Kerri Callahan’s career spans a diverse range of roles, all rooted in her background in interior architecture, with lighting design serving as a central thread throughout her 25-year professional journey. She has cultivated a distinctive blend of leadership, design, construction, and project management expertise, with lighting as a consistent and defining focus.

A proud graduate of the University of Illinois at Chicago’s architecture program, Kerri’s first love is the city of Chicago and its architecture—an early inspiration that continues to inform her design perspective. This deep-rooted appreciation for the built environment has shaped her career and passion for how spaces are experienced, especially through light.

As a seasoned architect and lighting designer, Kerri brings comprehensive experience across all aspects of design, with a particular passion and specialization in lighting. She is a recognized subject matter expert in exhibition and architectural lighting, and deeply understands how light shapes spatial perception, mood, and experience. Her lighting work is grounded in a philosophy that balances aesthetics, function, and sustainability—creating atmospheres that elevate architecture while prioritizing energy efficiency and long-term performance.

Kerri’s portfolio includes numerous high-profile interior renovations where her strong design sensibility and technical lighting expertise have delivered thoughtful, innovative environments. Known for her precision and creativity, she reveals the character of a space through light while skillfully navigating complex project constraints—such as phased construction, evolving scopes, and tight budgets. A true collaborator, Kerri excels at translating user needs into lighting strategies that integrate seamlessly with Universal Design and sustainability principles, resulting in spaces that are inclusive, resilient, and impactful.

Outside the professional world, Kerri enjoys traveling, spending time with her loyal pup Dirty Harry, and exploring her passion for art and fashion.