ALA Architects & Planners

Business Details

35 Years

experience

Expert Architectural Services in Illinois & Wisconsin

Established in 1991, ALA Architects & Planners has built a reputation for delivering comprehensive architectural and planning services tailored to residential and commercial clients. Our team of licensed professionals combines decades of experience with a client-centric design process, ensuring active client involvement without compromising deadlines or incurring additional costs. We specialize in residential architecture, commercial and industrial projects, tenant build-outs, kitchen design, renderings, and landscape design, handling 250 - 300 projects annually. Our approach integrates civil engineering to interior design, supported by a commitment to using high-quality materials and adhering to strict licensing and insurance standards. With offices in Crystal Lake, Illinois, and Waukesha, Wisconsin, we serve a broad geographic area, emphasizing personalized service and innovative solutions.

Our proven track record includes collaborations with local zoning departments to streamline permitting processes, ensuring projects meet regulatory requirements efficiently. Client testimonials highlight our ability to transform visions into reality while maintaining transparency and reliability. We operate Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with evening and weekend appointments available. Our dedication to excellence has positioned us as a trusted leader in architectural design, consistently exceeding client expectations through meticulous attention to detail and a focus on delivering value-driven results.

Services

Residential Architecture Commercial Architecture Tenant Build-Outs Kitchen Design Renderings Landscape Design

Details

Year established: 1991

Highlights and features

We offer over 30 years of experience in architectural design.
Our unique process ensures client involvement without additional costs.
We handle 250300 projects annually, demonstrating consistent reliability.
Our team includes licensed and insured professionals.
We streamline permitting processes with local zoning departments.

What people say

Prompt and educated Design looks great Excellent service Great job Top of the list

Website

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Services

Residential Architecture

Specializing in custom homes, additions, and renovations, we create functional, aesthetically pleasing spaces tailored to client needs. Our expertise includes luxury residences, second-floor expansions, and interior remodeling. With a focus on client collaboration, we ensure designs meet structural and aesthetic goals while adhering to timelines and budgets.

Commercial Architecture

We design commercial and industrial facilities, including restaurants, offices, and retail spaces, emphasizing code compliance and operational efficiency. Our process integrates site development, zoning approvals, and construction documentation. Clients benefit from detailed plans that balance creativity with practicality, ensuring successful project outcomes for expanding businesses.

Tenant Build-Outs

Our team guides businesses through tenant build-outs, from small offices to medical facilities, optimizing layouts and budgets. We manage permitting, bidding, and construction phases, ensuring minimal disruption. Services cater to startups and established companies needing cost-effective, code-compliant renovations tailored to specific operational needs.

Kitchen Design

We craft custom kitchen designs that blend functionality with personal style, focusing on storage, workflow, and aesthetics. Services include cabinetry, countertops, and integration with home architecture. Our designers collaborate closely with homeowners to create inviting spaces that enhance daily living and property value.

Renderings

Our rendering services provide photorealistic visuals of proposed designs, aiding in decision-making and approvals. Using advanced tools, we create detailed exterior and interior representations for residential and commercial projects. This service helps clients visualize final outcomes, ensuring alignment before construction begins.

Questions

What architectural services does ALA offer?

We specialize in residential architecture, commercial/industrial design, tenant build-outs, kitchen design, renderings, and landscape design.

How does ALA involve clients in the design process?

Our unique process allows client input at every stage without additional costs or missed deadlines.

Does ALA assist with permitting and zoning requirements?

Yes, we collaborate directly with local zoning departments to ensure code compliance and streamline permit approvals.

What areas does ALA serve?

We operate throughout Illinois and Wisconsin, including Chicago, its suburbs, and surrounding regions.

How many projects does ALA complete annually?

We manage 250–300 projects yearly, ranging from small renovations to large-scale commercial developments.

Reviews (4)

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Amy Dietz

Nov 21, 2020 Report

Very friendly an knowledgeable love the end result for my addiction blue prints. Took my ideas and made them more than I could have imagined.

Kim Diersen

Sep 06, 2020 Report

We worked with Nick at ALA to draw up plans for our 2800 sq ft house as well as additional 900 sq ft apartment over our 3-car garage. Nick was amazing to work with throughout this process. He has the perfect blend of people skills and architectural vision that make him one-of-a-kind. Nick carefully listened to our needs (including our budget) and made additional suggestions that were well-thought-through and creative. Such a remarkable, talented man! He worked at a pace that was convenient for us. It was a 6-month process, but that was our choice. I was glad to have the time...I was never made

Kimberly K.

Oct 02, 2019 Report

First, ALA came highly recommended to us by our builder and our neighbor whose home turned out beautiful. At ALA, my husband and I worked with Dave and Nick and both were very knowledgeable, professional, and fun to work with. They took time to listen to our wants and concerns, deliver smart building solutions, all while keeping cost down, which is very important for our second home. Our 3000 sq foot home, from concept to final plans, only took 5 meeting.

Finally, ALA has a kitchen/cabinetry design shop in their space for design convenience and cost savings. We will be using Connie to help

Dave

Sep 14, 2019 Report

Thank you Dave Dolby for the outstanding service. I had contacted others but Dave Dolby was out to my home and had a plan drawn up before others returned my call. I won't hesitate to call Dave Dolby and ALA Architects for any future projects.