COVER STORY | Meet Kathryn Alcock, Owner of Bench 492 in Beautiful Glen Ellyn

THIS LOCAL SHOP OWNERS PASSION FOR HOME DESIGN INSPIRES THE COMMUNITY

Creative, curious and caring, Kathryn has always loved learning new things.  Her dad was an artist and an engineer, he did everything from painting and sculpting to designing electrical circuits, which inspired Kathyrn’s ability to try all things unique and different.  Her career captures 17 years in marketing, chef training, full-time motherhood, jewelry designer, and currently the owner of Bench492.

“I just love the craftsmanship and history of older pieces and one of my very favorite things to do is go on road trips to find one of a kind treasures,” Kathryn says.  “I love the thrill of the hunt and the store is constantly evolving and the merchandising is changing so there is always something new to see.”

She believes one of the trends in 2024 is to be a little less trendy. Getting ideas from Instagram and Pinterest is great, but she reminds customers to express their own personality by combining old and new; collecting things you love into your decor so it will feel more like an extension of you.

“To spruce up a room easily, first declutter it,” she adds.  “Then incorporate the 4 P's -- Pictures, Pillows, Plants, and Paint.  Don't overlook how adding a plant or flowers in pretty containers can really warm a space and give you that cozy factor.  Rearranging furniture can also give you an instant facelift."

Married with two college aged daughters, Kathryn feels blessed to use her creativity to give back  by donating proceeds from shopping events and Oyster Shell ring dishes to support students in attending school through Partners in Mission in Uganda.  She also volunteers with DuPage PADS, and is on the Board of the Glen Ellyn Downtown Alliance.