Doing It His Way

As summer fades, event designer Bill Heffernan’s thoughts turn to winter, the outdoor decor, and a party to celebrate it. Seasonal commissions—like a winter gala for the Art Institute or an anniversary party for one of Chicago’s leading society figures—consume much of his creative thinking and keep his design firm jumping. “I’ve always wanted to do something major at home but rarely do—probably because I’m too wrapped up with clients’ events,” says Bill. “But this year I decided to go nuts—in good taste, of course!”

“My guests know that when they come to my house for a party, the tour of the garden is obligatory,” says Bill. “Only when they’ve oohed and ahhed over each light do they get a glass of champers.”  So dress warmly for winter gatherings at Bill’s place, but know that a sumptuous meal awaits, served up as only he knows how: with great panache tempered by classic good taste.

Text by Ethne Clarke
Photographs by Anne Ryan

Host and garden designer: