Shelly’s singular talent for ushering calmness into the daily lives of his clients has been the deep-seated foundation of the firm for over 35 years. While attracting a national and international clientele, he has built a creative and collaborative team that shares his vision for a timeless aesthetic custom-fit to each individual’s lifestyle.
A reverence for nature is reflected in his preference for organic materials. His work incorporates understated yet powerful elements that bask in their unaltered natural state. Clean lines, abundant daylight, a limited use of color, and a grounding balance infuse a sense of peace. His rooms are more than just rooms; they are refuges.
The work of Shelly Handman is instantly recognizable whether it is traditional, transitional, or contemporary. Comfort and accessibility are key considerations. A sculptural chair might make a statement, but only when paired with a luxuriously comfortable sofa.
Shelly holds Bachelor's degrees in Art Education and in Interior Design from Harrington College of Interior Design in Chicago, where he served on the Board of Governors. Since his earliest training, he has been influenced by Jean-Michel Frank's refined modernist interiors of 1930s Paris and moved by the abstract paintings of artists such as Rothko, Scully, and Motherwell. Shelly mixes globally sourced artifacts and ethnographic art with modern furnishings, always incorporating a visual freedom to let the art and artifacts speak independently.
Behind each of his designs is a finely shaped set of design philosophies and techniques four decades in the making. His love for his work is evident in both the end result and his long-standing client relationships. Shelly finds restorative time at his homes in Chicago and Palm Springs.