Get to Know Us

Advance Design’s Roots Go Deep

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Advance Design Studio Building circa 2002

The Jurs family has been cut from the fabric of the Gilberts Illinois small farming community since the turn of the century, with Jurs family businesses spanning twelve decades in the same building at 30 Railroad Street. First a journey-man and then a master carpenter, Todd Jurs started his original company Advance Builders, Inc. in 1992 performing kitchen and bath remodeling within residential renovations and additions along with some new home construction throughout the Northwest suburbs of Chicago.

In 2002, he was joined by his wife Christine, a professional designer. They combined their talents and re-launched the newly revamped company, Advance Design Studio, Ltd., offering a much more comprehensive package of home remodeling services; the new company added in-house design services and a complete showroom full of cabinetry, tile, countertops, plumbing fixtures and lighting for a complete design-through-construction experience.

Today, Advance Design Studio thrives with a dedicated team of professionals leading the company and the Jurs’ original mission still at heart. Tucked alongside the railroad and situated within the iconic town between the firehouse and the post office, the original building still houses the Advance Design Studio design hub and offices, today grown into a beautiful 3,500 square foot showroom.

Celebrating the company’s 30th Anniversary in 2022, their unique “Common Sense Remodeling” system integrates all areas of project development with one cohesive team of professionals. Advance Design clients reap the benefits of a fully-integrated remodeling process– from preliminary design and investment planning, to product education and selection combined with construction management- conveniently all under one roof.

With the Common-Sense Remodeling process, you can have a fully customized, predictable, and positive remodeling experience free from the headaches of traditional remodeling.

Our Team

Each talented member of the Advance team is responsible for a unique part in Common Sense Remodeling. Their passion and dedication makes the work you see in our beautiful photos possible.

Advance Design crew member works on a client kitchen island
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Two team members smile while holding a Chrysalis Award.

Managing Director

NICK HOLM oversees the leadership and direction of our Construction Managers and field team. He is an integral part of communication between the field and design management, so that the two teams work together to create a uniquely seamless project experience from design through production. His calm demeanor is matched by his skillful ability to strategize solutions to any situation that may arise.

Lead Design Team

Their design expertise combined with skilled navigation through hundreds of product details makes our Project Designers the best remodeling advocates a client could ever want. Our Specialty Designers work diligently behind the scenes to orchestrate the hundreds of details required to produce remodeling projects seemingly effortlessly. Each is blessed with unique talents and training. We couldn’t do a great job without them!

Design Team

Nick Holm, Project Manager, Advance Design Studio, Gilberts, Illinois

Anna Leimann

Lead Project Designer

Anna is praised for her connection and communication, inspiring homeowners while taking care of the coordination and creativity at the same time.

Project Designer Anna Leimann is known by all who have the pleasure of working with her as being intent on details, a critical skill set that enables her to keep on top of the most complex design projects. Coordinating every aspect of a kitchen or bath renovation, Anna prides herself on communication, inspiring homeowners while taking care of the coordination and creativity at the same time.

After graduating from Olivet Nazarene University with her BFA in Interior Design and a minor degree in Business, she has served as both designer and project manager for many of her years in the industry.

“I love the team mentality at ADS and how they are always looking to improve upon themselves for the benefit of their clients. It’s what attracted me to this company over others!”

Anna currently lives in Sugar Grove with her husband and two dogs. She loves to bake and complete projects around the house, like the whole house renovation she has completed on her own home.

Jason Johnson, Project Manager, Advance Design Studio, Gilberts, Illinois

Carrie Galvez

Lead Project Designer

Carrie Galvez thrives in her ability to really connect with clients and curate an ideal design solution that seamlessly blends functionality and beauty.

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Lead Project Designer Carrie Galvez thrives in her ability to really connect with clients and curate an ideal design solution that seamlessly blends functionality and beauty. She values the partnership she shares with her clients and prides herself on her ability to bring her clients' unique styles and organizational needs to life in her designs. She enjoys incorporating unique elements that represent each of her clients and makes their everyday lives easier.

 With over 25 years of experience in the remodeling industry, Carrie is fully equipped to handle any project. She has always been drawn to the remodeling industry, as her father worked in the industry as well. After earning her associate degree from the College of DuPage, Carrie earned her Kitchen & Bath Design Certification through the NKBA. She also has experience as a trained support group leader and moderator, which she utilizes to help clients work through the design process to establish priorities and find the best design solution.

"I am someone who always has their finger on the heartbeat of the design/build world, I love this industry! I love to help clients achieve the goals they have for their safe haven. I watched Advance Design Studio grow from afar; always a fan of their work, but most of all their communicated processes that ensure a pathway to happy clients! Recognition as a Top 500 Remodeler in Qualified Remodeler's Magazine, and being awarded the Chrysalis Award always had ADS on my radar as one of the places I would love to call home. I am blessed with the opportunity to work with such a talented group of individuals with vast knowledge in design, construction, project management, and marketing, having a team makes sense, Common Sense, in the remodeling world! It's a breath of fresh air to be part of a team who works together to fulfill the multifaceted needs of our clients and our community."

Carrie lives in Lake in the Hills with her husband, Eddie, and their children Ben & Olivia. They love hosting friends and family both at home and on the lake boating in Delavan, Wisconsin. She spends most of her free time cheering on her kids at basketball, football, and soccer games. She also has a passion for reading- whether it's industry-related articles and books or a great romance novel, she loves to read!

Nic Gleason, Lead Designer, Advance Design Studio, Gilberts, Illinois

Nic Gleason

Lead Project Designer

Nic thrives in his ability to connect with clients and really understand their vision.

Lead Designer Nic Gleason

Lead Project Designer Nic thrives in his ability to connect with clients and really understand their vision. Creating spaces that reflect the wants and needs of his clients is his passion. His lengthy experience as an award-winning NKBA certified designer and cabinet specialist enables him to curate highly functional spaces that elevate everyday living. With his artistic eye for design, he has a trained talent to bring together every aspect of a space in effortless harmony.

Nic’s industry experience stems from a unique history growing up in his family’s cabinet manufacturing company. He worked in all aspects of the family business from a teenage delivery driver to lead designer, managing installations as well as fabrication of custom cabinetry.  In latter years, he worked as a kitchen and bath design professional for Lowe's working with hundreds of clients to design and bring their home projects to life.

Nic lives in Fox River Grove with his wife Katie and three children. He enjoys an array of sports including golf and basketball, and spends his free time coaching and watching his kids play sports.

Katie Esposito, Project Administrator, Advance Design Studio, Gilberts, Illinois

Katie Esposito

Project Design Specialist

In addition to her unique skillset in construction-heavy projects, Katie works diligently with the design team to organize the many details that go into our remodels.

As a Project Design Specialist, Katie works diligently with the design team to organize the many details that go into our projects. She works behind the scenes to produce a variety of projects, and she is one of the kindest people you’ll ever meet!

“Every day is always something new and I enjoy the challenges that come along,” Katie says. “The atmosphere here is one where everyone cares, not only for their clients but for each other. We all work great together, and that in turn makes the process for clients smooth sailing from start to finish. I am glad that I have the opportunity to be part of this wonderful team.”

Katie earned her associate degree from Lewis University and finished her bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Phoenix. She is an extremely organized and dedicated teammate who always goes above and beyond for clients and co-workers.

Katie lives in Huntley with her husband Brian and three children. She loves spending time with her family as well as going to Chicago Cubs games and baking.

Megan Hill, Project Design Specialist, Advance Design Studio, Gilberts, Illinois

Megan Hill

Project Design Specialist

Megan works with poise and thoroughness to bring projects to life throughout the design and production stages.

As a Project Design Specialist, Megan works behind the scenes to efficiently bring projects to life throughout the design and production stages. The poise and thoroughness she brings to her team ensure that no mistake will slip through the cracks.

Megan graduated Summa Cum Laude with a bachelor’s degree in Interior Design from Olivet Nazarene University. Her empathetic yet driven work ethic allows her to easily understand the needs and desires of homeowners and contribute to uniquely functional design solutions. With her proficiency in CAD software, Megan produces beautiful, detailed 3D design renderings to bring projects to life for our clients. 

“I enjoy working at ADS because the company invests in all of their employees, making us a strong, unified team. Being able to bounce ideas off one another and clearly communicate allows us to grow and create the best possible outcomes for our clients. It’s fulfilling to know that my work is going to transform the lives of our clients,” Megan said. 

Megan is a lifelong Genoa resident and enjoys staying active by playing sports and relaxing with a non-fiction book or tv show. She also loves spending time with her energetic dog Phoebe. 

Dulce Beuten, Project Design Specialist, Advance Design Studio, Gilberts, Illinois

Dulce Beuten

Project Design Specialist

Dulce works closely in tandem with the Lead Design team to assist with drawing, designing, and project production.

As a Project Design Specialist, Dulce works behind the scenes with the project design team. She is a key asset during the early design and construction phases of our remodels, assisting with obtaining permits, sourcing building material, specifying cabinetry, and taking deliveries. She works closely in tandem with the Lead Design team to assist with drawing, designing, and project production.

No matter the size or scope of the remodel, Dulce loves seeing a project come to life from design through construction. She loves helping clients visualize what their project will look like prior to construction in the design process through material selections and 3D renderings. She is personable, selfless, and is excited to help ADS clients achieve home spaces they love. Dulce will go the extra mile to help your project succeed and run as smoothly as possible.

“I love the magic that happens here at ADS and the sense of family that comes with being a part of this team!”

Dulce studied interior design in college, earning both her Advanced Sketching & Rendering and Interior Design Assistant certifications at Harper College in 2019. She also studied Interior Architecture at Columbia College, where she fell even more in love with the remodeling industry.

She currently lives in Carpentersville and loves spending time with her tabby cat, TinTin, and German Shepard, Xena. In her free time, she loves spending time outdoors hiking and camping. She’s always ready for an adventure!

Dulce Beuten, Project Design Specialist, Advance Design Studio, Gilberts, Illinois

Tori Lee

Project Design Specialist

Tori collaborates closely with the design team in supporting drafting, conceptualizing, and facilitating project execution.

As a Project Design Specialist, Tori works behind the scenes with the lead design team producing many of the beautiful plans and renderings you will see. She handles important planning details such as obtaining permits, researching and ordering product, as well as taking deliveries and then making sure they get to the jobsite on time. Hard working and reliable, Tori always goes above and beyond to ensure projects run as smooth as possible.

Tori is currently completing her Kitchen & Bath design degree with Harper College.  With an additional educational history in accounting, her attention to the financial aspects behind her design work and her organizational skills really shine in her role as an effective project administrator.

Each project that the ADS team undertakes is unique, and Tori loves that no day is ever the same. She loves being part of a team that can take an idea, create plans and renderings, and bring the beautiful transformation to life all within one organization.

“This environment is like no other, and the team is phenomenal and extremely knowledgeable. Everyone is proud of their work and gets excited about what they do. I can’t believe I get to be a part of this incredible team.”

Tori is a long-time Hampshire resident. She is a talented equestrian and loves spending her free time with her dog Loki.

Construction Management

The Construction Managers bring years of trades experience and attention to you as you live through construction. These accomplished craftsmen’s combined talents bring quality and a superior client experience to every job they manage. You can relax, knowing they are in control.

Construction Management Team

Jason Johnson, Project Manager, Advance Design Studio, Gilberts, Illinois

Jason Johnson

Construction Manager

A hands-on manager, his carpentry skills also give him the flexibility to frame additions and major renovations.

Jason is extremely personable, an excellent communicator and is willing to go the extra mile for all of his clients. A hands-on manager, his carpentry skills also give him the flexibility to frame additions and major renovations, as well as complete interior work, fine millwork and cabinetry detailing.

In 2003 Jason attended college and studied business but ultimately, he returned to carpentry.

“I have had the privilege of meeting so many great people and hearing their stories. The team has been great at fostering my talent, in a company that values contribution and clearly stands head and shoulders above the industry average”, says Jason. 

Jason resides in Wauconda with his wife and daughter. He hails from Michigan but has been a resident of Illinois since 2006. He is an avid outdoorsman so he’s up for anything involving hunting, fishing, golf, and gardening!

Nick Holm, Project Manager, Advance Design Studio, Gilberts, Illinois

Nick Holm

Managing Director of Construction

While his skills as a carpenter certainly endear him as a Construction Manager, it is Nick's demeanor that clients enjoy the most.

Project Manager Nick Holm is a skilled craftsman who personally excels in framing and trim work. While his skills as a carpenter certainly endear him as a project manager, it is his demeanor that clients enjoy the most. Nick is able to relate to clients easily and strives to provide consistent communication during a project. 

In high school Nick had the opportunity to work in his family’s construction business. After graduating from Western Illinois University with a degree in Criminal Justice, he found himself returning to construction, and then ran his own company for nearly 10 years.

During his time as a business owner, he fine-tuned his ability to interact with clients in such a way that gained their confidence. Nick joined the Advance Design team in 2017 and has proven his ability not only as a talented carpenter but also as a successful manager.

“I was initially attracted to Advance because of their obvious pride in quality and craftsmanship,” Nick says. “From day one I was treated with respect and encouragement and knew I made the right choice by joining the company. I truly feel like I am part of a team and I can honestly say I work with the best in the business.”

Nick lives in Carpentersville with his wife and their three children. He loves spending time with his family and learning new tricks of the trade.

Ed Beatty, Home Services Project Manager, Advance Design Studio, Gilberts, Illinois

Ed Beatty

Construction Manager & Home Services

His demeanor makes for lasting relationships with many return clients who simply enjoy seeing Ed!

Ed is a staple of Advance Design’s staff and the face of the Home Services division. His kind, knowledgeable persona graces many of print and web advertisements. He handles projects of many sizes and exterior work, along with special handyman requests from clients. There is never a dull day.

He worked for 10 years for his father’s general contracting business before taking it over for an additional 15 years. He joined Advance Design’s team as a lead carpenter before working his way into his current Home Services and Construction Manager position where his skills thrive best.

Ed has a calming presence that enables him to adapt well to any unforeseen situation. Clients love how approachable and kind he is. His demeanor makes for great, lasting relationships with many return clients who simply enjoy seeing Ed again!

“I enjoy the people that I work with, from the office to the field,” Ed says. “When I worked for myself and doing commercial work, I didn’t have the camaraderie and team that support me now. I hope to stay here until I retire!”

Ed lives in Lake in the Hills with his wife and three children. He is an avid learner and always searching for ways to improve his craft.

Mike Laffey, Project Manager, Advance Design Studio, Gilberts, Illinois

Mike Laffey

Construction Manager

Praised for his honest communication and ample remodeling experience, Mike loves handling projects of all scopes and complexities.

Mike is a natural people person and an honest, transparent communicator. As a Project Manager, Mike successfully manages the many aspects of project production.

After graduating high school, Mike attended trade school and began his career in residential remodeling. He initially began as a custom installer and earned the titles of foreman and project manager as time went on. His organized, passionate work ethic allows him to successfully manage any project he works on. He enjoys the challenge of working on a wide range of projects at Advance Design.

“I enjoy the variety of projects we work on and the talented team I work with as a Project Manager. I like the challenge of working on complex projects because it allows our team to use and hone the skills that come with those types of projects, and the results are incredible! I enjoy leading my team and helping them whenever they need me.”

Mike lives in Grayslake and has two children. He is an outdoorsman who enjoys fishing, hiking, and other outdoor activities. He also enjoys building furniture in his free time.

Key Support Team

Advance Design’s unique process requires a diversely specialized team behind the scenes as well, who constantly advocate for homeowners and heavily contribute to their project’s success. This group keeps the entire system moving forward, from client relations to marketing, finance, trades, and transportation. They work diligently behind the curtain, which arms you with an entire fleet of professionals in your corner during your remodel. 

Key Support Team

Brianna Bardonner, Marketing Coordinator, Advance Design Studio, Gilberts, Illinois

Brianna Bardonner

Marketing Coordinator

Bri’s vision and guidance is behind most of the company's marketing presence.

Brianna’s (Bri’s) effortless communication style may be the first experience you have when calling on Advance Design, whether by social media, email or phone.

Bri’s creativity is behind most of the company’s marketing and social media presence. From website engagement to all measures of online interaction, she creates engaging, relevant content to educate, entertain, and otherwise share the beautiful work of ADS.

Bri graduated from Virginia Commonwealth University with her BFA and a Minor in Marketing, blending her artistic and communication talent. She has worked as a freelance digital communications specialist since 2012, where she built websites and managed social media for non-profit organizations. 

“The most important thing for me in my work is to truly believe in who I represent,” Bri says. “The passion and honesty of the people at Advance is what I fell in love with, and I am proud to promote those qualities every day.”

In her spare time, Bri loves to go on road trips with her border collie. She also enjoys sculpture as well as computer design, film visual effects, and video game design.

Ellie Thiel, Marketing Specialist, Advance Design Studio, Gilberts, Illinois

Ellie Thiel

Marketing Specialist

She's a key force behind the team’s efforts to share the beautiful work of Advance Design through social media utilizing photography, graphic arts, writing and design.

Ellie began her career at Advance Design at the young age of 17, working to help stage photography during school breaks throughout high school and college. Today, she has become a key force behind the team’s efforts to share the beautiful work of Advance Design through social media utilizing photography, graphic arts, writing and design.

“I love working with creative people who support each other and help each other succeed - I love to showcase what our team is capable of and the beautiful work we do,” Ellie says.

Ellie has a bachelor’s degree in Interdisciplinary Communication & Advertising from Elmhurst University. She lives with her husband, Jackson, in West Dundee. She enjoys playing sports and is a club volleyball coach. 

Jason Johnson, Project Manager, Advance Design Studio, Gilberts, Illinois

Matt Warmbier

Field Production Manager

Maintaining scheduling and coordination for multiple overlapping projects is Matt's specialty.

One of the first of Advance Design’s field members you may encounter is Matt Warmbier, our Field Production Manager. Matt attends many of the walk-throughs, coordinating the construction team to properly analyze site conditions, working together with trades and the designer to formulate a design and construction plan and accurately predict project costing.

If there was a wizard behind the curtain, that would be Matt’s role. Maintaining scheduling and coordination for multiple overlapping projects is his specialty; a responsibility that is critical to the success of each project and for the overall operation of the organization.

Matt came to Advance after operating his own specialty tile business for 15 years. Well versed with project management from his prior experience, Matt’s goal is to give homeowners exactly what they desire for their home within a great remodeling experience.

“The thing I enjoy most about working for ADS is the fact that I know I’m working for a company that wants to enrich the lives of others by doing high quality renovation work,” says Matt.

Matt resides in Woodstock with his wife and 3 children. He spends much of his time coaching high school and club soccer.

Nick Holm, Project Manager, Advance Design Studio, Gilberts, Illinois

Nathan Raney

Accounting Manager

Nathan oversees all aspects of the behind-the-scenes accounts payable, receivables, financial reporting, and client billings.

As the company’s Accounting Manager, Nathan oversees all aspects of the behind-the-scenes accounts payable, receivables, financial reporting, and client billings. His attention to detail and communication assures clients that their project goes smoothly on the back end. 

When larger projects require coordination with a bank, a title company, and complicated paperwork like sworn statements, Nathan is an expert at navigating the myriad of paperwork and correspondence.

“Advance Design is a great company to work for,” Nathan says. “From the office staff to the field, the people and the atmosphere Todd and Christine created are what makes this job great.”

Nathan enjoys spending time with his wife and daughter and relishes the opportunity to sit down with a good book.

Our Values

1. It’s All About the Client Experience

Our commitment to our clients shows in everything we do. We dedicate everything from the Common Sense Remodeling Process, to our showroom, to our behind the scenes systems, to our staff training, to how we answer the phone, to the complete client experience.

2. We Believe in Our People

We take care of our people, and they take care of our clients. Our “people first” environment gives our team the tools and opportunities to succeed and rewards them for that success. People are the core of our company culture.

3. We Act With Integrity and Excellence

How we do business is as important as what we do. We hold ourselves to uncompromising ethical standards and performance. These standards extend to day-to-day business conduct, employee practices, sales process, and continuous commitment to client satisfaction.

4. We Improve the Quality of Life

Lives and families are changed forever by what we do. Our clients enjoy meals with friends in newly renovated kitchens. They can relax after long work hours in a master bath, and they can spend quality time with family in a new basement. Close your door to the world and enjoy your home and your family exactly the way you envision it.

5. We Are Passionate About Design and Fine Craftsmanship

We have an appreciation for detail in the simplest of design matters. Whether it’s a perfect miter joint or the creative way the kitchen cabinetry hides all the spices, fine design and attention to detail are integral parts of our DNA. Our passion for design and fine craftsmanship is evident in every finished detail of your new space.

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Projects Completed

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Years of Local Experience

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Cities Served

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