In the Chicago and North Shore market, a true luxury renovation typically ranges from $400 to $1,200+ per square foot. I always tell clients that cost isn’t just about size, it’s about the level of customization. When you’re talking about custom cabinetry, high-end appliances, detailed millwork, and thoughtful design, that’s where the investment really increases.

At ABLAZE, we don’t design to a number, we design to a vision, and then align the investment accordingly so the result feels intentional and lasting.

A design-build firm means you’re working with one team from start to finish, including architectural design, hardscape design for kitchens and baths, interior design, finish selections, construction, and project management.

In my experience, that’s the only way to execute a luxury project as seamlessly and efficiently as possible. When design and construction are separated, things get lost, including details, budgets, and timelines. With design-build, everything is aligned from day one, which leads to better results and a much smoother process.

A full home renovation typically takes 8 to 18 months, and sometimes longer depending on the level of detail. The biggest misconception I see is people underestimating the design phase, which in and of itself can take just as long. The more thoughtful and detailed we are upfront, the smoother the construction process becomes. Rushing that stage is where most projects run into issues, and incorporating value engineering into the mix requires creative, thoughtful, and practical thinking.

Kitchens and primary bathrooms always lead, but the real value comes from how the home functions as a whole. Opening up spaces, improving flow, bringing in natural light, and creating intentional moments throughout the home, those are the things that elevate both lifestyle and long-term value. In luxury homes, it’s not just about finishes, it’s about how everything works together. I really like to think of all aspects of wellness and universal design whenever I’m designing, but function is the single most important aspect of design.

You’re not just hiring a contractor, you’re choosing a partner for a major investment. I am a big proponent of education to enhance the customer experience so that my clients can make well-educated decisions about their project. This also helps in understanding what and where to prioritize.

Look at their body of work, how they communicate, and how they guide you through decisions. The best firms don’t just build, they lead. They help you avoid mistakes, make confident decisions, and ultimately deliver a home that performs on all levels, not only at this stage of your life but well into the future, while also protecting your investment.

Absolutely. The kitchen is still the heart of the home, especially here on the North Shore. We like to think of them as lifestyle spaces versus just a kitchen, it’s where life happens.

A well-designed kitchen improves how you live, not only for cooking, but for entertaining, gathering, and even incorporating elements of wellness inspiration, including enhanced preservation of food, elevated convenience, and colors that inspire creativity. When done right, it’s both a lifestyle upgrade and a strong investment.

For us, full-service means everything from initial concepts and space planning to final installation and finishing touches. That includes design, selections, budgeting, permitting, construction, and project management. Our goal is to create a seamless experience where the client isn’t managing multiple people. We handle it all, and we stand behind the entire result.

As someone who has a background in historic preservation, the short answer is absolutely yes. Some of the best projects we do are in older homes. There’s character and craftsmanship there that you simply cannot replicate.

The key is respecting the architecture while modernizing the way the home lives. When done right, you get the best of both worlds, which is timeless character with modern comfort and performance.

Yes, in most cases you do, especially when you’re dealing with utilities or any structural, electrical, or plumbing work. This is where having an experienced team matters. We handle the permitting process so everything is done correctly and in compliance with local requirements. It’s not something homeowners should have to navigate on their own. This can get very complex, especially when engineering or civil work is involved.

Typically, additions, kitchens, bathrooms, and any structural work are the biggest investments. But the real cost driver is the level of finish material, including luxury cabinetry and millwork, specialty finishes and surfaces, and high-performance appliances. I always tell clients to invest where it matters. Quality shows over time, and it’s what makes a home feel truly elevated.

Luxury isn’t about excess, it’s about intention. It’s layered lighting, thoughtful materials, custom details, and how everything comes together. When a home is designed well, it feels effortless. That’s what we focus on, creating spaces that feel refined without trying too hard.

That depends on the person, but many of our clients choose to renovate because they love where they live. It’s hard to replicate the character and craftsmanship of older homes, which have a lot of appeal, but oftentimes the interior floor plan does not meet modern-day living standards. Renovation gives you the ability to create something tailored specifically to your lifestyle. A new home might be convenient, but it rarely offers that same level of personalization.

What we’re seeing now is a move toward warm, natural, and timeless design. People are stepping away from anything that feels overly trendy and focusing more on materials, texture, and longevity. There’s also a strong emphasis on wellness, including natural light, air quality, and spaces that simply feel good to be in.

It depends on the scope. For smaller projects, it’s possible. For larger renovations, especially whole-home projects, I usually recommend moving out. It allows us to work more efficiently and makes the experience much less stressful for the homeowner.

Absolutely.  Finish quality is top flight with most custom cabinetry shops and is a finish that is intented to last a lifetime.  Plus custom cabinetry is one of the biggest differentiators in a home. It allows us to design specifically for how you live, maximize storage, and achieve a level of quality and detail that you simply won’t get with stock options.

Start with your priorities and be honest about your expectations. We guide clients through that process early by aligning vision, scope, and investment. A well-planned budget isn’t just about cost control, it’s about making sure every dollar is working toward the end result.

A successful renovation follows a clear process that includes design, planning, permitting, construction, and completion. Our role is to guide you through each step so you always know what’s happening and what’s next. The goal is to remove uncertainty and make the experience as smooth as possible.

In most cases, yes, but it needs to be done correctly. We evaluate structure, bring in engineering when needed, and make sure everything is supported properly. Opening up a space can completely transform a home, but it has to be executed properly.

It’s the combination of comfort, detail, and craftsmanship. Heated floors, steam showers, custom vanities, saunas, and layered lighting all play a role, but what really makes it stand out is how it feels. A great bathroom should feel like a retreat, not just another room. I like to refer to them as wellness rooms, since this is the space that can directly impact your health and well-being. Biophilic design always comes to mind in luxury bathrooms and is a design principle that should be applied whenever possible, especially in a luxury bath.