Kayla Di Giulio: Precision With Personality

Kayla Di Giulio
Project Designer, Chipman Design Architecture, Chicago / Age: 33
Favorite outside-of-work activity: Making Gluten-Free Sourdough

WHY KAYLA?

Kayla Di Giulio approaches retail design with a unique balance of creative thinking and technical precision. As a Project Designer at Chipman Design Architecture, she plays an active role in every stage of the design process, guiding projects from early client conversations through detailed coordination and construction. Known for her ability to translate brand vision into buildable environments, Kayla has contributed to projects for brands including Reformation, Banana Republic, Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams and Peet’s Coffee.

Her work spans everything from adapting Reformation’s retail prototype across diverse locations to helping translate Peet’s Coffee’s refreshed store concept into a coordinated, buildable program for future remodels. Kayla also played a key role in bringing Ralph’s Coffee to life inside Ralph Lauren’s Michigan Avenue flagship, an especially meaningful collaboration that included millwork fabricated by her family’s company.

Kayla recently helped reimagine Alliant Credit Union’s office. PHOTO: SARAH CROWLEY

Beyond project work, Kayla’s leadership is deeply embedded in studio culture. She organizes monthly mentorship sessions for interns and emerging designers, creating space for candid career conversations and professional growth. She also leads a cultural initiative focused on food sensitivity awareness, using her own experience with gluten intolerance to help shape more inclusive event planning and internal education standards across the firm. As a soon-to-be first-time mother, Kayla further models a thoughtful approach to balance, advocating for streamlined processes and efficiencies that allow teams to deliver exceptional work without sacrificing personal well-being. In doing so, she reinforces the idea that strong design practices are built not only on creativity and rigor, but on empathy, inclusion and sustainability from the inside out.

How and why did you get into retail design?

I studied fashion design throughout high school and early college, where I really enjoyed creating garments from scratch and diving into the details. When I transitioned into interior design, I realized I could bring that same attention to detail into shaping entire spaces. Starting my career at Chipman Design helped me grow even more, as I learned how brand identity and customer experience play a key role in guiding design decisions.

What’s the biggest challenge you have faced professionally?

Working with strict budgets and high client expectations can be challenging, but I always try to think creatively and out of the box to deliver designs that stay within budget while still making the client happy.

What place that you’ve visited has made the biggest impression on you?

Traveling to Rome for my honeymoon was an amazing experience. I loved seeing the monumental architecture while also noticing the intricate small details throughout the city.

What would be your advice for another young designer or for your younger self?

I would advise younger designers to stay curious and pay close attention to how spaces are experienced. Strong storytelling is a key part of design, helping to communicate the brand’s identity so that anyone walking through immediately understands who the brand is and what they stand for.

Describe a recent project that you were involved in. What about that project made you proud?

I recently worked on a renovation for Alliant Credit Union’s office, helping transition the space to a hybrid work environment while making it more inviting. Through thoughtful updates to materials and furnishings, we were able to significantly improve how the space feels and functions. It was rewarding to meet the client’s expectations and create a more enjoyable workplace.

My dream project is…

…designing a restaurant focused on food intolerances and allergies, creating a space that is not only thoughtfully designed but also enjoyable for everyone.

The best part of my day is…

…enjoying dinner and time with my husband, dog, cat and, very soon, our baby boy.

I find (design) inspiration in…

…everyday experiences and the talented people I’m surrounded by.