Passion and energy fuel Gary’s pursuit of perfection in design. With his innate ability to communicate a vision for projects, Gary convinces others to join him as he reaches well beyond the anticipated to produce consistently exceptional work. The trust he engenders in the extended team is built on a thorough understanding of good design. At Gary Lee Partners, Design 101 begins with a sense of how the environment will function for the client’s business, with how the space will feel, and with planning that considers rhythm and volume before style.
If the process is the foundation for the work, it is Gary’s mastery of detail that allows him to deliver a signature sensibility across a wide range of design projects. A rich portfolio of memorable spaces and evocative details have earned Gary accolades and awards that include the prestigious Interiors Designer of the Year and membership in the highly selective Interior Design Hall of Fame. He is equally respected by the clients who often return with multiple assignments and by a loyal team of collaborators who have worked closely with him for years.
Though many claim that Gary is a natural designer, he earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts with a focus on Interior and Graphic Design at the University of Michigan School of Architecture and Design. “The strength of the work — our legacy — is that we see the smallest detail as representative of the entire project. And we keep working until it is a seamless, elegant whole.”
As the firm’s Design Principal, David is an advocate for the client and for design. He recognizes that the best solutions are those that fully exploit the possibilities of design in service to the client’s requirements. David understands the value of the big idea that guides even the small decisions on sophisticated projects for smart and demanding clients. As a result he consistently leads the project team, which includes clients, architects, interior designers, consultants, and contractors to achieve facilities that set the benchmarks for the entire profession.
As part of the agile team at GLP, David is equally adept at managing the process as he is at finding the creative solution to the design of environments that range from corporations and law firms to private residences. His design talents have also helped to shape furniture collections for Knoll Studio’s Lee Lounge Collection, FCI, and the Holly Hunt Indigo Collection. David received his Bachelor of Science from the College of Architecture and Environmental Design at Arizona State University.
“Working with people you admire, respect and trust, allows you to do your very best. It makes a real difference. And that’s what we bring to our clients.”
An architect for three decades, Tim oversees quality assurance and technical coordination on all GLP projects. His profound knowledge of building infrastructures and systems, competency, and project execution make him an invaluable resource for clients, co-workers, and consultants. Tim’s recent clients include BlueCross BlueShield of Illinois, GTCR, Winston & Strawn, The Boston Consulting Group, and Baker & Daniels.
Prior to joining GLP, Tim worked as an architect at Skidmore Owings & Merrill, Murphy/Jahn, ISD, ISI, Torchia Associates, and VOA Associates.
Tim graduated from Iowa State University with a Bachelor’s degree in Architecture and is a registered architect in Illinois.
With more than 25 years of financial management and administrative experience in the design industry, Leann is the principal in charge of the firm’s finance and administration. She is responsible for assuring the realization of profit objectives and long-term financial stability for GLP. Her greatest success lies in her ability to integrate project management, financial management, information technology, and administration in a manner that not only benefits the firm but also significantly impacts individual projects. Prior to joining GLP in 1994, Leann was a financial manager at the national design firm ISD.
In addition to her work as a financial professional, Leann co-founded a non-profit organization, Almost Home Kids, which provides a continuum of care for children dependent upon medical technology. As a result of her experience caring for a son with special healthcare needs, Leann felt that there was an unmet need in the community for such an organization. Almost Home Kids receives on-going support from Ronald McDonald House Charities and currently serves as a model for care throughout the country.
Leann’s education includes the Academy of Merchandising NS Design in Chicago and the Harvard University Graduate School of Design in Boston. Leann remains actively involved in community projects and has won several awards for her contributions, including her election as a “Local Hero” by the American Red Cross in 2004 and winner of the Community Impact Award in Chicago.
As principal for GLP’s operations, Tom is responsible for quality assurance and providing management leadership on all projects. He serves as a technical coordinator and works with clients to ensure accurate and timely execution of the project process.
Tom brings more than 25 years of architectural experience to GLP, including interior architectural design, tenant improvements, and pre-construction consulting. Prior to joining GLP, Tom was Senior Project Manager at Grubb & Ellis and Principal (Interiors Practice Group leader) at VOA. His notable clients include MillerCoors, Leo Burnett, DeVry, Oracle, and McDonald’s.
A graduate of Ball State University, Tom earned dual Bachelor’s degrees in both Architecture and Science and is a registered Architect and Interior Designer in the State of Illinois.
With a firm belief that the spaces we live and work in greatly influence our lives, Donna has designed residential spaces, workplaces, and furniture lines that have supported and influenced culture, quality of life, and lifestyles over the last two decades.
As the leader of GLP’s residential studio, Donna oversees our work with the developers, condominium associations, and private owners. Her notable residential work includes the 6 N. Michigan Avenue sales center and model units, the Lake County Manor, the Ambassador conversion, and various residences in the Palmolive Building. Donna is also a lead designer on many workplace projects, including Madison Dearborn Partners and Winston & Strawn, and furniture design teams for Knoll, Halcon, and TG Couture.
Many of her projects have won awards, including the American Institute of Architects Chicago Design Excellence Awards for Amerin Guaranty Corp and the NeoCon Gold Award for “Best New Product” for the Gianni collection. Prior to joining GLP in 1993, Donna worked as a designer for ISD, ISI, and VOA Associates.
Donna is a graduate of Wayne State University where she received a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design and is a registered Interior Designer in the State of Illinois.
Dana possesses a unique blend of characteristics that are highly valued by her clients, including technical knowledge, creativity, leadership, and business and management acumen. Her portfolio ranges from large-scale corporate facilities and impeccably planned and detailed professional service firm spaces, to large, multi-family residential developments. Her recent clients include The Boston Consulting Group, Johnson Publishing Company, Winston & Strawn, and The Chicago Sun-Times.
Prior to joining GLP in 2000, Dana was a designer at The Environments Group, where she worked on projects such as the award-winning headquarters for WW Grainger headquarters.
With a Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Design from the Center for Creative Studies College of Art & Design and a background in Architectural Studies at Lawrence Technological University, Dana brings a multitude of comprehension and experience to each project she works on.
One of the first employees of GLP, Randy plays an essential role in managing the firm and servicing clients. His creativity, excellent management skills, and dynamic personality make him a sought after project director and designer for creative agencies as well as financial and professional service firms, including Laughlin Constable, GTCR, Winston & Strawn, Williams Montgomery & John, and M3 Capital Partners.
Randy also works with our workplace and residential clients to assess and supplement their art collections. His ability to weave GLP’s design sensibilities with his resources in the international art community result in distinguished, refined spaces that reflect the client’s personal tastes.
Randy has spent his entire career as a designer with GLP. Over the years, his work has received many accolades, including an American Institute of Architects Chicago Design Excellence Award for Newport News in New York City.
A graduate of the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, Randy received a Bachelor’s degree in Interior Architecture.
A fixture at GLP for the last decade, Maura is a key team member for the firm’s workplace and product design clients. As a designer and firm director, she leads teams and mentors staff by example, performing whatever task is required to ensure the maximum value from her clients’ real estate and design investments. Among the clients who have benefited from her diverse experience in the planning and design of interior environments are BlueCross BlueShield of Illinois, Baker & Daniels, Winston & Strawn, The Boston Consulting Group, and GTCR.
Prior to joining GLP in 2000, Maura was a designer at VOA Associates.
Maura completed her design studies at Michigan State University, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Interior Design.
Julie possesses a profound understanding of the needs and desires of the current marketplace. She is a conduit that connects the exceptional resources and capabilities of GLP with those looking to make wise choices in their design investments. Since joining GLP in 2009, Deignan has been enthusiastic about her role at GLP, stating “the firm has incredible brand recognition. The obvious passion, talent, and camaraderie of the staff make the firm a rarity in the industry; it is a very inspiring place to be.”
Prior to joining GLP, Julie worked as an Account Executive at Office Revolution, a commercial furniture dealership, and Herman Miller. In her previous roles, she worked directly with end-users, real estate brokers, project managers, and design firms; experiences which afford her a unique and unbiased perspective that will better position GLP in the new economy.
Deignan is a graduate of the University of Michigan where she earned her Bachelor’s degree in Marketing and Communications. Throughout her career, Julie also became a strong advocate for the promotion of social responsibility. While at Office Revolution, she helped establish the firm’s Corporate Responsibility program, which promotes volunteerism within the organization. This program helps raise awareness of homelessness among students in the Chicago Public Schools system and works to raise money to purchase school supplies and uniforms for homeless students.
As Marketing Director, Anne is the vital communication link for GLP, internally and externally. In working with business development and the studio, Anne translates the firm’s services, projects, and culture into compelling visual and written stories. She acts as the point of contact for the media and oversees the application and implementation of the identity programs for Gary Lee Partners’ design practice as well as its sister companies Gary Lee Studios – a product design and licensing company, Atelier Gary Lee – a multi-line showroom, and Chai Ming Studios – a private label furniture company.
In addition to working with GLP since the late nineties, Anne was employed at TENbyTEN, an indie architecture and design magazine, and OWP/P as the marketing manager for its healthcare architecture practice.
A graduate of the University of Michigan, Anne received a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science with a concentration in international relations and a Bachelor’s degree in Spanish. She also attended the Universidad de Sevilla and the Fundación José Ortega y Gasset in Spain.
Jenna’s role involves providing team leadership with a focus on commercial projects. Jenna brings a wide range of expertise to GLP. With more than 16 years of experience with design firms, commercial real estate, and corporate end users, Jenna is able to conceptualize projects from a different point of view. She has a keen eye for design details and builds strong client relationships, working to understand client needs and ensuring that those needs are met. Clients look to Jenna for creative solutions to design challenges.
Jenna’s experience includes corporate office, corporate headquarters, financial, and hospitality design. Before joining GLP, Jenna worked for the Dobbins Group as Director of Interiors and at Grubb & Ellis as VP of Strategic Planning Services.
Jenna graduated from the University of Wisconsin with a Bachelor’s degree in Interior Architecture.
Ami believes that the best projects result from an engaged and collaborative team effort and forges friendships with clients and consultants. Ami listens carefully and responds creatively. Clients depend on her as a resource and problem-solver. While she appreciates current trends and has a deep understanding of historic pasts, she always keeps an eye on the future.
Ami started her career in architecture, but quickly switched to interior design and worked at GLP as a designer. She left to work as a designer at Lieber Cooper Associates and was promoted to Principal at Simeone Deary Design Group, before returning to GLP in 2011. She has a diverse background, with experience in building design, corporate interiors, hotel and restaurant design, as well as residential and product design.
Ami attended the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Architectural Studies with a minor in Art History and a Master’s degree in Architecture. She also taught at the Illinois Institute of Art as an adjunct instructor.
Joe is focused on serving clients with integrity, managing his design team with clear communication, and collaborating well with consultants through every stage of the design process. He builds trusting relationships with his clients and has a great understanding of the construction industry. Joe specializes in high-end residential architecture, including renovations to historic homes and landmarks.
As an architect, Joe was enthusiastic about joining the firm because of the way GLP thinks about architecture and design –from the big picture down to the smallest detail. He also appreciates GLP’s professionalism, responsiveness, and client-focused style.
Prior to joining GLP, Joe was an Associate Principal at Booth Hansen and has been a well-respected member of residential architecture and design communities in Chicago and New York for 20 years. He previously worked for DiBiase-Filkoff Architects in Bedford, NY, and Eicher Architecture in New York City.
Joe received a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Painting from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and a Master’s degree in Sculpture from Hunter College at City University of New York.
Gint is an accomplished technical coordinator with experience in all project phases. Although he has worn many different hats throughout his career, Gint has found his niche in construction administration where he puts his solid understanding of technical codes and documentation to good use.
In his 20 years in the architecture and design industry, Gint has worked for several prominent design firms including Gensler and The Environments Group. His exceptional communication skills have ensured strong relationships with clients, contractors, and consultants.
Gint has a Bachelor’s degree in Architecture from the University of Illinois at Chicago and a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Purdue University.
Laura is captivated by design and its ability to transform lives through creative expression. She considers the big picture with every project, but also pays attention to the small details.
Laura completed internships for Gensler and GLP before rejoining GLP as a designer. She received her Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design from the University of Cincinnati and participated in a study abroad program at the Danish Institute in Copenhagen.
Her charitable design efforts include working with Habitat for Humanity, Architecture for Humanity-Cincinnati Chapter, and Chairs for Charity.
Anne is a motivated and driven designer who provides thoughtful and fresh perspectives. She strives to create meaningful environments by keeping the big picture in mind, while paying attention to the small details.
Prior to joining GLP, Anne received her Master’s degree in Architecture with an emphasis in Interior Architecture from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. She has designed many public art installation exhibits in Chicago as well as in Japan, where she studied abroad.
She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Art History from the University of California at Santa Barbara and completed an architectural internship at Street Dixon Rick, Architecture in Nashville, Tennessee.
Amanda’s passion for design is rooted in its ability to promote positive change. Amanda believes that design affects the way we live, interact, and work in our various social and physical environments. Amanda’s work experience includes D2 Solutions in Pennsylvania, Matrix Advertising and Clodagh Design in New York, and JP Franzen Associates Architects in Connecticut. She was also a design associate at Punta Dominical in Costa Rica.
She graduated from the Savannah College of Art and Design with a Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design and a minor in Electronic Design.
Prior to joining GLP, Jackie worked as a designer at Forcade Associates and Parachin Design Studios and completed an internship for the Hnedak Bobo Group in Memphis.
Jackie earned her Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design from the University of Tennessee, where she received a Best in Show Award for Furniture Design. She also participated in a study abroad program at the Danish Institute in Copenhagen.
Chloe’s attention to detail and dedication throughout the design process are recognized on all of her projects. She works on projects at various stages, addressing all details, and ensuring that all of the client’s needs are met.
Prior to joining GLP, Chloe worked on projects at Kara Mann Design and Holly Hunt. She is a LEED Accredited Professional and a member of the Architectural Woodwork Institute.
Chloe graduated from Miami University of Ohio and received a Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design (emphasis on interdisciplinary, collaborative experience, and design studio) with a concentration in entrepreneurship. While at Miami University, Chloe also studied at the Interior Design Department based in Florence, Italy.
Chantal brings a unique perception of design and an exceptional attention to detail to each of her projects. Her expertise can be seen in her use of cutting edge design. She creates thoughtful, innovative solutions for her clients that are aimed to improve their quality of life.
Chantal is well versed in all aspects of the design process, but her true passion involves the documentation phase of each project—putting the puzzle pieces together as she works with the team to develop construction documents and details.
A graduate of Arizona State University, Chantal earned her Bachelor’s degree in Design. She also possesses a NCIDQ Certificate. As a young design professional, Chantal has received numerous awards including an IIDA SW Pride Award for Product Design (2005), IIDA SW Pride Award for Team Design Project (2005), and an IIDA SW Pride Award for Individual Project (2004). She served as an IIDA Board Member for Habitat for Humanity from 2003-2005 and participated in the ASID Mentoring Program.
Trevor considers himself a modernist and minimalist at heart. He believes that building materials that establish and enliven spaces ought to be “honest” or devoid of imitation. He values the creative process in order to conceptually conceive and physically deliver spaces that are visually clear and functional.
Prior to joining GLP, Trevor worked as a design architect at Wells & Fox Architectural Interiors and as an interior architect at CBT Architects in Boston. He also worked as an interior architect at Booth Hansen Architects in Chicago.
He received his Bachelor’s degree in Interior Architecture and Furniture Design from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. He was recognized with an IIDA New England Award in 2008 for his work on Hotel Indigo—First Place Hospitality Category. Trevor possesses a NCIDQ Certificate.
Agnes is dedicated to the overall design experience and making sure that all details are addressed at various stages of the design process. Her strong work ethic and dedication are recognized on all of her projects.
Prior to joining GLP, Agnes worked as an intern at LG Construction + Development, where she assisted project managers with design and project coordination and preparation of LEED certification documents.
Agnes received her Bachelor’s degree in Architectural Studies from the University of Illinois Urban-Champaign. She also spent a year studying abroad at l’École Nationale Supérieure d’Architecture de Versailles in France, and engaged in independent study-travel throughout Europe. She has done volunteer work for the East St. Louis Action Research Project and Architecture for Humanity, and was a member of the Women in Architecture organization.
Cassie’s passion revolves around communicating design concepts to non-designers. She takes the time to explain her ideas to clients who may not come from a design background, making sure that they understand the functionality and aesthetics behind the concepts. Her corporate design experience reflects her expertise in taking an understated quality about a company’s brand and incorporating it into the overall design.
Cassie has worked for Scripps Networks, Knoxville, Tennessee, which encompasses HGTV and DIY Network, as a design ambassador. She spent time with TV personality Vern Yip learning about designing for television and teaching design to non-designers. She also shadowed a production company during the filming of an episode of Color Splash Miami. Cassie has also worked as a design intern for Eckenhoff Saunders Architects and HOK Chicago.
She has a Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design from the University of Cincinnati and participated in a study abroad program at the Danish Institute in Copenhagen.
Claire’s drive for finding new and progressive products leads to visually appealing and innovative designs. She consistently creates thoughtful and original solutions for her clients. As a designer, Claire is well versed in all aspects of the design process. She is invested in working through each phase of a project and seeing it through to completion.
Claire started her career at Powell/Kleinschmidt, where she worked as an interior designer before joining GLP. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Environment, Textiles, and Design with a concentration in Interior Design from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. While at University of Wisconsin, Claire was a selected member of the Feng Shui and Environmental Behavior Studies Program at Peking University in Beijing, China. Claire also volunteers with organizations such as Chicago Cares, Habitat for Humanity, and Create for a Cure.
Margaret enjoys the diversity of design and the way each element, like graphics or furniture, play into each other and combine to create a finished space that is visually appealing and interesting. She has a well-rounded concept of design, with a diverse background that includes branded environments, graphic wayfinding and exhibit design, higher education, residential, corporate, and hospitality.
Margaret previously worked for GLP and rejoined the firm after working at Gallagher and Associates in Bethesda, Maryland, RTKL Associates in Chicago, and BHDP Architecture in Cincinnati, Ohio.
She received her Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design from the University of Cincinnati's College of Design, Art, Architecture, and Planning. Margaret completed a study abroad program at the Danish Institute in Copenhagen.
Katy joined GLP in 2011 as a receptionist after working for the Center for Cultural Interchange, an organization that promotes international exchange programs.
She is a recent graduate of DePaul University, where she received her Bachelor’s degree in International Studies and French. Katy’s passion revolves around international studies and travel. She spent five months in Paris on a study abroad program and has backpacked through Europe.
Katey’s role at GLP has evolved from receptionist to Accounting Manager. She is responsible for furniture procurement, as well as general accounting. She oversees furniture procurement orders for residential clients.
A graduate of the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, Katey received her bachelor’s degree in Fiber and Material Studies. She enjoys creating fiber art pieces in her spare time.
April started at GLP as a receptionist and was promoted to office manager in 2011. Prior to joining GLP, she worked as a receptionist for Booth Hansen & Associates and IEG. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree with a concentration in Theatre Performance from Indiana University, South Bend.
April is passionate about theater and has been involved in dramatic and comedic acting for several years. She is active in the theater community in Chicago and can be seen performing in plays around the city.