About BBA Architects

BBA Architects, (formerly Burns & Beyerl Architects), has always been focused on providing exceptional client service and outstanding design. Founded in 1993 by Gary Beyerl, with current partner Ed Twohey joining soon after as the first employee. Principal Jenifer Hense first joined the firm as an associate 1999, and after exploring other opportunities, returned to the firm as a partner in 2021.

BBA began by primarily doing “seamless” additions and renovation projects in the North Shore suburbs of Chicago. Over time, we have built a practice by listening to our clients with open minds, offering an interactive design experience, and delivering a thoroughly considered product. Our portfolio of work does not reflect a specific style. At BBA, we strive to create beautiful custom designs by paying careful attention to our individual client’s stylistic preferences, functional requests, and budget requirements. We draw inspiration from both historical and modern sources while translating our client’s vision into thoughtful, innovative and timeless designs.

Our Organization features a culture that promotes responsibility with a flexible, family friendly and respectful work environment. We like to provide each team member with predictable goals, and encourage continued education and increased responsibility, as we all continually grow to be more complete architects. We also value life outside of work, and enjoy people with passionate interests.

Our practice strives to mentor new members, by systemizing our processes, and making a record of our institutional knowledge gained over 28 years of the practice of architecture. In turn, we also thrive on new techniques that our team members bring to us. We continually innovate.