Today we’d like to introduce you to Michael Del Piero.
Michael, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
Started my interior design career as the result of requests from homeowners who were purchasing goods from me. I was in the business of sourcing (from around the globe) antiques, cool Objet d’Art and unique lighting for customers living around the country. This is still a part of our current company.
I am not formally trained as an interior designer, so initially, I declined the requests for interior design work/projects. After much coaxing from one customer, in particular, I agreed to assist with the interior design of her North Shore English Tudor. After 9 months of construction and design of this space, the home was published and the birth of Michael Del Piero Good Design was born. This was 10 years ago.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Relatively speaking, it has been a typical entrepreneurial road! ups and downs as the result of the economy and my learning curve in an unfamiliar industry. I opened my business during a “weak” economy and continued through the difficulties which occurred during this economic state. Once things shifted and I developed a roster of healthy projects and my business began to flourish. Currently, we are housed in a two-level space in a 19th-century warehouse in West town serving clients around the country.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Michael Del Piero Good Design – what should we know?
We practice interior design headquartered in Chicago. We have a second office in Amagansett NY. The Chicago location also houses a shop of global finds. Including sculptural furniture, antiques and art.
What I’m most proud of is being able to run a shop AND an interior design firm. There have been at least 10 firms in Chicago who shared the same model and I seem to be the only one left standing. It’s not easy running both so I understand how others have had to choose one side of the business vs running both.
I’ve often asked myself why has this worked for us? I’d say it’s due to keeping the shop small enough to manage and have the best design team in the business!
I think it’s our style which sets us apart from others. We have cultivated a unique take on “the mix”. A rough yet luxurious blend of classic and modern style. We create approachable yet sophisticated, ancient yet modern interiors. Our work is a nod to a study in contrasts with a never too precious or formal slant.
What are your plans for the future? What are you looking forward to or planning for – any big changes?
Plans for the future include a new shop in the Hamptons, a private collection and a book.
Contact Info:
- Address: 428 N Wolcott Ave.
Chicago, Illinois 60622 - Website: michaeldelpiero.com
- Phone: 773-772- 3000
- Email: info@michaeldelpiero.com
- Instagram: Instagram handle- michael_del_piero_
Image Credit:
Kina Wicks, Janet Mesic-Mackie, Marco Ricca
Getting in touch: VoyageChicago is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
