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Business Details
36 Years
experience
Expert Architectural Design in Downers Grove, IL
Berneche2 Architecture, founded by Tim and Lauren Berneche in 1990, specializes in residential and commercial design projects. The firm prioritizes understanding how clients live, work, and play, creating tailored solutions that reflect individual values and legacies. With expertise in new construction, renovations, and additions, the team combines the agility of a small practice with the insight of large-firm experience. Tim holds licenses in four Lake Michigan states and is NCARB-certified, enabling nationwide licensing if needed.

The firm excels in lake house design, addressing unique coastal challenges, and integrating sustainable practices. Their commitment to continuing education and innovative technologies ensures designs remain at the forefront of industry trends. Transparent communication, code compliance, and attention to detail are hallmarks of their service, fostering trust and long-term client relationships.
Services
Architectural Design Residential Projects Commercial Projects Renovations Additions
Details
  • Year established: 1990
Highlights and features
  • We offer 30+ years of experience in residential and commercial architectural design.
  • Our team holds licenses in four Lake Michigan states for nationwide flexibility.
  • We prioritize listening to client needs and translating them into functional designs.
  • We integrate sustainable practices and emerging technologies into every project.
  • Our focus on continuing education ensures cutting-edge solutions for complex challenges.
Associations and certifications
  • NCARB
  • Illinois Department of Public Health (Commercial Swimming Pool Designer)
What people say
Deep knowledge base Innovative solutions Trustworthy Sustainable practices Excellent communication
Services
Architectural Design
Berneche2 Architecture creates customized residential and commercial designs focused on client needs. The firm blends creativity with technical expertise, ensuring compliance with zoning and building codes while prioritizing sustainability. Their process emphasizes collaboration, delivering functional spaces that reflect individual values and legacies.
Residential Projects
The firm specializes in new homes, renovations, and lakefront properties. Services include space planning, material selection, and construction oversight. Their approach ensures homes embrace natural surroundings while meeting practical needs, with a focus on innovative solutions for coastal environments.
Commercial Projects
Commercial offerings include office spaces, religious centers, and swimming pool design. The team ensures compliance with accessibility standards, integrates sustainable systems, and coordinates with engineers. Projects emphasize user experience, regulatory compliance, and long-term functionality for businesses and institutions.
Renovations
Renovation services address updates to existing structures, from kitchens to full-scale transformations. The firm identifies potential issues early, offers cost-effective solutions, and ensures designs align with modern standards. Their expertise includes adapting older buildings to contemporary needs without compromising aesthetics.
Additions
Additions range from extra living spaces to garage conversions. The team ensures seamless integration with existing structures, addressing zoning and structural requirements. Projects focus on enhancing functionality while maintaining architectural coherence, whether for family spaces or functional upgrades.
People
Timothy Berneche
Principal Architect
Timothy Berneche, a licensed architect since 1990, specializes in residential and commercial design. He holds NCARB certification and licenses in four Lake Michigan states. His expertise includes code compliance, sustainable practices, and lakefront projects. Tim emphasizes listening to client needs and delivering tailored solutions.
Lauren Berneche
Principal Architect
Lauren Berneche co-founded Berneche2 Architecture in 1990, focusing on residential and commercial projects. With dual degrees from Ball State University, she combines technical precision with creative design. Her work emphasizes sustainable materials, functional spaces, and client collaboration throughout the design process.
Questions
What sets Berneche2 Architecture apart from other firms?
They combine 30+ years of experience with personalized attention, sustainable practices, and expertise in both residential and commercial design.
Do they offer services outside the Lake Michigan region?
While they specialize in the Lake Michigan area, they can work nationally through reciprocal licensing and long-distance collaboration.
What project types do they handle?
The firm works on new construction, renovations, additions, and commercial projects including swimming pools, religious centers, and office spaces.
How do they ensure design meets client needs?
They listen closely, use 3D modeling for visualization, and tailor designs to reflect how clients live, work, and play.
Are they experienced in code compliance?
Yes, they ensure projects meet zoning, accessibility, and safety standards with proactive problem-solving during planning.
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