Business Details
18 Years
experience
Trusted Chicago Architects & Real Estate Experts
Founded in 2008, McGrath Architects combines architectural expertise with real estate proficiency to deliver comprehensive solutions for residential and commercial properties in Chicago. Our team, led by Principal Architect Jesse McGrath, holds dual credentials as Self-Certified architects and Registered Energy Professionals, enabling seamless navigation of Chicago's zoning and building regulations. With over 16 years of experience, we specialize in design-build services, property development, and real estate brokerage, offering clients a unique one-stop approach.Our focus on energy-efficient design is demonstrated through participation in the Chicago Green Permit program, having completed over 50 sustainable projects. As licensed Illinois real estate brokers, we provide market insights and property management expertise, ensuring clients maximize returns on residential and commercial investments. Our process emphasizes transparency, technical precision, and client collaboration, from initial property selection through construction and sales.
Services
Residential Architecture
Commercial Architecture
Real Estate Brokerage
Design-Build Services
Energy Consulting
Details
- Year established: 2008
Highlights and features
- Dual-certified architects and real estate brokers with Chicago-specific expertise
- 16 years of experience in local zoning and building code compliance
- Energy-efficient design specialists with 50+ Green Permit program projects
- Integrated design-build approach for cost and time efficiency
- Proven track record maximizing client returns through strategic development
What people say
Professional and efficient
Patient but persistent
Professionalism and kindness
Knowledgeable and professional
Maximizing returns
Services
Residential Architecture
Specializing in single-family and multi-family residential projects, we transform living spaces while adhering to Chicago's unique zoning requirements. Our architects create functional, aesthetically pleasing homes that maximize property value. With extensive experience in the Chicago Department of Buildings permitting process, we ensure smooth project execution from concept to completion.
Commercial Architecture
We design commercial spaces that balance functionality with regulatory compliance across Chicago's diverse business districts. Our team understands the specific requirements for commercial permits and energy efficiency standards. From initial concept to final inspections, we deliver spaces that enhance business operations while maintaining budgetary constraints.
Real Estate Brokerage
As licensed Illinois brokers, we offer expert guidance in buying and selling properties with architectural insights unavailable through traditional agencies. Our team evaluates structural integrity, renovation potential, and zoning limitations to help clients make informed investment decisions. We specialize in properties requiring development expertise.
Design-Build Services
Our coordinated approach combines architectural design and construction management under one contract, reducing costs and timelines. This method ensures seamless communication between designers and builders while maintaining consistent quality standards. Clients benefit from single-point accountability throughout the project lifecycle.
Energy Consulting
We provide energy efficiency solutions through Chicago's Green Permit program, having completed over 50 certified projects. Our consultants identify cost-effective sustainability measures that meet regulatory requirements while reducing long-term operating expenses. Services include energy audits, material selection, and LEED certification guidance.
People
Jesse McGrath
Principal Architect + Real Estate Broker
Licensed architect and real estate broker with 16+ years of Chicago-area experience. University of Kansas architecture graduate who founded McGrath Architects in 2008. Specializes in zoning compliance, energy-efficient design, and property development. Combines architectural expertise with real estate market knowledge to maximize client returns.
Questions
What architectural services do you offer?
We provide residential and commercial design services, including zoning compliance, building permits, and energy-efficient construction solutions.
How does your real estate brokerage differ from others?
Our architectural expertise allows us to evaluate properties for renovation potential, cost-effective improvements, and zoning opportunities others might miss.
What Chicago neighborhoods do you specialize in?
We focus on Bucktown, Logan Square, Wicker Park, and surrounding Chicago areas with deep knowledge of local building codes and market trends.
How long have you been in business?
McGrath Architects has served Chicago clients since 2008, with our principal architect having over 16 years of local experience.
What sets your design-build approach apart?
Our integrated process eliminates communication gaps between design and construction phases, saving time and reducing costs for clients.
