bianca Viola of Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery, this conversation looks at how technology is influencing client expectations, product selection, and collaboration across disciplines. From smart home integration to material and fixture innovation, we break down what’s worth paying attention to—and what’s not—as design continues to evolve. About Dresner Design Founded by Scott Dresner, Dresner Design is an award-winning Chicago design-build firm specializing in kitchens, baths, and residential renovations. For more than 40 years, the firm has combined design, construction, and project management under one roof to create highly personalized spaces that balance functionality, craftsmanship, and timeless design. About Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery is a leading showroom resource for plumbing, appliances, lighting, and home products. Working closely with designers, builders, and homeowners, Ferguson provides access to premium brands, product expertise, and specification support to help bring residential projects to life.

In this insightful podcast episode, we explore the science behind sleep surfaces and their impact on overall health with a focus on both mattresses and pillows with Dr. David Boyce. Drawing on clinical research and physical therapy expertise, the conversation dives into how mattress support affects sleep quality and pain management, especially for individuals with chronic conditions like arthritis and fibromyalgia. Listeners will learn how sleep position and body type should influence mattress and pillow choices, and how different materials play a role in support, pressure relief, and temperature regulation. The discussion also highlights the importance of pillow height and shape in maintaining cervical spine alignment to prevent neck pain and headaches. Whether you're a side sleeper seeking better shoulder support or someone managing chronic pain, this episode offers evidence-based guidance on choosing the right sleep setup for better rest and long-term wellness. About David Boyce: Dr. David Boyce is a Professor of Physical Therapy and serves as the Director of Student Affairs for the Doctor of Physical Therapy Program at Hanover College. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy from Oakland University, a Master’s degree in Orthopedic Physical Therapy and Electrophysiology from the University of Kentucky, and a Doctorate in Leadership Education from Spalding University. Dr. Boyce is dual board-certified by the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties in both Orthopedics and Clinical Electrophysiology. He has authored numerous peer-reviewed scientific publications and is the author and editor of the book Orthopedic Physical Therapy Secrets.

In this episode, we dive into the performance-driven design of the DUXIANA mattress—a sleep system engineered for optimal support, pressure relief, and spinal alignment with special guest, Mark Grayson, National Program Manager at DUX. Unlike conventional mattresses, DUXIANA's unique continuous coil spring design and customizable components are designed to adapt dynamically to your body's unique needs, promoting deeper, more restorative sleep. We explore how its advanced ergonomics minimize motion transfer, enhance circulation, and help alleviate pressure-related discomfort, making it more than just a luxury product—it's a tool for long-term wellness. About Mark Grayson: Mark Grayson is the National Program Manager at DUX, where he has spent many years supporting operations, product development, and customer experience across the U.S. and internationally. With a background in textiles and home interiors, Mark brings a thoughtful, detail-oriented approach to every aspect of the brand’s day-to-day and strategic initiatives. His journey with DUX began as a customer, after purchasing a bed and experiencing a dramatic improvement in his own sleep, he couldn’t stop talking about it. That genuine enthusiasm led him to join the company, where he remains deeply committed to the product and the values it represents.

In this episode of Design District, we sit down in the Roca Tile showroom with Emily Trausch, Director of Color Consulting at JC Licht, Kruti Zaveri, Studio Lead and a Partner at Tom Stringer Design Partners, and Lydia Pomey, Casa Bella Brand Ambassador. Listen in as we chat about color, textiles and material trends.

In this episode of Design District, we sit down with Hailey Gurvis, Senior Gallery Manager and A&D consultant at TOTO as well as Principal Designer at Hailey Lauren Designs, Zach Pruitt, Design Channel Manager of JC Licht Home, and Alessia Zanchi Loffredo, Founder and Principal Designer of AZL Interiors. Listen in as we chat about wellness in the home.

In this episode of Design District, we sit down with Rama Dandamudi, President of 210 Design House – Michael Miller, Founder and Principal of Ci Design Build – Aurelia Drozdal, Design Channel Rep at Terrazzo & Marble supply. Listen in as we chat about everything kitchen and bath design.

In this episode of Design District, we sit down with Maureen Claffy – Artist and founder of Maureen Claffy Art Studio and Maureen Claffy Art Academy, Lenore Weiss - Founding Architect of Lenore Weiss Studios, and Kimberly Oliva – Founder, Curator and Owner of Oliva Gallery as well as Co-Founder and Curator of Alma Art & Interiors. Listen in as we chat how art influences and informs design.

In this episode of Design District, we sit down with Eugenio Megna, Founder and CEO of Elm Surfaces, Gina Saran, President at Precision Stone Design, and Steve Kadlec, founder and principal at Kadlec architecture and design.   Listen in as we chat everything material, stone and surfaces.