
Mission
Aggregate Studio was founded in 2023 with a focus on dignified, affordable housing for all as well as community-centered civic design. Rather than prioritizing a specific style or aesthetic outcome, Aggregate prioritizes process – an approach captured in our name. A true aggregation of ideas, perspectives, and approaches, our work brings together diverse and sometimes contradictory elements to create cohesive, impactful designs. We celebrate the experimental nature of the design process, beginning each project by examining the site’s history, context, and community needs. Our team then thoughtfully develops concepts that consider program, codes, budget, sustainability, and more.
The result is an architecture that serves and uplifts its users, a result that, like our namesake Aggregate, is greater than the sum of its parts.
With extensive experience in multi-stakeholder and government-funded projects with complex partnership structures, Aggregate founder and principal Josh and his team bring a thoughtful balance of technical expertise and empathetic listening to every project. Every design is approached through teamwork, critical engagement, and consensus building towards the goal of delivering thoughtful, dignified architecture for all that improves housing, strengthens communities, and contributes meaningfully to our cities and communities.
“Working with Josh and the Aggregate team has been like working with a trusted friend who also happens to be a fantastic architect. From the beginning, they approached the design process with thoughtfulness, creativity, and a genuine commitment to getting it right for ourfamily. They listened closely, asked smart questions, and collaborated with us every step of the way, revising and refining until the design felt just right.
Their proactive communication and creative problem-solving have made the process feel smooth and truly collaborative. We’re confident that the final result will transform our basement into a highly functional, welcoming space that will grow with our family and serve our changing needs for years to come. We feel incredibly fortunate to have Aggregate leading this project.”
-Anne and David, Clients
Services
Aggregate Studio is a full-service architecture firm providing programming and predesign through conceptual design, construction documentation, and construction administration. We are an experienced Chicago architect licensed to practice architecture in Illinois and Indiana, and we can become licensed in additional states.
At this stage, the design process for your project begins, and Aggregate is here to help. Our team can support you in determining and developing the necessary space requirements for your project. We offer site analysis services that include zoning analysis, feasibility studies to determine what can be built on the site, and existing conditions drawings. Let us assist you in making informed decisions for your project.
In this stage, the design begins to take form. Our team develops plans that cater to programming requirements while taking into account the site and its surroundings. Through sketches, elevation drawings, modeling, and rendering, the building’s exterior design starts to take shape. For projects requiring zoning changes, submissions usually occur towards the end of this phase.
During the Design Development phase, the design is refined and consultants specializing in areas such as MEP, Structural, and Civil are brought on board to integrate materials and systems. The drawing set is also further developed, and code analysis is conducted.
During this phase, our team creates comprehensive drawing sets that include construction details, schedules, and dimensions, among other important information. We also finalize coordination with systems and consultants. In addition, we create a Project Manual and Specifications, as well as a Permit set that will be submitted to the city for approval.
If the project does not already have a general contractor, the Bidding and Negotiation phase involves preparing bid packages, addressing bidder inquiries, and evaluating GC bids and qualifications. This phase usually aligns with the Permit set review process by the city, including necessary responses and corrections.
As part of Construction Administration, we act on behalf of the client and oversee the construction process according to the terms of the contract. Our responsibilities may involve visiting the construction site, examining shop drawings and RFIs, and compiling Field Observation reports.
Awards/Accolades
- 2022 LISC CNDA Driehaus Award for Architectural Excellence, 3rd Place | LBBA
- 2020 Student Housing Business Innovator Award, Best Architectural Design | Antunovich Associates
- 2018 AIA Louisiana Award of Merit | Perez
- 2018 USGBC Louisiana Excellence in Sustainability Honor Award | Perez
- 2017 AIA Illinois Crombie Taylor Award for Preservation | LBBA
- 2017 AIA Illinois Daniel Burnham Award for Master Planning | LBBA
- 2016 Precast Concrete Institute All-Precast Solution Award | LBBA
- 2016 Precast Concrete Institute Retirement / Assisted Living Project Award | LBBA
- 2016 AIA/HUD Secretary Award for Creating Community Connection | LBBA
- 2016 AIA Chicago Distinguished Building Award | LBBA
- 2016 LISC CNSA Driehaus Award for Architectural Excellence, 2nd Place | LBBA
- 2015 Landmarks Illinois Driehaus Foundation Preservation Award | LBBA
- 2015 ULI Chicago Vision Award | LBBA
- 2014 AIA New Orleans Members Choice Award | Perez
- 2012 Tulane University School of Architecture Outstanding Thesis Award