Known for their hyper-individual approach to each project, Trim Tech Designs is a woman-owned business founded by two best friends in 2007. Kelly Sopel and Bobby Hanson’s main goal is to create beautiful, timeless pieces, whether it’s hand-crafted cabinetry or custom-made furniture. Trim Tech takes pride in making and manufacturing their one-of-a-kind designs to meet each customers’ style preference and daily life. Partner Kelly Sopel explains how this Chicago-area firm provides excellence in design nationwide.
Gwen Donovan: How would you describe your approach to a new design project?
Kelly Sopel: When it comes to the Trim Tech Designs team you will see that this isn’t just our job—we’re obsessed and emotionally attached to each piece we make. The passion, the skill and the dedication that goes into each piece is bar none.
GD: What are some of your clients’ most-requested custom furniture pieces?
KS: Dining tables and sideboards because they make such a strong visual impact and are ‘forever’ pieces.
GD: Why is custom furniture a smart investment?
KS: Definitely. The pieces we create are being passed down from generation to generation.
GD: What’s your best advice to a client who is remodeling their kitchen?
KS: Think about how you and your family use the space…it’s not only about being aesthetically pleasing, it also has to lend itself to your lifestyle, personality and functionality.
GD: What are some of the top upgrades people make to their kitchen cabinetry?
KS: Designing their island to look more like a furniture piece, or customizing it with accessories and inserts to bring added functionality to everyday use. We see clients adding antique glass doors, brass bistro shelving or reeded doors.
GD: How do you lend character to a room using architectural millwork?
KS: Doors and entries are grossly underrated when it comes to trim; say ‘millwork’ and everyone thinks about base or crown moldings, but adding timeless character to doors and doorways makes a huge impact.
GD: You’re based outside of Chicago; do you also serve clients in other parts of the country?
KS: Yes! Trim Tech Designs handcrafts and designs our custom cabinetry and furniture in Naperville, Illinois, but we shop and install all over the country. We love working with new designers and seeing how different each region’s aesthetic can be.
This or That? Choose the one that appeals most to you personally.
- Kitchen island: Tiered or one-level? One level.
- Bath vanity mirror: circle or rectangle? Overlapping mirrors.
- Cabinetry: painted or stained? High-gloss painted.
- Storage: walk-in closet with organizers or a roomful of custom built-ins? Custom built-ins for sure.
- Countertops: marble or quartz? Always marble—dings and rings over the years tell your story.
Read more of this series from aspire design and home editor Gwen Donovan, here.
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