--- title: "Thomas Architects — Architects & Building Designers | Houzz" canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/thomas-architects-pfvwus-pf~1543981153 markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~1543981153.md entity_type: LocalBusiness business_name: "Thomas Architects" category: ["Architects"] image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/bf73275f05492a74_9868-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg address: "2800 S River Rd Suite 105, Des Plaines, Illinois 60018, United States" latitude: 42.0155 longitude: -87.8687 phone: "(847) 235-6815" website: http://www.thomasarch.com/ rating: 5 review_count: 14 best_of_houzz_awards: 6 followers: 48 last_updated: 2026-09-07 --- # Thomas Architects Original Houzz profile: [Thomas Architects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/thomas-architects-pfvwus-pf~1543981153) ## Professional summary - **Primary category:** Architects - **Location:** Des Plaines, IL - **Serves:** Chicago, Evanston, Schaumburg, Arlington Heights, Palatine, Skokie, Des Plaines, Mount Prospect, Oak Park, Glenview, Elmhurst, Lombard, Park Ridge, Northbrook, Elk Grove Village, Niles, Highland Park, Wilmette, Melrose Park, Morton Grove, Elmwood Park, Rolling Meadows, Villa Park, Lake Forest, Deerfield, Prospect Heights, Forest Park, Lincolnwood, Winnetka, River Forest, Schiller Park, Itasca, Glencoe, Long Grove, Inverness, Northfield, Rosemont, Riverwoods, Deer Park, Golf, Fort Sheridan, Glenview Nas - **Houzz rating:** 5.0 out of 5 (14 reviews) - **Best of Houzz:** 6 awards (2017–2026), for Service, Design. ## About ### Houzz Badges - Star Houzzer - Recommended on Houzz - 1,000 Ideabook Saves At TA we understand that your house may be your single largest asset, but it is much more than just a financial investment – it is the place you call Home. We realize that the effort you put in to improve the functionality and comfort of your home should not come at the heavy price of stress and cost overruns. That is why we try to keep the design process as simple and straightforward as possible. ### 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 - Floor Plans - 3D Rendering - Bathroom Design - Green Building - Space Planning - Guesthouse Design & Construction - Pool House Design & Construction - Home Restoration - Drafting - Historic Building Conservation - Structural Engineering - Barn Design & Construction - Basement Remodeling - Mudroom Design - Basement Design - Staircase Design - Garage Design - 3D Home Design - Custom Home - Remodeling ### Areas Served - Chicago - Evanston - Schaumburg - Arlington Heights - Palatine - Skokie - Des Plaines - Mount Prospect - Oak Park - Glenview - Elmhurst - Lombard - Park Ridge - Northbrook - Elk Grove Village - Niles - Highland Park - Wilmette - Melrose Park - Morton Grove - Elmwood Park - Rolling Meadows - Villa Park - Lake Forest - Deerfield - Prospect Heights - Forest Park - Lincolnwood - Winnetka - River Forest - Schiller Park - Itasca - Glencoe - Long Grove - Inverness - Northfield - Rosemont - Riverwoods - Deer Park - Golf - Fort Sheridan - Glenview Nas ## Business Details | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Business Name | Thomas Architects | | Address | 2800 S River Rd Suite 105, Des Plaines, Illinois 60018, United States | | Phone | (847) 235-6815 | | Website | http://www.thomasarch.com/ | | License Number | 001-019213 | | Followers on Houzz | 48 | **Social profiles:** - Facebook — Thomas Architects - LinkedIn — Thomas Architects - Blog — www.thomasarch.com ## Contact - **Houzz profile:** [Thomas Architects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/thomas-architects-pfvwus-pf~1543981153) - **Website:** http://www.thomasarch.com/ - **Phone:** (847) 235-6815 ## Credentials **Certifications & Awards** - CISCA 2015 Bronze Award - Interior Finishes, - 2024 Alan F. Bombick Award for Excellence in Design, - City of Chicago Self Certification - **Best of Houzz:** 6 awards (2017–2026), for Service, Design. **Affiliations** - [The American Institute of Architects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/the-american-institute-of-architects-pfvwus-pf~1350720471) ## Reviews **Overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 — 14 reviews** *Aspect averages:* - Work Quality: 50.0 - Communication: 48.0 - Value: 50.0 ### Reviews **★★★★★ — Debbie Dominelli, May 2025** > Thomas Architects were wonderful. Thomas and Mahdi helped us draw the plans for our new ranch home. > They listened to what we wanted and did a remarkable job bringing our home to life. This was a very pleasant experience for us and Thomas is a great architect. He really was so easy to work with. We are very happy with our design and I would definitely recommend them if you are looking to build. **Comment from Thomas Architects:** > Thank you Debbie for your kind words. We enjoyed collaborating with you on the design of your new home! **★★★★★ — Sunshine Villa, Feb. 2025** > Working with Thomas Budzik has been an absolute pleasure! He is a true professional who combines creativity, expertise, and the latest architectural technology to deliver outstanding designs. His work on Sunshine Villa is a masterpiece—modern, contemporary, and perfectly tailored to meet every need. > > What truly sets Thomas apart is how easy and enjoyable he makes the entire process. Using cutting-edge architectural software, he allows clients to experience their dream home in 3D with VR goggles before finalizing the blueprints. This level of innovation and attention to detail ensures that every element is perfect before construction begins. > > I highly recommend Thomas Budzik to anyone looking for an exceptional architect. His passion, professionalism, and forward-thinking approach make him one of the best in the industry! **★★★★★ — Brenda Zaglaniczny, July 2024** > Thomas Architects did an excellent job with our transformative home addition. We added a second story to our ranch house and the team expertly integrated the addition into the existing structure to create a beautiful cohesive home. I worked closely with Katie, one of the architectural designers and she was extremely responsive and detail oriented. The team came up with an attractive design for both the exterior and interior of the home with details like lofted ceilings, tall windows and skylights that really elevated the home's appearance. Thomas Architects also worked closely with the contractor to ensure that we moved through the city permit process seamlessly. I highly recommend them! **★★★★★ — Mary Taylor, March 2023** > We interviewed several contractors to figure out how to bring some modern day functionality to our almost 100 year old kitchen. We had some tricky things to work out, including relocating doors and windows. Luckily one of the contractors advised us to get a self-certified architect instead of trying to figure it out ourselves with a builder. We are so glad we did and, with the help of Alex at Thomas Architects, the project took off. Finally we were given a clear idea of what we could and couldn't do design and budget wise. Now the kitchen is functional but, almost as importantly, it's in keeping with the style of the rest of the house. Alex was a pleasure to work with, open to our suggestions and responsive. **★★★★★ — Pete Tarsney, Sept. 2022** > Thomas did an awesome job creating an optimal renovation plan for the first floor of our house. He was able to optimize our space given some unique limitations and develop a design consistent with our style at the same time. Responsive and creative, he worked seamlessly with our contractor to coordinate the development, and also worked really well with the village to get the appropriate approvals to move forward with the project. Awesome work and design support! **★★★★★ — Mark & Mary Ann Ericksen, Aug. 2022** > We have worked with Thomas Budzik and his firm for over 5 years on 4 custom homes. Two are built, one is in the process and the next will start next year. We currently live in one, our son built the second home, the third is a spec home, and the fourth will be our daughters and her families. My husband found Thom on the internet and chose to meet him because of the client reviews, previous projects, and his up to date design concepts. Thom is able to take your ideas, improve on them and give sound advice. Thom uses the latest architectural software and can virtually walk you through your home design. An area where Thom really shines is working with the village and design commissions. He maintains his professionalism and supports the home builder. Thom and his architects are always available to give advice and they will make visits to the project if needed. Our home is a modern farmhouse transitional style with a covered porch. Never fail when we use our porch, we receive compliments on the design of the home and its curb appeal. We highly recommend Thomas Architects and look forward to a long professional relationship. > > Mark & Mary Ann E **★★★★★ — D&T O’Bannon, July 2022** > Thomas and his staff have provided EXCELLENT service and delivered a GREAT product! In this industry it is often difficult to find companies/firm who meet their commitments. I am pleased to say Thomas Architects is one of those firms I can trust. > > They provided a proposal which was very competitive, and their deliver of service has exceeded my expectations. I will not only use them again but have already recommended them to others seeking architectural services. **Comment from Thomas Architects:** > Thank you Daniel for your review! It's been a pleasure working with you on your project! We look forward to working together in the future. **★★★★★ — Anthony F, June 2022** > I worked with Thomas Architects on a successful building project and am already in talks with them for my next one. They offered a lot of helpful ideas as I had a good idea of what I wanted, but didn't know how to get there. They were collaborative throughout the design and layout process, helping create the home I wanted. I was doing an unconventional floorplan and the by the end of the design process it encompassed everything I wanted to accomplish, without sacrificing any of my non-negotiables. They were thorough and got the permits and plans out in a timely manner. I am really pleased with their service and highly recommend them to anyone looking for their next project! **★★★★★ — Lukaven Development LLC, May 2022** > We're a spec and custom home builder on the North Shore. Most spec architects are rough around the edges and do a poor job with their architectural prints and communication, but that's not the case with Thomas Architects. Tom and his team with with our development firm to create a jaw-dropping, multi-million dollar residence on the Northshore of Chicago. Our clients still let us know how many people slow down in front of their home to take a photo before driving off. > > Tom and his team were very communicative, patient, brought good ideas to the table, and was receptive to our input. I'd recommend Tom and his team as an architect for developers, as clients who want to run their own builds. You won't find a better quality architect for the price than Thomas Architects (we looked!). **Comment from Thomas Architects:** > Thank you Patrick and Conrad, for your thoughtful review. We value working with your team at Lukaven. **★★★★★ — Yuriy, May 2022** > I highly recommend Thomas Architects! They create beautiful houses, are wonderful to work with, and really care about their clients!! **Comment from Thomas Architects:** > Thank you Yuriy for your review! We look forward to seeing your completed project. **★★★★★ — Adam Kielczewski, May 2022** > Thom and his group of professionals did an outstanding job helping materialize our vision into reality. Always conscientious to budget restrictions, they helped define our needs and then offered fresh ideas and solutions to bring additional value to our project. Throughout the process, the entire team was easily reachable and a great partner to help solve challenges big and small. Will absolutely work with again. **Comment from Thomas Architects:** > Thank you Adam for your review, we look forward to partnering in the future! **★★★★★ — A Aadam, Nov. 2016** > I hired Thomas Architects to design a fully custom 5,000 square foot home in the North Shore of Chicago. I knew Thomas was the perfect fit for us after our initial conversation. Thomas took the time to listen to what we wanted and designed an unbelievable home for us. The project was very challenging due to the trapezoid shape of the lot, but Thomas had some great ideas that many others didn't even consider. I fully appreciated the immense details he put into the design which makes our home truly unique. His fees are fair and reasonable and he always made himself available to address any questions or concerns. Would absolutely hire again. ## Selected projects - [Contemporary Custom](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/contemporary-custom-pj-vj~6016754) - Location: Long Grove, IL - Photos: 11 - Description: This project is a 5,700 SF custom contemporary home in Long Grove. It features many natural elements on the interior and exterior like the wood siding and exposed beams on the ceiling inside. The house also has large windows to allow maximum natural light. - [French Eclectic](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/french-eclectic-pj-vj~6041409) - Location: Glenview, IL - Photos: 10 - Description: The Project involves a new 4,500 SF single family home located on a shaded diagonal lot. The home is a 2-story with full basement and 3 car garage. The exterior is a mixture of stone and brick with traditional exterior detailing along with a more contemporary, open floor plan. Great Room is 1 ½ story with coffered ceiling, and all the other rooms are trayed. A key feature of the home is the limestone balcony over the front entrance. - [Modern Farmhouse](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/modern-farmhouse-pj-vj~5814720) - Location: Chicago, IL - Photos: 6 - Description: This project is situated in the Irving Park neighborhood of Chicago. A neighborhood that is being transformed as monumentally as this beautiful modern farmhouse. This transformative addition features an open floor plan with luxurious finishes throughout, like the glass wine cellar in the dinning room, which creates a stunning and dramatic visual display. While upstairs the master suite features a large walk-in closet and a private deck over looking the built in pool and hot tub. Not only does th… - [Brick Ranch Transformative Additon](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/brick-ranch-transformative-additon-pj-vj~5917847) - Location: Glenview, IL - Photos: 9 - Description: 1952 Brick Ranch home revival with 2nd floor and rear addition. Expansion to a 2-car garage. White interior with lots of natural light coming in. Beautiful home office with sliding doors to the front porch - [Modern Farmhouse with Stone Exterior](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/modern-farmhouse-with-stone-exterior-pj-vj~5871086) - Location: Arlington Heights, IL - Photos: 9 - Description: 4,220 sqft custom modern farmhouses with warm stone exterior. Roof is made of charcoal asphalt shingles and standing seam metal. House features an open kitchen, 2 fireplaces, huge patio, and matching garden shed. - [Craftsman Transformative Addition](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/craftsman-transformative-addition-pj-vj~5882828) - Location: Glenview, IL - Photos: 4 - Description: The Project involves a 2nd floor addition to an existing single family home. The addition moved all bedrooms to the 2nd floor and expand the livable area of the first floor. While the exterior was transformed to a contemporary country style with front porch / covered entrance and a mixture of stone and siding. - [Timberline Metamorphosis](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/timberline-metamorphosis-pj-vj~1495130) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 11 - [Colonial Refresh](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/colonial-refresh-pj-vj~5978831) - Location: Northbrook, IL - Photos: 9 - Description: The Project involves interior alterations to an existing single family residence. The purpose of the Project is to modernize the existing home and provide for a more comfortable, contemporary layout. Various options shall be developed to determine the most efficient, economical and desirable layout for the home. - [Drywall Art](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/drywall-art-pj-vj~1495137) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 13 - [Split-Level Addition](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/split-level-addition-pj-vj~5859739) - Location: Arlington Heights, IL - Photos: 6 - Description: Addition of a master suite, living room, office, and attached garage. - [Spruce Transitional](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/spruce-transitional-pj-vj~1084552) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 3 - Description: The project includes a substantial addition and remodel to a small frame home. The home features an open kitchen / great room plan, bonus room above garage and workshop below garage. - [Split-Level Refresh](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/split-level-refresh-pj-vj~1084542) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 3 - Description: The project includes a second floor addition to a split-level home. The addition features a new master suite, small bedroom and laundry room for a growing family. The addition was carefully designed so as not to disturb the recently remodeled family room and kitchen below. - [Burr Oak French Country](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/burr-oak-french-country-pj-vj~1495101) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 11 - Description: The project includes a 8,000 square foot private residence located on an expansive lot. The home features a number of luxury amenities including a 4-car garage, baker’s kitchen, 4-season porch with outdoor kitchen, commercial elevator and extensive drywall art. The home is super insulated and utilizes a radiant floor heating system powered by geothermal wells. - [Custom Country](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/custom-country-pj-vj~1495118) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 3 - Description: The project includes a substantial addition and remodel of a home on a 1 acre lot. The home features a wrap-around porch, owner’s rear entrance, and gourmet kitchen. The space efficient layout allowed the family to scale down the size of the home even as their family expands. - [Apple River Lake House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/apple-river-lake-house-pj-vj~1084561) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 4 - Description: The project includes a 3,400 square foot vacation home on a lake view 1 acre lot near historic Galena, IL. The home features a ground floor master suite, open ground floor plan layout centered around a stone fireplace, walk-out basement and several lake-view balconies. - [Muted Traditional](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/muted-traditional-pj-vj~6741490) - Location: Grayslake, IL - Photos: 13 - Description: This is a 6,232 SQFT custom traditional home in Grayslake. With muted tones used throughout with strong traditional motifs throughout the whole space. The home sits on a lake and has many large windows looking out onto it. In addition this allows an abundance of natural light. - [Craftsman Ranch Transformative Addition](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/craftsman-ranch-transformative-addition-pj-vj~6102262) - Location: Glenview, IL - Photos: 7 - Description: Beautiful craftsman ranch transformation. House features a second floor addition and complete transformation of the exterior. Check out our Instagram @thomasarchitects to see before and after photos of this project. [See all 17 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/thomas-architects-pfvwus-pf~1543981153) ## Ideabooks - [Ahmed](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/131100449/list/ahmed) — 2 ideas - [Ivanov](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/85783363/list/ivanov) — 16 ideas - [616 Glendale](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/85262271/list/616-glendale) — 1 idea - [Carnegie Leader](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/59608374/list/carnegie-leader) — 5 ideas - [thomasarchitects's ideas](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/48429514/list/thomasarchitects-s-ideas) — 1 idea [See all 5 ideabooks](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/thomasarchitects) --- *Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-09-07.*