After 25 years in business, Michael Abrams still finds ways to keep things fresh. Last year, his longtime design director, Gina Valenti, became his business partner, forging Abrams/Valenti, as they completed several projects, ranging from a gut reno of a century-old DuSable Lake Shore Drive co-op to furnishing a Naples retreat. Abrams’s aesthetic is unmistakable: clean-lined, masculine. And he has an affinity for mixing classic with mid-century. He shops the way he designs, hunting for furnishings, art, and accessories that feel unexpected. “I’m always looking for things I haven’t seen,” he says. “It’s a dangerous habit.”
PAGODA RED
1740 W. Webster Ave., West Loop
pagodared.com
“This is a perfect resource for adding age and patina to your home.”
WISH LIST
- Prosperity graphite garden stool (1) “They are easy to move and can be tables or footrests, inside or outside.” $1,280
- Red Meander kite by Michael Thompson (2) “This wall-mounted sculpture adds color, texture, and uniqueness.” $5,880
- Shanghai Deco marbletop side table. “Art deco and Shanghai — an odd combination but it works and is prevalent throughout the city.” $3,880
SOUTH LOOP LOFT
685 N. Milwaukee Ave., River West
thesouthlooploft.com
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“A treasure-trove of vintage. Constant new arrivals.”
WISH LIST
- Model No. 307 brass sconces by G.C.M.E. (3) “They’re from the 1950s and have that uniqueness that designers seek out.” $4,600 a pair
- Terra cotta and iron console by Mario Giani (a.k.a. Clizia) “A big statement in a foyer or flanking a fireplace.” $8,000
- 1940s French art deco walnut sideboard. “It has me swooning, the way the cabinet sits separate from the base, on small wooden spheres.” Recently sold
JAYSON HOME
1885 N. Clybourn Ave., Lincoln Park
jaysonhome.com
“I never leave here uninspired or empty-handed.”
WISH LIST
- Troy marble tray (4) “I love the size, simplicity, and price. It works anywhere, especially in a dressing room or on a desktop.” $172
- Jayson Home x John Derian French seascape tray by John Derian (5) “I’m crazy about this collection of glass painted plates. They look amazing when grouped together — and are so affordable that you can use them all.” $195
Kelly Aiglon is the contributing Found editor for Chicago magazine.