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2024

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Best Architects in Chicago

Our Recommended Top 20

We did the research for you!

  • Licensing
  • User Reviews
  • Mystery Shopping Calls

Our goal is to connect people with the best local professionals. We scored Chicago Architects on more than 25 variables across five categories, and analyzed the results to give you a hand-picked list of the best.

591

Reviewed

362

Curated

20

Top Picks

Learn about our selection process.

Providers

featured provider = Featured Provider

Website
125 North Halsted Street, Chicago, IL 60661
  • Sustainable Design
  • Full-Service Architecture
  • Master Planning
  • Tenant Planning Services
  • Pre Design Services

Why choose this provider?

Fitzgerald Architecture Planning Design is a full-service architecture firm based in Chicago. Its professionals' architectural services include pre-design, master planning, tenant planning, and design visualization studies. The architects create sustainable and LEED-certified designs that aim to balance clients' requirements and aesthetics. Communication and collaboration are the foundations of the team's design process. Some of the industries the company serves include industrial, institutional, and healthcare. One of the spaces the architects have designed is the Hadley Institute for the Blind & Visually Impaired.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
4.3
Google
4.3 / 5 (3)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
3.8
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail
––

Price: Call for quote

Chicago, IL

Why choose this provider?

Need help contacting a Architect in Chicago? Call our Concierge team at 848-Book-Pro (848-266-5776 from 6 am - 4 pm PT | Mon - Fri). They are standing by to help you get the service you need.

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Price: Free booking service | Call 848.Book.Pro!

Website
Chicago, IL 60613

Why choose this provider?

Moss is a full-service architecture and design studio in Chicago. Design projects include residential, retail and commercial, restaurants, breweries and wineries, urban planning, custom furniture, and LEED. Moss assists clients from site selection and design through permitting and constructions. Moss designs integrate natural light and air, connect to the landscape and green space, create open spaces, and emphasize the use of sustainable materials. Chicago Architecture Foundation chose Moss to be part of its 50 Designers, 50 Ideas, 50 Wards Exhibit.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
4.3
Google
4.8 / 5 (8)
Yelp
4.0 / 5 (5)
Facebook
3.7 / 5 (3)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
Chicago, IL 60606

Why choose this provider?

Cook Architectural Design Studio (CA/ds) is an award-winning architecture firm focused on creating quality commercial and residential buildings and interiors in the greater Chicago area. CA/ds commercial work includes office buildings, corporate identity and tenant build-out, retail, restaurants, community centers, athletic facilities, medical offices, condominiums and apartments, mixed use developments, franchise prototypes, and downtown master planning. CA/ds residential projects include new construction of luxury single family homes, renovations, and additions. CA/ds' LEED Accredited Professionals embrace Green Technology, energy conservation, and sustainable solutions. CA/ds also has projects in California, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, Ohio, Texas, and Wisconsin.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
5.0
Facebook
5.0 / 5 (2)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
Highland Park, IL 60035

Why choose this provider?

Established in the Chicago area in 1989, Becker Architects designs commercial and residential projects from new construction to rehabilitation and additions. Becker Architects' three areas of expertise include residential, auto dealerships, and commercial. Becker Architects' residential work has earned national and local awards and recognition in publications such as AIA Chicago Architect, Preservation, Chicago Tribune, Builder, Remodeling, Chicago Home, Better Homes and Gardens, House Beautiful, Driehaus Foundation, and Traditional Home. Beckers Architects is licensed in Illinois, New York, New Jersey, Arizona, and Wisconsin and has a LEED AP on staff. Highland Park's Historic Preservation Commission has awarded Becker Architects nine awards since 1991.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
5.0
Facebook
5.0 / 5 (5)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
Chicago, IL 60654

Why choose this provider?

Established in 1999, von Weise Associates is a Chicago architecture and design studio. von Weise project areas include residential, hospitality, institutional, commercial, and office buildings. The Spring/Summer 2016 issue of Modern Luxury Interiors Chicago featured von Weise Associates' work on the cover and in an article. Also, von Weise Associates won the 2012 Illinois AIA Mies van der Rohe Citation of Merit Award.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
4.0
Google
5.0 / 5 (2)
Yelp
2.0 / 5 (1)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
Chicago, IL 60642

Why choose this provider?

Established in 2005, Northworks Architects is a Chicago full-service architecture and planning firm, specializing in new building design, historic preservation, site planning, construction management, building conditions analysis, and interior design, including custom furniture. Northworks is LEED accredited and licensed in Colorado, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, Pennsylvania, Texas, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. Houzz has awarded Northworks "Best of" for Design three years in a row.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
5.0
Google
5.0 / 5 (3)
Facebook
5.0 / 5 (2)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
Chicago, IL 60607

Why choose this provider?

Dirk Denison Architects in Chicago is a full services architecture firm in business since 1990. Services include programming, site analysis, design, preparation, administration of construction documents, and post-construction analysis, as well as interior furnishing and furniture design. Best known for its award-winning residential work, Dirk Denison Architects has experience on a broad range of projects and scales, including multi-family, institutional, and commercial projects. Dirk Denison Architects has won design awards from the Chicago Architectural Club, the National Association of Home Builders, and the American Institute of Architects.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
4.0

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
Chicago, IL 60618

Why choose this provider?

Blender Architecture is a Chicago metro architecture and design firm that provides boutique services to residential, commercial, and institutional clients. Projects include the Mason City Public Library, Highland Park Community Family Center, Governor's Island Pavilion, Centers for New Horizons, and the Tiny Homes Competition. Blender Architecture received the 2012 AIA Small Project Award for Bucktown Residence design-build.

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
Chicago, IL 60604

Why choose this provider?

Wheeler and Kearns Architects are architects and building designers in Chicago providing a wide range of services that include building design, interior design, landscapes, furniture, urban design, and LEED. Wheeler and Kearns' work spans scale and type and includes designs for a college theater arts center, an elementary school, indoor ice rink, children's museum, and a painter's studio. Principals Dan Wheeler and Larry Kearns were the 2008 Chicago Tribune's "Chicagoans of the Year" in Architecture. Mr. Wheeler's Inspirataion Kitchens Garfield Park project won the national 2013 Rudy Bruner Award for Urban Excellence.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
5.0
Facebook
5.0 / 5 (5)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
850 W Jackson Blvd 600, Chicago, IL 60607

Why choose this provider?

Nia Architects in Chicago, Illinois, is an architectural firm with more than two decades of industry expertise working with community members, leaders, and developers. The firm has an additional office in Washington, DC, and it takes a purpose-driven approach to designing and developing buildings and structures for communities and neighborhoods. Its portfolio of projects includes homes, park buildings, sports facilities, and schools. It also designs stores, restaurants, banks, and other commercial, industrial, and healthcare structures.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
5.0
Facebook
5.0 / 5 (4)
Google
5.0 / 5 (3)

Website
Chicago, IL 60654

Why choose this provider?

Searl Lamaster Howe Architects is a Chicago architecture and design studio that works with clients through each step of the design and construction process. Searl Lamaster Howe Architects' portfolio includes commercial, residential, and institutional projects that range from master planning to renovations to restorations to new construction. The office is a certified Female Business Enterprise (FBE) at the state level and holds Women Business Enterprise (WBE) status in Chicago. Searl Lamaster Howe Architects is an award winning firm and has received multiple AIA awards including Chicago Small Project - Citation of Merit, Distinguished Building Award, and Interior Architecture Award.

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
Chicago, IL 60607

Why choose this provider?

Established in 1987, Hartshorne Plunkard Architecture is a Chicago-based award-winning architecture, planning, and interior design firm serving clients nationally. Hartshorne Plunkard Architecture's services also include LEED/sustainable design and historic preservation. Hartshorne Plunkard Architects projects include residential, office and retail, education and athletic complexes, medical/dental offices, industrial/warehouse, and banking facilities. Hartshorne Plunkard Architects received the Chicago Commercial Real Estate 2105 Redevelopment of the Year Award.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
5.0
Facebook
5.0 / 5 (2)
Yelp
5.0 / 5 (1)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
3.5
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail
––

Website
320 W Huron St # 3W, Chicago, IL 60654

Why choose this provider?

Ellipsis Architecture is a Chicago-based architecture and interior design firm that uses progressive technologies to deliver unique projects to its clients. Its designers help with pre-design architectural services such as site and ordinance analysis, building assessment, title search, budget, team selection, and project goals. The team utilizes a design that promotes and nurtures a modern lifestyle to build sustainable, durable, and enjoyable spaces. The company is a recipient of the AIA Chicago Small Projects Honor Award.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
5.0
Facebook
5.0 / 5 (9)
Google
5.0 / 5 (4)

Website
Evanston, IL 60201

Why choose this provider?

Morgante-Wilson Architects is a Chicago-area architecture, interior design, and urban planning firm. Morgante Wilson Architects' projects reflect diverse styles, from contemporary to classic. Projects span new construction, renovation, and interiors for clients throughout Chicago and in Michigan, Indiana, New Hampshire, Wisconsin, Iowa, Florida, and St. John USVI. Morgante Wilson is a multiple AIA Gold Designs Awards Program winner and has four Houzz "Best of" Design Awards.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
4.9
Facebook
5.0 / 5 (41)
Google
5.0 / 5 (3)
Yelp
1.0 / 5 (1)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
Chicago, IL 60612

Why choose this provider?

Scrafano Architects in Chicago and Los Angeles has completed more than 300 residential, retail, and commercial projects of all sizes and scales. Scrafano Architects' style is a mixture of modern and classic. Scrafano Architects work with clients throughout the construction process, including architecture, interiors, furniture, permit submission, contractor selection, bid review, and construction observation. Scrafano Architects received an AIA 2011 Design Award and four Houzz "Best of" awards for design and service.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
5.0
Facebook
5.0 / 5 (5)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
Chicago, IL 60647

Why choose this provider?

Space Architects + Planners is a boutique Chicago architectural firm founded in 2003. Full design services include site and space planning, zoning and code analysis, rendering, marketing materials, and interior design. Space Architects + Planners work with clients throughout the development process from acquisition due diligence to project completion. Projects include designs for residential, commercial, and institutional clients. Space Architects + Planners principals include LEED certified professionals.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
4.7
Facebook
5.0 / 5 (7)
Google
4.2 / 5 (5)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
Chicago, IL 60654

Why choose this provider?

Vladimir Radutny Architects is a Chicago architecture and design practice founded in 2008. Full-spectrum architecture services include construction cost estimating, building program development, schematic design, design development, construction documents, permitting, bidding and negotiation, and contract administration. Vladimir Radutny Architects also provide interior design, planning and feasibility studies, creative consulting, furniture design, and millwork design. Vladimir Radutny Architects received the 2016 AIA Chicago Small Project Award, Citation of Merit Award Unit 3E.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
5.0
Facebook
5.0 / 5 (16)
Google
5.0 / 5 (7)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
Chicago, IL 60622

Why choose this provider?

Norsman Architects in Chicago is a full-service architectural practice. Projects include housing and urban development, including mixed-use developments, environmentally responsive adaptive re-use, commercial and residential work. Norsman Architects focus on sustainable design and development and a collaborative approach with all parties. Norsman Architects construction arm, House Plant, Inc., allows for a design-build approach that enables the architects to work more closely with clients and subcontractors throughout the entire process.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
5.0
Facebook
5.0 / 5 (3)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
2920 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60657

Why choose this provider?

Chicago-based dSPACE Studio is a full-service architectural design firm that's been working on projects throughout the United States since 2007. The company focuses on residential and small commercial architecture, interior design, and landscape projects, especially urban and vacation homes. It designs both new construction and renovation projects and includes environmentally sustainable technology and material options when possible. To tailor a project to the specific client, designers walk clients through each phase from pre-design and design to construction and completion.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
5.0
Google
5.0 / 5 (13)
Yelp
5.0 / 5 (1)

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Introduction

    Architects are skilled professionals who create designs and plans for a variety of reasons. While the term architect traditionally refers to a professional who creates building plans, either for residential or commercial properties, the word can also refer to an architect who works with technology and digital infrastructure. Below are some of the most common titles an architect may have:
    • Landscape architect: Designs outdoor spaces, such as parks, gardens, and college campuses

    • Restoration architect: Preserves historic buildings and monuments
    • Lighting architect: Designs, installs, and operates lighting for theater and film productions
    • Extreme architect: Creates buildings that withstand major disasters or severe weather
    • Residential architect: Designs homes and multifamily properties
    • Sustainable/green design architect: Designs buildings that have a minimal environmental impact
    • Industrial architect: Develops plans for industrial buildings, such as factories and plants
    • Conservation architect: Preserves unprotected heritage sites
    • Interior architect: Designs interiors for commercial and residential buildings
  • How much does an architect cost?

    The cost of hiring an architect varies, depending on what type of work needs to be done. According to Home Guide, most traditional architects charge anywhere from $100 to $250 per hour to draw plans; however, this cost may vary depending on experience and project scope.

  • How much do residential architects charge?

    Residential architects typically charge anywhere from $2,000 to $8,500 for initial plans and small projects, according to Home Advisor. For large projects, revisions, and extra services, this cost can increase.

  • Do I need an architect to build a house?

    While it's not required to hire an architect before building a house, it's usually a good idea. An architect can ensure that all housing plans are done per local housing codes while ensuring the home is beautifully designed.

  • How can someone draw like an architect?

    It requires practice and knowledge of drawing different perspectives and dimensions. Tutorial videos can be found online that advise beginners; however, without proper instruction and technique, architectural drawings may not be in accordance with building laws.

  • Do you need an architect for a renovation?

    An architect isn't always required for a remodel or renovation; however, some municipalities may require professional architect drawings before construction permits are approved. In most cases, it's best to check with local laws before undergoing renovations.

  • How long is an architect liable for a building?

    Architects may be held liable for up to 15 years after the completion of a project. Until that time has passed, architects may face claims for defects in design.