--- title: "Michael Buss Architects, Ltd — Architects & Building Designers | Houzz" canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/michael-buss-architects-ltd-pfvwus-pf~1006726709 markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~1006726709.md entity_type: LocalBusiness business_name: "Michael Buss Architects, Ltd" category: ["Architects"] image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/ab3334fe0d307896_9093-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg address: "PO Box 623, Hinsdale, Illinois 60521, United States" latitude: 41.8001 longitude: -87.9287 phone: "(708) 598-0400" website: https://michaelbussarchitects.com/ rating: 4.9 review_count: 29 best_of_houzz_awards: 6 followers: 247 last_updated: 2026-08-13 --- # Michael Buss Architects, Ltd Original Houzz profile: [Michael Buss Architects, Ltd](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/michael-buss-architects-ltd-pfvwus-pf~1006726709) ## Professional summary - **Primary category:** Architects - **Location:** Hinsdale, IL - **Serves:** Chicago, Naperville, Arlington Heights, Palatine, Oak Lawn, Oak Park, Wheaton, Downers Grove, Elmhurst, Lombard, Carol Stream, Hanover Park, Addison, Woodridge, Glendale Heights, Glen Ellyn, Westmont, Lisle, Bloomingdale, Darien, Libertyville, Brookfield, Lake Forest, Bensenville, Franklin Park, Palos Hills, Lemont, Hinsdale, Westchester, La Grange, Hickory Hills, Chicago Ridge, Forest Park, Western Springs, La Grange Park, Palos Heights, Barrington, Oak Brook, Inverness, North Riverside, Countryside, Palos Park, Barrington Hills, Hyde Park, Indiana, Lake Geneva, Lawton, Michigan, Oklahoma, Wisconsin - **Houzz rating:** 4.9 out of 5 (29 reviews) - **Best of Houzz:** 6 awards (2014–2020), for Service. ## About ### Houzz Badges - Houzz Influencer - Recommended on Houzz - 10,000 Ideabook Saves The story of your home begins when you dream. With over 30 years of residential architectural experience, we recognize homes are where we live, love, celebrate, dream, and take refuge. Our unique design process begins with getting to know you before creating a one-of-a-kind home that reflects who you are and what’s important to you. You deserve to live in a space that speaks to your dreams and makes everyday life better. At MB Architecture, we get that. Michael Buss, ALA, NCARB has a unique construction background, recognized for his eye for detail, creative expression & construction knowledge, and talents for creating beautiful spaces is unmatched. Architect lead design/build services. “His firm does not just draw plans for houses; they bring your through a process, a process of designing your dream home. It is a gift that Michael has; to listen, understand, and interpret what his clients want. His work is outstanding.” Maggy & John ### Services Provided - Architectural Design - Building Design - Home Remodeling - Architectural Drawings - Custom Homes - House Plans - New Home Construction - Home Additions - Home Extensions - Kitchen Design - Kitchen Remodeling - Floor Plans - 3D Rendering - Green Building - Guesthouse Design & Construction - Universal Design - Multigenerational Homes - Pool House Design & Construction - Home Restoration - Project Management - Handicap-Accessible Design - Outdoor Kitchen Design - Structural Engineering - Barn Design & Construction - Basement Remodeling - Attic Conversion - Basement Design - Garage Design - Site Preparation - Home Gym Design & Construction ### Areas Served - Chicago - Naperville - Arlington Heights - Palatine - Oak Lawn - Oak Park - Wheaton - Downers Grove - Elmhurst - Lombard - Carol Stream - Hanover Park - Addison - Woodridge - Glendale Heights - Glen Ellyn - Westmont - Lisle - Bloomingdale - Darien - Libertyville - Brookfield - Lake Forest - Bensenville - Franklin Park - Palos Hills - Lemont - Hinsdale - Westchester - La Grange - Hickory Hills - Chicago Ridge - Forest Park - Western Springs - La Grange Park - Palos Heights - Barrington - Oak Brook - Inverness - North Riverside - Countryside - Palos Park - Barrington Hills - Hyde Park - Indiana - Lake Geneva - Lawton - Michigan - Oklahoma - Wisconsin ### Typical Job Cost $350,000 - 3 million Typical range for construction. Fees and services are custom to individual clients' particular project and needs. For more information, please contact us to schedule a consultation. ## Business Details | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Business Name | Michael Buss Architects, Ltd | | Address | PO Box 623, Hinsdale, Illinois 60521, United States | | Phone | (708) 598-0400 | | Website | https://michaelbussarchitects.com/ | | Followers on Houzz | 247 | **Social profiles:** - Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/mbussarchitects - X (Twitter) — https://twitter.com/bussarchitects - LinkedIn — http://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=57937657&trk=hp-identity-photo - Blog — https://michaelbussarchitects.com/ ## Contact - **Houzz profile:** [Michael Buss Architects, Ltd](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/michael-buss-architects-ltd-pfvwus-pf~1006726709) - **Website:** https://michaelbussarchitects.com/ - **Phone:** (708) 598-0400 ## Credentials **Certifications & Awards** - 2015 Silver Key Award - The Covington, Hinsdale - 2006 Hinsdale Preservation Award 11 N Madison - Hinsdale Annual Scholarship Home Tour 618 N Washington - Best of Houzz 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018 Licensed in Illinois, Michigan, Wisconsin, Indiana & Colorado, South Carolina - **Best of Houzz:** 6 awards (2014–2020), for Service. **Affiliations** - [National Association of Home Builders](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/national-association-of-home-builders-pfvwus-pf~562065019) - [Association Of Licensed Architects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/association-of-licensed-architects-pfvwus-pf~1888392227) - [NCARB](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/ncarb-pfvwus-pf~1477640315) - [Southwest Suburban Home Builders Association](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/southwest-suburban-home-builders-association-pfvwus-pf~1637532347) ## Reviews **Overall rating: 4.9 out of 5 — 29 reviews** ### Reviews **★★★★★ — Black Hills Design and Build, March 2019** > Wanted to formally thank you for bringing the house to life with the plans. Excited to get started on the next phase- they are beautiful!!!!! Details are perfection. **Comment from Michael Buss Architects, Ltd:** > Thank you Gina! We look forward to the next phase as well! **★★★★★ — Dawn Daly, Feb. 2019** > I worked with Mike to design our dream home, he listened to everything we wanted and turned our dream into a reality!! Being we had never done this before Mike walked us through the whole process and explained everything when we had questions. He is so easy to work with and just did an amazing job in designing our home! **★★★★★ — Mary Hanigan, June 2017** > This is the second home Mike Buss has designed for us. Mike has a great eye for detail in his design, added things we never thought of that bring a unique look to the home. **★★★★★ — Lindsay Saran, June 2017** > This was an addition and remodel of a ranch home. It was perfection from start to finish. I was provided estimates for the project and we stuck to the budget. All the subcontractors showed up as scheduled and hit their deadlines. I had an accident in the middle of the project. They continued to proceed and kept me in the loop every step of the way. They were accessible to us 24/7. I would build another home just to be able to work with these fine folks again. **★★★★★ — Kathleen Kuhlman, Nov. 2016** > He is great at what he does, very knowledgable, historically accurate and fair. I have owned and designed so many " houses" and he has designed my family our "home". It will be one of the most charming homes in our village. I truly appreciate all of their work. These are good people. **★★★★★ — Deanna Barton, Oct. 2016** > We were paired with Mike by our developer to design our dream home last year. We are nearing the completion of our home as I write this review and we couldn't be more pleased with the experience we had with Mike. I had a very strong vision going into this project and Mike was able to execute that vision, educated me on the design & engineering of home design & building and pay attention to every little detail. Way above & beyond just designing a 'set of plans'. Working each week with Mike was easy, enjoyable and a pleasure. This amazing home we are about to live in was not possible without the first step in this whole journey, the Architect, Mike Buss. Thank You Mike! We miss sitting down with you! **Comment from Michael Buss Architects, Ltd:** > Deanna, Thank you so much for your kind words it was a pleasure working with you as well! **★★★★★ — Windermere Pointe, Aug. 2015** > We hired Mike Buss to help us with a significant remodel to our home. Working with him was a delight. He is is a very talented architect and has a natural enthusiasm for what he does. His attention to detail and making sure everything is done right is very comforting. We'd hire him again in a heartbeat. **Comment from Michael Buss Architects, Ltd:** > Kathi and Frank, it was great working with you as well. Thank you for the great review! **★★★★★ — lorievetter, June 2015** > Pre-Apology; I don't do brief. > > My wife and I lucked into choosing Michael Buss Architects to interview to design a custom home for us. Pretty much from our first meeting, we knew that Mike was the right person to architect our home. He had a great combination of knowledge, practicality, sense of aesthetics and good concepts on 'how people live in a home' that just worked plus he has a personality (I'll let you judge whether it's good or not ;) . One of the best things Mike was able to do was mitigate differences of opinion between my wife and I. Mike was able to ensure that we talked through the differences, and also later on as I often met with Mike without my wife present and he ensured what she wanted was still captured and represented. > > The additional bonus which I only learned later is the 'construction manager' role that MBA is willing to provide for the right clients; clients who want to be VERY involved in the construction process itself. Instead of shopping my new blueprints to various contractors in the area, I self-contracted the construction. However I'm just smart enough to know I'm not smart enough about construction to fulfill this role (plus I have a day job of my own). So if it's right for both of you, MBA will charge a fixed flat fee to be your construction manager. They run the project, schedule the subcontractors that they already know do good work, ensure things are being done properly from a construction standpoint and also procedurally such as permits, inspections, etc. This is not for everyone (there were weeks when I was on site every day whether for a few minutes or a couple of hours). The advantages to this are three-fold. > > 1\. You are pretty much assured you get exactly what you want. In a previous Spec House we had built, many decisions were made by the contractor which we didn't have the opportunity to weigh in on, and once it was done we would have to pay extra to change it. > > 2\. Quality. Since MBA charges a fixed fee that is known up front, there is no incentive for them to make choices or substitutions which would increase their profit on the job. You get to make those choices if they come up. MBA's goal is to make you happy, and to build the quality house that that Mike and his staff invested so much time designing in the first place. > > 3\. Potential savings. The risk/reward is on YOU. This is another part that might not be for everyone, however it can yield substantial savings if the project goes smoothly AND luck is on your side (e.g. it doesn't rain for weeks at the wrong time, the occasional bad luck of a mistake or accident doesn't happen, etc). The project running smoothly is where Sue and others enter the picture. Mike is the Architect and makes sure it's built right, but Sue keeps the trains running on time and cracks the whip (on you too!) to ensure everything is lined up. > > In summary, my experience with MBA was even better than we'd hoped for. We love our home. We're confident in the quality of craftsmanship. Every detail is as we chose it to be, even when we chose compromise to keep costs in check. We got exactly what we were expecting. **Comment from Michael Buss Architects, Ltd:** > Thank you Lorie it was great working with you and Steve! **★★★★★ — davebudach, June 2015** > As a window Sales Rep for Exclusive Windows I don't always come across the professionalism, experience, knowledge and friendliness that Michael Buss Architects displayed throughout the project we supplied windows for. They are unique in a sense that Michael and Sue were involved in every aspect of this project and paid very close attention to every small detail. I can't say the same for many that I personally do business with so it was very refreshing for myself and I'm sure the homeowner to experience this. Not only do they design a great house but they know how to deliver tastefully and timely. **Comment from Michael Buss Architects, Ltd:** > Thank you Dave for such a nice review. We enjoy working with you and Exclusive Windows as well! **★★★★★ — Patrick, Jan. 2015** > My wife and I had the privilege of working with Mike and his team in early 2014 on our home in Hinsdale. They assisted in a complete rehab/remodel of our house. The experience from design through construction was outstanding. Construction is generally never an easy experience, but the whole Buss team made it a breeze. We are truly grateful to have worked with the Buss team and would recommend them to anyone! **Comment from Michael Buss Architects, Ltd:** > Thank you Pat. We truly enjoy working with your family! **★★★★★ — wmcnaughton, Jan. 2015** > Mike Buss and his staff have worked with our Firm for the past 5 years. Mike is great to work with, very professional, and you can sense a true dedication to his profession and passion for architecture. > > I would recommend Mike to anyone looking to design a new home or design a remodel project. **Comment from Michael Buss Architects, Ltd:** > Thank you Bill, we enjoy working with you as well! **★★★ — dbcooper13, Dec. 2014** > I'm a custom builder and remodeler and have built over 30 homes and numerous condo buildings over the past 25 years > > I've worked with several architects over the years in business and I can honesty say that Michael Buss is the most creative and easiest to work with overall. > > Reasonably priced as well > > Good turn around time > > I recommend him to all of my clients ## Selected projects - [Midcentury Modern](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/midcentury-modern-pj-vj~6990552) - Location: Western Springs, IL - Photos: 17 - Description: Vintage influence meets contemporary home design in this midcentury modern Chicago home designed by MB Architecture and built in partnership with McNaughton Brothers Construction. The home was inspired by the owner's love of midcentury design, and the goal was to create an open and airy space that would flow seamlessly from room to room with character and personality around every corner. - [Home Sweet Ranch Renovation](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/home-sweet-ranch-renovation-pj-vj~5259316) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 19 - Description: The Elizabethtown Ranch renovation is a perfect example of how to infuse modern design into a classic home without losing any of its original character. The beautiful, traditional ranch style is preserved in this renovation designed by MB Architecture—from the expansive porch to the large picture windows and high ceilings—while the interior has been completely transformed with sleek new finishes like stainless steel appliances and oak floors. This ranch now has all the modern amenities, but stil… - [Hinsdale Farmhouse Reimagined](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/hinsdale-farmhouse-reimagined-pj-vj~1761599) - Location: Hinsdale, IL - Photos: 26 - Description: This Hinsdale farmhouse was reimagined as a piece of local history bringing an authentic, historic look to a new build. We worked with the client to come up with a plan that would meet both of these objectives: create a space that is true to its historic roots while also being comfortable and easy to maintain for modern living. From the Ipe Wood Porch to the custom shutters, we were able to design and build a new home with the charm and character you can only find in an old farmhouse. - [Ranch Home Renovation by MB Architecture](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/ranch-home-renovation-by-mb-architecture-pj-vj~2586601) - Location: Western Springs, IL - Photos: 21 - Description: Michael Buss is known for seeing possibilities. This home renovation is just one example of how Mike transformed the house by keeping the integrity of the ranch style home while adding a stronger roof line that commands the attention the home deserves in this Western Spring, IL neighborhood. - [Outdoor Living Spaces](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/outdoor-living-spaces-pj-vj~6267644) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 10 - Description: Get inspired to get outside! Outdoor spaces are one of our favorites to design. We love hosting, personally, and the options for outdoor entertainment spaces are really limitless. Whether you’re watching the big game, hosting BBQ’s, or just enjoying a night off after work, we’ve got you covered! - [Design On the boards](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/design-on-the-boards-pj-vj~832279) - Location: Elmhurst, IL - Photos: 31 - Description: At MB Architecture, we believe that design is about more than just the final product. It's about the journey: the way you feel as you visualize your dream, and the way you feel after it's been realized. We want to help you get there. That's why we've created this collection of design projects "on the boards" for your viewing pleasure. You can see some of our favorite completed designs, but we also love showing off our new ideas in progress—so check back often! - [Exterior Elevations](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/exterior-elevations-pj-vj~951101) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 16 - Description: Check out these curbside views. See the variety of homes we’ve designed to give you an idea of home styles, colors, stone, brick, siding. We're excited to help you design and build the perfect home for your family! - [Hinsdale Cottage](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/hinsdale-cottage-pj-vj~1947297) - Location: Hinsdale, IL - Photos: 24 - Description: In the heart of Hinsdale, Illinois, MB Architecture designed a beautiful cottage that combines European influences with modern design. The cottage has several unique features, including a gorgeous turret and a sprawling chef's kitchen with a double island. It is also adorned with many windows to allow natural light to flow in and make the space feel warm and inviting. - [Corner Charm](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/corner-charm-pj-vj~1072856) - Location: Hinsdale, IL - Photos: 9 - Description: This is a gorgeous Craftsman style home designed by MB Architecture. It has a lovely layout that's perfect for entertaining, with a large kitchen, dining room and living room all opening up to one another. The bedroom areas are private and spacious, with tons of natural light flowing through bay windows for the perfect touch of vintage charm. - [Michael Buss Floor plans](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/michael-buss-floor-plans-pj-vj~5593702) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 17 - Description: Our design renderings and floor plans for summer homes by Michael Buss Architects will show you how to maximize your space and create a retreat where you can relax and enjoy the beauty of your surroundings. - [Clarendon Hills, Narrow lot](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/clarendon-hills-narrow-lot-pj-vj~820363) - Location: Clarendon Hills, IL - Photos: 17 - Description: This custom home was designed with an eye toward maximizing the space and function of a narrow lot in Clarendon Hills. The result is an open-concept living area that has been carefully planned to provide a large, well-lit kitchen with ample counter space, and a cozy den perfect for curling up with a book or spending quality time with family. - [Porches](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/porches-pj-vj~375136) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 23 - Description: It's time to breathe in the fresh air, and we have just the thing that will help you do it. Take a look at these cozy, inviting porches we've integrated into our custom home designs. - [Oklahoma City](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/oklahoma-city-pj-vj~5803516) - Location: Oklahoma City, OK - Photos: 5 - [Burr Ridge Manor](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/burr-ridge-manor-pj-vj~7610552) - Location: Burr Ridge, IL - Photos: 9 [See all 14 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/michael-buss-architects-ltd-pfvwus-pf~1006726709) ## Ideabooks - [Ceiling](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/130991959/list/ceiling) — 11 ideas - [kit narrow](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/125617991/list/kit-narrow) — 14 ideas - [Design Trends](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/66913824/list/design-trends) — 5 ideas - [stairs](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/80376524/list/stairs) — 20 ideas - [Kathy](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/68361341/list/kathy) — 1 idea - [spaces](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/20292842/list/spaces) — 5 ideas [See all 6 ideabooks](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/mbaltd) ## Community Q&A **Q: Do you have a source for the faucet? Thank you!** *(in Photo Questions)* Soap dish in fixture A: Your plumbing supply house is a great resource for this! **Q: Beams on ceiling** *(in Photo Questions)* Do you have a photo that shows the entire space with the ceiling beams? Are they equally spread apart. I am having a difficult time with placing beams in my house. the room is 16 x 22 the 22" wall has a door way in it. In the middle of the wall before that doorway is a fireplace centered on that wall. So not sure how to place the beams Thank you A: This was a renovation and they were spaced in the room to accommodate the views. **Q: Love the color combo! Are the windows white or off-white?** *(in Photo Questions)* Are you able to share the details on the external choices: roof color, stone source/name, window color, siding paint color, trim color? A: White, but that varies by manufacturer. **Q: Just perfect - stone?** *(in Photo Questions)* Can you please tell me the name, color, and source of the stone? A: It's a custom blend we work thru with the mason **Q: color of PacClad?** *(in Photo Questions)* Which color of PacClad? Looks great! A: Thank you, yes this is a beautiful home - PacClad Charcoal **Q: backsplash** *(in Photo Questions)* Hi, I love this backsplash, would you mind sharing your source? A: A recycled brick that was thin set. --- *Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-08-13.*