Amy Lenahan, an interior stylist, has established design i interiors to cater to "design-conscious yet budget-savvy homeowners" (and renters!).
Bringing what the site describes as "a fresh, accessible and affordable approach to interior design" is her goal. The photos on the site are very good - worth a look for inspiration and ideas.
Amy works on a flat fee scale. Different pricing options are available depending on the scope and scale of the job, from consultations ($300/up to 2 hours) to full room makeovers (starts at $950/room).
The online portfolio shows three projects, a Lincoln Park photography studio, Bucktown loft and Lakeview condo.
In an email to AT, Amy described her business: "My cost model is such that I don't earn my fees as many designers do, which is through markup on items purchased for the client. Instead, I charge flat fees, depending on the service desired, and even help my clients cut costs by allowing them to implement my 'plan' on their own.
I also spend time trying to educate clients on basic design principles so that they feel more confident in making their own future decisions".
(Re-edited from a post originally published 06-30-06)

Comments (6)
Does anyone know of other designers in Chicago with a similiar style and with varying fee scales for levels of need such as Amy Lenahan? We just moved to large Chicago home from a small Virginia home and need help pulling it together and haven't been able to get Amy to return our calls/emails. Thanks for any recommendations.
Oops, nevermind. Just got her. Thanks!
Note the FLOR like carpet, Cost Plus like bench, and Ikea like everything else.
Not that any of that is a bad thing. But very much a DIY.
I would love to hire Amy, but she is on maternity leave until January. I lost most of my furniture in the recent Chicago monsoon, and am starting over from scratch in a new place. Can anyone recommend an apartment designer/decorator with a style similar to Amy's, who works within clients' budgets? Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!
If you live in SW FL, I've just started a similar business!
http://designablespace.com
Amy gave me a great consultation for my new condo last year - ideas on what kinds of furniture and accessories to buy to pull the place together. Definitely a DIY so although I loved her ideas I may wait until I can afford to have someone execute on them for me too next time.