Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Trusted Architects in Rockford, IL | Larson & Darby
Larson & Darby has been delivering architectural, engineering, and interior design solutions since 1963. Our firm combines 60 years of experience with a collaborative approach to create environments that enhance how people live, learn, work, and connect. Our team of certified professionals brings specialized expertise in architecture, structural engineering, and sustainable design to projects across diverse markets. We prioritize client partnerships, balancing creativity with practicality to meet project goals for schedule, scope, and budget. As a full-service firm, we integrate interdisciplinary perspectives to solve complex design challenges. Our legacy includes over 500 awards for excellence and a reputation for innovation recognized by institutions like the American Institute of Architects.Headquartered in Rockford, Illinois, we serve clients regionally, nationally, and internationally. Our commitment to quality is demonstrated through landmark projects such as the Sundstrand Corporation Plant 6 and the University of Illinois Siebel Center. We maintain industry leadership through advanced technologies like virtual design visualization and specialized expertise in machine foundation design. This combination of experience, technical capability, and client focus has sustained our growth and reputation for six decades.
Services
Architecture
Structural Engineering
Interior Design
Machine Foundations
Master Planning
Sustainable Design
Virtual Design
Details
- Year established: 1963
Highlights and features
- We offer 60 years of architectural expertise across 12 market sectors
- Our full-service approach integrates architecture, engineering, and interior design
- We maintain AIA award-winning standards for design excellence
- Our team includes LEED-certified professionals for sustainable solutions
- We combine proven methods with cutting-edge virtual design technology
Services
Architecture
Our architectural services focus on creating functional, aesthetically pleasing spaces tailored to client needs. We handle projects from initial concept through construction documentation, specializing in academic, corporate, and industrial facilities. With six decades of experience, we combine technical expertise with creative solutions to meet modern design challenges.
Structural Engineering
Since 1977, we've provided in-house structural engineering expertise for diverse projects. Our engineers develop innovative solutions for complex structural challenges while maintaining compliance with safety standards. We work closely with architects to ensure seamless integration of engineering systems within architectural designs.
Interior Design
Our interior design team creates timeless, functional environments that enhance user experience. We specialize in commercial and institutional spaces, focusing on material selection, lighting design, and spatial organization. Our LEED-certified designers balance aesthetics with sustainability to create productive environments.
Machine Foundations
We are global leaders in designing heavy machinery foundations for manufacturing facilities. Our engineers and architects collaborate to create vibration-isolated foundations that meet precise technical requirements. This specialized service supports industrial clients seeking precision engineering solutions for production equipment.
Sustainable Design
Our sustainable design approach integrates energy-efficient systems and eco-friendly materials throughout the building lifecycle. We help clients achieve LEED certification and meet environmental goals without compromising design integrity. Our team stays current with evolving sustainability standards to deliver forward-thinking solutions.
People
Stephen Nelson
CEO
Stephen Nelson leads Larson & Darby as CEO, bringing extensive architectural expertise and strategic vision. With decades of experience in the industry, he focuses on maintaining the firm's legacy of design excellence while guiding its future growth and innovation.
Chris Anderson
President
As President, Chris Anderson oversees firm operations and project execution. A licensed architect with NCARB certification, he ensures technical excellence across projects while maintaining client relationships and advancing the firm's commitment to architectural innovation since joining the leadership team.
Sherry Gaumond
COO
Sherry Gaumond serves as Chief Operating Officer and Director of Interior Design. With LEED certification, she leads the interior design group while managing firm operations. Her expertise in commercial interior design spans decades, focusing on creating functional, sustainable spaces for clients.
Burt Andrews
Principal
Burt Andrews contributes as a Principal and Senior Architect, applying his NCARB-certified expertise to complex projects. With a career spanning multiple decades at Larson & Darby, he provides technical leadership and design oversight while mentoring emerging professionals in the firm's Rockford office.
Ged Trias
Director of Design
Ged Trias leads design initiatives as a Principal and Director of Design. His architectural vision has shaped numerous award-winning projects across the firm's portfolio. With a focus on innovation, he ensures design excellence while maintaining the firm's commitment to creative problem-solving and technical precision.
Questions
What services does Larson & Darby Group offer?
We provide architecture, structural engineering, interior design, machine foundation design, master planning, sustainable design, and virtual design visualization services.
How long has Larson & Darby Group been in business?
We've served clients since 1963, celebrating 60 years of architectural excellence in 2023.
What geographic areas do you serve?
While based in Rockford, Illinois, we complete projects regionally, nationally, and internationally for diverse clients.
What industries do you specialize in?
We work across 12 market sectors including academic, healthcare, corporate, industrial, and cultural facilities.
What makes Larson & Darby Group unique?
Our combination of 60-year experience, full-service capabilities, and collaborative approach creates tailored solutions that balance creativity with practicality.
