Architect needed in Chicago’s western ‘burbs
Dear GBA Community,
– Climate Zone 5, Chicago’s western ‘burbs –
Could you please recommend some architects? I recently realized that ours is not the right one for the project. (By the way- it’s important that our current architect is treated fairly, respectfully, and kindly- during and after any transition.)
The project involves remodeling our 1900-ish, balloon-framed home. At some point it had been converted into two apartments. I had clumsily recombined the units into one home, but the result was a house with lots of small rooms- and a layout that just didn’t work very well.
I was clear up-front that I wanted to add rigid foam insulation at the exterior (since we’re replacing the roofing and siding anyway), but we focused on the interior changes first. When our attention shifted to the exterior insulation, I realized too late that our architect didn’t understand or share my passion for this part of the project.
I briefly imagined that with enough research and help, I could provide him with the details and data he needs- but have since realized this won’t be enough. I need someone who knows more about this than I do; not less. After it’s designed, we’ll have more challenges ahead of us: getting the design thru the local building dept., finding qualified subs, verifying that the details are followed carefully, and surely others.
So, can you please recommend some architects that would be a good fit?
Thank you,
Ben
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Replies
Ben,
I don't have a recommendation for you, but I found this firm in Evanston (https://www.kipnisarch.com/). Your project might not be a fit, but maybe they can suggest someone who is.
Ben, I follow numerous high-performance Designers/ Architects on Instagram. My favorite one of all is based in Western Chicago: Tom Bassett-Dilley, https://tbdarchitects.com
I don't know if they would be a good fit for your project but they are worth considering.
These look promising. Thank you.
Keep 'em coming.
Ben, in your initial posting regarding your project it sounded like your original architect was able to help you figure out a floor plan that works for you. If this is the case, you may want to contact builders/general contractors at this point instead of architects since they're ultimately the ones who will have to bid on the work and physically execute all of the details.
Here's one you could contact who has previous 'green' new construction as well as 'green' retrofit experience in line with what you're trying to accomplish with your home: https://mkconstructioninc.net/
I recently came across this YouTube video describing a Chicago deep energy retrofit project in which MK Construction was mentioned as the general contractor: https://youtu.be/Neggxura26o
At roughly the 20:20 mark in the video, note the comments regarding issues they had with a certified PHIUS builder. The point here is don't be seduced by 'green' certifications; they may or may not mean very much.
Don't be afraid to work with someone without certifications in LEED, PHI/PHIUS, or LBC as long as they demonstrate a willingness to learn new ideas and techniques, particularly if they already have some previous experience with projects like yours. Certifications do not guarantee a pleasant, or even competent, experience for a homeowner, as we found out the hard way: https://kimchiandkraut.net/2016/05/05/when-building-a-passive-house-goes-horribly-wrong/
As you're already discovering, building 'green' is still a real challenge here in the Midwest, even in Chicago or its suburbs. Most of the 'green' innovation, whether in terms of specific techniques or overall projects, seems to be happening on the coasts, especially out East: names like Baczek, Maines, Kolbert, Swinburne, GO Logic, Zero Energy Design, or 475 HPBS immediately come to mind (there are dozens more that could be mentioned). Don't be afraid to reach out to folks like this, even if it's just for consulting purposes, since they clearly have a series of projects on which to rely when giving you options on what's best for your particular project.
Feel free to contact me through my blog if you have any questions for me. I'd be happy to help if I can. Good luck with your project!
Eric,
Thanks the very thoughtful response.
Your site looks like a great collection of info. I recognize a fair amount of the Resources, and I'm looking forward to checking out the ones that are new to me.
And- I love the family portrait on the About page (especially The Beast's expression!).
Thanks again,
Ben