Susan Maxwell of Suz Maxwell

Suz Maxwell

Susan Maxwell’s innate love for fashion and design that propelled hercareer is backed by her design philosophy “Life~Style~Space” that synthesizes her clients’ personal tastes and needs. Maxwell’s creations dance the line between high fashion and high function. “I would describe my style as sort of eclectic classic. I love taking classic base pieces and pairing them with layers of stylish and trendy accessories. Something I take from my décor background is mixing different design periods.”

After 17 years in the interior design business, Maxwell has opened up her own design firm Suz Maxwell. The design co-op works with both residential and commercial clients with various budgets and visions. Dubbed as “Chicago’s interior design darling” Maxwell’s ability to pinpoint individual client’s signature style preferences will steer her latest business endeavor toward success.

Maxwell approaches interior spaces from a fashion designer’s
perspective. She draws inspiration from runway trends using prints, color combinations and layering effects that are translated into color motifs, upholsteries and accent pieces.

Suz Maxwell is a team of multi-talented design experts. Each designer has their own distinct sense of style, which enables the firm to accommodate a wide variety of clientele. From small space solutions to massive dinner parties, Susan Maxwell’s design co-op is full of innovative ideas and creative services. Fashion is no longer the distant cousin of interior design; Maxwell literally infuses all of her creations with contemporary couture style.

Defining your interior design style can be an overwhelming task. Obviously, some girls are just born with an unprecedented sense of style. Chicago’s Susan Maxwell of Suz Maxwell (www.suzmaxwell.com) has helped us recognize the similarities between your personal style and home design.

FACTIO MAGAZINE: What is your favorite season?
SUSAN MAXWELL: People tend to be passionate about seasons, especially here in Chicago where we usually have a nice mix of the four. Seasons can evoke very specific colors, emotions and memories for people. Some adore the cool color palette and whimsical nature of winter, while others embrace the soft pastels and feeling of growth we associate with spring. The answer to this question can be beneficial in determining the design elements that encompass your home - whether it’s for paint on your walls, furniture or even accessories.

FM: In your travels, which city was your favorite?
SM: Every country and region exudes a design style completely unique to them; think about the richness and romanticism of the Mediterranean versus the natural exoticism and simplicity of Japan. Take inspiration from the architecture, people and even food from your favorite destination and incorporate small design touches that reflect this. Perhaps you’re drawn to the bold and vibrant colors of India; look for throw pillows or even picture frames that share this design.

FM: What clothing item do you own the most of?
SM: Fashion and interior design truly go hand-in-hand; from colors and textures to patterns and fabrics. One of my favorite design services that we offer at the co-op is our Fashion Closet Consultation. It’s a wonderful opportunity for clients to learn more about the correlation of fashion trends and home décor (and it always tends to be a lot of fun!). Our experience has taught us to take cues from a client’s wardrobe to help determine the overall style of a room. For instance, a client who prefers jeans and relaxed pieces often wants that reflected in a casual design, while clients who prefer structured pieces or formal attire often favor a more classic style. Most importantly, if the client owns a lot of accessories, it usually means they’re very drawn to detail!

FM: What was the best gift you have ever received and why?
SM: Incorporating a client’s personality into interior design is essential and this question often provides that insight. If their favorite gift is more personal in nature, like a framed photograph, it’s likely that a client will prefer to incorporate sentimental items in the home. This can translate in different ways, from displaying travel collections to juxtaposing family antiques with modern home décor. If the gift is something rare such as a favorite book signed by the author, that can translate into creating a quiet reading nook with stylish shelving units or an elegant chaise.

FM: What famous person (living or passed) do you think shares your personal style?
SM: This is my favorite question to ask clients because it reveals so much about how someone views their personal style and in turn, their interior design style. For example, do you share the classic sophistication of Grace Kelly or prefer the casual, bohemian style of Sienna Miller? Take cues from your favorite fashion icon and mold them to fit your personal taste.
-Tara Dubbs