Thoughtful Spaces. Intentional Design. A Home That Hits Different.
Design isn’t just about how a space looks — it’s about how it functions, how it feels, and how it supports the people who live there. Few designers get that balance right like Brooke Milton, founder of edit + design, a Chicago-based studio known for streamlined spaces layered with intention — and personality.
With over 16 years of experience in design, organization, and renovation, Brooke approaches each project with a combination of OCD-level organization (her words, not ours) and a love of transformation that goes far beyond surface beauty.
From Decluttering to Full-Fledged Design
Brooke’s journey into design started with her knack for order. Her business began as The Duchess of Declutter, helping clients see the potential in spaces that felt stuck or overwhelming.
“I live for a before + after,” Brooke says. “I see possibilities where others see obstacles. Spaces hold stories, and sometimes, they just need a new chapter. I did too.”
As her work evolved, she realized her clients needed more than organization — they wanted spaces that functioned beautifully and looked amazing. So came the rebrand to edit + design, reflecting her full suite of offerings: interiors, custom millwork, and renovations.
Listening First, Designing Second
Brooke is not about imposing her style. She listens. A lot.
“If you interview 15 designers, you’ll get 15 different opinions,” she says. “I design within your style — not mine.”
Her approach is minimalist but layered. She starts with anchors — the key furniture, lighting, and form — and then adds layers of texture, color, and scale. The end result? Spaces that feel effortless, personal, and intentional, not overworked.
“I establish the anchors first, then layer. Form, lighting, scale + texture all need to work together. The result should feel effortless, not overworked.”
Function Meets Fun
Organization is still central to Brooke’s work, but it’s never boring. She thinks about how her clients actually live in a space, and what they’ll need five years down the line.
Storage is one of her superpowers — floating cabinets, clever nightstands, built-ins — all designed to make rooms feel bigger, cleaner, and more usable.
“No one ever said they have too much storage,” she jokes. “And my kids get annoyed when we talk about work all the time. But trust me — it’s hard not to be excited when it’s this good.”
Custom Woodwork & Renovations
Brooke co-owns made by jbm a custom woodworking studio that allows her to create furniture and architectural details tailored to each project. From built-ins and statement tables to mantels and accent walls, every piece is sketched, crafted, and installed with intention.
The result? A seamless integration of interiors and craftsmanship. And when it comes to renovations, Brooke is clear about priorities: budget first, then function, then beauty.
“Budget dictates every decision moving forward. It keeps things realistic — and the outcome is always better for it.”
Wallpaper, Color & a Little Boldness
If there’s one space Brooke loves, it’s the powder room — a small space where she can play, experiment, and push boundaries. And yes, wallpaper is often involved.
“Wallpaper is art,” she says, practically beaming. “It introduces color, pattern, and warmth without trying too hard. If you love tigers, I’ll find you tigers. I’m game for anything — as long as it works in the space.”
When it comes to color, Brooke works with emotion first. How should a space feel? That dictates everything — from Swiss Coffee’s clean versatility to soft yet punchy teals she’s dying to use more.
Her professional tip? Always sample paint. “A color that looks amazing in my house could look awful in yours. Live with it. Watch it in day + night light. Then pull the trigger.”
Local Partnerships & Inspiration
Brooke loves collaborating with local suppliers and partners — JC Licht, Arhaus, Banner Kitchen & Bath, Crate & Barrel — ensuring every selection aligns with both aesthetics and function.
Her favorite place to find inspiration? A tile store, of course. “I’m like a kid in a candy store,” she laughs. And judging by her work, her enthusiasm clearly pays off.
Designing Homes That Hit Different
At the end of the day, Brooke is all about spaces that resonate with people, not trends.
“A home that truly resonates is built around the people who live there — not what’s trending on a screen,” she says.
It’s a philosophy that guides every edit + design project — from the first conversation to the final reveal. The result: homes that are functional, beautiful, personal, and just a little unexpected.
About edit + design
edit + design is a Chicago-based interior design studio offering full-service interior design, custom woodwork, and renovation support. Brooke Milton specializes in spaces that are functional, refined, and deeply personal — designed to feel effortlessly you.
Explore Brooke’s Favourite Benjamin Moore Colors
Brooke’s love of color is both playful and intentional. From the versatile Swiss Coffee to her dream teals, she selects shades that elevate a space while reflecting personality.
Discover Brooke’s curated Benjamin Moore color collection and bring her signature style into your home.
