At ABLAZE Design + Build, we create spaces that ignite inspiration and elevate everyday living. Based in Highwood, Illinois, we are a full-service design-build firm specializing in custom kitchen, bath, and whole-home renovations that blend timeless design with modern functionality.
We are passionate about designing environments that don’t just look beautiful—but feel good to live in. Our work is rooted in the principles of wellness and biophilic design, bringing natural elements, thoughtful lighting, and restorative features into the home to support health, balance, and connection to nature.
01
Design + Build
Full-service kitchen, bath, and whole-home renovations
Concept development and space planning
Architectural and interior design services
3D renderings and visualizations
Permit-ready construction drawings
Project management from start to finish
02
Wellness + Biophilic Design
Wellness-centered design solutions
Biophilic design integration (natural light, air, and materials)
Circadian lighting plans
Cold plunge, sauna, steam showers, and spa-inspired features
Indoor plant integration and living walls
Air and water purification recommendations
03
Custom Cabinetry + Millwork
Fully custom and semi-custom cabinetry
Tailored storage solutions for kitchens, baths, mudrooms, and more
Custom built-ins, range hoods, and vanities
Expert cabinetry design and installation
04
Finish Selections + Materials
Curated finish material selection (tile, flooring, countertops, hardware)
Access to exclusive vendor lines and show-only collections
Material procurement and coordination
Sample checkout and showroom consultations
05
Retail Store + Home Goods
Boutique-style showroom featuring home decor and furnishings
Lighting, hardware, accessories, and textiles
Seasonal and everyday home goods curated by our team
06
Custom Painting + Finishing
Full-service professional painting
Cabinet refinishing and custom finishes
Interior and exterior residential painting
Specialty wall treatments and decorative finishes
07
Construction + Trades
Licensed general contracting
Expert rough and finish carpentry
Plumbing, electrical, HVAC coordination
Flooring, tile setting, and stone installation
High-end fixtures and appliance recommendations
Our Approach
Phase01
Initial consultation
Embarking on your home improvement journey with ABLAZE Design Group begins with an insightful conversation. Together, we’ll delve into the essentials of your project, outlining its scope, your budget considerations, and the desired timeframe. Following this discussion, we’ll coordinate a convenient time for our team to conduct your complimentary in-home consultation, where ideas will flourish and visions will take shape.
To kickstart this exciting process, simply reach out to us at (847) 579-1600, or alternatively, complete our Online-form, and we’ll promptly reach out to you.
Curious about how much you should invest?
If you’re curious about the investment required, we’ve got you covered. Our team offers a complimentary consultation that can help you in understanding associated costs and considerations for enhancing your home. Let’s turn your dream space into a reality with ABLAZE Design Group.
Phase02
In home or in store consultation
Following our initial consultation, we’ll collaboratively assess the progress and determine if it’s opportune to advance to the next phase of our process.
This could involve arranging an in-home consultation for further refinement or an in-store meeting for a more immersive design exploration. Your journey with us is tailored to ensure your vision becomes a reality.
At your in-home or in-store consultation, we’ll dive deep into your project aspirations, exploring your preferences, dislikes, and any existing challenges you’re facing.
Together, we’ll craft a clear vision for your space.
Phase03
Design retainer
Following our consultation, if we mutually agree that ABLAZE Design Group is the right fit to bring your vision to life, we will proceed by sending you a design retainer agreement. This marks the beginning of our collaborative journey towards crafting your dream space.
To kickstart the creative process, which includes designing, detailing a comprehensive scope estimate, and developing renderings of your project, we require a signed design retainer, which secures our commitment to your project.
Choosing to partner with us not only ignites the transformation of your space but also ensures a seamless and rewarding experience from conception to completion.
Phase04
Design development
With the measurements in hand, our experienced designers will craft initial floor plan ideas tailored to your needs and preferences. These concepts will be presented to you for feedback and discussion, allowing for any necessary adjustments until the layout perfectly aligns with your vision.
Once the floor plan is approved, we will proceed to finalize the work estimate and provide placeholders for the variable allowace items needed for the project.
With the work estimate finalized, we’ll move on to the exciting phase of selecting finish materials. Our expert team will guide you through this process, assisting in choosing cabinetry, countertops, tile and more. Throughout the selections process, our team will leverage our expertise to ensure that the chosen materials are not only visually appealing but also functional and within budget.
At ABLAZE Design Group, we’re committed to delivering a seamless and rewarding design development process, culminating in the creation of your dream space that exceeds your expectations.
Phase05
Ramp up & construction
Our team at ABLAZE Design Group initiates the ramp-up process by coordinating the necessary permits for your remodeling project. We handle all paperwork and liaise with local authorities to ensure compliance with building regulations and codes.
Prior to commencing construction, we conduct a thorough preconstruction walkthrough with you. During this collaborative session, we review the finalized design plans and address any questions or concerns you may have. This walkthrough allows us to establish clear expectations and ensure alignment before breaking ground.
Once the preconstruction walkthrough is completed and all details are confirmed, our skilled team of craftsmen and contractors swing into action. We meticulously execute each phase of the construction process, prioritizing quality craftsmanship and attention to detail. Throughout construction, we maintain open lines of communication, providing regular updates on progress and addressing any unforeseen challenges promptly and transparently.
Phase06
Progress & job completion
As construction progresses, we keep you informed every step of the way. Regular progress updates and site meetings ensure that you are involved in the decision-making process and have full visibility into the project’s development. Our collaborative approach fosters a strong partnership and ensures that your vision is brought to life seamlessly.
Upon reaching the final stages of construction, our team conducts a comprehensive inspection to ensure that every detail meets our standards of excellence. We address any remaining items on the checklist and make any necessary adjustments to ensure your complete satisfaction. Finally, we present you with your transformed space, ready for you to enjoy for years to come.
At ABLAZE Design Group, our process is designed to deliver as seamless and stress-free remodeling experience as we can, from permit acquisition through to project completion. With our dedicated team guiding you every step of the way!
Tear the Walls Down!
From concept to completion, our experienced team handles every aspect of your project with creativity, craftsmanship, and care. Whether you’re reimagining your kitchen, transforming your bathroom into a personal spa, or embarking on a full-scale home renovation, we guide you through the entire process—design, planning, permitting, and construction—with clarity and confidence.
Our unique approach combines thoughtful design with skilled project management to deliver spaces that reflect your lifestyle, taste, and goals. And with our in-house cabinetry experts, custom painting division, and curated retail showroom, we offer a one-stop destination for everything from fine cabinetry and countertops to home furnishings and accessories.
Whether you’re seeking a bold statement or a serene retreat, ABLAZE is your partner in creating beautifully livable, wellness-driven homes.
As a real estate professional, I’ve witnessed countless renovations, and when it came time for our own remodel, I knew I wanted to work with a design-to-build firm. While the main focus was a kitchen renovation, it was important to us that someone look at our entire first floor and how we wanted to live in the redesigned space. For efficiency, ease, and accountability, we also wanted one company to oversee the entire project.
Coco Harris
02
★★★★★
The Ablaze Design Group revamped our kitchen and did an amazing job. It is now, finally, our dream kitchen. They took time and care with every step of the process. There were no gaps in days – they came everyday until the job was done. We couldn’t be happier with the outcome or the people who work at ABL!
Jennifer Murawczyk
03
★★★★★
I love working with Ablaze Design Group! They are very responsive and they are very friendly. I have worked with contractor that was very arrogant, but ABL was very down to earth and was eager to help me get my work done. And I worked with Dina, she very helpful. I am very happy working with ABL.
Flora Qu
04
★★★★★
As a design professional, I know that I can always count on The Ablaze Design Group to provide exceptional customer service, and the highest level quality of work. I give them my highest professional recommendation.
Steffanie Danby Interiors
05
★★★★★
Outstanding work once again. We are in the process of a lot of painting and ABL could not be more helpful and very competitive with their prices. The workers are great, talented and friendly. We have used ABL for 10+ years and no complaints.
Jamie Garard
06
★★★★★
Looking for a professional painter look no further. Howard and his team of Jose, Juan and David repainted our kitchen to perfection. From start to finish no issues. Set up – painting and clean up was perfect. Have future projects that we will reach out to ABL for assistance.
Jon Victor
07
★★★★★
The Ablaze Design Group fixed the walls and ceiling in my bedroom, put on new baseboard, painted everything, installed a ceiling fan, fixed the walls in the stairwell and painted it and the hall ceiling. The work was great, the price was fair, they were courteous, accommodating, and they didn’t leave a mess. We are very pleased.
Jody Jakolat
08
★★★★★
Howard and his team are the best! We needed to update our entry area and dining room, and convert an old iron staircase railing into a modern wooden one. The whole team was easy to work with, started and finished exactly when they said they would, and the result is just beautiful. We are completely satisfied and will hire them again. Many thanks!
Cheryl Banks
09
★★★★★
From the first visit by the owner through insurance quotes and design iterations to the many phases of our fully gutted kitchen rehab, the experience could not have been better. We love LOVE our new kitchen. The memory of the experience with ABL is a very good one. WOW
P Greathouse
Any questions or suggestions? Write us a message and we will contact you!
