Chicago is the birthplace of the skyscraper and one of the most influential cities in global architecture. From the pioneering work of Louis Sullivan and Frank Lloyd Wright to today’s cutting-edge skyscrapers and civic spaces, Chicago architects continue to set international standards. Whether it’s luxury residential towers, sustainable design, or urban masterplanning, the city’s firms deliver world-class innovation. Here we feature five fantastic architecture firms in Chicago.
Our Top Five Chicago Architecture Firms
Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM)
Headquarters: Chicago, IL (with global offices)
Phone: +1 312-360-4500
Services: High-rise design, masterplanning, commercial, civic
SOM is one of the most influential firms in the world, responsible for Chicago’s Willis Tower and global landmarks such as One World Trade Center in New York.
Studio Gang
Headquarters: Chicago, IL (with offices in New York, San Francisco, Paris)
Phone: +1 312-897-8876
Services: Residential towers, cultural, civic, sustainability
Founded by Jeanne Gang, Studio Gang is behind the iconic Aqua Tower and St. Regis Chicago, known for innovative, people-centered design.
Perkins&Will
Headquarters: Chicago, IL (with international offices)
Phone: +1 312-755-0770
Services: Healthcare, education, civic, corporate
Perkins&Will is a global leader in sustainable and human-centered design, with projects including hospitals, schools, and corporate headquarters.
Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill Architecture (AS+GG)
Headquarters: Chicago, IL
Phone: +1 312-920-1400
Services: Super-tall towers, masterplanning, sustainable urbanism
AS+GG is known for designing some of the world’s tallest and most energy-efficient buildings, including the Jeddah Tower in Saudi Arabia.
John Ronan Architects
Headquarters: Chicago, IL
Phone: +1 312-913-1199
Services: Cultural, educational, residential, civic
John Ronan Architects is acclaimed for design excellence and was a finalist in the competition for the Obama Presidential Center. Known for thoughtful cultural and civic architecture.
Areas Covered in Chicago
- Downtown: The Loop, River North, Streeterville
- North Side: Lincoln Park, Lakeview, Uptown
- West Side: West Loop, Fulton Market, Wicker Park
- South Side: Hyde Park, Bronzeville, South Shore
- Greater Chicago: Evanston, Oak Park, Naperville
Architectural Services in Chicago
- High-rise and skyscraper design
- Residential and mixed-use developments
- Healthcare and educational architecture
- Cultural and civic buildings
- Urban planning and regeneration
- Heritage and adaptive reuse
- Sustainable and eco-friendly design (LEED, WELL, Net Zero)
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to hire an architect in Chicago?
Architect fees typically range from 7–12% of the project cost, with hourly or fixed-fee options available for smaller projects.
Do Chicago architects provide free consultations?
Some firms offer free initial consultations, while others may charge for feasibility and design studies.
What qualifications do Chicago architects hold?
Architects must be licensed by the State of Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation and many are AIA members.
Do Chicago architects work internationally?
Yes, firms like SOM, Perkins&Will, and AS+GG operate globally while maintaining Chicago headquarters.
Do architects manage zoning and permits?
Yes, most Chicago firms handle zoning approvals, permits, and compliance with the Chicago Department of Buildings.
What sustainability standards are followed in Chicago?
Most leading firms design to LEED, WELL, and Passive House standards, with Chicago being a leader in green architecture.
How long does a project take?
Small residential projects may take 6–12 months, while skyscrapers and civic projects can span several years.
Do Chicago architects work on heritage buildings?
Yes, many specialise in restoring and adapting Chicago’s historic warehouses and landmarked properties.
What’s the difference between an architect and a designer?
Architects are licensed professionals regulated by the state, while designers may not hold licensure but can provide interiors and layouts.
How do I choose the best architect in Chicago?
Check Illinois state licensing, review portfolios, read client reviews, and compare proposals before hiring.