Wheeler Kearns Architects is a collective practice of architects
devoted to creating places that embody our clients’ purpose, energy, and vision.
Our mission is to bring optimism, dignity, and design excellence to enrich lives and strengthen communities.
Our work is not defined by a style, but an empathetic process that focuses on how people live, work, and connect.
As a result, our portfolio is diverse and richly varied, spanning educational, residential, institutional, commercial, and community-focused projects.
We are dedicated to creating sustainable, meaningful, and impactful buildings, interiors, and landscapes—regardless of their size or complexity; from the design of a door lever to a multidisciplinary visual and performing arts venue; from a series of interpretive landscape elements to an unprecedented 21st-century learning environment.
Our clients use the word ‘partner’ as often as ‘architect’ to describe us—and we’re proud of that.
Founded in 1987, we are an 18-person team that provides a personalized touch and approach to every project.
Rooted in empathy and dedicated to creating dignified human experiences, our design approach is deeply intentional.
We believe that our critical role as architects is to listen.
Building a shared understanding of our clients’ goals, values, and vision is at the heart of our process—driving thoughtful, impactful spaces born from meaningful conversations, collaborative workshops, and careful observations.
We believe design thrives through iteration and collective ideas. On every project, we explore multiple options, testing and refining ideas in weekly office-wide pin-ups. This iterative process, guided by feedback from our clients and the community, ensures every project reaches its fullest potential and results in spaces that genuinely resonate with the people who use them.
“Our feedback was always welcomed and encouraged. Their response is never ‘No we can’t do that’, but instead ‘I hear you, and let’s figure out how we can get to that goal in a creative way.”
Repeat Client
(Wicker Park Residence, New Buffalo Retreat, and Granor Farm Projects)