Business Details
Trusted Architects in Chicago
At Holabird & Root, we are dedicated to delivering tailored solutions that align with our clients' unique needs. Our collaborative studio environment fosters innovation, where diverse teams of experienced professionals and emerging talents work side-by-side to challenge conventional thinking and develop impactful design strategies. With a legacy of adaptability spanning decades, we integrate cutting-edge technologies and global perspectives while maintaining deep regional roots. Our approach prioritizes understanding each client's mission, culture, and vision, ensuring designs reflect their identity and purpose. Sustainability is embedded in every project through energy-efficient systems, durable materials, and forward-thinking strategies that anticipate future demands.We extend our commitment beyond design by actively engaging in professional development, community initiatives, and industry leadership. Our global network of partnerships enables us to deliver context-sensitive solutions that honor local traditions while embracing modern innovation. From initial concept to post-occupancy, we emphasize transparent communication and consensus-building to transform complex challenges into elegant, enduring spaces. This philosophy has earned us recognition for excellence in architecture, interior design, and historic preservation across diverse sectors including education, healthcare, and cultural institutions.
Services
Architecture
Interior Design
Strategic Programming
Master Planning
Sustainable Design
Historic Renovation
Laboratory Planning
Arts & Theaters
K-12 Education
Higher Education
Highlights and features
- We employ a collaborative design process that prioritizes client-specific needs
- Our team combines decades of experience with fresh, innovative perspectives
- We maintain global partnerships while preserving regional design authenticity
- Sustainable strategies are integrated into every project phase
- Our architects hold prestigious accreditations including LEED AP and NCARB
Associations and certifications
- AIA
- LEED AP
- NCARB
- PLA
- ASLA
- CPHC
- CDT
Services
Architecture
Our architectural services create functional, aesthetically compelling spaces tailored to client missions. We specialize in educational facilities, cultural institutions, and commercial buildings, employing a collaborative process that integrates sustainability and technological innovation. From initial concept to construction documentation, our team ensures designs meet both practical requirements and visionary goals while maintaining compliance with all regulatory standards.
Interior Design
We craft interior environments that enhance user experience through strategic spatial organization and material selection. Our approach balances aesthetic appeal with functional efficiency across corporate offices, educational institutions, and hospitality venues. By analyzing workflow patterns and occupancy needs, we create adaptable spaces that support evolving organizational requirements while incorporating sustainable finishes and energy-efficient systems.
Sustainable Design
Sustainability principles guide every project phase from site analysis to material specification. We implement energy-efficient mechanical systems, daylight optimization strategies, and recycled content materials to achieve LEED certification and beyond. Our long-term perspective considers building lifecycle performance, reducing operational costs while minimizing environmental impact through innovative solutions like green roofs and water conservation systems.
Historic Renovation
Our preservation specialists combine modern functionality with historical integrity through meticulous restoration of heritage buildings. We conduct thorough condition assessments and material analysis to maintain original architectural character while integrating contemporary systems. This expertise extends to adaptive reuse projects that transform historic structures for modern applications while preserving cultural significance and architectural details.
Master Planning
We develop comprehensive master plans that guide long-term growth for educational institutions and mixed-use developments. Our process involves stakeholder engagement, site analysis, and phasing strategies to create cohesive, adaptable environments. These plans address circulation patterns, building placement, and infrastructure requirements while maintaining flexibility for future expansion and changing programmatic needs.
People
Eric Risinger
Partner
Licensed architect with expertise in educational and cultural projects, Eric leads design teams in creating spaces that reflect institutional identity while meeting functional requirements through innovative solutions.
Dennis Vovos
Principal
Principal architect specializing in sustainable design strategies, Dennis oversees project execution ensuring technical excellence and integration of energy-efficient systems across diverse building typologies.
Michael Clodgo
Associate Principal
Associate principal with extensive experience in higher education facilities, Michael manages complex projects from programming through construction, focusing on creating learning environments that support pedagogical innovation.
Barbara Dickson
Associate
Landscape architect Barbara integrates site-specific solutions with building design, specializing in creating outdoor spaces that enhance user experience and environmental sustainability through thoughtful planning.
Bryan Hadley
Associate
Sustainability expert and LEED accredited professional, Bryan focuses on implementing high-performance building systems and net-zero energy strategies across the firm's portfolio of educational and institutional projects.
Questions
What architectural services does Holabird & Root offer?
We provide comprehensive architecture, interior design, master planning, and historic preservation services for educational, cultural, and commercial clients.
Do you specialize in sustainable building design?
Yes, sustainability is core to our practice with LEED-certified professionals implementing energy-efficient systems and environmentally responsible materials in every project.
How do you approach client collaboration?
We prioritize understanding client missions through extensive consultation, maintaining open communication throughout the design process to ensure solutions align with organizational goals.
Can you handle complex renovation projects?
Our team specializes in historic renovations and adaptive reuse, combining preservation of architectural character with modern functionality and code compliance.
What geographic areas do you serve?
While based in Chicago, we work with clients nationally and internationally through strategic partnerships and remote project management capabilities.
