Introduced to the national design scene by winning Nate Berkus’ NBC reality competition series American Dream Builders in 2014, Lukas Machnik continues to expand his reach through his Chicago-based Lukas Machnik Design and his new East Hampton venture in partnership with Michael Del Piero Good Design. “We do residential and commercial projects and we work all over the country, but we’ve made a big step in New York,” Machnik says. “I will be coming back and forth to Chicago though; it’s nice to have that balance.” In addition to his design work, Machnik has begun painting again. “It’s something the Hamptons brought out in me; the beauty of the space really makes the creative part come alive.”
My favorite place to shop for clothes is Gallery Aesthete. Stephen Naparstek has an eye, and I designed his boutique, so it’s a perfect match.
My motto is quality over quantity.
I am happiest when I challenge myself in the design process.
The first item of clothing I bought for myself was Jil Sander army boots that cost me over a month’s wages at the time. I still have them 20-plus years later.
My favorite watch is my phone.
Spinning and being in the ocean keep me fit.
My style heroes are Le Corbusier and Charlotte Perriand for timeless design. For fashion, it’s a mix from Jil Sander to Rick Owens, again timeless and uncomplicated.
If there were 26 hours in a day, I would do more art.
The greatest love of my life is my partner, Lonney.
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Photography by: KEVIN PENCZAK ON LOCATION AT 21C MUSEUM HOTEL CHICAGO
