--- title: "Studio Nigro — Architects & Building Designers | Houzz" canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/studio-nigro-pfvwus-pf~58799794 markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~58799794.md entity_type: LocalBusiness business_name: "Studio Nigro" category: ["Architects"] image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/65b36cb001dd7fdd_1075-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg address: "5336 W. Warner Ave, Chicago, Illinois 60641, United States" latitude: 41.9453 longitude: -87.7474 phone: "(773) 817-4527" website: http://studionigroarch.com rating: 5 review_count: 22 best_of_houzz_awards: 5 followers: 249 last_updated: 2026-09-10 --- # Studio Nigro Original Houzz profile: [Studio Nigro](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/studio-nigro-pfvwus-pf~58799794) ## Professional summary - **Primary category:** Architects - **Location:** Chicago, IL - **Serves:** Chicago, Evanston, Schaumburg, Arlington Heights, Skokie, Des Plaines, Oak Park, Glenview, Elmhurst, Park Ridge, Northbrook, Niles, Wilmette, Morton Grove, Hinsdale, La Grange, Lincolnwood, River Forest, Kenilworth, All Chicago Suburbs, Michigan/ Wisconsin Lakeshore, Missouri, North Carolina - **Houzz rating:** 5.0 out of 5 (22 reviews) - **Best of Houzz:** 5 awards (2014–2025), for Design, Service. ## About ### Houzz Badges - Star Houzzer - Houzz Influencer - Recommended on Houzz - 10,000 Ideabook Saves We are passionate about working as your partner to create thoughtful, nourishing spaces for the things that matter most. Together, we craft the settings for everyday moments that become cherished memories. Healthy Living. Elegant, efficient spaces. Connection to the outdoors. Let us help you to bring all of these things together in your home. At Studio Nigro Architecture + Design, we help clients construct healthy environments that nurture our families, our work, our play, and our planet. We do this through efficient use of each project’s resources — spatial, natural, and financial. As your architect, with our team of experienced designers and engineers, we look forward to collaborating with you in realizing your dreams for your home. ### 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 - Energy-Efficient Homes - Floor Plans - 3D Rendering - Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) - Green Building - Guesthouse Design & Construction - Multigenerational Homes - Universal Design - Pool House Design & Construction - Home Restoration - Historic Building Conservation - Project Management - Outdoor Kitchen Design - Barn Design & Construction - Attic Conversion - Staircase Design - Laundry Room Design - Modular Home Additions - Passive Solar Heating & Cooling - Prefab Houses ### Areas Served - Chicago - Evanston - Schaumburg - Arlington Heights - Skokie - Des Plaines - Oak Park - Glenview - Elmhurst - Park Ridge - Northbrook - Niles - Wilmette - Morton Grove - Hinsdale - La Grange - Lincolnwood - River Forest - Kenilworth - All Chicago Suburbs - Michigan/ Wisconsin Lakeshore - Missouri - North Carolina ### Typical Job Cost $500,000 - 2,500,000 ## Business Details | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Business Name | Studio Nigro | | Address | 5336 W. Warner Ave, Chicago, Illinois 60641, United States | | Phone | (773) 817-4527 | | Website | http://studionigroarch.com | | Followers on Houzz | 249 | **Social profiles:** - Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/StudioNigro?ref=hl - LinkedIn — http://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=28006906&goback=%2Enmp\_\*1\_\*1\_\*1\_\*1\_\*1\_\*1\_\*1\_\*1\_\*1\_\*1&trk=spm - Blog — www.studionigroarch.com ## Contact - **Houzz profile:** [Studio Nigro](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/studio-nigro-pfvwus-pf~58799794) - **Website:** http://studionigroarch.com - **Phone:** (773) 817-4527 ## Credentials **Certifications & Awards** - Licensed Architect in Illinois, Missouri, Michigan - LEED AP Homes - Burnham Prize Fellow of the American Academy in Rome - **Best of Houzz:** 5 awards (2014–2025), 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) - [U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC)](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/u-s-green-building-council-usgbc-pfvwus-pf~1797160658) - [Passive House Institute US](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/passive-house-institute-us-pfvwus-pf~1579791328) ## Reviews **Overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 — 22 reviews** *Aspect averages:* - Work Quality: 50.0 - Communication: 50.0 - Value: 50.0 ### Reviews **★★★★★ — Beth Eveland Design, Sept. 2023** > Kim and I have collaborated on multiple projects over the past 10 years or so. I always look forward to working together and some of my favorite projects from my portfolio are those that I've done with Kim. Her attention to detail, knowledge base and creativity are unmatched, and I'm always impressed with how well she guides clients through what can often be a very overwhelming process. If you're looking for someone to make it easy for you, hire Kim! **Comment from Studio Nigro:** > Beth- thanks so much! You know I LOVE teaming up. Your beautiful selections and incredible project management skills always help me to keep clients happy and on the right track. Here's to many more successful collaborations in 2024 and beyond! **★★★★★ — J&N, Sept. 2023** > When you select an architect, especially for the first time the leap you are taking is significant. The leap is well beyond trust, but competence across architecture, design and communication. (I'm sure there is more) > > Studio Nigro, Kim and her team were just amazing, going beyond our expectations from the level of collaboration, flexibility and thoughtfulness in approaching our renovation project. They got to know us, and apply that knowledge to some unique design choices. This helped us move efficiently through designs, to bring the best ideas forward. Kim also stood out for the respect she earned from the trades, for her detailed drawings, and building expertise. > > Studio Nigro brought to life a dream that we never imagined could be real. We can't recommend Kim, and her team enough! **Comment from Studio Nigro:** > J&N, collaborating with clients like you is the BEST part of my work. Seeing your wonderful family happily and snuggly enjoying your beautifully renovated and more efficient home--that is what it's all about! Thanks for continuing to share photos and stories of your journey in your home! **★★★★★ — Tricia Luzadder, Nov. 2020** > Kim is wonderful to work with. She listens to what you want to do and then puts her talents and creativity to work. She was willing to take the time to draw several plans for our addition - each one better than the next. I highly recommend Kim Nigro. In fact, we have referred her to our neighbors and friends! **★★★★★ — Wendy, Sept. 2020** > We engaged with owner Kim of Studio Nigro for a home addition beginning in late 2019. After interviewing four other firms, we decided to work with Kim because she seemed to "get" our vision, make thoughtful suggestions, and was reasonably priced (not cheapest, not most expensive). She and her associate Mary were very helpful throughout the process and worked closely with us every step of the way. She was always available and is approachable and down to earth. We are very pleased with the outcome and amazed at how exact the finished product is compared to the idea board I shared with her from the beginning, plus some features she had foresight to suggest. **Comment from Studio Nigro:** > Wendy, thank you so much for your kind words. It was a pleasure to work with you and your family. I'm so glad you are enjoying the new space--and so glad we got it done just in time for us all to be stuck at home WAY more than any of us ever anticipated! **★★★★★ — Kory Dieter, Aug. 2018** > Studio Nigro was a dream to work with. We stretched our budget a bit in order to work with Kim and her team, hoping that proper planning on the front end might help us to shave unexpected costs down the road. Kim's professionalism, thoughtfulness, and flexibility left us feeling very comfortable with her work from day one. > > Our project included an attic addition (master suite + loft) and a kitchen renovation to incorporate a new interior staircase. Kim optimized the space in our old Chicago two-flat, brought several great options on how we could (attractively) expand our home and also brought some interesting design options to make our project less of a cookie cutter renovation. > > Prior to signing on with her, she was also able to walk us through two recent projects she completed so we could get a sense of the different ways she met her clients' needs. > > Overall, Kim was a joy to work with, and while the process took a bit longer than we anticipated due to the city zoning and permit process, Kim always managed expectations and gave us "homework" so that we could at least stay on track on our end. I would highly recommend Studio Nigro and would not hesitate to work with Kim on future projects. **Comment from Studio Nigro:** > Kory, thank you so much. Working with you and Brandon has been such a wonderful experience. As I mentioned earlier today--you are both so organized and decisive, you make my job easy! I am excited to see the project through construction, and would love to work with you again. **★★★★★ — Julie Kochanek, March 2018** > Kim is incredibly talented and innovative. She made the process easy for us using Houzz ideabooks to understand our style and wish list. Her early drafts were spot on. Throughout the design and construction process, Kim helped us think through choices and provided options to consider when we didn't have immediate opinions. I would use Kim again without hesitation! **★★★★★ — Brea Keating, Dec. 2017** > Kim wasn't available/interested in my project, however she spent nearly an hour on the phone with me, offering advice on architects and builders that might be perfect for my project. > > Who does that? > > I found the right architect thanks to her and I'm very thankful for the free advice. **Comment from Studio Nigro:** > Brea--always happy to help in whatever way I can. My plate was overly full when we spoke, but I'm so glad to hear that you found a great architect to team up with. Best of luck on your project, and thanks for taking time to post this! Who does THAT?! ;) Much appreciated. **★★★★★ — Sarah Halloran, April 2017** > I can't recommend Kim highly enough. We worked with Kim on two projects. The first was renovating our basement and the second was our attic renovation for our master bedroom/bathroom in our +100 year old home. In both projects Kim was prompt and insightful. She helped my husband and I to see how best to use both spaces and drew architectural plans to suit our needs. She was able to blend a new modern light filled attic space within our more traditional older home seamlessly. Throughout the building process, she was available for consultation and offered great advice. Kim is down to earth and listened to our needs, budget and deadlines. If we were to take on another project we would consider ourselves lucky to work with Kim again. **★★★★★ — Nora Kerr, April 2017** > I have worked with Kim on a volunteer committee and she is amazing to work with. She's reliable, gives great insight and has brings so much of her time and talent to the table. We are grateful to have her! **★★★★★ — James Stauber, Oct. 2016** > Kim at Studio Nigro helped us plan a space that really works for us. The renovations we’re making will complement the existing character of our home and will work really well for us day-to-day as a family. **Comment from Studio Nigro:** > Thanks, Jim! Always great to work with you and Joy! **★★★★★ — jconno1, Aug. 2016** > I can't say enough good things about my experience with Kim Nigro, of Studio Nigro. My project was a gut-rehab of an existing Chicago home. Although she would have moved faster if I wanted, I chose to take my time, spending a number of months in the design phase. If I wasn't satisfied in every way about the design, then she wasn't satisfied. Now we are at the end of construction so I feel I have a thorough understanding of her approach and skill-set. Kim demonstrated the highest level of thoughtfulness about the design (over and over!) as well as patience bringing me through the process. She always worked for the best outcome for me and my needs specifically. No odd detail I brought up was too small for her. I leaned heavily on Ms. Nigro for the design as well as the contract and construction management. It was an investment in a full-service contract and I can't imagine doing it another way. The efficiencies and resources I gained using her services all the way through the project paid-off in more ways than one. I did a thorough vetting of local architects in the beginning and she stands out because she is the full package---inspired and careful design as well as a skilled manager. Managing is really important----I sincerely encourage others to consider the full-service approach. > Kim has a sterling architectural background as well as a depth of experience with the city processes that only comes with time. Her professional roots in the area afforded me extra resources and helped move things forward. I noticed she regularly anticipated situations and managed them ahead of time; and I was grateful she stepped-up without prompting from me to manage kinks when they did arise ( she took initiative to solve issues even though they did not originate with her.) It made me feel she guarded my interests in the process and acts as a true professional. I whole-heartedly recommend both her design and management skills ---you will want Studio NIgro on your side in this process! **Comment from Studio Nigro:** > Jeanine, I can't thank you enough for your kind words. Working with you has been such a pleasure. I can't wait to see the finishes come together this next month, and to see you and your family enjoying your home! **★★★★★ — ssteckler, March 2016** > Kim Nigro is very talented and has great ideas. She thinks of every detail no matter how small. Kim was a pleasure to work with; always responsive to questions or concerns. ## Selected projects - [Fox River Valley Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/fox-river-valley-residence-pj-vj~7290672) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 25 - Description: The land, lake, and views this home offered were enough to draw this family of six out of the city, affording some room to spread out and cultivate creativity. This light-filled home had great bones and voluminous spaces, but was in need of updates, providing the opportunity to reflect their own taste and lifestyle. We helped master plan a series of renovations that will take place over the next few years, and got started with the kitchen and new floors on the first floor, and a total renovation… - [Roscoe Street Green Home](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/roscoe-street-green-home-pj-vj~4342420) - Location: Chicago, IL - Photos: 24 - Description: This green modern home in Roscoe Village was designed for our clients who wanted to move back into the city after having raised their kids. Our design accommodated the large family that would be coming home, while still creating an efficient and functional layout for the husband and wife. With a large glassy central atrium and solar skylights, the home will benefit from natural ventilation and appropriate daylighting. Superior insulation and photovoltaic panels on the roof round out the Energy S… - [Roscoe Village Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/roscoe-village-residence-pj-vj~148227) - Location: Chicago, IL - Photos: 7 - Description: This stately greystone had been the victim of numerous piecemeal renovations. The current owners expressed a desire for a more cohesive design in their gathering spaces. Kim Nigro, working with Wilkinson Blender Architecture, suggested a simple, modern aesthetic with warm finishes and classic detailing to complement the owners’ vintage furnishings and eclectic art. The new design aesthetic extended to the new master bath with a marble-clad soaking tub sharing a glass-tiled wall with the open sho… - [Lincoln Square Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/lincoln-square-residence-pj-vj~6043091) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 15 - Description: This renovation is a story about the evolving needs of family and how a house can be reimagined to meet those needs. Our client moved to Lincoln Square to be near extended family. She wanted to create her ideal home, but she also wanted flexibility for the future. We redesigned the house to include a separate basement suite that could be used by her many nieces and nephews during their college years. But just as we finished the initial designs, it became clear that the client’s aging mother woul… - [Recreation House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/recreation-house-pj-vj~148088) - Location: Chicago, IL - Photos: 15 - Description: How fast and green could we build a guesthouse with an indoor basketball court? That was the challenge posed to us by our client. Studio Nigro, working with Bob Brobson Inc., proposed a quick construction method of a precast, super-insulated concrete structure using Thermomass wall panels. In just seven days, the structure was up, and ready to be completed with a skin of reclaimed redwood adding depth and warmth to the facade. - [Lakewood Balmoral Historic District Home](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/lakewood-balmoral-historic-district-home-pj-vj~4339591) - Location: Chicago, IL - Photos: 23 - Description: Our clients fell in love with this Craftsman home in the Lakewood Balmoral Historic District, but it needed quite a bit of work to bring it back to it’s original beauty and to meet their family’s lifestyle. We have replaced a first floor full bathroom with a grand central staircase to reflect the details of the home’s front rooms. As you move toward the back of the house, we opened up the plan for a more modern lifestyle with fluid kitchen and living spaces. Over the staircase is a large skyligh… - [LaGrange Modern Family](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/lagrange-modern-family-pj-vj~5029116) - Location: La Grange, IL - Photos: 21 - [Northside Rowhouse](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/northside-rowhouse-pj-vj~7312625) - Location: Chicago, IL - Photos: 17 - Description: This charming historic rowhouse and our client's eclectic art and collections immediately sparked our imagination, recalled images of travels, and pointed toward unique solutions for a confined property. Our client's initial desire was to renovate the kitchen and turn a cold, catch-all enclosed back porch into an inviting sunroom that would connect the indoor spaces to the garden terrace in back. The zoning limitations lead us to the creative solution of a sloped 2nd floor wall/roof, evoking mem… - [Northern Illinois Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/northern-illinois-residence-pj-vj~7293891) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 16 - [Sacramento Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/sacramento-residence-pj-vj~148098) - Location: Chicago, IL - Photos: 7 - Description: A re-unification of a Ravenswood Manor two-flat into a single family home. The clients’ respect for the original detailing of the home in certain areas was balanced with their desire for a more modern aesthetic in the new kitchen and family room. Reconfiguration of the second floor included a new art studio to accommodate the homeowners’ own personal design talents. - [Lincoln Park Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/lincoln-park-residence-pj-vj~148143) - Location: Chicago, IL - Photos: 10 - Description: Turning a little-used third floor into a family gathering area and additional bedroom space was the dream of this couple with a growing family. Studio Nigro redesigned the area as a library and homework area. The douglas fir wood exudes the luxury of a paneled library while a large graphic-print wallpaper reinforces a modern take on the study space. The two bedrooms feature custom millwork, trim, and textiles, and share a new luxuriously light-filled bathroom. - [Hollywood Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/hollywood-residence-pj-vj~148212) - Location: Chicago, IL - Photos: 8 - Description: Studio Nigro’s renovation of this classic clay-tile roofed Chicago Bungalow won a Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Bungalow Award. Incorporating new daylighting with traditional craftsman details provided the homeowners with a contemporary layout that respected the heritage of the home. Super-efficient insulation and windows, low-VOC finishes, and reclaimed wood flooring create a retreat that is as warm and relaxing as it is earth-friendly. - [Oak Bark Bungalow](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/oak-bark-bungalow-pj-vj~2062311) - Location: Oak Park, IL - Photos: 7 - Description: We were able to accommodate a tight budget for this first floor/kitchen remodel. We made use of bamboo plywood for custom open shelves and upper cabinets, which was less expensive because it didn't need edge-banding. We also built in a custom cubby within a wall of Ikea pantry cabinets, and in the bathroom, again built in Ikea cabinets for storage. The kitchen island is butcher block, and rest of counters are quartz composite. - [Factory House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/factory-house-pj-vj~148220) - Location: Chicago, IL - Photos: 7 - [Lickity Split Frozen Custard](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/lickity-split-frozen-custard-pj-vj~148239) - Location: Chicago, IL - Photos: 8 - Description: What could be more delicious than stepping back into a slice of classic Americana? Setting the stage for such an experience required Studio Nigro to work closely with the client as they spent months finding the right salvaged cabinets, rescuing the original tin ceiling, and finishing it with the appropriate vintage and industrial accents. Sliding glass windows allow customers to sit at the counters and enjoy the breeze with their cool treats. Life couldn’t be sweeter! [See all 15 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/studio-nigro-pfvwus-pf~58799794) ## Ideabooks - [Wish List](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/155598194/list/wish-list) — 6 ideas - [S Martinez Residence](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/80624004/list/s-martinez-residence) — 32 ideas - [HOOD WRAP](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/54311921/list/hood-wrap) — 2 ideas - [ZB Exteriors](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/117865317/list/zb-exteriors) — 7 ideas - [landscape](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/638242/list/landscape) — 50 ideas - [staging images](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/17653412/list/staging-images) — 9 ideas - [Laundry Room](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/115596230/list/laundry-room) — 1 idea - [INdoorOUTdoor](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/114076478/list/indooroutdoor) — 3 ideas - [stairs](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/4425336/list/stairs) — 12 ideas - [Modern Wainscoting](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/104051435/list/modern-wainscoting) — 2 ideas - [Attic rooms](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/101928181/list/attic-rooms) — 1 idea - [Hearns](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/74600442/list/hearns) — 32 ideas - [modern cottage](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/17828662/list/modern-cottage) — 49 ideas - [Glenview](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/85892871/list/glenview) — 3 ideas - [Plymouth Court](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/82529052/list/plymouth-court) — 12 ideas - [Carroll Residence](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/71360136/list/carroll-residence) — 12 ideas - [Beautiful Hallway](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/76821200/list/beautiful-hallway) — 2 ideas - [Kid at Heart](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/76821150/list/kid-at-heart) — 1 idea - [Modern Bath](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/76807940/list/modern-bath) — 10 ideas - [mudrooms](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/638191/list/mudrooms) — 9 ideas [See all 39 ideabooks](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/studionigro) ## Community Q&A **Q: what color is used on the blue built-ins?** *(in Photo Questions)* Hoping to get the color for the blue built-ins. Can’t seem to figure out how to ask a question of the relevant photo. A: Sorry- I don't have that information. This project was completed 5 years ago and the client made the final selection from a group of sample colors. **Q: Can you tell the brand & size of the tub in the bathroom w aqua tiles?** *(in Photo Questions)* For this bathroom…can u tell me the brand and type of tub used? The size? A: Sorry- this project was completed over 20 years ago. There a many rectangular acrylic drop-in tubs available on the market these days by Maax, Kohler and others. The 3 sides were clad with calcutta gold marble slabs. It's roughly a 32"x72" bathtub. **Q: what type of wood was used in shower** *(in Photo Questions)* Looking for what type of wood was used in shower floor A: It's reclaimed teak wood, which is a tropical hardwood and can withstand water well. It has been oiled in this case to maintain the natural wood color rather than graying out, which it would otherwise naturaly do, but slowly since indoors. **Q: What type of privacy glass did you use in the window? Thanks.** *(in Photo Questions)* A: This was a new Marvin Integrity window, and we ordered it with frosted glass. **Q: Linoleum floor? If so, what brand, etc.? What grout on walls?** *(in Photo Questions)* A: The floor is Carrera marble mosaic basketweave tile. **Q: What are the tile brand and colors?** *(in Photo Questions)* Tile brand and co,or something please? A: Sorry, this project was 12 years ago. The tile was a back-painted glass from Tile Gallery in Chicago, but I don't have a record of the color. --- *Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-09-10.*