Design Chicago Sets Agenda

September 12, 2013  by in Designer Weekly   

The two-day program will include a variety of educational and inspirational events and presentations.

Design Chicago showcases the latest trends in interior design, featuring two renowned keynote presentations, innovative CEU accredited seminars and more than 50 new product introductions from Design Center showrooms.

This year's featured presenters include Ralph Rucci and Michael S. Smith . A favorite designer in the fashion world, Rucci is a fixture in the design community for his furniture collection with partner, Holly Hunt. Michael S. Smith is one of the country's most celebrated interior designers and was responsible for the 2010 makeover of the Oval office.

On Tuesday, Oct. 8, 5-7 pm, the Design Center will honor three of Chicago's up-and-coming interior design professionals at this year's Ones to Watch reception in Lounge 1447 on the 14th floor. The Ones to Watch are selected by Design Center showrooms and feature designers that have demonstrated creativity, originality and overall great design. This year's winners include Elizabeth Krueger of ekd, Gemma Parker-McKeon of Lichten Craig and Rita Lashmet of RL Designs. The cocktail reception will feature an award ceremony and networking among industry leaders and professionals.

Additionally, the Hearst Design Group will come together for a signature event series, Inside Design, on Oct. 9.

Newell Turner, editorial director of the Hearst Design Group, will give the morning keynote address, followed by events and discussions in showrooms throughout the day with Inside Design sponsors including Bradley, Fabricut, New Moon Rugs, Schumacher, and Sunbrella.

"We are thrilled to host Design Chicago as it draws a talented group of design icons, industry leaders and interior design professionals, and especially excited to be partnering with the Hearst Group this year," said Julia Chappell, managing director of marketing for the Design Center. "Through the keynote presentations, CEU accredited seminars, guest lectures and new product introductions, we intend to provide designers and affluent consumers with the business know-how and inspiration to keep up with the constantly-evolving marketplace."

A comprehensive schedule of keynote presentations can be found online.

The schedule for CEU presentations is also available online.