Our dynamic team of architects, designers, and urban planners have the hands-on experience and technical acumen to tackle a multitude of projects: new build, adaptive reuse, historic preservation, comprehensive urban plans, downtown revitalization studies, conceptual development, building proformas, and historic tax credit consulting. 

Since our founding in 1982, we’ve built a diverse portfolio of historic renovation and adaptive reuse projects that not only honor our collective histories, but also contribute to the density and sustainability goals of our communities. Along the way, we’ve become fluent in the language of building project finances, capital stacks, and bridging the finance gaps in historic project funding, guiding our clients through the numerous state and local tax credit opportunities.

Champions of projects large and catalytic or small, but mighty—we empower people to take on transformation.

Intentional about the company we keep—we respect and support our team, our partners, and our clients.

Passionate about helping communities move forward—we design for change and celebrate history. 

A project takes a team and we're grateful for the recognition.

Recent awards

Old Courthouse Center, Woodstock, IL
Landmarks Illinois
Richard H Driehaus Foundation
International Economic Development Council 2024 Excellence Award
Chicago Building Congress Merit Award Finalist

Rockford Public Library, Rockford IL
AIA Prairie
SCEC IL Engineering Excellence Awards

Midtown Faust, Rockford IL
AIA Illinois

Prairie Street Brewhouse, Rockford, IL
Landmarks Illinois
Richard H. Driehaus Foundation,

Lock & Mule, Lockport, IL
Landmarks Illinois
Richard H. Driehaus Foundation,

Kennay Farms Distilling, Rochelle, IL
AIA Prairie

Lux Cuts, Beloit, WI
Wisconsin Main Street

Community

When we create environments that facilitate the interaction and interconnection of people, a thriving community is the natural result.

As a firm, we’re committed to improving our communities with thoughtful design, as well as making sure our team members have the time and resources available to volunteer and support the organizations meaningful to them. Our desire is to make a positive, measurable contribution to the communities in which we live and work.

Here are just a few of the organizations to which we dedicate our time and financial support.

The furry friends of Studio GWA.