In the world of interior design, creating a space that feels like a dream come true requires more than just a keen eye for style. It demands a deep understanding of client needs, attention to detail, and an ability to merge aesthetic appeal with practical functionality seamlessly. This is precisely what the Interior Enhancement Group (IEG) excels at. Founded in 2000 by Kelly Guinaugh, IEG is a full-service design studio that has earned a distinguished reputation for its client-centric approach. By diligently focusing on the unique desires and addressing the specific pain points of each client, IEG has not only attracted new business but also fostered a loyal client base. This blend of personalized service and design excellence sets them apart in the highly competitive field of interior design.
Client-Centric Design Philosophy
From single-room remodels to complete designs for new construction homes, IEG’s portfolio is a testament to their versatile expertise. One of their notable projects includes designing a new construction home in Lake Geneva tailored to a family with ADA requirements. The team at IEG meticulously planned every detail to ensure that the home was fully accessible and met the family’s needs while maintaining a high level of aesthetic appeal. Their portfolio also features significant renovations of hospitality spaces like Barrington’s Biltmore Country Club and comprehensive residential remodels, such as an entire interior renovation and addition in Long Grove. These projects showcase IEG’s ability to transform any space into a harmonious blend of style and functionality.
Apart from local projects, IEG has become a specialist in designing second homes across the United States, including in states like Arizona, Colorado, Michigan, Wisconsin, and Florida. Working on these long-distance projects often involves a different approach compared to primary residences, as second homes typically serve as multi-generational leisure destinations. Guinaugh notes that the design of these properties emphasizes fun, relaxation, and opportunities for family bonding. Hence, the designs are tailored to facilitate familial activities and memory-making moments while ensuring that the space remains functional and visually appealing. This unique capability has made IEG a preferred choice for clients looking to design their retreat homes.
Collaborative Team Approach
IEG’s success lies in its collaborative team approach, where every member brings unique skills and perspectives to the table. This cooperative environment not only fosters creativity but also ensures the highest levels of functionality in the final design. The collaborative method involves multiple senior designers reviewing each project, providing a diverse range of ideas and solutions that cater to the clients’ best interests. According to Robert Kleinert, the group’s president, this approach enables them to achieve optimal solutions and deliver exceptional results consistently. Kleinert’s business acumen combined with the design team’s creative talents forms a formidable blend that drives IEG’s success.
Central to IEG’s core values is the understanding of each client’s unique desires and the importance of working collaboratively with all project stakeholders, including architects and contractors. This thorough engagement process ensures that each project is not only aesthetically pleasing but also fully functional and reflective of the client’s style. Guinaugh emphasizes the significance of resolving client “pain points” and customizing aesthetics to bring peace and tranquility into the living spaces. By prioritizing these elements, IEG creates homes that resonate personally with their owners, elevating the experience of living to a form of art.
Comprehensive Design Process
Once the client’s vision is captured, IEG embarks on an extensive and detailed design process. This involves numerous steps, starting from budget reviews and space planning to sourcing finishes and fixtures. The design team also develops color palettes and selects furnishings and fabrics that align perfectly with the client’s preferences. Guinaugh highlights that this phase of the project is often the most exciting for the clients, as they get to explore a multitude of custom options and design solutions available. This engagement not only makes the process enjoyable for the clients but also ensures that their specific needs and tastes are accurately reflected in the final design.
Financial considerations play a crucial role in IEG’s projects. Guinaugh emphasizes the importance of sourcing products that keep the client’s budget intact while ensuring high-quality results. This financial prudence, combined with meticulous coordination with builders and architects, helps adhere to construction schedules and avoid costly delays. Moreover, IEG excels in creatively addressing design challenges. For instance, they skillfully conceal kitchen pantries with cabinetry-mimicking doors or incorporate acoustic elements innovatively. These solutions add to the functionality and aesthetics of the space, ensuring a seamless blend of beauty and practicality.
Ensuring Quality and Client Satisfaction
IEG’s success is rooted in its collaborative team approach, where each member brings unique skills and perspectives. This cooperative environment not only enhances creativity but also ensures the final design’s highest functionality. The method involves senior designers reviewing each project, offering diverse ideas and solutions that prioritize clients’ best interests. Robert Kleinert, the group’s president, emphasizes that this strategy helps them achieve optimal solutions and consistently deliver exceptional results. Kleinert’s business acumen combined with the design team’s creativity forms a powerful blend driving IEG’s success.
Central to IEG’s values is understanding each client’s unique desires and working collaboratively with all project stakeholders, including architects and contractors. This extensive engagement ensures projects that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional and reflective of the client’s style. Guinaugh highlights the importance of addressing client “pain points” and customizing aesthetics to create peaceful, tranquil living spaces. By focusing on these elements, IEG crafts homes that resonate personally with their owners, turning the experience of living into an art form.
