Discover Your Dream

Residential Architecture

With MEBA’s residential architecture expertise, your custom home design is possible.

We’ve helped dozens of couples and families of all sizes to turn their dreams and core values into a custom home that fits perfectly for them. Together, MEBA can help you create a new custom home design or addition or set the stage for a home renovation.

Recent Residential Homes

Explore profiles of custom home design and construction we’ve done in the Chicago area and beyond. We have been grateful to partner with clients who have trusted our expertise in residential architecture to create a unique solution that fits their life.

2 Families Unite In New Home

Twin Lakes House

Fontana Club Family Home

Art And Science Intertwined

Architect Pricing

A good architect can map out a plan for your home construction that’s perfectly suited to the land you’re building on, the spaces your life calls for, and the price point that fits you. We are happy to build a plan that’s customized just for you.

Standard Home

1,000-2,999sq ft

$200k – $600k

Comfortable living with practical living solutions. Perfect for those seeking affordable homeownership without sacrificing quality.

Enhanced Home

2,000 – 4,999sq ft

$3.600k – $1.7M

Elevated functionality and style. 2,000 – 5,000 square foot homes with upgraded finishes and more space for life.

Premium Home

3,000 – 5,999sq ft

$600k – $1.8M

Refined living for homeowners who appreciate luxury and want space for relaxation, entertainment, and indulgence.

Luxury Home

5,000sq ft +

$1.5M+

The pinnacle of residential architecture. 5,000+ square feet homes with highly customized elements and lavish amenities all around.

Addition

Basement, Additional Room or Bedroom

$60k – $800k

Expanding or modifying your existing home to accommodate your changing life.

Remodel

Renovation
Kitchen, Bath, etc

$25k – $400k

Renovating your current home to improve function, aesthetics, and value.

Ready to find out how to make your home dreams come true?

Testimonials

Mark Benner designed an addition for my house. I found him to be an architect that made sure the design was what I had visioned it to be and wanted. He made sure I knew every detail of his drawings and if I wanted changes he was accommodating. It was a pleasure working with him and I was very pleased with my design. I would strongly recommend him as an architect.

- Helen Cunningham (Evanston, IL)

Mark Benner was just terrific in all aspects for our major home reconstruction. Of all the architects interviewed, he was by far the best. He impressed from the initial meeting, brainstorming and sharing ideas with us, making our choice easy. He was extremely knowledgable, very innovative and worked with us on multiple iterations to be sure everything was just right. He also worked well with our contractor, providing invaluable guidance…. Accommodating to our schedules, willing to come out mid-job for additional feedback, and truly an overall nice guy.

- Caryn Altman

Homeowner, Highland Park Remodel & Addition

I have no adequate words to rave about Mark! We had maybe the ugliest split level house in the universe; he developed a creative solution (one that no other architect has previously thought of) and created a beautiful, open home which nearly doubled our living space. He is remarkably organized, economically and environmentally minded, and creative beyond measure. Additionally, he has a calm and kind manner which came in quite handy for managing contractors. Thank you, Mark!

- Stephanie Zwilling

Homeowner, “Un-Split Home Addition”

FAQs

Have questions? We’ve got answers.

We have a pretty good idea about the most common questions about custom designs, remodeling projects, our architectural services, and more. Take a look at the answers to these frequently asked questions to learn about our approach to architecture, construction, and renovation.

There are so many residential architects. Why not just select the cheapest?

Cheapest doesn’t necessarily mean the best value. Chicago residential architects amplify your investments of time and money, maximizing the home’s value. Investments in proper planning drive up your home’s value.

What does a Chicago residential architect do, anyway?

They are a partner and collaborator in creating your new home. Spaces are aligned with your program in the optimal arrangement, then communicate the design, procuring the building permit, and supporting your builder.

Won’t my home cost more if I hire an architect?

The budget is controlled by you, not the architect. In reality, the residential architect works with you to meet all of your goals, including design, budget, and schedule to reveal the very best value.

Will I be working with you or a staff member?

Other architects may assign projects to less experienced staff members, but MEBA is different. Mark is personally involved with every project at every stage and is commited to giving each project the time and creative attention required for a successful outcome.

Can you help us find the right builder?

You bet.
We are happy to introduce you to the excellent builders on our pre-qualified list of General Contractors.

How are fees determined for my project?

We have options.
Architects usually charge a percentage of the total project cost, anywhere from 5%-20%. We may also consider fees based on square footage or on a time and materials basis.

Do I need 3D design for my home?

Will you help me with the building permit?

Yes.
You will need architectural drawings to obtain a building permit. Chicago residential architects know the municipal (zoning & building) codes, the code officials, the rules and standards, and the process to expedite rapidly through the permit review process.