Winner will receive a 2 hour Consultation with Chicago Residential Architect - Sam Marts of Sam Marts Architects & Planners Ltd.

We at Sam Marts Architects and Planners Ltd. are committed to working closely with you to develop ideas, meet needs, and work within budgets. We approach each project thoughtfully, always considering the possible benefits of innovative solutions. In order to test our own theories about construction details and affordability, we have designed, built, and sold two single-family housing prototypes.

The individual experiences of the professionals here enable our firm to serve a wide range of clients. We have designed restaurants, shops, and religious structures, bringing together the thousands of parts that make up such special, people-oriented spaces. We have renovated modest urban homes and large commercial spaces. We have worked closely with not-for-profit agencies and arts groups. We have been Vista architects working with community organizations. We have specialized in the art of the timber frame, from restoring barns to designing and building homes, wineries and restaurants throughout the Midwest. We have surveyed the planning needs of urban and rural communities. We have helped working people in dense urban settings achieve home ownership. We have helped farming communities maintain their way of life while accommodating newcomers seeking to join in the pastoral setting.

If you want to plan and build in a responsible manner, Sam Marts Architects and Planners Ltd. can help.

With a presence in the Chicago area and throughout Michigan, we are well positioned to extend our professional services and interests to all individuals and communities in the region, both urban and rural. Sam Marts Architects and Planners Ltd. looks forward to working with you on your next project.

How We Work

1. A total budget for the project must be established. The budget will define the size limits of the structure based on current square foot costs.


2. The owner makes two lists – one titled “essential” and one titled “optional”. Sketches, photos from magazines, samples of desired materials and finishes, room types and sizes, views, solar orientation, utility availability and all related information should be gathered in writing to direct the design team.


3. With the direction of the owner, the architects create preliminary floor plans, sections and elevations. When appropriate, alternative room configurations and exterior images are developed.


4. The owners evaluate the preliminary ideas and meet with the architects to clarify what works and what is desirable. The drawings are fine tuned and the timber frame is delineated until the design is right. Costs are estimated.


5. Final construction drawings are done to the level required by the owner and the local building department.