Learn from Top Interior Designers

Join us for an inspiring Interior Design Lunch & Learn at Gorton. Three top designers will share insights. Moreover, they will engage in a lively, panel-style discussion designed to spark ideas and inspiration.

Design Principles and Pro Tips

Our designers will cover essential principles like pattern, color, scale, and proportion. You’ll gain practical tips for working successfully with a professional designer. And you’ll learn strategies for both full renovations and smaller room updates. As a result, you’ll feel confident approaching your next project.

Expertise You Can Trust

With decades of combined experience, Katy Evans, Maggie Getz, and Stephanie McKean bring unique perspectives. They will highlight current design trends and timeless elements that always endure.

Special Highlights

After the panel, enjoy an insider’s view of the 2025 Lake Forest Showhouse. This is one of the North Shore’s most celebrated design events. Following that, take part in a Q&A session. During this time, you can ask questions and receive tailored advice from the panel.

An Inspiring Day Out

Whether you’re a design enthusiast, a homeowner, or simply curious, this event offers inspiration, education, and community. Additionally, you’ll enjoy engaging conversation paired with a relaxed lunch. In the end, you’ll leave inspired and equipped with practical design knowledge to use right away.

ENJOY YOUR CHOICE OF:

Macro Grain Bowl (GF/VEGAN)
Mediterranean lentils, quinoa, crispy chickpeas, avocado, lemon-tahini dressing

Mediterranean Salad  (GF/VEGETARIAN)
Field greens, crispy chickpeas, marinated artichokes, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, mixed olives, feta, lemon-herb vinaigrette

Chicken Taco Bowl 
Braised chicken, sazon rice, black bean & corn salsa, queso fresco, avocado

About the Panel

Katy Evans is the Founder and Principal of Katy Evans Design, a full-service residential interior design firm that enlivens outdated or newly constructed spaces by giving them a polished, timeless feel. Emphasis on crisp colors, comfortable textures and exceptional lighting are trademarks of Katy’s aesthetic. Her ability to mix bespoke and antique pieces with personal items allows her to create unique, livable spaces that are authentic to each project. Katy values the importance of close relationships with her clients. She believes every home is meant to be lived-in, surrounded by meaningful design that is a true reflection of one’s personal style.

Katy graduated from the University of Alabama with a BS in Interior Design. Her professional experience spans more than 10 years with multiple projects throughout Chicago, Michigan, Florida, Massachusetts, and beyond. She currently resides in Lake Bluff, Illinois with her husband, Mike, and their daughters Olivia & Millie.

Stephanie McKean started in design by doing retail window displays. She honed her eye for detail as a woman’s clothing, accessories and jewelry buyer. Her design approach is all about making spaces personal, “Creating a beautiful room is one part of the job, creating a beautiful room that makes someone say – I want to know this person or family – is another. So much of design today is sterile and the spaces could belong to anyone, we try to create rooms that feel like the client.” She joined Nora C. Marra Interiors in 2009 and became a principal partner in 2013.

With over a decade of experience, Maggie blends eclectic traditionalism with a warm, lived-in sensibility. Known for her layered use of antiques, patterned textiles, and thoughtful details, she creates timeless spaces that feel personal and inviting.

Her design philosophy is simple yet essential: your home should feel like you.

She holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design from Harrington College of Design of Chicago and began her career creating imaginative, story-driven visual displays for Anthropologie – after that she spent eight years working for a respected interior design firm, where she honed her expertise in managing projects from concept to completion. And finally, in 2021 Maggie was inspired to fulfill a long-held dream of starting her own design studio— Maggie Getz Studio.

In 2024, Maggie was honored to be named on Frederic Magazine’s prestigious “It List,” which celebrates the work of 12 on-the-rise designers globally who are defining the next generation of style— an incredible honor in which Maggie is proud to be a part of.