2025’s Hottest Interior Design Trends You Need to Know

/in , /by
Large luxury modern bright interiors Living room

As we move deeper into 2025, interior design is embracing a bold blend of future-forward aesthetics and earthy nostalgia. This year’s trends reflect a strong desire for comfort, individuality, and sustainability—perfectly suited for those looking to refresh their spaces with intention and personality. Whether you’re planning a full home makeover or just want to add a few stylish touches, here are the hottest interior design trends dominating 2025.

1. Warm Minimalism

Minimalism isn’t going anywhere, but it’s getting cozier. Say goodbye to cold, sterile spaces—2025’s version of minimalism is infused with warmth. Think soft neutral palettes, layered textures, and thoughtfully selected pieces that evoke calm without feeling bare. Warm woods, boucle fabrics, and curved forms are key to nailing this look.

2. Statement Stone

Marble and other natural stones are taking center stage in kitchens, bathrooms, and even furniture. Dramatic veining, bold colors, and asymmetrical cuts turn countertops, coffee tables, and backsplashes into eye-catching works of art. Green, burgundy, and even pink marble are particularly popular right now.

3. Retro Futurism

One of the more playful trends of 2025, retro futurism is all about blending mid-century elements with futuristic shapes and finishes. Think chrome accents, kidney-shaped furniture, LED lighting, and nostalgic color schemes like mustard, teal, and burnt orange—revived with a sleek, modern twist.

4. Biophilic Design 2.0

Biophilic design is evolving beyond houseplants. In 2025, it’s about creating entire environments that mimic the natural world. Indoor water features, organic architectural forms, and even walls that incorporate moss or living greenery are gaining traction. This trend emphasizes wellness, mental clarity, and a stronger connection to the outdoors.

5. Moody Monochrome

Deep, saturated color palettes are making a comeback, especially in monochromatic schemes. Rich hues like forest green, aubergine, charcoal, and indigo are being used floor-to-ceiling for a dramatic, immersive effect. Paired with luxe textures—velvet, matte paint, and brushed metal—these rooms feel both intimate and sophisticated.

6. Tech-Integrated Living

Smart homes are no longer just about function—they’re about seamless, beautiful integration. Designers are blending voice-activated systems, hidden charging ports, and ambient lighting into spaces without disrupting the aesthetic. Wireless everything, soundproofed zones, and customizable home ambiance are must-haves.

7. Artisanal & Handcrafted Pieces

In a pushback against mass production, 2025 highlights one-of-a-kind, handcrafted items. Whether it’s a hand-thrown ceramic vase, a carved wooden stool, or a woven textile wall hanging, these pieces add soul and story to a space. Supporting local makers and sustainable practices is a bonus.

8. Mixing Eras & Styles

Gone are the days of strictly sticking to one style. This year is all about curated contrast—pairing ultra-modern furniture with antique accessories, or Scandinavian minimalism with bohemian textiles. Personal expression rules, and design lovers are embracing eclecticism to make their homes truly their own.

Final Thoughts

2025’s interior design trends encourage self-expression, sustainability, and a reimagining of how we live in our spaces. Whether you’re drawn to dramatic stones, cozy minimalism, or a high-tech retreat, there’s something for every taste and lifestyle. The best trend of all? Creating a space that feels like home.

THIS WEEKEND IN CHICAGO – Summertime Favorites!

/in , /by
Hands shape heart sign at sunset beach music fest, crowd enjoys live concert

Well, I’m ready for the weekend to begin and hope you are too as this weekend offers us a variety of favorite summertime events starting with …

The ACM award-winning Windy City Smokeout returns for its 12th year to the United Center Parking Lot (1901 W. Madison St.) on the Near West Side this Saturday and Sunday (1 p.m.-10 p.m.) for some incredible world-class BBQ and live country music.  Attendees will have the opportunity to savor award-winning BBQ from some of the nation’s best pitmasters and most celebrated BBQ restaurants as well as enjoying an impressive lineup of country music stars and up-and-coming talent to the stage.  In addition, this festival features a curated selection of retail pop-ups along the event’s dedicated shopping row known as Rodeo Drive where you’ll find interactive brand experiences and exclusive merchandise. Plus, there’s scheduled activations and special events happening throughout each day for your continued enjoyment!

The biggest summer party on the block returns to the Lincoln Square neighborhood with its annual music and craft beer street fest, the Square Roots Festival, this Saturday (12 p.m.-10 p.m.) and Sunday (12 p.m.-9 p.m.) on Lincoln Avenue between Montrose and Wilson Avenues.  This festival features 50+ live music acts on 3 outdoor stages and 1 indoor stage; the city’s best craft brew showcase that includes a special festival brew from Dovetail Brewery; local and global food vendors offering delicious and eclectic eats and treats; and more.  Plus, the ever-popular Kids’ Zone has been expanded this year and is located at Leavitt Street and Sunnyside Avenue.  Come join in the fun at this community gathering!

Once again, the Half Acre Beer Co. and Vienna Beef team up to present their Only Gold party this Saturday (2 p.m.-9 p.m.) in the beer garden of Half Acre located at 2050 West Balmoral Avenue in the Lincoln Square neighborhood.  This annual celebration of the Chicago Style Hot Dog and ice-cold beer features free Chicago Style Hot Dogs while supplies last; a New Zealand style Pilsner at 5% ABV; new merchandise of limited-edition shirts for kids and adults, glassware, stickers, and a tote bag; and condiment mascot races to benefit Girls on the Run Chicago.  Plus this event is free for all ages and is dog-friendly as well.  I’ve heard this event is becoming a summer rite of passage!

One of Chicago’s neighborhoods is hosting their largest annual community event, the Bucktown Garden Walk, this Saturday and Sunday (10 a.m.-5 p.m.).  Not only will there be more than 120 gardens open to the public for viewing but this walk also features live music in some gardens and retail spaces as well as a 606 Trail tree tour on both days.  Other Saturday events include a Kid’s Fest with a foam party, a petting zoo, a wine walk and wrapping up with a Movie in the Park featuring “The Sandlot.”  Then Sunday brings The Fermented Frolic bar crawl.

For all my toy enthusiasts and creative minds out there, Navy Pier’s Aon Grand Ballroom (600 E. Grand Ave.) in the Streeterville neighborhood will be hosting CollectedCon 2025, the ultimate designer toy convention, this Saturday (10 a.m.-6 p.m.) and Sunday (11 a.m.-5 p.m.).  It’s a weekend filled with original art, handmade products, and production toys from artists around the globe, and exhibitors offering new and rare toys to expand your collection.  In addition, you can get up close and personal with some of the most talented designer toy artists in the world!

Sue Moss and Dean’s Team Chicago

Neighborhood News: Chicago’s Gospel Music…From Bronzeville to Millenium Park

/in , /by
spiritual gospel singer singing a hymn

As Chicago prepares for its annual Gospel Music Festival in Millennium Park this weekend, it’s worth noting that Gospel Music itself has its roots deep in Chicago’s history. 

The evolution of Gospel Music 

According to Wikipedia sources, Black and Southern gospel music, as well as the advent and growth of popular media (i.e. radio, television, digital) are largely responsible for gospel’s continued presence in contemporary Christian music, with soul music by far the best–known popular music variant. 

The styles emerged from the African-American music and American folk music traditions and have evolved in various ways over the years, from blues, soul and jazz to hip-hop, and continues to form the basis of Black church worship. It has also come to be used in churches of various other cultural traditions (especially within Pentecostalism), and by the gospel choir spearheaded by Chicago ‘s Thomas Dorsey, has become a form of musical devotion worldwide.

History 

In the early 1930s, according to Wikipedia sources, Gospel music began to gain popularity in Chicago due to Thomas A. Dorsey’s songwriting contributions at Pilgrim Baptist Church.

Dorsey, known as the ‘Father of Gospel Music,’ according to the Encyclopedia of Chicago, influenced by jazz and blues, composed many of the most celebrated gospel songs, including ‘(There’ll Be) Peace in the Valley (for Me),’ a favorite of Martin Luther King, Jr. and Elvis Presley, ‘I’m Going to Live the Life I Sing About in My Song,’ and ‘Take My Hand, Precious Lord,’ sung by Chicago gospel legends Mahalia Jackson and Albertina Walker. 

Dorsey wrote ‘Peace in the Valley’ during pre-WWII tensions, inspired by a peaceful scene of grazing animals in a valley, which he saw as a metaphor for Heaven. 

Elvis Presley’s performance of the song on The Ed Sullivan Show reached a massive audience of 54.6 million viewers, further popularizing gospel music. 

Dorsey wrote the lyrics to ‘Take My Hand, Precious Lord’ in response to his inconsolable bereavement at the deaths of his wife, Nettie Harper, and his infant son in August 1932. The Protestant hymn ‘Must Jesus Bear the Cross Alone’ became Dorsey’s inspiration for the music to the song.

Although Dorsey himself never claimed credit for creating the genre of gospel music, he stated that he coined the phrase ‘gospel songs’ in the early 1920s, giving a name to the new musical style.

Who was Thomas Dorsey?

Dorsey was born at the turn of the twentieth century in a small, rural town outside Atlanta, Georgia. In 1919, in the midst of the Great Migration of African Americans from the South to the cities of the North, he moved to Chicago. 

While much of his earliest musical training had been of a religious nature, Dorsey was also very familiar with blues and jazz, the new musical styles developing in the South. Shortly after settling in Chicago, In 1932, according to GRAMMY.com, Dorsey became the choral director of the Pilgrim Baptist Church in Chicago, a position he maintained until the late 1970s.

Dorsey combined his knowledge of blues and jazz music with religious lyrics and began promoting his gospel songs. 

He also influenced other Chicago Gospel artists such as The Caravans and Little Joey McClork, and The Staple Singers (‘I’llTake You There) until his death in 1993. 

Gradually, according to the Encyclopedia of Chicago, new composers replaced the blues and jazz influences with more contemporary musical styles. Hip-Hop, rap, and R&B influenced many late-twentieth-century gospel music composers. Since 1985, both traditional and contemporary gospel styles have been celebrated each summer during the annual celebration formerly known as GospelFest, Chicago’s annual salute to gospel music.

Pilgrim Baptist Church becomes the National Museum for Gospel Music 

For more than a century, Pilgrim Baptist Church was a beacon of gospel music not only to South Side of Chicago, but to America and the world. 

Until it went up in flames.

As Grammy.com tells it, workers were fitting metal coping on the roof of the National Historic Landmark with blowtorches in 2006. 

“And they dropped the torch,” Antoinette Wright, the president and executive director of the National Museum of Gospel Music — a museum project centered on its site — told Grammy.com in 2023. “When they dropped it, they kind of didn’t tell anybody that they had. All they did was scurry off the roof; can you believe that?”

But out of the ashes of Pilgrim Baptist Church, an important monument to gospel music will arise. Dorsey’s legacy — as well as that of his entire milieu — promises to be on full display at the National Museum of Gospel Music. Don Jackson, the founder and CEO of Chicago-based Central City Productions, and his team will establish the 45,000 square-foot structure on the site of Pilgrim Baptist, 3300 S. Indiana. The museum will feature:

  • Multigenerational programming and educational exhibits
  • Auditorium seating up to 350 designed for television production
  • Exclusive video archives and collection of the Stellar Gospel Music Awards programming
  • Listening and research library

Event-Chicago Gospel Music Festival 

Grammy winner Chandler Moore headlines the 2025 Chicago Gospel Music Festival this Saturday, July 12 at Millennium Park from noon–9pm.

It’s evolved from a tribute event to Dorsey at the South Shore Country Club in 1985 to what’s considered to be the largest event of its kind in the world. For more information  click here. 

Alison Moran-Powers and Dean’s Team Chicago

Restaurant Review: Opa!! for Greektown’s Greek Islands Restaurant

/in , /by
skewers, flatbread, tomatoes, cucumber salad, baked sweet pepper, yogurt herb sauce on a dark background

“There are those who are Greek. And those who wish they were Greek.”

Gus Portakalos, ‘My Big Fat Greek Wedding’

Grecian cooking at its bestis about a deliciousbalance of proteins, grains, vegetables, and a liberal helping of fragrant spices.

While there are many great Greek restaurants in Chicago, only one has billed itself  “the most popular Greek restaurant in the United States.” 

Greektown’s Greek Islands Restaurant began in 1971, and today, the same owners continue with the founding principles of great food, great service, and value. 

As their website notes, from Greece they select and ship the highest quality extra virgin olive oil, superior wines the best cheeses, herbs, and seafood.

Start your journey through the Greek Islands with starters like Fried Eggplant, atraditional favorite of fried eggplant smothered in a tangy tomato cheese sauce, or Kontosouvli, whichis pork on the spit, served with onions, pita and horseradish yogurt sauce. Dolmades are a Greek tradition…grape leaves stuffed with ground meat and rice, topped with an egg-lemon sauce. Flaming Saganaki Cheese is a tableside performance of flambéeing a fine imported Greek cheese with a dry white wine, ending in a hearty Opa!! Calamari (squid) is served grilled or pan-fried in Greek Islands’ zesty homemade cocktail sauce.

One of my favorite Greek specialties is Avgolemono, a soup made with homemade chicken broth, rice, and egg-lemon.  Soothing , creamy and delicious, Greek Islands serves the soup daily. Psarosoupa is a special seafood gumbo made with red snapper and grouper chunks. Athenian ~ Traditional Greek Salad has fresh lettuce, fresh vine tomatoes, Greek olives and feta cheese. Paschalini Salata is a unique, finely chopped mix of romaine, dill, and scallions.

Entrees include such traditional fare as Mousaka, a mix of baked eggplant, ground meat and potato casserole topped with béchamel sauce,  Combination Plate of roast leg of lamb, mousaka, dolmades, meatball, vegetables and potatoes. Grilled Vegetarian Shishkabob are two skewers of the fresh vegetables of the day. Roast Leg of Lamb is a domestic lamb flavored with au jus sauce, served with rice and potatoes or briami (roasted vegetables, the Greek way).

Specialties at the Chicago restaurant include their Broiled Loin Lamb Chops, a char-broiled Colorado loin lamb chops served with rice, potatoes, or briami. Suckling Pig Fournou is a tender and juicy baby pig, oven roasted to perfection and served with potatoes. Lamb with Hilopites is the Colorado braised lamb in a tomato sauce served with Greek pasta. Lamb with Spinach is the Colorado braised lamb in a tomato sauce served with spinach. Check daily for specials.

Seafood selections include a Broiled Swordfish Shishkabob with fresh, tender swordfish chunks marinated and then broiled to perfection, served with rice & potatoes or briami. Shrimp Tourkolimano are shrimp, crumbled feta & tomato sauce baked in a sizzle plate, served with rice & potatoes or briami. Grilled Octopus is tender octopus in a Greek marinade, served with rice & potatoes or briami. 

Ala carte Vegetable Options shouldn’t be missed, including Fresh Artichokes served in their homemade egg-lemon sauce, and Bamies… baked okra in a light tomato sauce. 

Finish the meals with a delectable homemade Baklava, or Karidopita, a Greek dessert cake made primarily from walnuts and covered in a sweet syrup, or  Galaktobouriko, acreamy semolina custard baked in layers of buttery phyllo pastry and soaked in citrus-flavored syrup. 

Yum to all! 

Greek Islands is located at 200 S. Halsted Street. They are open Tuesday – Thursday, 11am – 9pm, Friday and Saturday: 11am-9:30pm, and Sunday, 11am – 9:00 pm. They are closed Mondays. While it doesn’t appear they take reservations, for information, click here. 

Alison Moran-Powers and Dean’s Team Chicago

Chicago Home and Lifestyles – 5 types of clothes you should be washing inside-out

/in , /by
Cheerful black kid boy sitting on dad's lap and helping father at linen in basket while doing laundry near washing machine

Washing your clothes inside-out can keep them looking better longer. But there is no one-size-fits-all rule. Of course, you should always check the label for specific washing instructions—but there are some types of garments that will benefit the most from the inside-out wash!

Delicate fabrics like rayon and bamboo are prone to pilling so inside-out washing will protect these fabrics longer. Always use cold water and a gentle detergent like Woolite. Placing these items in a fine mesh laundry bag will help too. 

Knit fabrics and those with embellishments will benefit from the inside-out wash. Knits, whether natural or synthetic, are also prone to pilling. Embellished garments can snag and be damaged, especially in machines with agitators. A mesh laundry bag is a good idea here also. 

Denim and brightly colored garments tend to fade after only a few washes. Inside-out washing helps preserve original colors. On denim garments it also reduces friction on zippers and seams. 

Graphic t-shirts and jerseys have ironed on artwork that can crack and fade over time. Turn them inside-out and use cool water to keep the designs intact longer. Hang to dry as the dryer’s heat can do even more damage. 

Athletic wear gets the most dirty on the inside of the garment from sweat and deodorants, so it’s logical to turn these inside-out to wash as well. For extra protection use a mesh bag and hang to dry. Dryers can harm these fabrics.

Of course, there is some clothing that needs to be right-side-out. Very soiled items need to be pretreated so the detergent and water can hit the stain directly. Pet-hair covered clothing should be washed as is (unless otherwise directed). Use dryer balls to help further loosen pet hair. 

Kathleen Weaver-Zech and Dean’s Team Chicago

The Ins and Outs of a Bathroom Remodel: What You Need to Know Before You Begin

/in , /by
Modern bathroom with glass shower, wooden cabinets, and sleek fixtures in a bright, minimalist design

Remodeling a bathroom is one of the most rewarding home improvement projects you can undertake. Whether you’re updating a tired, outdated space or reimagining a bathroom to better suit your lifestyle, the transformation can be dramatic—not to mention a great boost to your home’s value. But before you start swinging a sledgehammer, it’s important to understand what goes into a successful bathroom remodel. Here’s a breakdown of the key elements to consider.

1. Start With a Plan

A bathroom remodel isn’t just about picking pretty tiles and new fixtures. It starts with a clear plan that addresses both function and style. Ask yourself:

  • What’s not working in the current space?
  • What features do you want to add or upgrade?
  • What’s your budget?
  • Will you need permits or professional help?

Sketch out your ideas or work with a designer to ensure your vision is both beautiful and practical.

2. Set a Realistic Budget

The cost of a bathroom remodel can vary widely—from a few thousand dollars for a simple refresh to tens of thousands for a full gut job with high-end finishes. Be realistic about what you can spend and always include a 10-20% cushion for unexpected costs. Major expenses often include:

  • Plumbing and electrical work
  • Tile and flooring
  • Vanities and countertops
  • Fixtures (toilets, tubs, showers, sinks)
  • Labor

3. Don’t Underestimate Plumbing and Electrical

Changing the layout of your bathroom (moving a toilet, for example) can significantly increase the cost and complexity of the job. If possible, keep plumbing in the same location to save money. Updating electrical work is also essential—especially if your home is older. Make sure outlets are up to code, lighting is sufficient, and everything is safe and modern.

4. Choose Durable, Water-Resistant Materials

Bathrooms are high-moisture environments, so select materials that can stand up to humidity and water exposure. Look for:

  • Porcelain or ceramic tile for flooring and walls
  • Quartz or granite for countertops
  • Waterproof paint or wall panels
  • Fixtures with finishes that resist tarnish and corrosion

5. Maximize Space and Storage

Bathrooms often have limited square footage, so every inch counts. Consider space-saving features like:

  • Wall-mounted vanities
  • Recessed shelving or niches in the shower
  • Over-the-toilet cabinets
  • Mirrors with built-in storage

Also, think vertically—use the height of the room for storage and design opportunities.

6. Lighting Matters

Good lighting is essential in a bathroom, both for function and ambiance. Include a mix of lighting sources:

  • Overhead lighting for general illumination
  • Task lighting at the vanity
  • Accent lighting to highlight design elements or create a spa-like mood

Consider installing dimmers for added flexibility.

7. Don’t Skip Ventilation

Proper ventilation is critical to prevent mold and moisture damage. A high-quality exhaust fan with a timer or humidity sensor is a must—especially in bathrooms without windows.

8. Timeline and Disruption

Even a small bathroom remodel can be disruptive, especially if it’s your only bathroom. Set a realistic timeline and prepare for some inconvenience. Hiring experienced professionals can help minimize delays and stress.

9. Hiring the Right Professionals

If your remodel involves significant plumbing, electrical, or structural changes, working with licensed contractors is crucial. Ask for references, verify credentials, and get detailed quotes in writing. If you’re doing a DIY project, know your limits and when to call in the pros.

10. The Finishing Touches

Once the big items are in place, personalize your bathroom with thoughtful touches:

  • Soft, luxurious towels
  • Plants that thrive in humidity
  • Art or decorative accents
  • Stylish hardware and accessories

These details help turn a functional room into a space you’ll love.

Bottom-line

A bathroom remodel is a worthwhile investment that can enhance your daily routine and your home’s value. By planning carefully, budgeting wisely, and choosing the right materials and team, you can create a space that’s both beautiful and built to last. Whether you’re dreaming of a spa-inspired retreat or a sleek, modern update, understanding the ins and outs will help ensure a smooth and satisfying renovation.

THIS WEEKEND IN CHICAGO – July 4th Celebrations Continue Thru the Weekend!

/in , /by
Hands holding firecrackers with 4th of July smoke lettering

This July 4th Holiday, celebrations will continue all weekend long with a variety of exciting events.  Are you ready for some long-awaited relaxation and fun?  If so, this weekend belongs to you!

NASCAR returns to the streets of Chicago for the third installment of the Chicago Street Race Weekend on Saturday (9 a.m.-10 p.m.) and Sunday (9 a.m.-5 p.m.).  The pulse-pounding action of NASCAR will once again bring the NASCAR Cup Series and NASCAR Xfinity Series to the streets of downtown Chicago on a 12-turn, 2.2-mile course in a festival-like atmosphere.  A ticket not only offers you two action-packed races, but it also allows you to enjoy fan-favorite experiences at Festival Field like the Freestyle Motocross Show.  In addition, Sunday-only ticket holders will have the opportunity to attend the Busch Light Summer Music Series on Saturday evening about one hour after the Xfinity Series ends with a live performance by multi-platinum, Grammy® Award-winning, Southern rock group the Zac Brown Band.  Whether you have a ticket for Sunday to attend the Saturday evening music series or not, this street race event is still a must-see family-friendly experience not to be missed!

In addition to the regular twice-a-week summer fireworks at Navy Pier (600 E. Grand Ave.) in the Streeterville neighborhood, the Navy Pier Fireworks display for the July 4th holiday will instead be held on Saturday at 10:00 p.m.  Once again, this annual spectacle will be set to patriotic music, and you can either catch this fireworks display along the nearby lakefront, at beaches, rooftop bars, parks, or on one of the many boat cruises available at the Pier!

Nothing says July 4th like a good ‘ole BBQ!  Check out Somerset Patio’s Independence Day BBQ on Saturday (2 p.m.-5 p.m.) located at the Viceroy Hotel (1112 N. State St.) in the Gold Coast neighborhood.  Enjoy an elevated BBQ featuring chef-driven takes on cookout favorites along with chilled summer drinks for a relaxed holiday vibe.  Plus, new this year, is a complimentary cotton candy machine for some summertime nostalgia that’s fun for all ages.  Come surround yourself with great food and good company!

Up for a live sporting event?  We’ve got you covered as the Chicago Cubs will be wrapping up their series with the St. Louis Cardinals on Saturday (1:20 p.m.) and Sunday (5:10 p.m.) at the Friendly Confines (1060 W. Addison St.) in the Wrigleyville neighborhood.  Come cheer on your Cubs and let’s send those red birds on their merry way with loses!  Or you can see the Chicago Dogs play the Kane County Cougars on Saturday (6 p.m.) at Impact Field (9850 N. Balmoral Ave.) in Rosemont for their Chicago Dogs Elvis Night as they pay tribute to the King of Rock-N-Roll with a pre-game performance — costumes are encouraged.  Afterwards, catch the post-game fireworks!

Here’s a link for other suggestions to enjoy your July 4th Weekend in Chicago!

Have a Very Happy & Safe Fourth of July Weekend!

Sue Moss and Dean’s Team Chicago

Neighborhood News: Summer fun, Safety first, at Chicago’s beaches

/in , /by
people on Oak Street Beach in Chicago

“Next time you hit the beach in Chicago and take a free dip in Lake Michigan, remember to thank Sarah Hackett Stevenson. Though the city’s lakefront today is famously treasured as “forever open, clear and free,” Chicago’s early beaches were anything but.”

WTTW documentary 

Happy July, everyone! The dog days of summer are here, and with it, Chicago’s beaches offer cool, refreshing relief from humidity and oppressive heat. 

From Leone and Loyola Beach in Rogers Park, to Oak Street to Rainbow Beach on the South Side, Lake Michigan is truly ‘Chicago’s backyard.’

Best of all…admission to all 26 miles of Chicago’s beaches is free! 

Who Manages Chicago Beaches?

The Chicago Park District manages the city’s 26 miles of  lakefront “for the enjoyment of Chicago residents and visitors.”

‘Beach season’ runs from the Friday before Memorial Day through Labor Day. 

There are rules!

Lifeguards are only on duty during beach season from 11 am – 7 pm, which runs through Monday, September 1. 

As the Chicago Park District website notes, swimming is ONLY permitted during these hours, in designated swimming areas. 

Those flags mean something 

As WTTW notes…Have you ever noticed those colored flags planted on the city’s beaches? 

They’re not decorative, they’re the Park District’s way of signaling safety conditions for swimming, weather and water quality, using familiar traffic-light hues:

  • Green means all three are in the clear. 
  • Yellow indicates unpredictable weather conditions or elevated bacteria levels in the water; swimming is still allowed but caution is advised. 
  • Red flags go up when either weather or water quality hit the danger zone and no swimming is permitted.

And everyday, the Chicago Park District posts a list of beaches that are open that day. You can find the list by clicking here.

Swim conditions are updated each day around 11am, based on weather and surf conditions, and around 1:30 pm based on water quality conditions. Flags may be updated throughout the day as needed.

‘Swimming Prohibited’ Rules

Too often, rules are posted and ignored. Because of Lake Michigan’s perilous rip currents, it is important to obey when signs are posted saying ‘Swimming Prohibited.’ 

History of Chicago Beaches

Chicago’s earliest sand beaches resulted naturally from capturing sand moved by the current south along the shoreline toward the Indiana Dunes, according to Wikipedia sources, but these beaches were dynamic, shifted and eroded. 

When Chicago began building piers and other structures into the lake, large sandy beaches formed generally to the north of a pier due to sand capture.

The city’s early beaches were funded by private entities such as hotels and private clubs, and therefore closed to the public.

However, according to WTTW and several other sources, it was women like Dr. Sarah Hackett Stevenson, who led the fight for public bathing beaches. In an 1892 letter, published in the Chicago Tribune, she wrote: “It is selfishness of the most cruel nature to pile up ordinances between the people prostrate with heat and this great refreshing body of water.” 

Proponents saw public beaches as an opportunity to accommodate demand for public baths and eliminate the expenditure of enforcement resources on ordinance violations for public bathing.

Chicago responded by opening the first public bathing beach in 1895 in Lincoln Park, primarily as a response to the efforts of the Free Bath and Sanitary League, according to Wikipedia sources. Spaces were designated for public use and the city accepted responsibility for maintaining the beaches. By 1900 the lakefront was divided into zones of recreational, residential, agricultural and industrial uses. Lake Michigan water quality concerns lead to the reversal of the Chicago River with deep cut of the Illinois & Michigan canal in 1871 and the construction of the Sanitary and Ship Canal at the start of the 20th century.

The 1909 Burnham Plan led to the  development of the lakefront. 

Recreational development on the city lakefront became a priority due to the influence of department store founder Aaron Montgomery Ward. His belief that the public’s access to the Lake left its impression on the development of Jackson, Burnham, Grant and Lincoln Parks. The beaches offered free access for those with their own swimming suits, and a small fee for rentals, demonstrating a shift towards public and affordable access to the lake.

Today

As Choose Chicago notes, whether you’re looking for a leisurely paddle in a kayak or an adrenaline-pumping ride on a Jet Ski, you can do it all at Chicago’s beaches.

North Avenue Beach has paddleboarding, kayaking, jet skiing, volleyball, bike rentals

31st Street Beach has jet skiing, boat rentals, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

Oak Street Beach has bike rentals and volleyball.

Montrose Beach has sailing and boat charters. 

Chances are, there’s a beach with your name on it nearby!

 Click here for a complete list of Chicago Beaches.

Alison Moran-Powers and Dean’s Team Chicago

Restaurant Review: Wrigleyville’s Uncommon Ground is uncommonly good

/in , /by
A savory breakfast served at an outdoor cafe overview on a wooden table

On a blistering hot Pride Parade day, my friend and I had made plans to have brunch prior to the parade nearby.

We’d sweated through a couple of blocks in the 85-degree plus heat index when I came upon one of our old stomping grounds after Cubs games. 

“Kathy, let’s eat here!” I urged my friend. “I know this place!”

Uncommon Ground, at 3800 N. Clark Street, is known for contemporary comfort food with an emphasis on organic, locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant has won numerous sustainable business awards. From their  bottomless direct/fair trade organic drip coffee to their onsite Greenstar Brewery, the first certified organic brewery in Illinois, Uncommon Ground has remained unchanged from the commitment they made in 1991 to provide fresh, organic food and drink for their guests.

As Block Club Chicago reported, owners Michael and Helen Cameron opened Uncommon Ground in Lakeview in 1991, bringing a sustainable and locally sourced approach to their food service. Also known for hosting live music, the venue is now celebrating 34 years at the corner of Grace and Clark streets.

In 2017, the couple served as consultants to the city of Paris’ rooftop gardening initiative, similar to their (closed) location in Edgewater. 

Brunch is served here seven days a week until 3pm. I opted for their Vegan Hash, an unusual melange of sweet potatoes, roasted potatoes, onions, carrots, butternut squash, roasted crimini mushrooms, seitan chorizo, and ancho sauce. I added a scrambled egg for a $2 upcharge. It was so worth it! The portions are huge, and the ancho sauce added a spicy, fruity kick to the roasted vegetable hash.

I mentioned the large portions. As of Tuesday morning, I’ve still got a quarter of the order left in my refrigerator. Lunchtime treat!

Kathy ordered their Lemon Ricotta Poppyseed Pancakes with Wild Berry Sauce, whipped cream, and lemon zest. Three large pancakes, smothered in wild berry sauce, with a large swirl of whipped cream, zested with lemon. She reported, “The pancakes were tasty. The blueberries were really good. Kind of filling. The ricotta I don’t remember if it was inside the batter or between the stacks but you got three pancakes.” 

Sufficient to say, both of us enjoyed our meals! The friendly server was accommodating to our needs and refilled my coffee cup as many times as I asked. The kitchen was also accomodating to my need for making the vegan hash without onions, which I very much appreciated. 

Other brunch entrees include their Sunrise Sammy with scrambled eggs, bacon, swiss cheese, arugula, tomato, and lemon-pepper aioli on a toasted brioche bun, with your choice of crispy potatoes or side salad. Greek Yogurt Parfait has Michigan strawberries, housemade granola, and Greek yogurt, while Watermelon-Feta Salad, which I nearly ordered, has sugar snap peas, jalapenos, and pickled red onion, covered with a honey-lime vinaigrette.

For lunch, try Helen’s Vegan Fried Chicken Sandwich, with avocado, red onions, vegan cheese, arugula, and honey mustard on a vegan bun. Uncommon Ground’s Apple, Walnut and Blue Cheese Salad is a fresh mix of greens, diced apples, toasted walnuts, and blue cheese blended with balsamic vinaigrette.

At dinner, try a Petit Filet, a 6-ounce beef filet, served with rosemary scalloped potatoes, with bordelaise sauce. Or, a Summer Grilled Salmon, served with a weet pea puree, peas, fresh garlic, shaved shallots, and a garden greens salad. Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf is served with Yukon gold mashed potatoes, bordelaise sauce, crispy fried onions, and an arugula salad.

Desserts include their colorful Rainbow Pride Cake, as well as their Chocolate Fudge Layer Cake, served with your choice of vanilla, strawberry or chocolate gelato. Classic Carrot Cake is frosted with a delectable cream cheese frosting. Brownie Sundae has homemade brownies, vanilla gelato, caramel & chocolate sauces, whipped cream.

Uncommon Ground is located at 3800 N. Clark Street. During baseball season, Uncommon Ground opens at 10am before Cubs weekday day games. 

Otherwise, they are open Monday-Thursday, 11am-9pm, Friday from 11am-10pm, Saturdays from 10am-10pm, and Sundays from 10am-8pm. Reservations are recommended, and can be made by clicking here.

 Alison Moran-Powers and Dean’s Team Chicago

Chicago Home and Lifestyles – Heart healthy eating

/in , /by
Natural sources of serotonin products on white table

It’s not hard to put together a good diet to benefit your heart and the rest of your body. Here are the best foods to eat:

Fruits and vegetables are at the top of your list. Remember the food pyramid years ago? They were the main part. Fruit and vegetables have a lot of nutritional density per bite. Leafy greens have fiber for lower cholesterol and blood pressure. Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli can prevent clogged arteries. Sweet potatoes and bananas are rich in potassium, a key mineral for heart health. They don’t need to be fresh either. Frozen and canned vegetables have great nutritional benefits, but make sure you choose low sodium varieties. 

Carbs are not all bad! Refined ones like those in white bread do you more harm than good, but complex carbs like the ones you find in whole grain products have a lot of fiber—a heart health booster. They also are packed with lots of vitamins and minerals like B1, B2, B3, folate, iron and magnesium. Complex carbs are also found in beans, peas, corn and potatoes.  

Look to lean sources of protein like fish, eggs, poultry and low-fat dairy products. It’s also good to mix your protein sources by integrating foods like lentils, tofu, beans and seeds. You’ll be doing your heart a favor. 

Healthy fats are another important ingredient for heart health. Your body needs healthy fats like olive, sesame, sunflower, soybean, and corn oils. You can also get these from oily fish like salmon, nuts and seeds, and avocadoes. 

Conversely, if you want to boost cardiovascular health there are foods you need to limit. Refined carbs like in white bread and snacks have no nutritional value. Limit trans and saturated fats. Red meat and processed meat can be in your diet but limit them and choose organic varieties. Watch your sugar and salt intake for better heart health.

The American Heart association has certified certain foods and has given them the Heart Check seal. Look for this on food packages at the grocery store. 

Check out www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/heart-check-foods for more information and recipes for heart health.

Kathleen Weaver-Zech and Dean’s Team Chicago