Business Details
14 Years
experience
Trusted Architects & Interior Designers in Chicago
Design Seed is a boutique architecture and interior design firm with over two decades of expertise in transforming residential and commercial spaces. Founded on the principles of collaboration and innovation, we offer integrated design-build services that streamline the renovation process from concept to completion. Our team combines the vision of licensed architects with the precision of interior designers to deliver solutions tailored to each client's unique needs. With a focus on transparency and client-centric service, we ensure every project balances aesthetics, functionality, and budgetary considerations.Our experience spans diverse projects, from luxury residences and multifamily developments to commercial renovations and hospitality spaces. By maintaining direct communication and leveraging our technical proficiency, we consistently exceed expectations while preserving the integrity of historical structures and local architecture.
Services
Residential Design
Commercial Renovation
Interior Design
Design-Build Construction
Construction Management
Historic Preservation
Tenant Improvements
Energy-Efficient Design
Details
- Year established: 2012
Highlights and features
- We offer over 20 years of industry experience in architecture and design.
- Our integrated design-build process ensures efficient, transparent project execution.
- Licensed professionals deliver certified expertise in construction and energy efficiency.
- We prioritize tailored, budget-friendly solutions aligned with client visions.
- Our team has completed complex projects across residential, commercial, and municipal sectors.
Associations and certifications
- Licensed Architects
- Licensed General Contractors
- Registered Energy Professional
- Certified Lead Paint Renovator
What people say
Attention to detail
Budget adherence
Creative problem-solving
Stress-free experience
Hands-on approach
Services
Residential Design
Our residential design service focuses on creating functional, aesthetically pleasing living spaces tailored to client lifestyles. We specialize in custom home design, renovations, and additions that respect architectural heritage while incorporating modern amenities. With decades of experience, we help clients maximize property value and usability through thoughtful space planning and material selection.
Commercial Renovation
Commercial renovation services address the unique needs of business spaces, from office suites to hospitality venues. Our team manages full-scale transformations that enhance operational efficiency, comply with building codes, and create inviting environments. We leverage technical expertise to minimize disruptions while delivering spaces that reflect brand identity and meet practical requirements.
Interior Design
Interior design services combine creativity with technical knowledge to transform interiors into cohesive, functional environments. We handle everything from finish selections and furniture procurement to custom millwork design, ensuring spaces align with client aesthetics and lifestyle needs. Our designers collaborate closely with architects to maintain design integrity throughout the construction process.
Design-Build Construction
Our design-build construction service eliminates the fragmentation typical of traditional construction processes. By overseeing both design and execution, we ensure project continuity, cost control, and quality assurance. This approach allows for faster project delivery while maintaining flexibility to adapt to changing conditions or client preferences during construction.
Historic Preservation
Historic preservation work focuses on maintaining architectural integrity while modernizing infrastructure and systems. Our expertise includes restoring original features, navigating landmark district regulations, and incorporating energy-efficient solutions that respect historical context. We've completed numerous projects on century-old homes and culturally significant buildings.
People
Ildiko S Hernandez
Co-Owner, Interior Designer
Co-owner with over 10 years of experience in diverse design projects, specializing in creating budget-friendly, tailored solutions for residential and commercial spaces across the U.S., Romania, and France.
Manuel J Hernandez
Co-Owner, Architect / Builder
Licensed architect with 15+ years of experience in project design and construction management, specializing in healthcare, commercial, residential, and municipal works, and certified in energy efficiency and renovation practices.
Questions
What services does Design Seed offer?
We provide architecture, interior design, and construction management services for residential and commercial projects, including design-build solutions and historic renovations.
Do you work on both residential and commercial properties?
Yes, we handle both residential projects like custom homes and multifamily developments, as well as commercial projects including office spaces and hospitality venues.
Are you available for international projects?
Yes, we've completed projects in Europe and the Dominican Republic, applying our expertise to diverse architectural contexts while maintaining U.S.-based standards.
What areas do you serve?
Primarily Chicago, throughout the U.S., with experience on international projects in Europe and the Caribbean regions.
What is your design-build approach?
Our design-build philosophy combines architecture, design, and construction under one team, ensuring seamless execution and coordinated problem-solving throughout your project's lifecycle.
How do you handle historic renovations?
We specialize in preserving architectural integrity while modernizing infrastructure, navigating landmark regulations, and implementing energy-efficient solutions that respect historical context.
