Ross Barney Architects

Ross Barney Architects is a multidisciplinary studio specializing in architecture, urban design, and landscape architecture. Founded in 1981 by Carol Ross Barney, who was honored with the AIA Gold Medal in 2023, the firm has received international acclaim and over 200 major awards. These accolades reflect a decades-long dedication to community, environmental stewardship, innovation, and design excellence.

Beyond achievements and accolades, the studio’s biggest asset has been an ability to deliver on the aspirations of a diverse set of clients who serve the public good. From the Oklahoma City Federal Building to the Chicago Riverwalk, Ross Barney Architects has produced distinctive projects that have become icons for their communities, creating innovative, environmentally responsible, user focused architecture and civic spaces.

Sustainability is integral to their mission. Notable projects such as the JRC Synagogue and the UMD Swenson Civil Engineering Building have been recognized with the prestigious AIA Committee on the Environment (COTE) Top Ten award for sustainable design.

The firm has received several notable awards, including:

• Cooper Hewitt National Design Award
• Fast Company’s Most Innovative Design Company and Innovation by Design Awards
• The ULI Global Award for Excellence
• Prix Versailles/UNESCO/UIA Continental Winner
• 14 AIA Institute Honor Awards across Architecture, Interior Architecture, Regional and Urban Design
• 2 AIA COTE Top Ten Awards for Sustainable Design
• 2 World Architecture Festival High Commendations
• 44 AIA Chicago Design Awards
• 4 American Architecture Awards from The Chicago Athenaeum
• The Rudy Bruner Award, Silver Medal
• APA National Planning Excellence Award for Urban Design

Ross Barney Architects' Core Beliefs:

• Urban Sensitivity: Great design enhances and strengthens communities.
• Environmental Stewardship: We prioritize protecting the planet in our designs.
• Design Excellence: The built environment fundamentally impacts quality of life.
• Societal Aspirations: Excellent design is a right, not a privilege, and serves as a powerful catalyst for positive change. We believe functional and comfortable buildings are essential, but great buildings are memorable and inspiring.
• Every Project, a Great Project: We see the potential for greatness in every project, achieved through the synergy of program, site, and client heritage. Community engagement is essential for enhancing design quality and functional programming.

Firm description and photos courtesy of Ross Barney Architects.