National recognition for innovation, experience, and redefining what a showroom can be.
EL Design Named 2025 Showroom of the Year
We’re thrilled to share that EL Design has been named the 2025 Showroom of the Year by Dallas Market Center, less than a year after opening our doors.
This prestigious honor is awarded annually during Lightovation, the largest residential lighting trade show in North America, and celebrates the most innovative and forward-thinking lighting retailers across the U.S. and Canada. EL Design was selected from hundreds of entries for our exceptional customer experience, design-forward merchandising, community engagement, and fresh approach to retail.
Launched in July 2024, EL Design was built to challenge the conventional showroom model. Located in a once-abandoned warehouse in Elk Grove Village, IL, our two-story space was transformed by the visionary team at Kuchar Studio into a showroom unlike any other. It’s a place to explore, collaborate, and be inspired, whether you're a homeowner, designer, architect, or builder.
Inside, you'll find more than beautiful lighting. Our space is part showroom, part studio, and part hospitality lounge, featuring curated furniture, textiles, and décor alongside innovative lighting solutions. Private meeting areas offer a relaxed environment for project reviews, while our hospitality bar serves espresso, wine, and seasonal bites to help you feel right at home.
“EL is more than just a showroom, it’s a destination.”
“We set out to create a space that encourages creativity, connection, and curiosity. To receive this level of recognition so soon is incredibly meaningful to our team.”
- Founder Kelly Gallagher
This year also marked the debut of a new award category: Showroom of the Future, recognizing retailers that are pushing boundaries through digital engagement and in-store innovation. EL Design’s win reflects our commitment to both design excellence and modern retail experiences.
We are so proud to represent the Chicago design community on a national stage—and deeply grateful to the clients, collaborators, and creatives who’ve helped bring our vision to life.
Whether you're sourcing for a project, seeking inspiration, or just discovering us for the first time, we invite you to come experience EL Design for yourself.
About the Award
The Showroom of the Year Awards, presented by Dallas Market Center, honor the top lighting showrooms in North America. Winners are selected by an expert panel of judges and recognized at Lightovation in Dallas each June. The awards evaluate excellence in merchandising, marketing, customer service, team education, and community involvement.