DOWN-TO-EARTH DESIGN

Susan Klimala is the Owner and Creative Director of TKS Design Group, bringing more than two decades of experience in the design industry. Her design philosophy emphasizes creating eclectic, layered, and cozy spaces that reﬂect her clients’ personal stories and passions. She is known for her down-to-earth approach, problem-solving skills, and a keen eye for both bold statements and subtle details that make a space unique.

How do you tailor your designs or services to meet the unique needs of luxury homeowners?
First and foremost, our clients want unique and personalized ideas that reﬂect their unique personalities and lifestyles. We are great listeners and enjoy coming up with memorable ways to connect the dots that are neither boring nor predictable. Secondly, our clients are busy! After 20 years, we have honed our processes to allow for eﬃciencies in the design and build components.

How do you ensure your designs or products are both functional and aesthetically pleasing?
For me, function is always paramount and is a parameter for the project. Once we have the function nailed, then we can enter the aesthetics portion. It is not an altogether linear process though. If there is an aesthetic target we are trying to hit then that is always at the back of our minds as we think about functionality. It’s a bit of a dance.

What are some of the latest innovations in your industry that you’re particularly excited about?
This may seem like a small thing, but cordless lamps are making me excited. As a designer, dealing with the cords is always such an issue, especially when you are working with a custom rug or furniture ﬂoating in the center of the room.

How do you maintain consistency and quality across different projects, while still ensuring that each project feels unique?
We work almost exclusively with to-the-trade vendors and trade partners who we have long term relationships with and with whom we can make creative customizations to ensure that each project is unique. I do appreciate a good “high/low” design, but some items—upholstery and countertops come to mind—you always want to purchase the best quality you can aﬀord.

TKS Design Group is located at 522 Crescent Blvd in Glen Ellyn. For more information, call 630-858-4848 or visit tksdesigngroup.com. You may also follow TKS Design Group on Instagram @tksdesigngroup, on Facebook at TKSDesignGroup, or on Pinterest at TKSDesignGroup.