one + one + one = One

HMR Designs is a fusion of three of the most notable event design firms in Chicago.
To know who we are, you must first understand where we’ve come from.
A bit of history is in order, but first, a bit of math: one plus one plus one equals…One.


The first one

Heffernan Morgan, a venture founded over 33 years ago by Bill Heffernan and Donna Morgan, dramatically altered the event design scene in Chicago. From classic to ultra contemporary, Heffernan Morgan’s designs were often imitated, never duplicated.

Heffernan Morgan Designs


The second one

Botanicals, founded 18 years ago by Casey Cooper, charged onto the scene with fresh inventive floral designs rooted in nature. Taking their cue from all things botanical and the unique environments in which they grow, Botanicals designs burst with authenticity and vitality.


Botanicals-for-Blog

The third one

Ronsley Special Events, purchased by Michael Levanthal 45 years ago from Fred Ronsley, grew to be one of the leaders in Chicago’s event scene. Known for expansive production skills, particularly in customized art and graphics, fabrication, and original scenic elements, Ronsley became a nationally recognized talent.

Ronsley-for-Blog2


Let us pause here, mid-equation, and introduce you to Bob Mertzlufft, President of HMR Designs:

Bob, after all, is a rather important part of the equation. As the longtime technical director at Heffernan Morgan, and with over 25 years of event design experience, Bob recognized each company as possessing a talented, versatile team, a carefully curated inventory, and most importantly, a distinctive style and presence. He envisioned the strength of collaboration and he brought them together as One; HMR Designs.

Keeping the teams intact and the founders engaged in design and development, Bob has been able to realize his vision: to further the evolution and growth within each company by uniting them. With admiration and respect for his creative and professional colleagues, Bob focuses on advancing capabilities and building resources. HMR’s current production and warehouse facility now resides on 150,000 square feet of Chicago’s Goose Island and staffs over 100 full and part time employees.

Cohesive and cutting-edge, we present to you the exciting sum of all our parts: HMR Designs.
It’s a pleasure to meet you.

HMR Mark3.1_4InSq_w_StarlightBlueBox