Home Sweet Home
Ablaze Design Group crafted this sophisticated Lake Forest kitchen remodel.
Photo by Bobby C. Productions
ABLAZE DESIGN GROUP
From bespoke cabinetry to first-rate painting, this full-service design-build firm specializes in transforming homes into captivating, functional spaces across the North Shore and beyond. The company’s downtown Highwood showroom offers a curated retail experience alongside a full-service selection center, allowing clients to engage with the design process firsthand. 259 Waukegan Ave., Highwood, ablazedesigngroup.com
ABT ELECTRONICS
Whether online or in person at its mammoth, mall-sized superstore, Abt is an appliance lover’s fantasy come true—and the ultimate destination for all things electronics. Renowned for both its incredible selection and personable, professional service, this place beats the big national stores every time. 1200 N. Milwaukee Ave., Glenview, abt.com
BEDSIDE MANOR
Exquisite bedrooms and baths are the name of the game at this sophisticated home destination, which boasts exclusive collections chosen for lasting quality and timeless style and an experienced staff that delivers personalized service. 920 Green Bay Road, Winnetka; 192 E. Westminster, Lake Forest, shopbedside.com
CARPETS OF HIGHWOOD
Dedicated to helping customers create their ideal living arrangements, Carpets of Highwood has been serving homeowners throughout the North Shore for over 35 years. Offering everything from carpets to hardwood and vinyl floors, this is a store that is dedicated to helping you refine your space. 2699 Waukegan Ave., Highland Park, carpetsofhighwood.com
Chalet Home + Garden is renowned for its elegant landscaping.
Photo courtesy of brand
CHALET HOME + GARDEN
From comprehensive landscape services to plants, garden essentials, home decor, furniture and more, this is the North Shore’s go-to destination for all things green. 3132 Lake Ave., Wilmette, chaletnursery.com
DE GIULIO DESIGN
Acclaimed designer Mick de Giulio heads up this Wilmette-based firm, whose portfolio is filled with stunning home and kitchen projects that showcase a meticulous attention to detail and a dynamic versatility across materials. 1121 Central Ave., Wilmette, degiuliodesign.com
HERITAGE TRAIL MERCANTILE
With a mission to inspire, this inviting 6,000-square-foot showroom offers a curated selection of antique, midcentury and vintage collections from more than 40 quality dealers. 190-B Northfield Road, Northfield, heritagetrailmercantile.com
JC LICHT HOME
The renowned paint brand’s first free-standing design showroom beckons both professional designers and homeowners for the label’s extensive luxury home decor-focused offerings, such as chic wallcoverings from top brands like Sanderson, Thibaut and Holly Hunt, as well as the full line of Hunter Douglas window treatments, which includes motorized blinds, shades, shutters and drapery. 73 Green Bay Road, Glencoe, jclicht.com
Projects like this River Hills, Wis. home have cemented Mariani Landscape’s reputation for excellence.
Photo by Tony Soluri
MARIANI LANDSCAPE
Since 1958, clients have trusted Mariani to create and care for the landscapes of some of the Chicago area’s most prominent properties. With the iconic Mariani mint green trucks, the company’s expert teams bring creativity, discipline and meticulous care to each project and environment. 300 Rockland Road, Lake Bluff, marianilandscape.com
MATERIAL POSSESSIONS
Since 1977, this smartly edited boutique has been a go-to for its eclectic mix of globally sourced treasures, from tableware and jewelry to furniture, lighting, accessories and more. 954 Green Bay Rd., Winnetka, materialpossessions.com
MORGANTE WILSON ARCHITECTS
For more than 30 years, this firm has collaborated with clients to provide solutions to their specific design needs. With skills across multiple styles, the firm’s designers move easily between new construction, renovation and interiors in projects that span from coast to coast. 2834 Central St., Evanston, morgantewilson.com
A chic vignette at Redefined Decor.
Courtesy of brand
REDEFINED DECOR
Established in 2015, this Hubbard Woods showroom boasts a collection of hyper-curated antiques and vintage pieces sourced by industry experts and owners Bonnie Stern, Mindy Baschnagel and Martha Peck. 994 Green Bay Road, Winnetka, redefineddecor.com
SCHMECHTIG LANDSCAPES
Since 1960, Schmechtig Landscapes has crafted stunning outdoor environments with thoughtful design, expert horticulture and full-service care that beautifully reflect clients’ lifestyle and surroundings. 20860 Indian Creek Road, Mundelein, schmechtiglandscapes.com
SHAKE GUYS
Specializing in cedar shake, asphalt, and composite shake and slate roofing services for residential projects in Chicagoland, this notable Lake Zurich-based outfit has proven their dedication to delivering fast-acting solutions, high-quality materials and 100% customer satisfaction. shakeguys.com
STUDIO41
An expansive resource for homeowners and design pros alike, Studio41’s North Shore showrooms dazzle with a curated selection of kitchen, bath and home solutions, including custom cabinetry, architectural hardware and elevated plumbing fixtures. 3160 Skokie Valley Road, Highland Park; 4767 W. Touhy Ave., Lincolnwood, studio41.com
THE VAULT CREATIVE
Founded by collector Ellen Ozmun and interior designer Elizabeth Mollen, this vibrant design destination beckons design enthusiasts with an ever-changing collection of distinctive art, objects and furnishings—all carefully curated to inspire and transform remarkable spaces. 1894 Sheridan Rd., Highland Park, thevaultcreative.com
Chic Shopping
Oversize art is a signature specialty at Art Post Gallery.
Photo courtesy of Art Post Gallery
ART POST GALLERY
Boasting one of the largest inventories of original art in the Chicago area, this Northbrook destination specializing in large and oversize original paintings has been serving customers on the North Shore and beyond since 1980. Owners and leading art dealers Chris Bates and Michael Jargstorf have a reputation for exceptional taste and a no-pressure approach while catering to clientele nationwide. 984 Willow Road, Suite G, Northbrook (near Whole Foods), artpostgallery.com
ATHENE
Athene is a thoughtfully curated ready-to-wear shop in the heart of Winnetka, offering a dynamic selection of sought-after designers from around the world, such as Toteme, Nili Lotan, Proenza Schouler, Bernadette, Zimmermann, Marie Lichtenberg and Augustinus Bader. Owner Ashley Quicksilver’s attention to detail and knowledge of style have made Athene a reputable staple of North Shore shopping. 837 Elm St., Winnetka, shopathene.com
BELLA COSA JEWELERS
This family-owned destination offers an expansive selection of fine jewelry, natural and lab-grown diamonds and luxury timepieces. On-site goldsmiths make repairs a breeze, and expert staff can guide clients through offerings from brands like TACORI, Hearts On Fire, Verragio, Phillips House, CHIMENTO and more. 1149 Wilmette Ave., Wilmette; 7163 S. Kingery Highway, Willowbrook, bellacosajewelers.com
Lillie Alexander offers a chicly curated selection of womenswear.
Photo courtesy of brand
LILLIE ALEXANDER
A North Shore go-to since 1990, this chic boutique in downtown Lake Forest curates a striking collection of women’s clothing, shoes, accessories and gifts, and also offers personal styling and occasion dressing. From timeless wardrobe staples to on-trend statement pieces, the shop draws style-savvy shoppers seeking attentive service and thoughtfully edited offerings. 197 East Westminster, Lake Forest, lilliealexanderboutique.com
LUXLAB
This luxury women’s boutique scores with a curated selection of apparel, accessories and jewelry, all inspired by the stylish eye of owner Loree Wasserman. Personal styling services and private shopping appointments round out the always-chic offerings. LuxLab, 337 Park Ave., Glencoe, shopluxlab.com
MY BEST FRIEND’S CLOSET
This upscale consignment boutique is a treasure trove for fashion enthusiasts, offering a curated selection of designer clothing, handbags and accessories at a fraction of retail prices, all curated by style expert and owner Gilat Zamost. 1780 Green Bay Road, Suite 1A, Highland Park, mybestfriendsclosethp.com
With the addition of brands like Zimmermann, Thom Browne, Oscar de la Renta and more, the reinvention of Plaza del Lago has injected serious new life into the North Shore’s fashion scene.
Photo courtesy of Plaza del Lago
PLAZA DEL LAGO
A North Shore icon since the 1920s, this open-air shopping destination has undergone a stunning transformation, blending its historic Spanish-inspired architecture with of-the-moment luxury. Expect a curated mix of local and national retailers, from SPACE519 and Lola + The Boys to first-to-the-Midwest brands like Oscar de la Renta, James Perse and Zimmermann. With refreshed gathering spaces, elevated landscaping and a picturesque lakefront setting, Plaza del Lago continues to charm visitors as both a shopping and community hub. 1515 Sheridan Rd., Wilmette, plazadellago.com
Razny has been a North Shore favorite for extraordinary jewelry for 75 years.
Photo courtesy of brand
RAZNY JEWELERS
Celebrating its 75th anniversary this year, Razny Jewelers offers an expansive collection of natural diamonds, fine jewelry and Swiss timepieces. Owned and operated by the same family since 1951, the boutique features a prominent Rolex shop-in-shop (including Rolex Certified Pre-Owned offerings) that makes for a truly elevated client experience. The exclusive Patek Philippe dealer for Illinois, Indiana, Iowa and Wisconsin, Razny also offers timepiece brands such as Cartier, Breitling and Tudor; features a luxe jewelry showroom of brands like Kwiat, Messika and Refined by Razny (a new line of modern diamond essentials by Christine Razny-Porter); and boasts a team of in-house experts who provide watch and jewelry services. 1700 Green Bay Road, Highland Park; 37 S. Washington St., Hinsdale; 1501 W. Lake St., Addison; 109 E. Oak St., razny.com
For dapper gents, Smith’s Men’s Store is the place.
Photo courtesy of brand
SMITH’S MEN’S STORE
A North Shore institution since 1937, Smith’s Men’s Store is the ultimate destination for classic and contemporary menswear—and now boasts a second location in Winnetka. Owned by Trey Gonzales and Kip Helverson, the shop prides itself on exceptional quality, expert tailoring and personalized service. 770 N. Western Ave., Lake Forest; 839 Elm St., Winnetka, smithsmensstore.com
Iconic Eats & Drinks
THE BARN STEAKHOUSE
Tucked away in a historic 1883 brick stable in downtown Evanston, this modern steakhouse—an homage to owner Amy Morton’s legendary restaurateur father, Arnie Morton—is a rustic-chic meat-centric hideaway featuring Heritage Angus Beef and signature dishes like the Grand Central caviar sandwich, za’atar roasted half chicken and more. Now with a second location in Highland Park, The Barn is bringing its signature style and flavors to even more discerning North Shore diners. Rear, 1016 Church St., Evanston; 1900 First St., Highland Park, thebarnsteakhouse.com
BURL
The debut restaurant from husband-and-wife duo Rachel Canfora- Carlin and chef Tom Carlin has made an immediate splash with a hearth-centered dining experience built around Midwest-sourced ingredients. On the ever-changing menu, you might see plates like crispy walleye with Kennebec fries; roasted cabbage with mole; and (for brunch) eggs Benedict with British bacon and hollandaise. 2545 Prairie Ave., Evanston, burlevanston.com
CATERING BY MICHAELS
Quality, presentation and a commitment to detail are the hallmarks of this long-standing North Shore catering company, which was established in 1980 and is a 4-Star Certified Green Restaurant and 100% woman-owned, WBE-certified business. In its work with weddings, social events and corporate events, Catering by Michaels works closely with clients to bring their culinary visions to life. 6203 Park Ave., Morton Grove, cateringbymichaels.com
DEER PATH INN
A timeless retreat in Lake Forest, this historic inn combines historic charm with contemporary luxury. Known for its award-winning dining, the inn now features The Brasserie, an inviting new addition offering modern British-inspired fare like oxtail cottage pie, whole roast chicken and more. Whether enjoying the serene Garden Room or the lively ambiance of The Bar, guests are treated to impeccable hospitality and unforgettable culinary experiences. 255 E. Illinois Road, Lake Forest, thedeerpathinn.com
LE COLONIAL
Since its 2022 debut in Lake Forest, this dining icon has made a considerable splash, becoming one of the North Shore’s buzziest and busiest restaurants. With its toothsome French-Vietnamese cuisine and sultry vibe reminiscent of 1920s Saigon, the 10,000-square-foot destination draws the area’s crème de la crème to a prime location in Market Square. 655 Forest Ave., Lake Forest, lecolonial.com/lake-forest
LeTour welcomes diners with a light, airy atmosphere and tempting contemporary American fare.
Photo by Alan Shortall Photography
LETOUR KITCHEN & BAR
In a prime location in downtown Evanston, this contemporary American fave from Amy Morton offers a vibrant dining experience complete with buzzy atmosphere, a covered outdoor courtyard and the chic Rose Room bar. The menu tempts with dishes like harissa-spiced mussels, grilled mushroom kebabs, steak frites and more. 625 Davis St., Evanston, letourevanston.com
THE MERCHANT
This family-owned and -operated artisan liquor store features a curated selection of imported wine, beer, unique spirits and nonalcoholic beverages from around the globe. Guests can enjoy their finds in the stylish, vibey space or take them to go and also order food from nearby restaurants to enjoy onsite. 122 North Ave., Highwood, shopatthemerchant.com
NAPOLITA PIZZERIA & WINE BAR
This North Shore fave delivers authentic Italian flavors with its handcrafted Neapolitan-style pizzas, curated wine selection and inviting atmosphere. Expect fresh, locally sourced ingredients, house-made salads, Italian-style desserts and more. 1126 Central Ave., Wilmette; 1349 Shermer Road, Northbrook, napolitapizza.com
Sophia Steak is a North Shore carnivore’s delight.
Photo courtesy of Sophia Steak
SOPHIA STEAK
This welcoming neighborhood destination from Ballyhoo Hospitality is known for its warm, inviting atmosphere and exceptional steakhouse fare, from prime wet- and dry-aged beef cuts to salads, seafood, classic sides and more. 1146 Wilmette Ave., Wilmette; 181 E. Laurel Ave., Lake Forest, sophiasteak.com
Services, etc.
Atelier by Elliestyled is an ideal event space for stylish occasions.
Photo by Elaine Melko
ATELIER BY ELLIESTYLED
This chic, versatile event space is ideal for private events, celebrations, showers and more and boasts curated decor, a full kitchen and flexible styling options. Whether you prefer a simple setup or a fully designed experience, Atelier aims to ensure every detail is seamless. 1900 Sheridan Road, Highland Park, elliestyled.com/atelier
DAVIS IMPERIAL CLEANERS
From custom dry cleaning to wedding gown restoration and preservation and more, this three-generation family-owned business is hands-down the place to go for caring for the most precious of garments. 1920 Harrison St., Evanston; 3325 W. Bryn Mawr Ave., davisimperial.com
Interior design by Caroline Turner gives The Fitz Aesthetic Club
a dose of panache.
Photo by Jeffrey Johnson
THE FITZ AESTHETIC CLUB
From facials and chemical peels to injectables, weight optimization, hormone replacement therapy and more, this recently opened wellness destination (which also features a downtown Chicago location) has brought its luxe, high-touch treatments to the North Shore, all offered in a serene and sophisticated environment. 636 Green Bay Rd., Kenilworth; 1656 N Wells St., thefitzmed.com
FLAMANT NAIL BOUTIQUE
Alla Lee’s chic, serene and spa-like nail go-to elevates mani-pedis with European-trained techniques, artforward designs and comfortable vibes—it’s a must-visit oasis for beauty and balance. 3232 Lake Ave., Wilmette, flamantnailboutique.com
FORWARD FOCUS CONCIERGE MEDICINE
Personalized, exceptional healthcare with a focus on meaningful relationships and proactive wellness is the goal of this North Shore-based practice, which features 24/7 physician access, unhurried appointments and a comprehensive approach to prevention. 799 Central Ave., Suite 100, Highland Park; 990 S. Waukegan Road, 2nd Floor, Lake Forest; 1622 Willow Road, Suite 101, Northfield, forwardfocusmed.com
ILLINOIS BONE & JOINT INSTITUTE
With locations across Chicagoland and the surrounding areas, this network of orthopedists, rheumatologists, sports medicine specialists and more is renowned for providing first-rate care for everything from concussions to shoulder, knee and hip pain. Multiple locations, ibji.com
LOEBER MOTORS/PORSCHE LINCOLNWOOD
A Chicagoland institution since 1936, this iconic family-owned dealership specializes in Mercedes-Benz and Porsche with an inventory of top-of-the-line new, used and certified preowned vehicles and a commitment to personalized customer service. 4255 W. Touhy Ave., Lincolnwood; 7101 N. Lincoln Ave., Lincolnwood, loebermotors.com
NORTH SHORE EXCHANGE
This nonprofit luxury resale boutique offers authentic designer fashion, handbags, jewelry, home decor and furniture, with 100% of profits supporting Chicagoland charities that provide essential services. Multiple locations, northshoreexchange.org
Pilatesville is an of-the-moment wellness destination.
Photo courtesy of Pilatesville
PILATESVILLE
From dynamic group classes to personalized private sessions, this sophisticated fitness destination combines classic Pilates with modern techniques and expert instructors to help clients achieve balance, strength and rejuvenation. 1515 Sheridan Road, Wilmette, pilatesville.com
RAVINIA FESTIVAL
The opening of the updated and redesigned Hunter Pavilion highlights the 2026 season at Ravinia, the longest-running music festival in North America. The 36-acre park venue beckons visitors all summer with a siren soundtrack of countless concerts, including orchestral performances, pop artists, jazz legends and more. Don’t forget to bring a picnic basket, a bottle of wine and a blanket for this season’s shows, including Paul Simon, Miranda Lambert, Chance the Rapper and others. 200 Ravinia Park Road, Highland Park, ravinia.org
WRITERS THEATRE
A cornerstone of the North Shore arts scene, this theater offers intimate, world-class performances in an architecturally stunning venue designed by Studio Gang Architects. Known for its bold storytelling and innovative productions, the theatre nurtures new works while engaging over 60,000 patrons and 2,500 students and young people annually. 325 Tudor Court, Glencoe, writerstheatre.org
