CoCo
Ree
Lemery

Which place do you currently call home and where do you work on your projects?

I’m based in Chicago, Illinois, in the city’s West Loop neighborhood, where both my home and woodshop are located. My design studio, Studio Kloak, is not only where I create my work but also where I occasionally open the doors to the public for intimate workshops. A few times a year, I invite small groups to spend an afternoon making alongside me—each participant leaves with their own creation, a few new skills, and hopefully a deeper appreciation for the craft. Those afternoons are some of my favorites: a handful of people gathered around, making together, learning, and leaving with something they created with their own hands.

Where is your studio located & how does it look?

Studio Kloak is now located in Chicago, Illinois.

A recent project that I’m very proud of is actually an installation in Colorado called the Whispering Roots.

Integrated into the incredible mountain landscape, it is on view for the entire year. Here is a map that shows the location: Green Box.

Do you have a favorite place in your area where you like to relax and linger?

I’ve always loved public libraries—they’ve been a touchstone for me in every city I’ve lived in. Chicago’s Harold Washington Library is a particular gem. Beyond that, my family spends a lot of time in the city’s parks; with a toddler and a playful dog, Mary Bartelme Park has become our go-to. And one of my most meaningful places is under John Henry’s Chevron sculpture in Lincoln Park’s Lakeview East neighborhood—that’s where I was married.

Are there any urgent political issues or problems in your region?

Chicago has long struggled with segregation. Historically, black communities were forced to the South Side, and the effects of that division are still felt today. Too often, the South Side is overlooked, but it’s home to extraordinary artists, cultural institutions, and educators—it’s a part of the city that deserves to be seen and celebrated.

In your opinion, what has developed well in the last 5 years—and what has not?

Chicago has made some real progress with biking infrastructure, which I love to see. But our public transit system hasn’t bounced back since COVID—it still feels unreliable in ways that affect daily life. On the brighter side, the art and design scene, which took a big hit during the pandemic, is slowly finding its rhythm again. Watching that creative energy return has been really inspiring.

Do you know a hidden gem when it comes to local manufacturers—whether it’s arts and crafts, sustainable products or food?

Studio Kloak—my own studio—is one I’m especially proud of. We focus on making sustainable furniture here in Chicago, and it feels good to contribute to that movement locally. I’m also a longtime supporter of the Rebuilding Exchange, a nonprofit dedicated to reducing waste through deconstruction and material reuse. They have multiple locations around the city, with retail spaces that are always fun to explore. And if you’re looking for a hub of creativity, the Bridgeport Art Center is incredible—you’ll find everything from sustainable shoes to contemporary design and fine art under one roof.

Is there anything particularly innovative in your region? Also in comparison to other places you have already visited?

Chicago is an absolute gem for theatre. What makes it special is how the best performances are often tucked away in neighborhood spaces—intimate, unexpected, and full of life. I’d recommend catching a show at places like the Albany Park Theatre Project, Black Ensemble Theatre, or Red Orchid Theatre. And if theatre isn’t your thing, live music thrives here too. From the historic Green Mill to the new Salt Shed, to late-night blues clubs like Kingston Mines—where I actually met my husband back in 2011—there’s always something unforgettable happening.

Do you have a secret restaurant tip that you would like to share with us?

Chicago’s food scene is world-renowned, and while I live in the West Loop, one of the city’s most famous dining districts, I always encourage exploring beyond it. If you’re in the mood for Indian food, head up to Devon Avenue on the far North Side. Just stroll down the street and step into whichever restaurant calls to you—you really can’t go wrong. In the same area, you’ll also find some of the best Ethiopian food in the city. Another favorite of mine is taking the Chicago Water Taxi to Chinatown. It’s such a beautiful way to see the city, and it ends with a meal that’s just as memorable.

Is there a local shop whose products are only available in your region?

A good friend and talented artisan, Cass Westover, introduced me to two incredible spots that celebrate zero-waste craft and community: the Nowhere Collective and the Eco Flamingo.

The Nowhere Collective showcases one-of-a-kind handmade pieces, I’ve seen Cass’s work there, and every piece feels so thoughtful and inspiring.

The Eco Flamingo, on the other hand, is Chicago’s first zero-waste general store, and it’s full of everyday items designed with sustainability in mind. Both places feel like little treasures unique to this city.

What are your 3 favourite apps that you use every day and couldn’t live without?

I rely on Flipboard as my news aggregator, it lets me follow all my niche interests in one place, which is a real time-saver. For getting around the city, Citymapper is a lifesaver. My favorite feature? It tells you exactly which train car to sit in so you’re perfectly aligned with your exit, a small tip, but in a Chicago winter, every step counts! And recently, I switched from Audible to Audiobooks.com, which has been a delight. I can purchase books as I go, without being locked into a subscription. Right now, I’m listening to The 99% Invisible City, inspired by one of my favorite design podcasts, 99% Invisible.

Do you have any favourite newspapers or online magazines? And how do you keep up to date with politics or social and cultural issues?

For local news, I turn to Block Club Chicago. It’s great for city happenings, and they also profile artists and events that highlight the city’s vibrant creative community. If I’m looking for a fun date night or a bit of exploration, Chicago Gallery News is my go-to, they have a fantastic mapping feature and physical magazines that make me feel like an art-world explorer. And for arts and culture coverage, Newcity Chicago is unbeatable, offering behind-the-scenes looks at incredible creators with world-class journalism. These sources keep me connected to both the city’s cultural pulse and the wider social conversation.

Imagine you could be mayor for a year—what would you change?

I’d focus on streamlining Chicago’s transit system. Reliable, efficient public transportation makes such a difference in people’s daily lives, and improving it would ripple across the city in countless positive ways.

One last question: If you could choose another place to live—regardless of financial or time constrains—which one would you choose?

Probably London. The diversity of cuisine is unmatched, and the public transit system is unparalleled—both make exploring the city an everyday adventure.