Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Trusted Architectural Design Services in Chicago
HBRA Architects was founded in 1961 with a vision to deliver personalized architectural solutions through direct client collaboration. Our practice combines the sophistication of a large firm with the intimacy of a boutique studio, specializing in museums, libraries, academic buildings, religious structures, and urban master plans. With over six decades of experience, we prioritize contextual sensitivity and innovative design to create enduring structures tailored to client needs. Our leadership includes industry-recognized experts with prestigious accolades, including the Driehaus Award and fellowships with the American Institute of Architects. We maintain offices in Chicago and have completed award-winning projects for institutions like Princeton University and the Art Institute of Chicago.Our team emphasizes collaborative engagement, ensuring every project reflects both functional requirements and aesthetic excellence. As an Illinois-registered Women Business Enterprise, we uphold diversity and inclusion in architectural practice. Our principals have held academic leadership roles at Yale, the University of Illinois at Chicago, and other institutions, reinforcing our commitment to advancing architectural education. HBRA Architects remains dedicated to translating complex design challenges into meaningful solutions that honor historical contexts while embracing modern innovation.
Services
Museum Design
Library Architecture
Urban Master Plans
Historic Renovations
Residential Projects
Academic Buildings
Religious Structures
Performing Arts Centers
Campus Planning
Government Buildings
Details
- Year established: 1961
Highlights and features
- Founded in 1961 with six decades of architectural expertise
- Collaborative client engagement model for personalized solutions
- Illinois-registered Women Business Enterprise (WBE)
- Leadership includes American Institute of Architects Fellows
- Specialized in historic renovations and context-sensitive design
Associations and certifications
- American Institute of Architects
- Illinois Registered WBE
Services
Museum Design
HBRA Architects specializes in creating museum spaces that balance artistic vision with functional requirements. Our designs prioritize visitor experience, artifact preservation, and architectural innovation. We collaborate closely with curators and stakeholders to develop spaces that enhance cultural narratives while meeting modern accessibility standards.
Historic Renovations
Our team excels in restoring historic buildings while integrating contemporary functionality. We employ advanced techniques to maintain original architectural integrity while meeting current safety codes. Projects include landmark structures like the Harold Washington Library Center, where we preserved historical elements while modernizing infrastructure.
Urban Master Plans
HBRA develops comprehensive urban master plans that address growth, sustainability, and community needs. We analyze existing infrastructure to create cohesive development strategies. Our work includes campus planning for universities and revitalization projects that enhance urban connectivity while respecting historical contexts.
Academic Buildings
We design learning environments that foster innovation and collaboration. Our academic projects incorporate flexible spaces for evolving educational needs. From university halls at Notre Dame to K-12 facilities, we create functional, inspiring spaces that support diverse learning styles and institutional identities.
Performing Arts Centers
HBRA creates performance venues that optimize acoustics and audience experience. Our designs integrate technical requirements with architectural aesthetics. Projects like the Harris Theater for Music and Dance demonstrate our ability to craft spaces that meet both artistic and operational demands for performing arts organizations.
People
Thomas H. Beeby
Director of Design
Thomas Beeby co-founded HBRA in 1971 and served as Director of Design for 39 years. He received the 2013 Driehaus Award for contributions to classical architecture and has held academic leadership roles at Yale and the University of Illinois at Chicago.
Michele Silvetti-Schmitt
Director
Michele Silvetti-Schmitt continues HBRA's tradition of collaborative architecture. As a current director, she emphasizes client engagement and sustainable design practices while maintaining the firm's commitment to contextual sensitivity in urban environments.
William Kinane
Director
William Kinane shares leadership responsibilities at HBRA, focusing on project innovation and design excellence. He upholds the firm's founding principles of personalized client service and contextual architectural solutions for diverse project types.
Dennis E. Rupert
Former Principal
Dennis Rupert led HBRA projects for Princeton University and the General Services Administration. As a Fellow of the American Institute of Architects, he directed award-winning projects including the Harold Washington Library Center in Chicago.
Gary Ainge
Former Administrative Principal
Gary Ainge managed HBRA's daily operations for decades while leading projects like the Harris Theater for Music and Dance. He served on the Chicago Architectural Club's Board of Directors and contributed to architectural education through teaching roles.
Questions
What architectural services does HBRA offer?
HBRA provides museum design, library architecture, urban master plans, historic renovations, academic buildings, and performing arts centers.
How long has HBRA Architects been in business?
HBRA has operated continuously since its founding in 1961 by James Wright Hammond.
What makes HBRA's approach unique?
We combine large-firm expertise with personalized service through direct client collaboration in all project phases.
Are HBRA's architects qualified for historic projects?
Yes, our team includes specialists with decades of experience in preserving and renovating historic structures.
Does HBRA work on educational facilities?
Yes, we design academic buildings for universities and schools, including projects at Notre Dame and Princeton.
