Local Architect Opens New Gallery and Showroom
Suzanne Shumaker of Shumaker Design Associates is excited to announce the opening of "Shumaker Curated – the garden room" at 707 Washington. Doors open to the public on November 8.

Evanston, IL – The garden room by Shumaker Curated will welcome visitors starting November 8, 2024. This unique gallery will showcase curated art, custom furniture, hand-knotted rugs, fixtures, and vintage treasures sourced from estate sales across the Chicago North Shore. Interior designers, architects, collectors, and anyone with an appreciation for fine detail and exceptional craftsmanship are encouraged to explore the garden room.

The gallery will be open by appointment from Tuesday to Thursday, with hours on Friday from 11 AM to 4 PM and Saturday from 12 PM to 4 PM. A portion of all profits will be donated to the Alzheimer’s Association in honor of Suzanne’s father.

A Natural Extension of a Full-Service Approach

Since 2009, Shumaker Design Associates has been dedicated to designing, renovating, and preserving exceptional homes in Evanston and the North Shore. The firm merges a passion for interiors with discerning architectural expertise, often selecting and procuring every detail for their clients’ homes.

Shumaker Curated is a natural extension of this full-service philosophy, showcasing the quality craftsmanship that defines every Shumaker Design project. It offers clients the opportunity to access exquisite design in smaller spaces or through individual, standout pieces. “With the overwhelming choices available online and in big-box stores, it can be challenging to find what you truly want. Shumaker Curated presents a thoughtfully curated collection featuring the work of local artists and craftsmen, designed to make your search for something special a joy,” says Suzanne Shumaker, owner of Shumaker Curated.

Valued collaborators, from near and far, have come together to bring the garden room to life. This trusted team of skilled resources, tradespeople, craftsmen, and vendors is integral to the success of every Shumaker Design project.

Inspired by Nature and Family

The garden room by Shumaker Curated is a celebration of nature, where materials, furniture, fittings, textiles, and artwork come together in an organic curation. It is not just a space, but an experience—an oasis for relaxation that emphasizes the importance of nature. “My first garden room, designed by my father over 50 years ago, was a one-room addition with numerous windows framing his beautiful, terraced rose garden. Shumaker Curated’s garden room aims to recreate that warm feeling of calm and wonder, surrounded by the beauty of nature,” Suzanne reflects.

The more than 300 varieties of roses from Suzanne’s father’s garden were cherished by many. Fresh roses adorned the tables in his restaurant daily, becoming a symbol of his enduring passion for new beginnings. Suzanne continues this legacy with her own new beginning—the garden room by Shumaker Curated.

Hopes, Dreams, and Future Plans

Looking ahead, the garden room by Shumaker Curated plans to host art installations from local artists and serve as an event and gathering space for community organizations. Suzanne envisions it as an inspirational haven for all to enjoy.

About Suzanne Shumaker

Suzanne Shumaker is a principal at Shumaker Design Associates and the owner of Shumaker Curated (shumakercurated.com). This year, she lost her father, Walter Schaller, after his long battle with Alzheimer’s disease. The garden room is dedicated to his memory, reflecting the resilience, philanthropy, and integrity he exemplified. “You can learn new things at any time in your life if you’re willing to be a beginner. Embrace your style and grace, and it will bring joy to you and those around you,” is a quote cherished by both Suzanne and her father because it captures the spirit of lifelong learning and the joy of authenticity.

About Shumaker Design Associates

Shumaker Design Associates (shumakerdesignassociates.com) is an architecture and interior design firm that guides clients from concept to construction and procurement of fine furnishings. Principals Suzanne and Garry Shumaker believe that the right space can shape a lifestyle. Their architectural approach seamlessly integrates interiors with site and landscape from the outset of each project.