Business Details
21 Years
experience
Your Trusted Architecture & Interior Design Partner in Chicago
KOO is a Chicago-based architecture, interior design, and urban planning firm dedicated to crafting buildings and interior environments that create unique identities for each project. Our collaborative studio environment fosters design thinking, where every team member contributes ideas and inspiration. With expertise in hospitality, residential, educational, and civic projects, we balance innovation with technical rigor while prioritizing sustainability through certifications like LEED and membership in the US Green Building Council.Our team includes certified professionals in MBE, WBE, and DBE programs, ensuring diverse perspectives and compliance with industry standards. We specialize in transforming spaces through adaptive reuse, zoning analysis, and construction administration, serving clients with a focus on community engagement and sustainable practices.
Services
Architecture
Interior Design
Urban Planning
Sustainable Design
Construction Administration
Details
- Year established: 2005
Highlights and features
- Our collaborative studio environment fosters innovative design thinking.
- We specialize in LEED-certified sustainable architecture and urban planning.
- Certified experts in MBE, WBE, and DBE programs ensure diverse perspectives.
- Proven track record in adaptive reuse and historic preservation projects.
- Client-centric approach prioritizing community engagement and technical excellence.
Associations and certifications
- MBE
- WBE
- DBE
- US Green Building Council
What people say
Innovative spaces
Collaborative team
Sustainability focus
Award-winning designs
Client-centric approach
Services
Architecture
KOO provides comprehensive architectural services from feasibility studies to construction administration. Our expertise spans zoning compliance, schematic design, and LEED-certified projects, ensuring technical rigor and creative vision. We specialize in hospitality, residential, and institutional buildings, delivering solutions that balance innovation with functionality.
Interior Design
Our interior design services focus on creating functional, aesthetically pleasing environments. We offer programming, finish selection, and custom hospitality design, emphasizing user experience and brand identity. Projects include boutique hotels, multi-family housing, and adaptive reuse spaces that reflect each client's unique vision.
Urban Planning
KOO's urban planning services address community engagement, phasing, and sustainable growth. We conduct zoning analysis and site planning to create cohesive urban environments. Our work integrates mixed-use developments and green infrastructure, prioritizing walkability and public spaces in cities like Chicago.
Sustainable Design
We specialize in LEED certification, net-zero design, and energy-efficient solutions. Our sustainable design services include Enterprise Green Communities compliance and renewable energy integration. Projects emphasize environmental stewardship while meeting rigorous performance standards for modern buildings.
Construction Administration
KOO manages construction documentation, bidding, and contract administration to ensure project success. Our team oversees permit acquisition, contractor negotiations, and on-site compliance, guaranteeing designs translate seamlessly from concept to reality with attention to detail and budget.
People
Jackie Koo
Founder
Jackie KOO founded KOO in 2005 after 15 years in corporate firms. With 25 years of experience, she has led complex projects across hospitality, residential, and institutional sectors. A University of Illinois at Chicago graduate, she merges philosophy with design.
Dan Rapppel
Director of Sustainable Design
Dan Rapppel specializes in LEED-certified projects and sustainable strategies. With 25 years of experience, he has won four AIA awards and led initiatives like the LEED Platinum Kresge Foundation. He balances family life in Forest Glen with coaching and music.
Andrew Buck
Associate Principal
Andrew Buck oversees residential and hospitality projects, including the Sable Hotel at Navy Pier. A University of Illinois and Washington University graduate, he has led complex developments for five years and contributes to AIA and Urban Land Institute.
Alyssa Herbst
Architect
Alyssa Herbst blends cultural influences from Chicago and Brazil into her designs. An Illinois Institute of Technology graduate, she draws inspiration from Le Corbusier and Lina Bo Bardi, focusing on community-building through architecture and urban planning.
Bruce Roth
Project Manager
Bruce Roth brings 30 years of experience in building technology and construction methodology. A Southwestern Wisconsin native, he mentors junior staff and manages office operations while researching family ancestry and enjoying architectural history.
Questions
What services does KOO offer?
KOO provides architecture, interior design, urban planning, and sustainable design services, specializing in LEED certification, adaptive reuse, and community-focused developments.
Is KOO certified as a minority-owned business?
Yes, KOO is certified as a Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) and Women Business Enterprise (WBE) in Chicago.
What notable projects has KOO completed?
Notable projects include theWit Hotel, Chicago High School for the Arts, and the Dual-Brand Hyatt House, emphasizing innovative design and historic preservation.
Does KOO focus on sustainable design?
Yes, KOO prioritizes sustainability through LEED certification, net-zero design, and membership in the US Green Building Council.
Where is KOO based?
KOO is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, with a focus on local and national architectural projects.
