--- title: "Nicholas Design Collaborative — Architects & Building Designers | Houzz" canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/nicholas-design-collaborative-pfvwus-pf~1954802797 markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~1954802797.md entity_type: LocalBusiness business_name: "Nicholas Design Collaborative" category: ["Architects"] image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/12b36c8f0111af86_1063-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg address: "509 N. Wolcott Avenue, Chicago, Illinois 60622, United States" latitude: 41.9019 longitude: -87.6778 phone: "(312) 243-7799" website: http://www.nicholasdc.com rating: 5 review_count: 18 best_of_houzz_awards: 5 followers: 591 last_updated: 2026-08-10 --- # Nicholas Design Collaborative Original Houzz profile: [Nicholas Design Collaborative](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/nicholas-design-collaborative-pfvwus-pf~1954802797) ## Professional summary - **Primary category:** Architects - **Location:** Chicago, IL - **Serves:** Chicago, Evanston, Arlington Heights, Skokie, Berwyn, Oak Park, Glenview, Park Ridge, Northbrook, Highland Park, Wilmette, Morton Grove, Lincolnwood, Winnetka, River Forest, Oak Brook, Kenilworth - **Houzz rating:** 5.0 out of 5 (18 reviews) - **Best of Houzz:** 5 awards (2014–2017), for Design, Service. ## About ### Houzz Badges - Star Houzzer - Houzz Influencer - Recommended on Houzz - 100,000 Ideabook Saves - Award winning - High-end - 31 years in business A holistic practice dedicated to the art of design and construction. Since 1989, NDC has combined a high level of design with the an intimate knowledge of materials and construction techniques to ensure that a project is built the way it was envisioned. NDC has the ability to produce award winning design, the knowledge to act as General Contractor and to work in concert with craftsmen to exceed the expectations of its clients. In terms of our typical project profile, we accept additions and renovations in excess of $500,000 and new homes in excess of $1 million. ### Services Provided - Architectural Design - Building Design - Home Remodeling - Architectural Drawings - Custom Homes - New Home Construction - Home Additions - Home Extensions - Sustainable Design - Multigenerational Homes - Pool House Design & Construction - Home Restoration - New Houses ### Areas Served - Chicago - Evanston - Arlington Heights - Skokie - Berwyn - Oak Park - Glenview - Park Ridge - Northbrook - Highland Park - Wilmette - Morton Grove - Lincolnwood - Winnetka - River Forest - Oak Brook - Kenilworth ### Typical Job Cost $500,000 - 5 million ## Business Details | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Business Name | Nicholas Design Collaborative | | Address | 509 N. Wolcott Avenue, Chicago, Illinois 60622, United States | | Phone | (312) 243-7799 | | Website | http://www.nicholasdc.com | | Followers on Houzz | 591 | **Social profiles:** - Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/NicholasDesignCollaborative - X (Twitter) — https://twitter.com/NicholasPeterM - LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=40661657&authType=NAME\_SEARCH&authToken=7zb4&locale=en\_US&t - Blog — http://www.nicholasdc.com ## Contact - **Houzz profile:** [Nicholas Design Collaborative](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/nicholas-design-collaborative-pfvwus-pf~1954802797) - **Website:** http://www.nicholasdc.com - **Phone:** (312) 243-7799 ## Credentials **Certifications & Awards** - 2016 - 20 Best Architects in Chicago, Expertise.com; 2015 -15 Best Architects in Chicago, Build Direct Magazine; 2015 ALA - 2 Awards of Merit; 2013-14; 2012 AIA Chicago Small Project Awards; Honor Award; 2010 ALA, Gold Medal; 2010, 2008 ALA, Silver Medal; 2002, 2003, 2008, 2010, 2012 Merit Award - **Best of Houzz:** 5 awards (2014–2017), for Design, Service. **Affiliations** - [Association Of Licensed Architects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/association-of-licensed-architects-pfvwus-pf~1888392227) - [AIA Chicago](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/aia-chicago-pfvwus-pf~437317530) ## Reviews **Overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 — 18 reviews** ### Reviews **★★★★★ — D C, Aug. 2019** > Peter Nicholas designed and built a stunning home for us (Hyde Park house). We love having a beautiful home that perfectly fits the way we live. > > We really enjoyed the design process and the building process went smoothly. Building a home is an enormous financial decision and we felt like we could trust Peter every step of the way. **★★★★★ — Van Inwegen Digital Arts, July 2016** > Working with Peter to photograph his projects has been a very enjoyable process. Hi is a client who not only has a very clear idea of what he wants in his photography but is also a good listener willing to accept suggestions. The ease with which we have collaborated, places him among my favorite clients in a process that can sometimes be stressful if the personal chemistry isn’t right. > > I highly recommend anyone with a design project large or small to consider working with Peter. His exceptional creativity and comfortable manner are hallmarks of the consummate professional. **Comment from Nicholas Design Collaborative:** > Thanks Bruce the feeling is mutual and we will be working on more things going forward. **★★★★★ — Tim Cross, Dec. 2014** > The project scope included total gut rehab of existing structure, architectural design of rebuild and general contractor oversight of entire project. > > Not having done this before, I was very apprehensive going into the project,but I was so excited about Peter's design and vision for the property that I took the risk, There turned out to be zero risk as the project was completed as promised and the end result is amazing. Peter was with us every step of the way which included multiple visits to design studios, cabinet fabricators, marble and stone companies, etc. And he was on site virtually every day until the project was completed. Peter has great vision, but he also listens and made adjustment along the way to make the home the way we wanted. Truly Collaborative!! **Comment from Nicholas Design Collaborative:** > Tim - Periscope was one of the most rewarding and successful projects I have had in my career. To have the opportunity to work with you and Jamie in selecting the finishes and to build it with you as both architect and builder was phenomenal. I am honored to have you and Jamie as personal friends and clients! **★★★★★ — jammcginn, Dec. 2014** > Peter was GREAT, I am impressed with his professionalism and his work ethic. My partner and I could not be happier. We went into the whole project with blind faith and Peter never lets us down. If it comes a time again to build another house we would for sure want Peter on our side again. **★★★★★ — Adam S, Dec. 2014** > My wife and I worked with Peter on an extensive gut renovation, both for master plan as well as overall guidance throughout the project. Peter was a pleasure to work with. His ideas were creative and practical. His insights and guidance at each step of the way were spot on. > > Peter incorporated unique design elements, based on our lifestyle and family's needs as well as working within the constraints of renovating a 100 year old structure. Peter's expertise was well appreciated from guiding us on the selection of small aesthetic materials all the way to the larger structural options and everything in between. **★★★★★ — Vera Decorative Concrete, Dec. 2014** > Having had the good fortune of working for many Chicago-land prominent Architects, Designers & Builders, I place Peter in my top tier of most liked, most talented and most knowledgable in regard to decorative concrete and the specification of premium level residential concrete work. > > Peter relays the subtle differences in concrete media to his customers with ease, a task many do not fully grasp. He allows our process to develop while assuring requests by the homeowner are clear and understood. Our concrete floor plays a leading role in many modern projects and Peter realizes the importance of the concrete aesthetic. > > He has a real vision of our completed work and where it fits into his overall design. > > A pleasure to work with... **★★★★★ — lsmoler, Oct. 2014** > Peter Nicholas is a phenomenal architect and I could not recommend him more highly. My husband and I chose Peter to gut renovate a 3400 square foot apartment due to among other reasons, his design aesthetic, attention to detail, and the fact that he's just a great person to work with. Peter pushed us out of our comfort zone at times, and in retrospect I am grateful for every time he did so. Our project was a true collaboration and Peter listened to our needs and worked hand in hand with us to craft a home we truly love. **★★★★★ — faywe, Oct. 2013** > We built a contemporary home in West Rogers Park with Peter Nicholas and his associates approximately twelve years ago. We also did an addition to this same home afterwards. We were treated respectfully, we felt Peter and his crew did an outstanding job for us!! He was punctual, returned all our phone calls in a timely manner, he was reliable, honest and worked hard to stay within our budget. We would definitely recommend Peter Nicholas to anyone looking to do an addition or build a new home. **★★★★★ — bryanpritchard, Aug. 2013** > I have worked with Peter many times over the past 10 years and find him to be an outstanding design professional. He is practical, yet maintains an eye towards high-quality design and a "wow" factor that makes our residential projects stand out against our peers. Anyone who works with Peter will be extremely satisfied! **★★★★★ — Mia Rao Design, May 2013** > I am an interior designer and have collaborated with Peter on a few design projects. Peter has an amazing understanding of architecture and design. Not only is he an expert in the industry, but he has an inherent a design sensibility. His knowledge of modern and clean-lined design is spot on. > > Peter is also willing to work in a collaborative fashion. As a designer, I appreciate that Peter is open to working with my design ideas as they tie into his theme. He is an excellent project partner! > > He also runs his business in an efficient and fair manner. > > Peter is incredibly skilled at his craft. I would highly recommend Peter to anyone! **★★★★★ — Selena Chin, April 2013** > I found Peter's website a year before we decided we wanted to renovate our home. I knew right away that if we were going to renovate our current home this is who I wanted to design our home. I just needed to convince my husband. We both decided that our current location was where we wanted to be and started on the interview process with several architects. None of them came close to understanding what we want and the style we wanted. We explained to Peter that we both grew up in Chicago, and love every bit of our city's architecture. Concrete, steel, and glass! We also explained to him that we both came from very big families and we needed a place to entertain, but the space needs to be a usable space. We also have young children, and he understood our needs and the kids needs, since he has children himself. We wanted modern and warm. We are a Chinese family so I requested that the house should be Feng Shui. When he came to show us the options. My husband and I was just in love. He did everything we wanted in the space and even Feng Shui the house. We picked the option that worked for us, and had minimal changes. > > Peter and his team listen to us and also made sure that our space was big enough for what we needed. Peter and his team also helped us with choosing the design elements for the house, and now the rest is history! > > We are 95% completed and we love every inch of this house. Can't wait to move in. We have gotten so many compliments from our neighbors, and they can't wait to see the inside. **★★★★★ — Andrew May, March 2013** > My wife and I hired Peter Nicholas to assist us with a gut rehab that we did on a condominium we purchased through a short sale. Peter did a masterful job coming up with innovative and creative solutions to get the maximum use out of the space, while at the same time giving life to the modern aesthetic we envisioned. Not only did he find a way to transform the space from a 3 bedroom / 2 bathroom into 4 bedroom/3 bathroom, he also found a way to harmonize the building's vintage charm with our contemporary palette. Peter offered valuable advice and guidance, but also listened carefully to our needs and concerns. While our project ended up costing a bit more than we anticipated, Peter tirelessly worked with us to keep our costs low - often taking time on the weekends to go with us to vendors to help us make informed decisions. In the end, we couldn't have been more pleased with Peter's services and we are already brainstorming ideas for our next project with Peter. ## Selected projects - [Girard - A Modern Diva](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/girard-a-modern-diva-pj-vj~2973880) - Location: Wilmette, IL - Photos: 6 - Description: A new single family residence on a triangular site next to a golf course fairway. Exterior materials are white stucco, stained cedar, corten steel, painted steel and glass. - [Hyde Park](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/hyde-park-pj-vj~2380832) - Location: Chicago, IL - Photos: 3 - [Highland Park Modern](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/highland-park-modern-pj-vj~2356507) - Location: Highland Park, IL - Photos: 14 - Description: HP Modern is a new construction, 4 home single family courtyard enclave in a suburb north of Chicago which is on the Metra commuter train to Chicago. Homes are designed to be accessible to accommodate any age and mobility without feeling institutional. Typical plans have master bedroom, laundry as well as living, dining, kitchen and office spaces on grade level with direct access to a private courtyard. Each house is approximately 4,100 sf of living space, 4 bedrooms and 3 1/2 baths. South facin… - [Periscope House - Transformational Addition](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/periscope-house-transformational-addition-pj-vj~161872) - Location: Chicago, IL - Photos: 14 - Description: The transformation of a neglected 1950's era 2 bedroom 2 bathroom house into a green, cutting edge 4 bedroom, 3 bath house which saves the existing shell and perimeter wall and inserts complementary elements to create an urban oasis. - [Flite Series - Heritage Harbor](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/flite-series-heritage-harbor-pj-vj~1472991) - Location: Ottawa, IL - Photos: 13 - Description: A four unit townhouse project in the Heritage Harbor marina development in Ottawa, Illinois located 90 minutes or less from Chicago. - [Cortland Residence - Modern Urban Courtyard Mansion](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/cortland-residence-modern-urban-courtyard-mansion-pj-vj~161703) - Location: Chicago, IL - Photos: 22 - Description: New single family urban courtyard house in the Bucktown neighborhood of Chicago which balances privacy and openness with a free flowing layout that connects with private exterior spaces. The house was designed for entertainment while accommodating the needs of a growing young family. - [EDGEBOX - Magnolia Glen - Edgewater - Chicago](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/edgebox-magnolia-glen-edgewater-chicago-pj-vj~1473031) - Location: Chicago, IL - Photos: 17 - Description: A for sale, 3,800 sf single family house on an oversized lot in the heart of Magnolia Glen in the Edgewater neighborhood of Chicago. For sales information, contact Earl Ruthman of Century 21 Affiliated at eruthman@C21affiliated.com and (312) 513-4490. - [The Flame](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/the-flame-pj-vj~2380891) - Location: San Diego, CA - Photos: 6 - [Case Study Houses 2111](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/case-study-houses-2111-pj-vj~1472949) - Location: Highland Park, IL - Photos: 28 - Description: A 4 house enclave in Highland Park, Illinois planned for construction starting in Spring of 2016. For sales information contact Diane Karpman of Berkshire Hathaway, (847) 636-0200, dianekarpman@gmail.com - [Lorel Park Transitional Modern House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/lorel-park-transitional-modern-house-pj-vj~475981) - Location: Skokie, IL - Photos: 10 - Description: The Lorel Park Residence is a 7,000 s.f. 3 level home located in an older, inner ring suburb of Chicago. The house is sited adjacent to a large neighborhood park on a generous corner lot. The house is designed in an L-Shape to enclose and to provide a backdrop for the exterior garden and patio spaces and to orient views toward the park beyond. The house was designed in a pared down Arts and Crafts style with the exterior clad in natural stone and stucco with a slate roof. The interior was design… - [Former Family Room, New Kitchen](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/former-family-room-new-kitchen-pj-vj~194907) - Location: Chicago, IL - Photos: 7 - Description: Client and Interior Designer Allison Baskes always liked the size, connection to the back yard, and natural light in the family room of the house that we designed for her family several years ago, so 10 years later, she decided to switch the kitchen into that space.The result is an expanded kitchen that has become a bright new activity center of the house. - [Sawyer Pool House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/sawyer-pool-house-pj-vj~161781) - Location: Sawyer, MI - Photos: 18 - Description: A contemporary pool house which combines with an existing vacation house to form a peaceful retreat for a Chicago based family. - [Long Avenue II](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/long-avenue-ii-pj-vj~161839) - Location: Skokie, IL - Photos: 11 - Description: A single family residence for a family of 4 living in a suburb near Chicago. - [Roscoe Village Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/roscoe-village-residence-pj-vj~161863) - Location: Chicago, IL - Photos: 8 - Description: A single family residence in the Chicago area of Roscoe Village which sits comfortably in context with its 100 year old neighboring houses while expressing a more open and modern sensibility in the interiors. - [Urban Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/urban-residence-pj-vj~161809) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 9 - Description: A new modern single family residence for a newlywed couple on a tight urban site. - [Prairie Classic](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/prairie-classic-pj-vj~270102) - Location: Lincolnwood, IL - Photos: 5 - Description: A 4,200 square foot, 3 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath single family residence designed for a couple who desired a comfortable environment for themselves, their children and grandchildren. The exterior is finished in a medium color brown brick with a rockface limestone base, limestone belt courses, and second floor limestone panels. The front facade has a formal, decorative presence with custom designed leaded glass panels concentrated at the entry foyer. The interior is detailed in the Prairie Style, howev… - [Roscoe Village Modern House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/roscoe-village-modern-house-pj-vj~552328) - Location: Chicago, IL - Photos: 13 - Description: A new single family house to be located at 3437 N. Seeley Ave in the Roscoe Village Neighborhood of Chicago. Go to www.3437seeley.com for purchase information. - [River House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/river-house-pj-vj~940420) - Location: Chicago, IL - Photos: 3 - Description: A new house on the banks of the Chicago River - [Canyon House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/canyon-house-pj-vj~239673) - Location: San Diego, CA - Photos: 6 - Description: A 4,800 square foot single family residence perched on the side of a canyon in the Mission Hills neighborhood of San Diego. The house was designed to accommodate a blended family with three adult children from one parent and two toddler age children from the other parent. The program contains a 4 bedroom, 3 1/2 bathroom main house, a 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom guest house and 2 two car garages. The main house is positioned as far a possible from the street on the edge of the canyon with the main livi… - [Chicago, IL Swimming Pool, Hot Tub, and Fountain Show Small Space Urban Design](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/chicago-il-swimming-pool-hot-tub-and-fountain-show-small-space-urban-design-pj-vj~440428) - Location: Chicago, IL - Photos: 3 - Description: \http://platinumpoolcare.com/\ This multi-tiered outdoor living project in Chicago is an urban oasis for the homeowner. The swimming pool, measuring 11'6" x 14'4", is 3'0" to 3'6” deep. The swimming pool has a set of full-end steps, and is equipped with an automatic safety cover with vanishing stone lid system. The hot tub, situated alongside the swimming pool, measures 7'3-3/4" x 8'3-3/4", and al… [See all 20 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/nicholas-design-collaborative-pfvwus-pf~1954802797) ## Ideabooks - [Transitional Houses](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/131225023/list/transitional-houses) — 43 ideas - [5549 Bluestone](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/96874355/list/5549-bluestone) — 1 idea - [Girard](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/89401635/list/girard) — 3 ideas - [5549 Stairs](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/69809116/list/5549-stairs) — 20 ideas - [hyde park](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/54357856/list/hyde-park) — 1 idea - [HP Ideas](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/44256235/list/hp-ideas) — 5 ideas - [Development ideas](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/18594323/list/development-ideas) — 18 ideas - [HH exterior stone ideas](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/19066909/list/hh-exterior-stone-ideas) — 11 ideas - [Jake HH character images](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/19056573/list/jake-hh-character-images) — 5 ideas [See all 9 ideabooks](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/petermnicholas) ## Community Q&A **Q: when an island has 2 levels, what is the height of the stools?** *(in Photo Questions)* 2 level kitchen island A: The countertop height is 42”.” The seat of the stool should be between 28”-33”. **Q: what is the siding?** *(in Photo Questions)* And how is it installed? A: The material is Hardiboard mounted on 3/4" strips in order to create and airspace between the siding and building face. This creates ventilation between the two. **Q: Backsplash - what is this stone? beautiful** *(in Photo Questions)* A: It is a 3/4 inch marble slabI don’t have record of the exact type, but if you go to a stone slab warehouse you can find something you like. Every piece is unique! **Q: Stainless tile behind hood** *(in Photo Questions)* Love stainless tile behind hood range! May I please get style and manufacture? Adds beautiful texture to wall! A: Hi Pauline- that project was done 9 years ago, so my records have been archived. I am sure you can find a stainless steel tile at a good tile store. Sorry I can’t be of more help. Peter Nicholas **Q: Divider colour.** *(in Photo Questions)* Beautiful divider. could you let me know the paint colour? A: Wish I could. Don’t have record of that. I believe it USA light grey **Q: island size** *(in Photo Questions)* hello can you tell me the size of your island please? have you found it large enough for the 4 stools that are positioned? Also on the back wall - is that a larder, fridge freezer or leading to a utility room? thanks jane A: The island in the picture is 9'-6" long and is a good size to accommodate 4 stools --- *Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-08-10.*