Business Details
35 Years
experience
Trusted Architects in Galena, IL
Baranski Hammer Moretta Sheehy (BHMS) was founded in 1991 in Galena, Illinois, initially focusing on historic preservation and custom residential work. Over three decades, the firm expanded its expertise through the acquisition of Moretta & Sheehy Architects in 2006, adding institutional and commercial capabilities. Our team combines diverse skills to deliver tailored solutions for clients ranging from local businesses to large institutions. We prioritize client goals through a collaborative design process that emphasizes creativity and technical precision. Utilizing advanced 3D design tools, we help clients visualize projects in immersive environments to make informed decisions.Our portfolio spans residential, commercial, religious, and governmental sectors, reflecting our adaptability to varied project demands. BHMS maintains a regional focus while serving diverse markets through offices in Galena, Chicago, and Portland. Our commitment to quality is evident in projects like Loyola University renovations, Riverwoods Village Hall, and the Ashton Hill Farm Venue. We specialize in historic preservation, ADA compliance, and life safety analysis, ensuring modern functionality while respecting architectural heritage. With a philosophy rooted in client service, we cultivate partnerships that drive successful outcomes for every project.
Services
Architecture
Master Planning
Design Services
Historic Preservation
Restoration
Renovation
Residential Projects
Commercial Projects
ADA Compliance
Multi-Family Housing
Details
- Year established: 1991
Highlights and features
- We combine 30+ years of regional architectural experience with cutting-edge 3D design tools.
- Our collaborative approach prioritizes client goals throughout the design process.
- We specialize in historic preservation while meeting modern functionality standards.
- Our team offers diverse expertise across residential, commercial, and institutional sectors.
- We maintain offices in Galena, Chicago, and Portland for broader regional service.
Services
Architecture
We provide comprehensive architectural services for new constructions and adaptive reuse projects. Our team creates functional, aesthetically pleasing spaces tailored to client needs while complying with local regulations. With expertise in residential, commercial, and institutional sectors, we deliver designs that balance creativity with technical precision.
Historic Preservation
Our specialists protect architectural heritage through meticulous preservation and restoration work. We combine historical research with modern techniques to maintain structural integrity while updating systems for contemporary use. This includes detailed documentation and material analysis to ensure authentic rehabilitation of historic buildings.
Master Planning
We develop comprehensive master plans for campuses, mixed-use developments, and municipal projects. Our approach integrates land use, circulation patterns, and sustainability principles to create cohesive, future-ready environments. This includes feasibility studies and phased implementation strategies for long-term growth.
ADA Compliance
We ensure buildings meet Americans with Disabilities Act requirements through specialized accessibility assessments and retrofit solutions. Our team provides code-compliant designs for new constructions and remediation plans for existing structures, focusing on universal access without compromising aesthetic quality.
3D Design Visualization
Our architects use advanced 3D modeling software to create immersive project visualizations. This technology enables clients to explore spatial relationships and design elements before construction begins, facilitating better decision-making and reducing costly changes during development phases.
Questions
What architectural services does BHMS offer?
We provide full-service architecture including new construction, renovations, historic preservation, master planning, and ADA compliance solutions for residential, commercial, and institutional clients.
How long has BHMS been in business?
The firm was founded in 1991 as Baranski Hammer & Associates, with the current entity established in 2006 following the acquisition of Moretta & Sheehy Architects.
What geographic areas do you serve?
We operate from offices in Galena, Chicago, and Portland, serving clients throughout Illinois and select regional markets for specialized projects.
Do you handle historic building renovations?
Yes, historic preservation remains a core competency since our founding, with expertise in restoring architectural integrity while implementing modern functionality upgrades.
How do you incorporate technology in design?
We use 3D modeling software to create immersive visualizations that help clients understand spatial relationships and make informed design decisions before construction begins.