Chad Esslinger

Photo by Julianne Green Photography

Esslinger Design Company

Chad Esslinger has always been drawn to how things are made – and how design can balance function and beauty. With nearly 30 years of professional design experience and a background in product development, his early career was immersed in materials, form, and function. This foundation guides his work today as the founder and principal designer of Esslinger Design Company.

Founded in 2011, Esslinger Design Company has grown into an award-winning, full-service design studio serving clients throughout Chicagoland and nationwide. Services range from selecting paint colors, furnishings, decor, lighting, and window treatments, to creating layouts and specifying products, materials, and finishes for renovation and new construction projects. Chad partners with trusted contractors and builders to create a true design-build team, ensuring a smooth process from concept through completion. Chad’s work is recognized for seamlessly blending beauty and purpose – spaces that feel elevated and refined, yet approachable and livable.

At the core of Chad’s philosophy is the belief that great design enhances everyday life. Rather than chasing trends, he focuses on interiors that are practical, functional, and personal. He understands that change is the only constant in life, and spaces should evolve as our lives do – a principle he lives at home, with his oldest child now a college freshman and his other two children in high school. Each project begins with understanding how clients live, what matters most, and how a space needs to perform – not just today but for years to come. The result is work that feels meaningful and enduring, grounded in thoughtful details and craftsmanship.

In the years Chad and his family have lived in Downers Grove, he has witnessed steady growth in the community. He takes pride in contributing to that progress through design and renovation projects, helping residents create spaces that reflect their unique personalities and lifestyles. With several new projects underway in Downers Grove and beyond, 2026 is shaping up to be an exciting year, driven by a commitment to creating spaces that support the way people live while capturing the lasting value of good design.