In honor of Pride Month, we decided to do something special- partnering with the talented team at Chicago Plants, experts in Interiorscape Consultation, to transform our En Masse meeting space into a vibrant tropical oasis
As the Chicago sunshine streams through our studio windows, our collective of designers began thinking about how we could bring new voices and ideas into our space. We were thrilled to showcase the work of Hans Koesters and his captivating pieces, which provide an enticing exploration of the delicate space between art and architecture.
In thinking about ways that we can create projects that are personal, what aspects are most important to making a house into a home?
“Simply put, we want to design dream homes for people to connect to. Each home should be specific to what the client wants and how they live so that no two homes are the same. Each is a special responsibility to the client and the context of living.”
We’re passionate about our studio’s neighborhood. Enjoy a virtual tour of thriving, multi-cultural Logan Square- led by the En Masse team, highlighting our faithful favorites in food, drink. art, and leisure.
What is the first step to creating a thoughtful design?
“The first step is hearing how clients live their day-to-day lives and understanding their needs and personalities. As designers, we don’t see how people actually live, so it is our job to create spaces that stay true to them by asking the right questions.”
In spite of losing his luggage on the way, Lucas (Design Partner) had an amazing trip to Italy. Traveling the sweltering summer sun, he made his way to Castelfranco, Italy and towards Brombal Glass, a family-run glass company specializing in steel, brass, and bronze windows.
We are always so proud to have guests in our studio, and when we were presented with the opportunity to host an American Institute of Architects Chicago (AIA Chicago) CRAN event this August we were so excited to host our fellow architects and architectural professionals!
We have mastered the perfect cortado. As each designer takes a turn crafting their own to kick start their day, the coffee bar has become the first place where the conversation begins.
Celebrating the evolution of our brand, expressing our architectural approach, and sharing the joy that is contained within our concrete exterior was our goal- and we feel so proud to have been able to share that with our friends and fellow designers.
Everyone involved in the process brings value and we learn so much on every project from clients, collaborators, contractors, etc. En Masse means “all together.” For us, that’s a reflection of the way we work, and who we are.
For those of you who knew us as Mike Shively Architecture, we are the same group of energetic, determined, fun, and thoughtful architects and designers but we now have a brand that represents our approach and design ethos.