Hero Coffee & Bagel
York Road
For this project, DAE was commissioned to design a flagship store for the Chicago-based brand Hero Coffee & Bagel. The client sought to transform two existing storefronts—a yoga studio and a salon—into a cohesive coffee shop and roastery. Through close collaboration with the client, DAE developed a layout that not only optimized the functionality of both the coffee shop and roastery but also created a visually striking and seamlessly integrated experience for customers.
Small Footprint
Single Family Home
For this project, DAE was commissioned to design a single-family home that maximized the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, while also incorporating an attached garage, all within a 2,000 square foot footprint. The client emphasized the importance of minimizing the overall size to keep costs low, as the home was intended to provide affordable housing for low-income families. With these parameters in mind, DAE successfully developed a streamlined 1,650 square foot design featuring three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a two-car attached garage.
Large Footprint
Single Family Home (revised)
For this project, DAE Group was tasked with revising an existing large-footprint custom home to accommodate the client's updated requirements. The original ranch-style design was modified to incorporate second-floor living spaces while simultaneously reducing the overall footprint to comply with municipal regulations. Through a thoughtful reimagining of the design aesthetic and strategic floor plan adjustments, DAE successfully delivered a home that seamlessly blends modern and traditional styles, meeting all client needs while reducing the overall footprint by 1,800 square feet.
Ultra Modern Style
Single Family Home
For this project, DAE was engaged to develop a concept for an ultra-modern style single-family home, with a focus on maintaining a cost-effective design and construction budget. By leveraging advanced building practices, innovative materials, and high-quality finishes, DAE successfully delivered a stunning modern home while keeping costs 30% lower than those of competitors.
Large Footprint
Single Family Home
For this project, DAE was commissioned to design a custom, large-footprint single-family residence incorporating numerous client-specified amenities. The design posed several challenges, primarily the requirement to maintain a ranch-style aesthetic while accommodating five bedrooms, an open floor plan, a backyard pool, and two separate attached garages—a standard three-car garage and an expansive eight-car showroom. To address these complexities, DAE drew inspiration from Nordic longhouses, resulting in a stunning, one-of-a-kind architectural showcase.
Hero Coffee & Bagel
Spring Road
For this project, DAE was commissioned to design an anchor store for a newly constructed strip center. Given the first choice of anchor location, the client sought to create the most distinctive and memorable storefront within the development. Leveraging the site’s unique sightlines, DAE strategically highlighted the newly designed outdoor patio. The incorporation of full-opening garage doors and panel-fold glass doors seamlessly connects the indoor and outdoor spaces, creating an open and airy atmosphere in line with the client's vision. Maintaining consistency with the brand’s established interior aesthetic, DAE delivered a space that is unmistakably Hero.
Soul Food Restaurant
Elmhurst, IL
For this project, DAE was commissioned to create a concept for transforming an abandoned wine bar into a Southern soul food restaurant. The space presented several challenges due to its long, narrow layout, with windows only at the front of the building. However, by incorporating side windows overlooking an existing patio, applying vibrant yet simple paint colors, adding wall trim and artwork by a Bourbon Street artist, and installing new lighting, DAE successfully revitalized the space, transforming the dim, outdated wine bar into a lively and inviting hotspot.