Specialties
In a world where cookie-cutter design is omnipresent, Alan Design Studio’s empathic, warm approach toward projects is refreshing and invariably leads to captivating results. When clients love every square foot of their home, the project has been a brilliant success. This client-centered, full-service interior design process is particularly well-suited to Chicago’s mix of historic architecture, modern condos, and eclectic family homes.
History
Established in 1994.
Founded in 1994 by former motion picture set decorator Jean Alan and her daughter Ruthie Alan, the studio initially focused on finding and re-imagining vintage pieces - a tradition that continues today. We strongly advocate for and utilize our local artisans, who are stewards of the environment in their respective trades and practice them sustainably. These long-standing relationships ensure a finely crafted outcome.
Meet the Business Owner: Ruthie A.
Alan Design Studio, led by Ruthie Alan, possesses creative DNA that reaches back decades. A legacy designer, Ruthie’s expertise is founded on her art school education, combined with her mom, Jean’s, deep experience in TV, movie, and set design, her father’s architecture practice, and a passion for creating ideal living spaces that work precisely for the people who inhabit them.
A lifelong Chicagoan, Ruthie was raised in a creative family and atmosphere that valued all forms of artistic expression. This openness to the beautiful potential that exists within every built space infuses her work with unmistakable vitality.
Today, Ruthie draws on her lifetime experience with the intersection of art, design, and business to define the precise visual approaches that lead to the creation of residential spaces that celebrate the individuality of the owner. The success of each project is directly related to the substantial creative partnership that develops between Ruthie and her clients.