Margraf USA X Ilene Chase Design Bring Seattle Natural Stone to The Mart Showhouse

There are projects that feel special from the very beginning, not only because of the space, the material, or the people involved, but because everything comes together with a clear sense of intention.

Margraf USA was honored to collaborate with Ilene Chase Design on the primary bathroom vanity for The Mart Showhouse, one of Chicago’s most anticipated design events of the year. The Showhouse brings together 13 nationally recognized design firms to transform a penthouse apartment built on the first floor of The Mart into an immersive expression of luxury, creativity, and craftsmanship.

For this project, Ilene Chase selected Seattle, a Margraf natural stone, a deep olive green with earthy, mineral undertones. Used for the primary bathroom vanity, the stone brings depth, character, and a refined sense of drama to the space. Its natural movement and rich color make it more than a surface,  it becomes a defining element of the room.

The Showhouse is located on the first floor of The Mart, an iconic Chicago design destination known for its extensive collection of kitchen, bath, and fine furnishing showrooms. Open to the public from May 26 through September 25, 2026, the experience invites visitors to walk through a thoughtfully designed penthouse apartment and discover the work of some of the Midwest’s leading design voices.

The grand opening offered a first look at the many spaces that make up the Showhouse, each one shaped by a different creative vision. Together, they form a layered and inspiring environment, a true celebration of design, materials, and collaboration.

Margraf USA extends a sincere thank you to Ilene Chase Design for the opportunity to be part of such a meaningful project. We are grateful to see our Seattle natural stone interpreted through Ilene’s refined design perspective and placed within a setting that celebrates the best of Chicago’s design community.

We also thank The Mart Showhouse team, the participating designers, partners, vendors, and everyone who attended the opening celebration. It was a privilege to contribute to a project that turns craftsmanship into experience and transforms a showhouse into a real piece of art.

Visitors can experience The Mart Showhouse through September 25, 2026, Tuesday through Thursday from 9:00am to 5:00pm, or by appointment.