2026-PID Header

Celebrating Top Talent

in Chicago’s Design Community

Now in its continued tradition in Chicago, Profiles in Design 2026 celebrates the emerging leaders influencing the future of commercial interiors. Nominated by the principals of their firms, each honoree reflects a new generation of talent bringing fresh perspective, creativity, and impact to the workplace.

This year’s program brings together a strong community of design professionals who are not only shaping spaces, but advancing the industry as a whole. We extend our sincere congratulations to the 2026 honorees and our appreciation to the participating firms for their role in supporting and recognizing this next wave of leadership.

Explore exclusive content featuring these standout professionals below on this page.

Profiles In Design 2026
Profiles In Design 2026

2026 Chicago’s Profiles in Design Honorees

Brittany Brophy

  • Firm: Wight & Company
  • School: Illinois Institute of Technology

Kate Daly

  • Firm: LJC
  • School: The Illinois Institute of Art – Chicago

Mayura Gandhi

  • Firm: Interior Architects 
  • School: University of Houston, Gerald D. Hines College of Architecture and Design

Beto Garcia

  • Firm: Whitney Architects
  • School: Iowa State University

Avana Grayr

  • Firm: Kahler Slater
  • School: California State University, Long Beach

Eveline Hamilton

  • Firm: SmithGroup
  • School: Eastern Michigan University

Irina Katrevich

  • Firm: AECOM
  • School: Far Eastern Federal University

Maggie Marlin

  • Firm: Gensler
  • School: Ringling College of Design, Harrington College of Design

Marena Modica

  • Firm: Studio GC
  • School: Kansas State University

Lizzy O’Brien

  • Firm: OTJ Architects
  • School: Drexel University

Madeleine Pickus

  • Firm: JLL Design
  • School: Purdue University

AJ Pittman

  • Firm: BKV Group
  • School: Indiana University – Bloomington

Ian Preston

  • Firm: Partners by Design
  • School: Columbia College Chicago

Baine Rydin

  • Firm: Perkins Eastman
  • School: Illinois Institute of Technology

Luis Santos

  • Firm: BOX Studios
  • School: Columbia College Chicago

Mariel Slater

  • Firm: Shive-Hattery Architecture & Engineering
  • School: Harrington College of Design

Jenna Weber

  • Firm: CannonDesign
  • School: University of Cincinnati

Previous Honorees

Media Gallery