Business Details
21 Years
experience
Expert Airport & Hospitality Architecture in Chicago
Silhouette Design Architecture has spent two decades crafting immersive architectural concepts that balance operational efficiency with visual impact. Founded in Chicago in 2005 by Scott Costello and Tara Carmichael, our firm specializes in non-traditional dining and hospitality design, collaborating with forward-thinking clients to create memorable concession experiences. With architects licensed in 35 U.S. states and Washington, DC, we execute projects in major airports globally while maintaining self-certification in Chicago. Our integrated approach combines technology-driven tools like AI-driven Photoshop with a refined creative process honed over 30 years. We deliver seamless project execution through tenant build-outs, ground-up construction, and brand development rooted in client collaboration. Our expertise extends to RFP design and submittals, having successfully navigated stringent airport design criteria for decades.We specialize in transforming brands into immersive experiences across virtual and physical platforms, including photo-realistic renderings, wayfinding strategies, and interactive graphics. Our team of NCIDQ-registered professionals assembles implementation teams, coordinates with regulatory authorities, and manages construction processes from bid analysis to certificate of substantial completion. Recognized with multiple FAB and AXN awards, we maintain a reputation for creating award-winning airport dining concepts like The Kansas City BBQ Experience and Velvet Taco. Our commitment to innovation ensures clients receive future-proof designs that achieve operational scalability while maintaining artistic integrity.
Services
Architectural Design
Brand Development
RFP Submittals
3D Renderings
Space Renovation
Construction Management
Wayfinding Strategy
Concept Development
Photo-Realistic Renderings
Tenant Coordination
Details
- Year established: 2005
Highlights and features
- 20 years of specialized experience in airport concession design
- Architects licensed in 35 U.S. states and Washington, DC
- NCIDQ-registered professionals on staff
- Iterative brand development process with proven RFP success
- Award-winning designs recognized by FAB and AXN awards
Associations and certifications
- NCIDQ
What people say
Award-winning designs
Successful RFP execution
Visually striking spaces
Operational efficiency
Brand storytelling
Services
Architectural Design
We create immersive commercial and hospitality spaces that balance aesthetics with operational efficiency. Our licensed architects deliver tailored solutions for dining, retail, and residential projects. With expertise in 35+ states, we ensure code compliance while maintaining design integrity across all project types.
Brand Development
Our iterative process transforms brand stories into immersive environments. Through mood boards, market audits, and proprietary concept development, we create future-proof designs that maintain brand consistency across physical and digital platforms while ensuring visual impact.
RFP Submittals
We specialize in airport concession RFP responses with a proven success rate. Our team navigates complex design criteria to create winning proposals that meet stringent requirements while maintaining brand identity and operational feasibility for domestic and international projects.
3D Renderings
Our photo-realistic renderings and motion graphics showcase designs in immersive detail. Using cutting-edge technology, we create visualizations for commercial, retail, and hospitality spaces that help clients visualize final outcomes before construction begins.
Construction Management
We oversee projects from concept to completion, coordinating vendors and managing timelines. Our services include bid analysis, shop drawing review, and certificate of substantial completion documentation to ensure smooth implementation of design plans.
People
Scott Costello
Co-Founder
Co-founder with 20 years of architectural experience specializing in airport concessions. Licensed architect in multiple states, focusing on innovative design solutions for non-traditional dining spaces.
Tara Carmichael
Co-Founder
Co-founder leading brand development initiatives. Combines 20+ years of design expertise with strategic vision to create immersive hospitality environments that meet operational and aesthetic requirements.
Questions
What industries does Silhouette specialize in?
We focus on non-traditional dining, hospitality, and commercial architecture with expertise in airport concessions.
How long has Silhouette been in business?
Founded in 2005, we've specialized in architectural design for 20 years with global project experience.
What makes Silhouette's approach unique?
We combine AI-driven tools with iterative brand development to create future-proof, immersive spaces.
Do you handle international projects?
While based in Chicago, we've completed projects in major airports across the United States and internationally.
What awards has Silhouette won?
We've received multiple FAB and AXN awards for airport dining concepts including The Kansas City BBQ Experience.
