Design District – All things Interior Design

S4E5 — Bedroom Sanctuaries: Designing the Ultimate Sleep Environment with Guests Amy Kartheiser, Janet Shiff and Brynn Olson

In this episode of Design District, we build on DUXIANA’s foundation of advanced mattress technology and expand into the broader realm of holistic bedroom design—where every detail supports restorative sleep and overall well-being. DUXIANA is more than just function; it’s a philosophy of living well. A thoughtfully designed bedroom does more than house a luxurious bed; it becomes a true sanctuary for the senses. From strategic lighting that supports circadian rhythms to luxurious linens that calm and aid in relaxation, each design choice plays a role in creating an environment that enhances rest. Layout and flow are equally important—minimizing clutter, optimizing ventilation, and positioning the bed to promote a sense of safety and serenity. Natural materials, acoustics, and even scent can all be curated to work in harmony with DUXIANA’s signature comfort, turning the bedroom into a restorative retreat where form and function meet. Featuring three of Chicago's top interior designers, Amy Kartheiser, Janet Shiff and Brynn Olson, this episode dives deeper into how you can create your own bedroom sanctuary. 
 
About Amy Kartheiser Design: Residential interior design firm Amy Kartheiser Design (AKD) is a group of passionate design professionals who create layered spaces — interwoven with depth, detail and texture — that truly speak to each homeowner’s preferences and lifestyle. AKD champions the art of the mix by striking a measured balance between elegance and ease, seamlessly blending traditional elements, modern touches and global influences. Driven by founder Amy Kartheiser’s vision to bring happiness and warmth to the lives of others, AKD prioritizes compassion and forges strong relationships with clients, partners and the community with the spirit of giving back.
 
About Blutter/Shiff Design Associates: Blutter/Shiff Design Associates was founded over 50 years ago by Joan Blutter, FASID, who was an industry-leader and visionary. Joan’s impeccable style, magnetic personality, warmth, and tireless work-ethic made her a celebrated icon within the design world. Janet Blutter Shiff is proud to now head the firm and continue her mother’s legacy. Blutter/Shiff Design Associates is located in the Merchandise Mart, in the heart of the design community. Together with her partner Lynn Boutross and team members Kerry Hefron and Christine Lim, Janet provides luxury residential and commercial interiors, working in every style and vein, with no project being too large or too small. Blutter/Shiff Design Associates is driven by quality and timeless designs, with a genuine commitment to the highest level of service.
 
About Brynn Olson Design Group: Serving clients nationwide, Brynn Olson Design Group specializes in Interior Design Services for residential and commercial clients. They curate interior spaces which are timeless in foundation and illuminated by layers of texture, comfort and individuality. Their proprietary design process ensures success for projects of all shapes and sizes. From visualization and space planning to project management and final turnkey installation, Brynn and her team obsess over the details that make the difference between good and great, collaborating with clients at every step of the way.
 

S4E4 – Spinal Solutions: How a Great Mattress Relieves Back Pain with Guest: David Boyce

In this insightful podcast episode, we explore the science behind sleep surfaces and their impact on overall health with a focus on both mattresses and pillows with Dr. David Boyce. Drawing on clinical research and physical therapy expertise, the conversation dives into how mattress support affects sleep quality and pain management, especially for individuals with chronic conditions like arthritis and fibromyalgia. Listeners will learn how sleep position and body type should influence mattress and pillow choices, and how different materials play a role in support, pressure relief, and temperature regulation. The discussion also highlights the importance of pillow height and shape in maintaining cervical spine alignment to prevent neck pain and headaches. Whether you're a side sleeper seeking better shoulder support or someone managing chronic pain, this episode offers evidence-based guidance on choosing the right sleep setup for better rest and long-term wellness.
About David Boyce: Dr. David Boyce is a Professor of Physical Therapy and serves as the Director of Student Affairs for the Doctor of Physical Therapy Program at Hanover College. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy from Oakland University, a Master’s degree in Orthopedic Physical Therapy and Electrophysiology from the University of Kentucky, and a Doctorate in Leadership Education from Spalding University. Dr. Boyce is dual board-certified by the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties in both Orthopedics and Clinical Electrophysiology. He has authored numerous peer-reviewed scientific publications and is the author and editor of the book Orthopedic Physical Therapy Secrets.

S4E3 – Engineering the Perfect Sleep with Guest: Mark Grayson

In this episode, we dive into the performance-driven design of the DUXIANA mattress—a sleep system engineered for optimal support, pressure relief, and spinal alignment with special guest, Mark Grayson, National Program Manager at DUX. Unlike conventional mattresses, DUXIANA's unique continuous coil spring design and customizable components are designed to adapt dynamically to your body's unique needs, promoting deeper, more restorative sleep. We explore how its advanced ergonomics minimize motion transfer, enhance circulation, and help alleviate pressure-related discomfort, making it more than just a luxury product—it's a tool for long-term wellness.
About Mark Grayson: Mark Grayson is the National Program Manager at DUX, where he has spent many years supporting operations, product development, and customer experience across the U.S. and internationally. With a background in textiles and home interiors, Mark brings a thoughtful, detail-oriented approach to every aspect of the brand’s day-to-day and strategic initiatives. His journey with DUX began as a customer, after purchasing a bed and experiencing a dramatic improvement in his own sleep, he couldn’t stop talking about it. That genuine enthusiasm led him to join the company, where he remains deeply committed to the product and the values it represents.

S4E2 – Color, Textile, and Material Trends

In this episode of Design District, we sit down in the Roca Tile showroom with Emily Trausch, Director of Color Consulting at JC Licht, Kruti Zaveri, Studio Lead and a Partner at Tom Stringer Design Partners, and Lydia Pomey, Casa Bella Brand Ambassador. Listen in as we chat about color, textiles and material trends.

S4E1 – Wellness in the Home

In this episode of Design District, we sit down with Hailey Gurvis, Senior Gallery Manager and A&D consultant at TOTO as well as Principal Designer at Hailey Lauren Designs, Zach Pruitt, Design Channel Manager of JC Licht Home, and Alessia Zanchi Loffredo, Founder and Principal Designer of AZL Interiors. Listen in as we chat about wellness in the home.

S3E4 – Everything Kitchen and Bath Design

In this episode of Design District, we sit down with Rama Dandamudi, President of 210 Design House – Michael Miller, Founder and Principal of Ci Design Build – Aurelia Drozdal, Design Channel Rep at Terrazzo & Marble supply. Listen in as we chat about everything kitchen and bath design.

S3E3 – How art influences and informs design.

In this episode of Design District, we sit down with Maureen Claffy – Artist and founder of Maureen Claffy Art Studio and Maureen Claffy Art Academy, Lenore Weiss - Founding Architect of Lenore Weiss Studios, and Kimberly Oliva – Founder, Curator and Owner of Oliva Gallery as well as Co-Founder and Curator of Alma Art & Interiors. Listen in as we chat how art influences and informs design.

S3E2 - Everything Material, Stone and Surfaces

In this episode of Design District, we sit down with Eugenio Megna, Founder and CEO of Elm Surfaces, Gina Saran, President at Precision Stone Design, and Steve Kadlec, founder and principal at Kadlec architecture and design.
 
Listen in as we chat everything material, stone and surfaces.

S3E1 - In Living Color

In this episode of Design District, we sit down to chat with Emily Trausch, Manager of Color Consulting at JC Licht, Jasmin Reese, Principal and Founder at Jasmin Reese Interiors and Mindy Viamontes, Partner and Architect at M Viamontes Architecture and Interiors.
Listen in as we talk about everything color in design.

S2E5 - Water Wellness in design

In this episode of Design District, we sit down to chat with Terese Poulos, Owner and Principal of Relic Design and Garrett Dynes, Showroom Manager of Studio41.
Listen in as we talk about everything Water Wellness in design.