Business Details
Expert Architectural Services in Chicago
Brush Architects is a high-profile flexible model practice dedicated to the investigation, restoration, and preservation of existing buildings. Our firm combines innovative building investigation technology with historic preservation protocols to address challenges in structures ranging from modern curtain walls to historic masonry. We specialize in technical building investigation and historic preservation, offering services from pre-design assessments to construction management. Our team prioritizes architect-led solutions that balance modernization with heritage conservation. With expertise in facade investigation, materials testing, and historic structures reporting, we serve as both prime architects and consultants for clients across North America.Our hands-on approach ensures precise diagnosis of building issues, enabling context-sensitive repairs that maintain structural integrity while accommodating contemporary needs. The firm's founder, Mary Brush, brings over 23 years of experience in building envelope restoration and has pioneered architectural inspection techniques using industrial rope access systems. Our work has earned international recognition, including AIA Fellowship and Richard Morris Hunt Fellowship distinctions, reflecting our commitment to advancing preservation practices globally.
Services
Faade Investigation
Historic Preservation
Building Restoration
Materials Testing
Construction Management
Highlights and features
- We have over 23 years of experience in building envelope investigation and restoration
- Our team uses industrial rope access systems for hands-on facade inspections
- We hold multiple certifications including W/FBE and WOSB status
- Our founder is an AIA Fellow with international preservation recognition
- We collaborate with specialized engineers and consultants for comprehensive solutions
Associations and certifications
- Women/Female Business Enterprise (W/FBE) Certified
- WOSB Central Management Systems
- SAM (Federal Government System for Award Management)
Services
Faade Investigation
Our faade investigations combine industrial rope access with technical analysis to assess building exteriors. We identify structural issues, material degradation, and water infiltration points through hands-on inspections. This service provides detailed repair recommendations while maintaining architectural integrity.
Historic Preservation
We specialize in preserving historic structures through careful documentation and reversible interventions. Our process includes materials analysis, landmark application preparation, and tax incentive compliance. We balance preservation requirements with modern functionality needs for buildings dating back to 1860.
Building Restoration
Our restoration services focus on renewing both historic and modern buildings through prioritized conservation measures. We re-create missing architectural elements, restore original finishes, and develop modernization strategies that extend building lifespans while maintaining historical accuracy.
Materials Testing
We conduct comprehensive materials testing using non-destructive techniques to assess building component conditions. Our analysis includes historic materials evaluation and HABS documentation to inform repair strategies that match original construction methods and materials.
Construction Management
Our construction management covers periodic inspections, field reporting, and shop drawing reviews throughout the building process. We ensure preservation standards are maintained during construction while addressing modernization requirements through continuous project oversight.
People
Mary Brush
Principal
Mary Brush, FAIA, founded Brush Architects after 23 years of building envelope investigation experience. She pioneered architectural rope access techniques for facade inspections and received the Richard Morris Hunt Fellowship. Her expertise spans historic preservation and modernization projects across North America.
Questions
What types of buildings do you work with?
We work with structures from 1860 to contemporary constructions, including historic masonry buildings, modern curtain walls, and metal cladding systems.
Do you handle both historic and modern buildings?
Yes, our expertise covers both historic preservation and modern building envelope investigations, providing solutions that bridge traditional and contemporary construction needs.
What certifications does your firm hold?
We are W/FBE and WOSB certified, with SAM registration, and our principal holds AIA Fellowship and Richard Morris Hunt Fellowship distinctions.
How do you assess building conditions?
We use industrial rope access systems for hands-on inspections combined with non-destructive testing and materials analysis to diagnose structural issues.
Do you work internationally?
While based in Chicago, we serve clients throughout North America and have received international recognition for our preservation work in France and other countries.
What services do you offer beyond design?
We provide comprehensive services including field investigations, construction management, technical specifications, and as-built documentation for building preservation projects.
