Architectural Digest has named its top 100 design professionals in the Chicago area. Among them is one of Evanston’s own.
Maddie Sykes, founder of Collected Design and Crafted, is featured in the magazine’s January 2026 Excellence in Design: Chicago City North issue. The feature can only be read in the print magazine.
The feature’s title, “Turning Houses into Homes,” is a reflection of Sykes’ design philosophy. She sees interior design as a deeply intimate profession and believes in getting to know her clients deeply to design their dream homes.
“My goal is to create homes that feel personal and where people are connected, restful and productive,” she said.
She calls her inclusion in the Chicagoland 100 a dream realized. When she was first notified, she admits she was skeptical.
“I thought it was a scam, because everything’s a scam these days,” she said. “But after checking the person’s name, I knew it was legit.”
Sykes believes her inclusion in the magazine’s top 100 list is a full-circle moment. Her interest in interior design began with her mother, Pam Bosack, who was owner of Interiors by Design on Central Street from 1999 to 2009.
Sykes spent a lot of time at her mother’s firm as she grew up. Surrounded by fabric swatches and wallpaper samples made her feel most at home. Watching her mother create homes for clients planted the seeds for her own interest in interior design.
She says starting her own firm, Collected Design, in 2019 was a natural extension of her childhood.
She admitted to feeling a sense of impostor syndrome before launching her firm. Following a pep talk from her mother, Sykes knew she had the confidence to start her interior design career. When Sykes told her mom about being featured in Architectural Digest, she was thrilled but not surprised.
Her firm serves clients throughout the North Shore and Chicago area, offering full-service residential design. Numerous testimonials praise Sykes’ style and ability to make their houses feel like homes.
“She is a delight to work with and has a keen ability to listen to her clients’ goals and put a plan into action,” Evanston couple Susan and Dave Turner said.
In addition to Collected Design, Sykes opened the decor boutique Crafted in April 2025. Located at 822 Dempster St., Crafted is called a haven for the inspired and curious.
“I always knew I wanted to have a storefront, and pulled the trigger when I saw the space on Dempster Street available for lease,” she said.
Walking inside Crafted immediately feels like walking into a living room where Sykes and her dog, Goose, greet those who enter.
Crafted, 822 Dempster St., features an eclectic collection of artwork and decor curated by owner Maddie Sykes. Credit: Rudy Ruiz
Crafted features artwork and ceramics made by local artists and artisans. Credit: Rudy Ruiz
Her store is filled with artwork, jewelry and furniture and serves as a space where local artists can have their work sold. Having a connection to local artists was important for Sykes. With her and her mother having deep ties to Evanston, she believes in the importance of community and giving back to local artists.
From designing dream homes to showcasing local talent, Sykes believes in the importance of interiors and having pieces inside one’s home tell a story. She compares good design to putting together a puzzle, as she figures out how each element fits together. It’s a challenge she is eager to take on with each client.
“I feel lucky to have a job I enjoy so much.”
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