--- title: "BBA Architects — Architects & Building Designers | Houzz" canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/bba-architects-pfvwus-pf~1543574457 markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~1543574457.md entity_type: LocalBusiness business_name: "BBA Architects" category: ["Architects"] image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/a673f8650e565ac9_3728-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg address: "1010 South Wabash, Chicago, Illinois 60605, United States" latitude: 41.8712 longitude: -87.6277 phone: "(312) 212-4830" website: http://www.bbaworld.com rating: 5 review_count: 16 best_of_houzz_awards: 16 followers: 1424 last_updated: 2026-08-21 --- # BBA Architects Original Houzz profile: [BBA Architects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/bba-architects-pfvwus-pf~1543574457) ## Professional summary - **Primary category:** Architects - **Location:** Chicago, IL - **Serves:** Chicago, Evanston, Skokie, Des Plaines, Oak Park, Glenview, Northbrook, Elk Grove Village, Niles, Highland Park, Morton Grove, Deerfield, Forest Park, Lincolnwood, Winnetka, River Forest, Glencoe, Lincolnshire, Northfield, Dearborn Park, Gulf, Hyde Park, Kenliworth, Lake Shore East, Lincoln Park, New East Side, Old Town, Parkridge, River West, Streeterville, The Gold Coast, The Loop, Willmette - **Houzz rating:** 5.0 out of 5 (16 reviews) - **Best of Houzz:** 16 awards (2012–2026), for Design, Service. ## About ### Houzz Badges - Star Houzzer - Houzz Influencer - Recommended on Houzz - 100,000 Ideabook Saves BBA Architects, (formerly Burns & Beyerl Architects), has always been focused on providing exceptional client service and outstanding design. Founded in 1993 by Gary Beyerl, with current partner Ed Twohey joining soon after as the first employee. Principal Jenifer Hense first joined the firm as an associate 1999, and after exploring other opportunities, returned to the firm as a partner in 2021. BBA began by primarily doing “seamless” additions and renovation projects in the North Shore suburbs of Chicago. Over time, we have built a practice by listening to our clients with open minds, offering an interactive design experience, and delivering a thoroughly considered product. Our portfolio of work does not reflect a specific style. At BBA, we strive to create beautiful custom designs by paying careful attention to our individual client’s stylistic preferences, functional requests, and budget requirements. We draw inspiration from both historical and modern sources while translating our client’s vision into thoughtful, innovative and timeless designs. Our Organization features a culture that promotes responsibility with a flexible, family friendly and respectful work environment. We like to provide each team member with predictable goals, and encourage continued education and increased responsibility, as we all continually grow to be more complete architects. We also value life outside of work, and enjoy people with passionate interests. Our practice strives to mentor new members, by systemizing our processes, and making a record of our institutional knowledge gained over 28 years of the practice of architecture. In turn, we also thrive on new techniques that our team members bring to us. We continually innovate. ### Services Provided - Architectural Design - Building Design - Home Remodeling - Architectural Drawings - Custom Homes - House Plans - New Home Construction - Home Additions - Home Extensions - Sustainable Design - Energy-Efficient Homes - Floor Plans - Green Building - Guesthouse Design & Construction - Pool House Design & Construction - Home Restoration - Historic Building Conservation - Project Management - Handicap-Accessible Design - Outdoor Kitchen Design - Staircase Design - Remodeling ### Areas Served - Chicago - Evanston - Skokie - Des Plaines - Oak Park - Glenview - Northbrook - Elk Grove Village - Niles - Highland Park - Morton Grove - Deerfield - Forest Park - Lincolnwood - Winnetka - River Forest - Glencoe - Lincolnshire - Northfield - Dearborn Park - Gulf - Hyde Park - Kenliworth - Lake Shore East - Lincoln Park - New East Side - Old Town - Parkridge - River West - Streeterville - The Gold Coast - The Loop - Willmette ### Typical Job Cost $850,000 - 10 million ## Business Details | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Business Name | BBA Architects | | Address | 1010 South Wabash, Chicago, Illinois 60605, United States | | Phone | (312) 212-4830 | | Website | http://www.bbaworld.com | | Followers on Houzz | 1424 | **Social profiles:** - Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/bbaarchitect/ - LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/company/burns-beyerl-architects/ - Blog — www.bbaworld.com ## Contact - **Houzz profile:** [BBA Architects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/bba-architects-pfvwus-pf~1543574457) - **Website:** http://www.bbaworld.com - **Phone:** (312) 212-4830 ## Credentials **Certifications & Awards** - 2022 NAHB Platinum Best in American Living Award - 2017 LUXE Gold List - 2017 Crystal Key Award - 2016 AIA Small Project Award - 2013 Brick in Architecture Award - 2012 USGBC LEED Gold Award - 2011 Gold Key Award - 2008 & 2007 Chicago Landmark Award - **Best of Houzz:** 16 awards (2012–2026), for Design, Service. **Affiliations** - [The American Institute of Architects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/the-american-institute-of-architects-pfvwus-pf~1350720471) - [Illinois Green Alliance](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/illinois-green-alliance-pfvwus-pf~973972130) - [AIA Chicago](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/aia-chicago-pfvwus-pf~437317530) ## Reviews **Overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 — 16 reviews** ### Reviews **★★★★★ — Emmanuel Ramirez, Jan. 2020** > We met with a number of different architectural firms, and we were blown away by BBA. We had an idea of the home we wanted to create, but the design Gary and his team presented was nothing short of amazing; better than we could have ever hoped. The entire process with BBA was wonderful. Honestly, I thought we were renovating a 5-year house, but we got our dream home! **★★★★★ — mattsollitto, May 2019** > Tim Kress from BBA designed our home's first floor renovation. We didn't see anything like what he ended up designing for us from any of the other architects who we spoke with. He did a great job taking into account the way we wanted our house to fit our lives and delivered. While they are not inexpensive, this was among the best money that we spend on our project. **Comment from BBA Architects:** > Thank you for your kind review. It was great working with you. We hope you enjoy your house for years to come! **★★★★★ — Ty Bartels, Jan. 2019** > We hired Tim Kress from BBA Architects to design a modern farmhouse single family home. What Tim came up with far exceeded our expectations. It is unique, has great flow, and excellent design elements. So many homes in our neighborhood have a look and feel that are too similar to each other. Tim did a great job of making our home standout by having a one of a kind design that we couldn't have received from a different firm. **★★★★★ — Laura Yepez, Aug. 2018** > Ed Twohey managed this major renovation from start to finish through the lengthy permitting process of a historic home, adhering to strict guidelines while optimizing space and use to create a beautifully designed bed and breakfast with the highest quality amenities and luxurious appointments. **★★★★★ — Kyle Cole, Aug. 2018** > We will forever be indebted to BBA. Not only was this our first build, but it is our first home. We needed partners that would be patient, incredibly experienced, great listeners, set a high standard of quality, and lead us through this process step-by-step. BBA helped create our dream concept design, determine material and detailed plans of the space, conduct a financial feasibility project, introduce us to a number of trusted general contractors to select from, and provide ongoing construction administration throughout the build . We trusted BBA—we trusted their experience, their skill, their standard for quality—and they did not disappoint. They gave our family an elegant, timeless, and comfortable space to call home for generations to come. (P.S. - and we had a lot of fun throughout!) **Comment from BBA Architects:** > Thank you so much, Kyle! It's been wonderful working with you. We hope you enjoy your home for years to come. **★★★★★ — 41 West, Dec. 2015** > As a builder in Naples, Florida, we recommend Ed and his team at Burns & Beyerl Architects 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. > Ed 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. Burns & Beyerl Architects is a team you can trust and we highly recommend them. **★★★★★ — KRAMER DESIGN STUDIO, Dec. 2015** > I have had the pleasure of "knowing-of" Burns + Beyerl Associates since 1994 (just one year after I started designing/building Custom Steel Furniture). > I discovered Steve & Gary due to a profile of their work in a magazine- a profile that showed a Modern-forward-thinking-vision, that I felt would align w/ my own aesthetic. I've had the pleasure of collaborating w/ Gary Beyerl on a multitude of projects- ranging from a variety of Railings + Furniture + Fireplace Surrounds in his own home- to Mirror-Polished Stainless Vanities \> to Medieval-Looking-Hand-Forged-Wine-Cellar-Door Hardware....and have ALWAYS been amazed at how much he "gets-it"! > Not only is Gary quite articulate,fun to work with and whip-smart- his ability to easily draw-a-quick-sketch, to highlight and clarify what he's thinking makes him-an Architects-Architect. AND- how many Architects do you know- that bicycle to work- EVERYDAY- and consider their car- a "2nd" vehicle?! > OH!\_ and let's not forget Ed + Cathy + Jenn + Christine and other team members that help Gary "look-good" too! > No matter whether your style is ULTRA MODERN-kinda Traditional- or Faux French Chateau-Gary can articulate- and execute your dream home! and probably bike to the Job-Site-meetings!2! **★★★★★ — Michelle KGreen, Feb. 2015** > I worked with B&B (Cathy Osika) on our loft renovation in Chicago and was so pleased and the process was so painless that she is now the lead architect on the house we are building. > What do I like about them/her: > Has good taste > Gets into our heads and totally understands how we live, what our taste/style is an reflects that > Is super flexible - has a point of view but really looks to accommodate what we need/want - she is not "precious" about things. But is also very clear when it's time to stop dithering around! > Great creative solutions - hanging the furnace from the ceiling gave us a full size laundry room with storage > Very collaborative - the house we are building is in another state, lots of parties involved…but the whole team works smoothly > Stays on top of the details - so that I don't have to **Comment from BBA Architects:** > Thank you so much for taking the time to write this review. We love working with you!! **★★★★★ — Alene Korby, Jan. 2015** > Cathy Osika of Burns + Beyerl Architects (BBA) designed my home which I love for its beauty and function. The building process was quite challenging, and there is no doubt that Cathy and the BBA staff were invaluable in managing through many bumps with the builder. Seemingly big problems were solved quickly and creatively. I particularly liked that my strong design voice was considered throughout the design phase. It was such a positive experience that I hired them again to design the renovation of my Mid-Century Modern guest house. They also designed and managed the building and landscaping of the new patio (photo attached). The project was flawless and enjoyable with stunning results. BBA is a great partner, and the relationship continues long after the project has concluded. This review is specifically for the guest house renovation as it is my most recent work with them. **Comment from BBA Architects:** > Thank you so much for the kind words. Our relationship with our clients are the number one reason we love our what we do. Helping someone bring their dreams to fruition is so incredibly gratifying! And staying friends long after the project is completed is just a great bonus. **★★★★★ — Pamela F, Dec. 2014** > Ed Twohey of Burns & Beyerl is phenomenal. Smart, creative, and thoughtful, he went the extra mile to adapt ideas and came up with solutions that fit our home, our needs and our aesthetic. He came up with some incredible drawings on the spot as we discussed changes to our home, which was extensively renovated. He also provided helpful direction where we needed it and drew upon his extensive experience to guide us in both big and small choices along the way. Professional, intelligent, warm, and with a great sense of humor, Ed is a force to be reckoned with in the best possible way. We will always be grateful to him for helping to create a beautiful home that truly feels like our home. Highly recommended. **Comment from BBA Architects:** > Thank you so much for your review! We had a wonderful time working on your beautiful home and are so pleased with the results. **★★★★★ — Kim Stephens, Sept. 2014** > Burn and Beyerl have designed an incredible contemporary beach house for us on Lake Michigan on a VERY challenging 40 ft wide lot with a big sloping grade. They totally understood that the beach and street elevations were the elevations to concentrate on since we were so close to our neighbors. All that experience they had designing homes on 25ft wide lots in downtown Chicago really paid off! I can sleep easy also because they were very diligent in working with structural engineers so that the high winds off the lake would not affect our new home. They also had a wide breadth of experience with construction techniques and new materials. Check out their website which is very impressive! **★★★★★ — kfocht, Sept. 2014** > We are currently in the middle of construction on a major home renovation which is converting a multi-unit home into a single family. We found BBA through Houzz and have had an amazing experience working with Gary Beyerl and his team. Gary has not only made our dream and vision of this house a reality, but has also brought exciting and sophisticated ideas to the table. We live in a historic district of Chicago and BBA made the permit process smooth and successful. We started construction back in March and are projected to be complete in Spring 2015. BBA has guided us through each step (permits, material schedules, construction bids, etc). This has been an exciting process and it is also great to see Gary genuinely interested and invested in the process and outcome of this project. We highly recommend this firm and are very pleased with BBA's ability to make our dream a reality. ## Selected projects - [English Golf Estate](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/english-golf-estate-pj-vj~6469488) - Location: Glencoe, IL - Photos: 24 - Description: The clients’ appreciation for English country architecture, with elements of stone, stucco, brick and slate, became the basis of the design. The goal was to achieve an understated elegance with generous warmth. Lots of large windows, and exterior transitions to the terraced patios allow expansive views of the Golf Course. - [2 Flat Reborn](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/2-flat-reborn-pj-vj~6849601) - Location: Chicago, IL - Photos: 27 - Description: This Lincoln Park renovation transformed a conventionally built Chicago two-flat into a custom single-family residence with a modern, open floor plan. The cost-sensitive design maintains the existing exterior walls and floor framing structure, but a creative new layout offers open yet defined living spaces and brings abundant natural light deep into the home. A custom-designed stair offers a stunning focal point for this transitional space with clean contemporary lines blended with the warmth of… - [Modern Craftsman](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/modern-craftsman-pj-vj~6308511) - Location: Chicago, IL - Photos: 33 - Description: Situated along the perimeter of the property, this unique home creates a continuous street wall, both preserving plenty of open yard space and maintaining privacy from the prominent street corner. A one-story mudroom connects the garage to the house at the rear of the lot which required a local zoning variance. The resulting L-shaped plan and the central location of a glass-enclosed stair allow natural light to enter the home from multiple sides of nearly every room. The Arts & Crafts inspired d… - [Modern Mediterranean](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/modern-mediterranean-pj-vj~7398834) - Location: Chicago, IL - Photos: 18 - Description: Inspired by Mediterranean architecture with a modern twist, this custom-designed luxury home takes advantage of a double lot in the city. A thoughtful plan layout, paired with generous, but strategically placed windows, brings abundant natural light into the home while intentionally framing key views and maintaining privacy from the street. The light stucco exterior, dark trim and siding accents, and dramatic floor-to-ceiling windows create a bold statement house that balances traditional elegan… - [Gold Coast Penthouse](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/gold-coast-penthouse-pj-vj~7402496) - Location: Chicago, IL - Photos: 16 - Description: Perched atop a renovated Gold Coast hotel, this 6,000 sf 2-story penthouse apartment is home to a young family of five. A new wood and glass stair in the center of the plan is the highlight of the modern and clean aesthetic that is present throughout the unit. Plan updates include opening the dining room onto the entry, taking advantage of the natural light and sweeping views of downtown. A full renovation of the kitchen, master suite and children’s wing adds functionality for our clients. The s… - [Modern Beach House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/modern-beach-house-pj-vj~7398875) - Location: Michigan City, IN - Photos: 15 - [Focus on the Fairway](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/focus-on-the-fairway-pj-vj~7402314) - Location: Chicago, IL - Photos: 20 - Description: This colonial home renovation reimagines the original character of the house by adding a light-filled entry gallery overlooking the covered front porch. The revised circulation plan opens up the interior to frame views and improve the flow between spaces while maintaining the traditionally defined rooms throughout. New large-paned casement windows replace the modest double-hung units to enhance the scale of the exterior facade and streamline the architectural detailing. The arrival sequence is i… - [Regent Street Townhome](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/regent-street-townhome-pj-vj~7402364) - Location: Chicago, IL - Photos: 25 - Description: Inspired by the architecture of the prestigious Regent Street in London, the exterior of this city home has an elegant and refined street presence. A thoughtful floor plan cleverly utilizes the project’s narrow site to provide an open, but defined light-filled interior. Custom detailing paired with colorful finishes, create an inviting and vibrant family home. View more of this home through \#BBARegentStreetTownhome on Instagram. - [Timeless Transformation](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/timeless-transformation-pj-vj~6868926) - Location: Chicago, IL - Photos: 14 - [Lake Michigan Beach House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/lake-michigan-beach-house-pj-vj~1994539) - Location: Michigan City, IN - Photos: 18 - Description: This summer home on the shores of Lake Michigan is developed with a shingle-style character in mind. The living levels focus outward to the lake and flow onto an exterior porch and terraces. An exterior stair with integrated seating at landings descends to the beach level. The three level home is joined with a stair tower featured on the front elevation. The master suite is accessed from one side of a sitting room "hub" at the top of the stairs. Two en-suite children's rooms are accessed on the… - [Pied-a-terre](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/pied-a-terre-pj-vj~369881) - Location: Chicago, IL - Photos: 14 - Description: We transformed a 1,400 square foot vintage Gold Coast condominium into a modern pied-à-terre. Rooms are well defined, yet the spaces and functions flow seamlessly. Movable panels close the kitchen, separate the bedrooms as distinct suites, or create his and her baths and a sitting room for the master. Millwork, reconfigured mechanical systems, and a home automation system, were employed to maximize the efficiency of the space, and seamlessly incorporate functional components. A paneled hall inte… - [Urban Georgian](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/urban-georgian-pj-vj~285579) - Location: Chicago, IL - Photos: 12 - Description: As you stroll along this well established tree-lined street in the Lincoln Park neighborhood, this new London-styled Georgian home on a double lot allows for engagement with the neighbors featuring a raised terrace and pergola. Inside, the traditional details are maintained at the public side of the first floor and becomes more informal as it opens to the landscaped private rear yard. The upper floors capture light from the internal two-story sky-lite stair hall drawing you up to the third floor… - [Traditional Jewel Box](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/traditional-jewel-box-pj-vj~6001134) - Location: Chicago, IL - Photos: 13 - [Urban Cabin](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/urban-cabin-pj-vj~1358108) - Location: Chicago, IL - Photos: 20 - Description: Seventeen floors above land, with sweeping views of Lake Michigan, the city skyline and North Pond in Lincoln Park, this Lakeview Penthouse and terrace build-out is centered on the idea of a cabin in the woods, albeit a bit more sophisticated version. The 4,000 square foot condo uses soft materials such as white oak paneling, wood beams and handmade ceramic and terra cotta tile to warm the urban environment that it looks out upon. The 2,200 square foot terrace has wood planters filled with Five… - [Chicago Row House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/chicago-row-house-pj-vj~7398868) - Location: Chicago, IL - Photos: 16 - [Classic Georgian](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/classic-georgian-pj-vj~1138620) - Location: Chicago, IL - Photos: 12 - Description: \*2016 AIA Small Project Award Winner!\* This new single family home inspired by the great urban Georgian homes of London, features an elliptical stair and hall joining the four floor levels. The elliptical theme is represented in an arched front door opening, that features a leaded glass transom and a vaulted entry hall. The ellipse also provides a unique ceiling shape for the master suite. The exterior brick is coursed with an english bond pattern meticulously spaced between floor to ceiling dou… - [English City House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/english-city-house-pj-vj~47121) - Location: Chicago, IL - Photos: 27 - Description: The wide city lot created an opportunity for a light filled traditional home. Broad bands of tripartite windows with transoms grace the principal rooms. Formal entry and stair halls allow living and dining spaces to sidestep the circulation through the house. The stair features a continuous walnut handrail ribbon from top to bottom and is illuminated from skylights and windows on the third floor. The wide plan also affords a gracious vaulted kitchen that opens onto a light filled breakfast, fami… - [English Manor Renovation](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/english-manor-renovation-pj-vj~294640) - Location: Winnetka, IL - Photos: 16 - Description: The thoughtful renovation of this 1940’s farmhouse-style home created a sense of grace and dignity, like that of an English manor. Taking inspiration from the front porch, two new pavilions were added to the rear of the home creating cohesion and formality, which is also reflected in the landscaping. While a looped driveway now leads up to the entry, there were also a number of interior improvements as well. A central corridor with a wet bar opens to the new family room, which is a more rustic,… - [Modern City House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/modern-city-house-pj-vj~18410) - Location: Chicago, IL - Photos: 13 - [European Cottage](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/european-cottage-pj-vj~18374) - Location: Winnetka, IL - Photos: 32 - Description: This home for a family of five young children is located on two acres in Chicago's North Shore. The house has been designed to be open, flexible, and pre-weathered, with a European cottage feel. The first floor has been completely renovated to create a space that is perfect for family gatherings and entertaining friends. Reclaimed materials, such as French terra cotta tile flooring, white oak wood beams, and salvage mushroom palette wood planks for the ceiling, have been used throughout the main… [See all 47 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/bba-architects-pfvwus-pf~1543574457) ## Ideabooks - [Loch Lane](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/158691938/list/loch-lane) — 1 idea - [Shraiberg Residence](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/129635591/list/shraiberg-residence) — 41 ideas - [lights](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/128633613/list/lights) — 1 idea - [Shivarev Garden](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/124200256/list/shivarev-garden) — 7 ideas - [Zeman Residence](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/123323234/list/zeman-residence) — 25 ideas - [Giddings Selects](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/114136398/list/giddings-selects) — 15 ideas - [Reese Apartment](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/110565274/list/reese-apartment) — 31 ideas - [2204 N. Orchard](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/112229017/list/2204-n-orchard) — 1 idea - [590 Broadsmoore](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/111640378/list/590-broadsmoore) — 6 ideas - [3 Golf Lane](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/118422448/list/3-golf-lane) — 39 ideas - [Sieros Mihalov](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/114306652/list/sieros-mihalov) — 27 ideas - [1439 Prairie - Bienia](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/84750470/list/1439-prairie-bienia) — 62 ideas - [319 W. Erie](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/92245522/list/319-w-erie) — 54 ideas - [Before & After](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/62895995/list/before-after) — 15 ideas - [thick tubs](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/61582873/list/thick-tubs) — 1 idea - [BBA Stairs](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/61097776/list/bba-stairs) — 68 ideas - [BBA Baths](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/61091877/list/bba-baths) — 49 ideas - [BBA Kitchens](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/61090797/list/bba-kitchens) — 70 ideas [See all 18 ideabooks](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/bbadesign) --- *Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-08-21.*