FAQ

Questions, curiosities, or just plain nosiness—we love it all. Here are a few of the things people ask us most often (besides ‘where can I get that wallpaper?’).

  • Yes, our interior design firm works on projects that span across North America. Our headquarters’ central location in Chicago makes it easy for us to travel and manage projects nationwide. Current and past work includes residences in Miami, Charleston, New York, San Francisco, LA, Aspen, Wisconsin, Michigan, Atlanta, Naples, and various parts of Mexico.

  • We primarily focus on full-house interior design projects. We approach each project like a puzzle with countless pieces that all need to fit seamlessly together—from architectural details to furnishings. This comprehensive approach allows us to create a cohesive vision throughout the entire home with color stories weaving from room-to-room. Smaller projects may be considered on a limited basis.

  • Our design fees are tailored to each project and vary depending on size, scope, level of customization, and timeline. Because each home is unique, we can provide a detailed proposal after an initial consultation. In general, clients can expect our services to be an investment in creating a highly personalized, long-lasting home.

  • Interior design project timelines vary widely. Factors such as new construction, historical renovations, and client decision-making all play a role. On average, our projects take between 2–5 years from design concept to installation.

  • Yes. Summer is directly involved in every project we take on, ensuring that each design reflects her signature style and attention to detail. With a robust team to support her, every project has a Designer and Project Manager to bring the vision to life.

  • Our services cover the full interior design process. This includes architectural detailing, custom millwork and cabinetry, furniture and textile selection, antiques sourcing, art curation, and styling. We manage the design vision from concept through completion, collaborating with architects, builders, and craftspeople as needed.

  • Depending on the scope of your project, an architect may or may not be required. We often collaborate with talented architects and builders, but we also have extensive technical skills in-house.  In many cases our firm serves as the Design Architect, overseeing the creative vision and design, and we work in partnership with a local AOR on permitting.  Don’t worry, we will guide you in determining whether additional professionals are necessary for your specific project.

  • In addition to Summer's own book, Wonderland: Adventures in Decorating, her work has been featured in several other design books including:

    • The Ultimate Bath - Barbara Sallick

    • 100 Rooms: Interior Design Master Class - Carl Delatorre

    • Defining Style - Joan Barzilay Freund

    • More is More is More - Carl Delatorre

    • Waterside Living - Jennifer Boles

    • Acanthus award from the AIA

    • ELLE Decor A-List

    • Traditional Home New Trad

    • 1stDibs 50

    • Sotheby’s 20 to watch

    • Fashion Group International Rising Star

    • Chicago’s Best Transitional Designer by Modern Luxury

    • Luxe Magazine Gold List (best designers in America)

  • You can explore Summer Thornton’s design philosophy in several ways:

  • For information on open positions, please visit our Careers page.

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