Today we’d like to introduce you to Nicole Stark Aral.
Nicole, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
As I grew up, I always loved fashion, color, trends and design, dreaming of something wonderfully creative. Being from a rural town, interior design, was not a career option. My creative outlet became journalism and went off to college with high expectations to be a news anchor. Once in college, I became more interested in the college of fine arts and architecture, than what I was supposed to be studying. I kept dreaming of bright lights, big city and creating something that people in general could enjoy. I took a job with the prestigious Estee Lauder, moved to Chicago and soon became a manager for the company. I finally was in the fashion market and enjoying selling beautiful colors and products. While living in Chicago, I learned about the noteworthy architecture and design and immediately fell in love. After attending Harrington College of Interior Design and also Columbia College, I had earned not only one, but two interior architecture degrees! I began working for prestigious furniture and interior material manufacturer’s and quickly began consulting with Chicago architecture and design firms. In 2009, I bravely took a leap and ventured into business for myself. Loop Studio was born! We focus on interior design for all types of projects and also sell and procure custom furnishings for large commercial projects. Our focus is on you, the client. We take your ideas and create well thought out and curated spaces that inspire conversations and lifestyle! I love our work and constantly pinch myself and say…”Could this be real?!” Dreams do come true!
Has it been a smooth road?
Nothing is a smooth road, there are always bumps and sharp curves along the way to success. Each experience is noted and leaned from. Without challenges, I would not be where I am now. Everything that I have experienced in life has led me to be brave and strong enough to chase my dreams. Challenges drive success.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
Located in Chicago, Loop Studio is a woman owned business comprised of interior and visual designers who utilize their collective specialized skill sets to develop timeless environments and concepts for commercial, hospitality and luxurious residential projects.
Loop’s aesthetic philosophy rests on the belief that every great design begins with a better story.
Concept combined with artistry is the core mission of the firm. By developing a vision for each project, Loop creates environments that inspire ingenuity and thought. This focus on conceptual design, coupled with a genuine dedication to the client and their ideas, is what sets Loop Studio apart.
Is our city a good place to do what you do?
Chicago is a perfect city to start a career in interior design and/or architecture. Not only is it a world-class city, hosting famous building and architects, the career network is endless. Being a smaller industry, the architecture and design community is tight knit to one another. This allows for great connections and relationship building, which leads to collaborative ideas and successful prominent projects. I personally learn from my colleagues, clients and industry partners on a daily basis. I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Contact Info:
- Address: 6453 N. Newgard
#2
Chicago, IL 60626 - Website: www.loopstudiochicago.com
- Phone: 3128771478
- Email: info@loopstudiochicago.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/loopstudiochicago/?hl=en
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/LoopStudioChi

Image Credit:
Designed by Loop Studio
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