--- title: "Widler Architecture — Architects & Building Designers | Houzz" canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/widler-architecture-pfvwus-pf~1166116141 markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~1166116141.md entity_type: LocalBusiness business_name: "Widler Architecture" category: ["Architects"] image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/4853e5cb0f2ab639_2644-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg address: "1009 Maple Ave, Unit 1, Downers Grove, Illinois 60515, United States" latitude: 41.8034 longitude: -88.0138 phone: "(630) 613-9503" website: https://www.widlerarch.com rating: 5 review_count: 12 best_of_houzz_awards: 7 followers: 258 last_updated: 2026-08-24 --- # Widler Architecture Original Houzz profile: [Widler Architecture](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/widler-architecture-pfvwus-pf~1166116141) ## Professional summary - **Primary category:** Architects - **Location:** Downers Grove, IL - **Serves:** Chicago, Naperville, Evanston, Schaumburg, Arlington Heights, Palatine, Oak Park, Wheaton, Downers Grove, Glenview, Elmhurst, Lombard, Park Ridge, Wheeling, Addison, Northbrook, Glendale Heights, Highland Park, Glen Ellyn, Wilmette, Westmont, Elmwood Park, Lisle, Darien, Brookfield, Lake Forest, Deerfield, Hinsdale, La Grange, Norridge, Forest Park, Warrenville, Western Springs, La Grange Park, Lincolnwood, Winnetka, River Forest, Burr Ridge, River Grove, Riverside, Clarendon Hills, North Riverside, Countryside, Northfield, Highwood, Kenilworth, Glenco - **Houzz rating:** 5.0 out of 5 (12 reviews) - **Best of Houzz:** 7 awards (2016–2026), for Design, Service. ## About ### Houzz Badges - Houzz Influencer - Recommended on Houzz - 10,000 Ideabook Saves - Best of Houzz winner - Eco-friendly - Award winning Widler Architecture is a Downers Grove architecture firm serving Chicago and the surrounding suburbs. With more than 20 years of experience, we design custom homes, renovations, historic restorations, additions, kitchens, ADUs, and select commercial spaces. Our collaborative process combines creative design, technical precision, sustainability, and clear communication from early concepts through construction drawings. We coordinate closely with homeowners, contractors, officials, and community stakeholders to make complex projects feel organized and approachable. Every project is tailored to its site, its people, and the way they live. The result is a thoughtful, energy-conscious space with a strong sense of place—designed with care, personality, and lasting value. ### Services Provided - Architectural Design - Building Design - Home Remodeling - Architectural Drawings - Custom Homes - House Plans - New Home Construction - Home Additions - Home Extensions - Kitchen Design - Sustainable Design - Kitchen Remodeling - Energy-Efficient Homes - Floor Plans - 3D Rendering - Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) - Green Building - Bathroom Design - Space Planning - Guesthouse Design & Construction - Universal Design - Multigenerational Homes - Pool House Design & Construction - Home Restoration - Historic Building Conservation - Project Management - Basement Remodeling - Attic Conversion - Site Preparation - Prefab Houses - Rooftop Deck Installation - Construction Drawings ### Areas Served - Chicago - Naperville - Evanston - Schaumburg - Arlington Heights - Palatine - Oak Park - Wheaton - Downers Grove - Glenview - Elmhurst - Lombard - Park Ridge - Wheeling - Addison - Northbrook - Glendale Heights - Highland Park - Glen Ellyn - Wilmette - Westmont - Elmwood Park - Lisle - Darien - Brookfield - Lake Forest - Deerfield - Hinsdale - La Grange - Norridge - Forest Park - Warrenville - Western Springs - La Grange Park - Lincolnwood - Winnetka - River Forest - Burr Ridge - River Grove - Riverside - Clarendon Hills - North Riverside - Countryside - Northfield - Highwood - Kenilworth - Glenco ## Business Details | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Business Name | Widler Architecture | | Address | 1009 Maple Ave, Unit 1, Downers Grove, Illinois 60515, United States | | Phone | (630) 613-9503 | | Website | https://www.widlerarch.com | | Followers on Houzz | 258 | **Social profiles:** - Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/WidlerArchitecture/ - X (Twitter) — https://x.com/widlerarch - LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/company/widler-architecture - Blog — https://widlerarch.com/ - Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/widlerarchitecture/ ## Contact - **Houzz profile:** [Widler Architecture](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/widler-architecture-pfvwus-pf~1166116141) - **Website:** https://www.widlerarch.com - **Phone:** (630) 613-9503 ## Credentials **Certifications & Awards** - City of Chicago Landmark Award - USGBC Green Home of the Year 2022 - **Best of Houzz:** 7 awards (2016–2026), for Design, Service. **Affiliations** - [AIA Chicago](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/aia-chicago-pfvwus-pf~437317530) - [LEED AP](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/professionals/schools-and-organizations/leed-ap-pfvwus-pf~1386238498) ## Reviews **Overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 — 12 reviews** *Aspect averages:* - Work Quality: 50.0 - Communication: 50.0 - Value: 50.0 ### All 12 reviews **★★★★★ — Ethos Builders LLC, Jan. 2026** > As a custom home builder, we have worked with many talented Architect partners. After working with the team at Widler Architecture, we feel that they have a fantastic approach to the process and bring a level of professionalism that gives a lot of value to their clients. They understand how important this process is to the client and, in addition to being very skilled in architectural design, they are approachable and know how much impact the relationship has on the experience. I will definitely be referring more clients to Widler Architecture. **★★★★★ — Rob Merz, Feb. 2018** > Widler Arch was amazing to work with. My wife and I had completely different styles and needs and he not only exceeded any expectations we had but got us to agree on the direction (not an easy task). All the elements were well thought out, he had great knowledge on city codes and even our builder was impressed with the level of detail included in the plans. > > Highly recommend!!! **★★★★★ — User, Dec. 2017** > I worked with Brent Wilder on several projects and he is a fantastic Architect with great vision. We have done hundreds of projects, and Brent brings a level of professionalism to the industry that is very hard to find. I look forward to working with him on future projects. **★★★★★ — S Black, Dec. 2016** > rcWe were very pleased with our experience with Brent Widler. He was able to update our very old home while keeping it's charm. Our house has a great flow from room to room. We were very impressed with Widler's ability to blend 2 very different points of view into one. We now have a beautiful home where the old and new blend seamlessly. **★★★★★ — Desty Kamm, Dec. 2016** > Brent is excellent in his design ideas and drawings. He was innovative in his design and introduced a few options that we loved. We are extremely happy with our home. **★★★★★ — Katie Schafer, Dec. 2016** > We're working with our fourth project with Widler Architectural. Two have been commercial, two residential. One of the commercial properties involved an abandoned 1872 Chicago building. This building has since received a Chicago Landmark recognition! One residential project was on an 1879 workman's cottage in Chicago. Brent kept true to the time period and added eloquence to the project. Current residential project is completely different - a farmhouse, on 34 acres, in the Driftless area of Wisconsin. Brent is thorough, easy to work with and is open to our ideas. He also has worked well with the general contractors! We've always been thrilled and have been complimented > on the finished projects. **★★★★★ — 41 West, Dec. 2015** > As a builder in Naples, Florida, we recommend Brent and his team at Widler Architectural to anyone in the Chicago Metro Area, as well as anyone who owns in Naples, Bonita Beach, or Marco Island, who wants to either design and build a custom home, or wants to remodel a luxury home or condo. > Brent understands that you want your own special place, that reflects your style and taste. It is imperative that you trust the team you have chosen to design your dream. Widler Architectural is a team you can trust and we highly recommend them. **★★★★★ — sbyerly, Sept. 2015** > Visionary ∙ Collaborative ∙ Creative ∙ Focused ∙ Detailed ∙ Dynamic ∙ Timely ∙ Value > We hired Brent Widler to design a 3800 square foot custom home in the North Center/Lincoln Square neighborhood of Chicago. Our experience with Widler Architecture exceeded expectations and we have continued to use Brent in various phases. Building a custom home is not easy process - if we were to ever build again; we would without a doubt hire Brent. Any major home project requires spending a great deal of time with an architect, so their personality is just as important as their skills. Brent held our hands through the permitting process, obtaining and managing the expeditor as well helping us bid our project to multiple builders. He designed us a unique home that fits with the style of the neighborhood. People stop while walking by to complement us on many aspects of the exterior. Throughout the process, when questions from the builder arose, we called Brent. He had all of our answers at his fingertips and would arrive at the job site as necessary to see the project through.Brent, beyond being a good guy and a family man, is a consummate professional and was detailed oriented in every aspect of our project – from discovery to design, from construction to closing/walk-through, and more. He is skilled at knowing and understanding the sometimes subtle differences between all the architectural styles. Brent facilitated connections with the many unknown, but required, 3rd parties - interior design, A/V, landscaping, etc. Brent’s costs are competitive, transparent, and known up front. Finally, as skilled as Brent is, he doesn't get his feelings hurt if you don't like one of his ideas...he was truly invested in making our (home) dreams happen.We highly recommend Widler Architecture. **★★★★★ — hsh40, July 2015** > Brent helped us oversee a major renovation of our kitchen, bathrooms and master bedroom. He was a pleasure to work with, from start to finish. He had many great ideas that ensured the end results were a success. We would use him again and have recommended him already to several friends who have been equally pleased with his work. **Comment from Widler Architecture:** > Thank you for the great review! It was a pleasure to work with you and your family. **★★★★★ — Stacey Bingaman, Feb. 2015** > I have had the pleasure of working with Brent Widler for the past year on the exterior renovation of our home. Brent is extremely talented and very easy to work with. He is professional, available, and he has an exceptional standard for design. The design and renovation of our home could easily be featured in a before and after segment entitled: Modern Craftsman Makeover. Brent transformed our house and did an excellent job of interpreting our vision and elevating it with a thoughtful use of materials and design details. He was available to us throughout our entire process and was a constant resource while the construction was underway. I would highly recommend him for any future project. **★★★★★ — lemmonjello, Jan. 2015** > Working with Brent was a pleasure. We undertook a major remodel of our 1920's bungalow coming in with a lot ideas and we couldn't have done it without him. From refining initial concepts to plan approval through construction, Brent really helped piece everything together in a cohesive way and helped us turn a tired old house into something clean and modern while still respecting many of the houses traditional elements. We love the new home and we are constantly asked by people walking by who our architect is. Brent was a great resource, fun to work with, and we wouldn't hesitate to recommend or work with him again. **★★★★★ — Wike LaFrey, April 2014** > I have had the pleasure to work with Brent Widler of Widler Architectural Inc. on several upcoming projects. I find Brent to be a rare breed in the architectural world. He always sees the bigger picture. Brent has a keen eye for design and doesn't just give his clients what works structurally. He takes everything into consideration and is incredibly creative in coming up with solutions that work functionally and look amazing aesthetically. Being an interior designer myself, Brent is a dream to collaborate with! He is always open to ideas and truly listens to the wants and needs of his clients while successfully navigating them through the entire process. I can't recommend Widler Architectural highly enough! ## Selected projects - [Dopamine Dreamhouse – Downers Grove, IL](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/dopamine-dreamhouse-downers-grove-il-pj-vj~7879897) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 21 - [Maison Kenilworth – Elmhurst, IL](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/maison-kenilworth-elmhurst-il-pj-vj~7879898) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 22 - [Historic Meets Modern: Bernice Restoration – Chicago](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/historic-meets-modern-bernice-restoration-chicago-pj-vj~7879903) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 22 - [Storybook Tudor Transformation – Winnetka, IL](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/storybook-tudor-transformation-winnetka-il-pj-vj~7879902) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 16 - [Moody + Modern – Downers Grove, IL](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/moody-modern-downers-grove-il-pj-vj~7879900) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 11 - [Sterling Custom Home: Downers Grove, IL](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/sterling-custom-home-downers-grove-il-pj-vj~7593312) - Location: Downers Grove, IL - Photos: 15 - Description: The Sterling Residence seamlessly blends modern elegance with functional living, both inside and out. Designed for a family seeking a home that supports both daily life and entertaining, the layout flows effortlessly between open, communal areas and private spaces. Located on a prominent corner lot, this custom home offers inviting spaces for everything from family movie nights to large social gatherings. The home’s contemporary exterior combines off-white materials, warm textured stone, and woo… - [Saratoga Haven: Downers Grove, IL](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/saratoga-haven-downers-grove-il-pj-vj~7289646) - Location: Downers Grove, IL - Photos: 13 - Description: Discover our newest project on Saratoga Avenue in Downers Grove, IL! This remarkable new build effortlessly combines the home's original beauty with a haven that soothes the demands of the modern world. Designed to be more than just a home residence, Saratoga is a space where families gather, entertain, and escape. Step into the stunning home office, a seamless blend of functionality and aesthetics that transforms remote work into a modern experience. The spacious open layout creates an ideal en… - [Byron House: Awarded LEED Home of the Year](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/byron-house-awarded-leed-home-of-the-year-pj-vj~7062757) - Location: Chicago, IL - Photos: 6 - Description: Originally built in 1902, the Byron House is the first Platinum Certified LEED® v4 for Building Design and Construction for Homes and Multifamily Low Rise housing projects in Chicago. Platinum level is the highest distinction for LEED® certified buildings. The Byron House scored 83 points through efficiency measures, smart location and quality indoor air features. The mission was to create a traditional, yet comfortable environment by transforming an older home into a healthy and efficient home… - [Oakwood Ave, Downers Grove, IL](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/oakwood-ave-downers-grove-il-pj-vj~7063000) - Location: Downers Grove, IL - Photos: 4 - Description: Tragically lost to a fire in 2020, this Downers Grove residence was an entirely new build that completely transformed to blend back in with the neighborhood naturally. Although the vision was to follow a European-inspired interior and a serene exterior, everything flowed through the lens of looking and feeling bright and light. It was through the community's perspective that we wanted it to complement the other homes on the street. We built a roof deck off the main bedroom and a large yoga studi… - [Statton St, Downers Grove](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/statton-st-downers-grove-pj-vj~7062721) - Location: Downers Grove, IL - Photos: 4 - Description: This Scandinavian-styled house took shape from the idea to create a matte black, Bohemian aesthetic. It was intentionally created to keep a simple design palette and let the inside shine with punches of color. In addition, we wanted to pronounce the entry with big windows and truly accentuate the house's entrance. The interior has the real personality of the space, and when the lights come on at night – the place comes alive. With a vibrant character on all sides and a covered porch in the back… - [Eastwood - Evanston, IL](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/eastwood-evanston-il-pj-vj~7027172) - Location: Evanston, IL - Photos: 5 - Description: Backing onto Northwestern’s Ryan Field, this early 1900’s home underwent a selective demolition to donate several of the older pieces so they could have a continued life. We contributed many of the old historic millwork cabinets, harbor flooring, old windows, and home elements that could have an extended life after this project. We also wanted to open up all the windows and do a more contemporary front portion and a new addition to it as well. While not a LEED project, it was still a high-effici… - [Washington St, Downers Grove, IL](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/washington-st-downers-grove-il-pj-vj~2834040) - Location: Downers Grove, IL - Photos: 18 - Description: The ‘Family Smart Dwelling’ is a high performance, LEED Silver certified home that functions for everyday family life in an elevated design environment. Natural light fills the home through high-efficiency windows and doors while the deep roof overhangs provide shade from the blazing summer sun. The homes’ open living spaces allow for family interaction with smart home features such as HVAC controls, security, motorized shading and A/V controls integrated into day-to-day living. In addition, res… - [Arlington Heights - New Family Home](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/arlington-heights-new-family-home-pj-vj~5457084) - Location: Arlington Heights, IL - Photos: 5 - Description: Arlington Heights is a beautiful home built on a large lot with a great backyard. The main goal here was to create an outdoor space for the kids and take advantage of the landscape’s natural contours. We covered the back porch and added a pergola roof configuration that was neatly placed right over the dining area while an outdoor fireplace to complement the space. The main goal was to drive as much natural light into the home as possible. With this being very important to the owners, we incorpo… - [Hoyne Ave, Chicago, IL](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/hoyne-ave-chicago-il-pj-vj~7062698) - Location: Chicago, IL - Photos: 13 - Description: This Bucktown residence underwent a dramatic makeover to enhance its curb appeal and to make it more visually pleasing. We stripped off the windows and the doors because the owners wanted to make a more Parisian design aesthetic and very ornate life fixtures to create a natural mood. Equipped with a new stucco exterior, we removed walls, added a fresh front canopy, and added further front steps to fit the mold to follow a European style. Interior Design: Wike LaFrey Ted & Sons Construction - [Elmwood Ave, Wilmette, IL - Home Remodel](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/elmwood-ave-wilmette-il-home-remodel-pj-vj~2660843) - Location: Wilmette, IL - Photos: 2 - Description: Having worked with Widler Architectural on their previous home, this family reached out to Brent and his team as their children approached high school and their current home needs were changing. For the kitchen, a large eat-at island, shiplap ceiling and a more comfortable, contemporary to the overall space was created. A homework area was established off the kitchen that flowed out to the deck. Within the octagon shaped master bedroom, a new private toilet closet, soaking tub, double vanity and… - [Indian Head Rd, Winnetka, IL -Pool House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/indian-head-rd-winnetka-il-pool-house-pj-vj~7062708) - Location: Winnetka, IL - Photos: 7 - Description: The Indian Head Road Pool House was designed with a clear purpose—create a dedicated summer retreat for seamless entertaining. The new homeowners sought a functional space where guests could enjoy poolside fun without constantly tracking through the main house. The result is a luxurious pool house that anchors the backyard, offering a perfect setting for pool parties, outdoor cooking, grilling, and a game room for the kids. Purpose-Driven Design for Entertaining Inspired by the timeless charm of… - [Rustic Family Revival in Wisconsin](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/rustic-family-revival-in-wisconsin-pj-vj~4624954) - Location: Lyndon Station, WI - Photos: 2 - Description: Set in the serene hills of Wisconsin farmland, the Rustic Family Revival has been meticulously transformed from a dated house into a warm and inviting family retreat. The entire interior was gutted, yet we thoughtfully preserved the soul and character of each original room, blending them with a fresh, updated design. Exterior Restoration with Colonial Charm The exterior was revitalized with a new design approach, enhancing the home’s curb appeal while honoring its historic roots. The clients wan… - [Orrington Ave, Evanston, IL- Renovation and Addition](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/orrington-ave-evanston-il-renovation-and-addition-pj-vj~7062832) - Location: Evanston, IL - Photos: 7 - Description: Situated in an area with many old historic homes and closely touching the Northwestern University campus, this project's vision was to start renovating an older home that turned out to be a total rehab. We updated it with a new front porch and windows on the exterior siding, but we kept the existing brick on the rear. The addition on the back would eventually contain a primary bathroom and closet to expand the main suite. We took the interiors down to the studs, added new insulation and high-eff… - [Marcy Ave, Evanston, IL](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/marcy-ave-evanston-il-pj-vj~2570961) - Location: Evanston, IL - Photos: 4 - Description: This stunning gut rehab included a new kitchen to meet the needs of a modern family featuring a wine cooler, walk-in pantry and custom built-ins throughout to allow for ample storage. Located off the family room, an outdoor, covered dining area was created on a composite deck to provide the outdoor living space this family of four was looking for. Giving the master bedroom a luxurious and distinct feel, a vaulted ceiling, transom windows and a balcony were added. - [Pensacola Ave, Chicago, IL - Home Remodel and Addition](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/pensacola-ave-chicago-il-home-remodel-and-addition-pj-vj~1331932) - Location: Chicago, IL - Photos: 3 - Description: Requiring a major rehab and addition, this historic home was originally built in 1900. The focus was to expand this double-lot home while maintaining the historic charm and creating open space for the couple’s two young children. An open floor plan now allows the kitchen, dining room and family room to seamlessly flow into each other. A sunken mudroom provides a transition from the yard to the family room in addition to basement access. A welcoming, large wrap around porch was created for the ul… [See all 24 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/widler-architecture-pfvwus-pf~1166116141) ## Ideabooks - [Gawel](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/177172585/list/gawel) — 4 ideas - [Hiserodt](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/160137766/list/hiserodt) — 1 idea - [Bruen](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/145410469/list/bruen) — 10 ideas - [MARSICO](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/158057570/list/marsico) — 6 ideas - [Sergi Residence](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/153526853/list/sergi-residence) — 3 ideas - [Orf](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/155863826/list/orf) — 2 ideas - [Werthman Residence](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/153713057/list/werthman-residence) — 20 ideas - [Franck Lake House](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/149473366/list/franck-lake-house) — 1 idea - [Wright](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/153076890/list/wright) — 2 ideas - [Mottram](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/151619067/list/mottram) — 4 ideas - [Mcmahon lake](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/149658518/list/mcmahon-lake) — 5 ideas - [WALSH](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/150542330/list/walsh) — 1 idea - [Sutherland](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/147387352/list/sutherland) — 13 ideas - [BOWMAN](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/149214772/list/bowman) — 6 ideas - [Brannan](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/146025186/list/brannan) — 17 ideas - [Roland](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/147373044/list/roland) — 2 ideas - [Moe](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/146275125/list/moe) — 7 ideas - [Roma](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/145199482/list/roma) — 1 idea - [Everson](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/143838580/list/everson) — 2 ideas - [Okura](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/142340770/list/okura) — 1 idea [See all 59 ideabooks](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/bwidler) ## Community Q&A **Q: Love the beams, are they natural wood or faux** *(in Photo Questions)* adding beams to new lake construction if you know stain color too please thanks A: They are natural, reclaimed beams with an oiled finish to bring out the natural color of the beams. **Q: who is the manufacturer of this front door?** *(in Photo Questions)* Front door manufacturer A: I believe it is a Simpson door **Q: love the wood floor** *(in Photo Questions)* Can you provide the species, brand, stain A: Thanks for the question. The floor is 5" white oak. Unfortunately I no longer have the stair color. **Q: Floor Plan** *(in Photo Questions)* Can I have the floor plan of this design? A: Thanks for the question. We do not share the plans of our clients homes but would be happy to talk to you about your future project. **Q: Chandelier manufacturer?** *(in Photo Questions)* Can you tell me where you found this chandelier? it's awesome!! A: it is from Restoration Hardaware **Q: Sink countertop** *(in Photo Questions)* What is the material and the color of the countertops? Very pretty. A: The counter top is a quartzite, Aspen Gray --- *Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-08-24.*