Business Details
34 Years
experience
Your Collaborative Architecture Partner in Chicago
Interactive Design Architects was founded in 1992 with a clear philosophy: architecture thrives through collaboration. Our firm approaches every project as a partnership, prioritizing direct communication and thoughtful listening to transform client visions into reality. With decades of experience in complex institutional projects, we specialize in creating responsive designs for universities, government agencies, and cultural institutions. Our MBE/WBE certification reflects our commitment to diversity and inclusive design practices.We believe successful architecture emerges from patient analysis of client needs, cultural context, and environmental factors. Our curated team of experienced professionals maintains direct client relationships while collaborating with industry-leading experts to deliver innovative solutions. From feasibility studies to new construction, we navigate the full spectrum of architectural challenges while maintaining our core values of creativity, discernment, and accountability.
Services
Architecture Design
Collaborative Planning
Feasibility Studies
Campus Renovations
Interior Remodeling
New Construction
Details
- Year established: 1992
Highlights and features
- We maintain 30+ years of experience with institutional clients like the University of Chicago
- Our MBE/WBE certification demonstrates commitment to diverse collaborations
- Direct principal involvement ensures personalized attention to every project
- Specialized expertise in complex campus environments and sensitive renovations
- Proven track record with multi-phase projects requiring phased implementation
Associations and certifications
- MBE
- WBE
What people say
Exceptional client communication
Deep institutional knowledge
Creative problem-solving
Reliable project delivery
Diverse team perspectives
Services
Architecture Design
Our architecture design services combine creative vision with technical precision to create functional, sustainable spaces. We work closely with clients to understand their unique needs and translate them into innovative solutions. Our team navigates regulatory requirements while maintaining design integrity across diverse project types.
Campus Renovations
Specialized renovation services for educational and cultural institutions maintain historical context while modernizing facilities. We implement phased construction plans to minimize disruption to ongoing operations while upgrading infrastructure and enhancing user experiences in active campus environments.
Feasibility Studies
Comprehensive feasibility studies evaluate project viability through site analysis, budget projections, and regulatory reviews. Our data-driven approach identifies potential challenges early while developing cost-effective solutions tailored to institutional requirements and long-term facility goals.
Interior Remodeling
Interior remodeling services focus on maximizing functionality and aesthetics within existing structures. We create adaptable spaces that meet evolving institutional needs while maintaining architectural coherence and improving energy efficiency through strategic material selection.
Collaborative Planning
Our collaborative planning process engages stakeholders through workshops and design charrettes to develop shared visions. This inclusive approach ensures all perspectives inform decision-making while building consensus around project goals and implementation strategies.
People
Dina Griffin
President
Dina Griffin leads our firm with 30+ years of architectural experience, specializing in institutional projects. Her visionary leadership maintains our collaborative ethos while expanding our impact through innovative design solutions for complex educational environments.
Charlie Young
Partner
Charlie Young brings technical expertise in sustainable design to our projects. As partner, he oversees construction documentation and implementation, ensuring our designs achieve both aesthetic excellence and functional performance in institutional settings.
Robert Larsen
Partner
Robert Larsen specializes in campus planning and historic preservation. His 25+ years of experience navigating complex institutional projects ensures our clients receive practical solutions that respect architectural heritage while meeting modern requirements.
Roberta Brucato
Architect
Roberta Brucato focuses on interior architecture and accessibility compliance. Her attention to detail ensures our designs meet rigorous institutional standards while creating welcoming environments that enhance user experiences across diverse campus communities.
Jeffrey Parfitt
Associate
Jeffrey Parfitt specializes in sustainable design practices and LEED certification processes. He contributes technical expertise to our green building initiatives while developing innovative solutions that balance environmental responsibility with institutional needs.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialize in?
We specialize in institutional architecture including campus renovations, feasibility studies, interior remodeling, and new construction projects for universities and government agencies.
Are you certified as a minority-owned business?
Yes, we hold both MBE (Minority Business Enterprise) and WBE (Women Business Enterprise) certifications demonstrating our commitment to diverse collaborations.
How long have you been in business?
Since our founding in 1992, we've maintained direct client relationships while delivering over 30 years of architectural solutions for complex institutional projects.
What makes your design process unique?
Our interactive process emphasizes direct communication, patient listening, and collaborative problem-solving to create architecture that truly serves client needs and cultural contexts.
Which notable clients have you worked with?
We've maintained long-term relationships with prestigious institutions including the University of Chicago, Art Institute of Chicago, and US General Services Administration.
How do you handle complex renovation projects?
Our team combines technical expertise with contextual sensitivity to navigate challenges in historic buildings and active campus environments while preserving architectural integrity.
