Pictured are designers Jessica Jubelirer, Michael del Piero and Richard Abrahamson, winners of this year's One To Watch competition hosted by The Merchandise Mart Design Center in Chicago. The awards aim to recognize rising design stars in the area.

“We are very excited to celebrate these three designers who have demonstrated their commitment to creating innovative design and who the Design Center showrooms regard as some of the next big names in the design industry,” said Michele Hodo, senior director of marketing for The Merchandise Mart Design Center.

Jessica Jubelirer opened her own firm, Jessica Jubelirer Design, in 2008. She and her team of six staffers have worked on projects in the Midwest, on the East Coast, and in Asia. Their projects range from formal downtown condominiums to casual family homes. "Jessica’s talent lies in creating spaces that unfold beautifully before your eyes, revealing meticulous planning and attention to detail, while still appearing effortless," the Design Center said.

Michael Del Piero founded Michael Del Piero Good Design on a central principle: Only through a highly communicative designer-client relationship, timely and attentive coordination of vendors, and unwavering dedication to each project may absolute client satisfaction be realized. She is known for her "abilities to interpret and translate customers' wishes, [which] have garnered accolades from a most discerning, upper-bracket clientele in New York, Chicago and Buenos Aires," the Design Center noted.

As the founder and owner of RJA design, Richard Abrahamson brings experience in painting, art and antique collecting, and floral and landscape design, to his projects. He aims to integrate his client's lifestyle, interests and taste into each space he creates. "From residential to contract design, his selection of furnishings, color palettes, fabrics and accessories prove that he is a true connoisseur of detail," the Design Center added.