Business Details
Your Trusted Residential & Commercial Architecture Firm in Wisconsin and Illinois
Our firm and services are built around your needs. Our mission is simple: make great architecture affordable and accessible. Starting with your vision, we work with you to design and transform your project into a spectacular space. As a full-service firm, we handle projects of all scales from new construction to interior renovations. Utilizing advanced three-dimensional computer software, you can visualize and interact with your project throughout the design process. With over 15 years of combined experience in architecture and construction, our team brings unparalleled expertise to every project.We prioritize understanding your lifestyle to create spaces that are both functional and beautiful. Our licensed architects operate in Illinois, Wisconsin, and Wyoming, serving diverse residential and commercial clients. We pride ourselves on transparent communication and budget-conscious solutions. From zoning analysis to construction administration, we guide you through every phase. Our commitment to quality ensures your project meets the highest standards of design and durability.
Services
Residential Architecture
Commercial Architecture
New Home Design
Home Additions
Kitchen Design
Bathroom Design
Modern Homes
Lake House Architecture
Highlights and features
- We offer 15+ years of combined architecture and construction expertise.
- Our licensed architects serve Illinois, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.
- Full-service design from zoning analysis to construction administration.
- Advanced 3D visualization tools for complete project transparency.
- Client-focused approach prioritizing budget, functionality, and aesthetics.
Associations and certifications
- NCARB
What people say
5-star reviews
Great service
Budget adherence
Award-winning designs
Exceptional communication
Services
Residential Architecture
Our residential architecture services create functional, beautiful living spaces tailored to your lifestyle. We specialize in new home construction, renovations, and additions across Wisconsin and Illinois. Combining modern aesthetics with practical design, we ensure every project maximizes comfort and value. Our licensed architects guide you through zoning requirements, construction documents, and budget management.
Modern Home Design
We craft sustainable, stylish modern homes that reflect current design trends and individual needs. Our process integrates energy-efficient materials, open floor plans, and innovative spatial solutions. With expertise in modern aesthetics and construction techniques, we transform concepts into award-winning residences that enhance daily living experiences.
Lake House Architecture
Specializing in lake house and cabin designs that harmonize with natural surroundings. We create durable, year-round structures using weather-resistant materials and site-specific layouts. Our team ensures seamless integration with waterfront environments while maintaining luxurious interior spaces for family enjoyment.
Kitchen Remodeling
Transform your kitchen into a functional, elegant space with our expert design services. We optimize layouts for workflow efficiency while selecting premium materials that balance aesthetics and durability. From cabinetry to lighting, our customized solutions enhance both usability and home value.
Home Additions
Expand your living space with architect-designed home additions that maintain structural integrity and design cohesion. We specialize in creating seamless transitions between existing structures and new expansions, ensuring improved functionality and increased property value through thoughtful, code-compliant designs.
People
Mike Malloy
Owner and Principal Architect
With 15+ years of architecture and construction experience, Mike combines design expertise with practical building knowledge. Licensed in Illinois, Wisconsin, and Wyoming, he holds an NCARB Certificate and a Master of Architecture degree from the University of Illinois at Chicago. His hands-on approach ensures projects stay on budget and schedule.
Lorna Malloy
Co-owner and Business Development & Marketing Director
Lorna manages daily operations and business development, leveraging her corporate experience to maintain client relationships and strategic growth. A British expatriate with marketing expertise, she balances firm management with new business acquisition while pursuing equestrian interests.
Questions
What architectural services do you offer?
We provide residential and commercial architecture, including new home design, renovations, kitchen/bathroom remodeling, modern homes, and lake house architecture across Wisconsin and Illinois.
How long does the architectural process take?
Timelines vary by project complexity: zoning analysis (1-2 weeks), design concepts (1-2 months), construction documents (1-2 months), and bidding/permitting (4-5 weeks).
Do you serve areas outside Wisconsin and Illinois?
We primarily serve Wisconsin and Illinois but may consider special projects in other locations based on scope and requirements.
Can you help with both design and construction?
Yes, we offer full-service design-build solutions from initial concepts through construction administration, ensuring seamless project execution.
What makes your firm different from other architects?
Our unique combination of architecture and construction experience ensures practical, budget-conscious designs with hands-on project management from licensed professionals.
Reviews (6)
Brandi Taylor
May 28, 2021
Report
Positive:Professionalism,Quality,Responsiveness,Value
It was an absolute pleasure working with Live by Design Architects. Mike was very professional and great to work with! They exceeded my expectations and will definitely be working with them again in the future. Highly recommend !!
It was an absolute pleasure working with Live by Design Architects. Mike was very professional and great to work with! They exceeded my expectations and will definitely be working with them again in the future. Highly recommend !!
Matthew Muller
Apr 06, 2021
Report
Just finished working with Mike on our new construction lake/mountain summer cabin. Our finished product is beyond what we could have imagined. We had been using a different architect but he wasn't "getting it", so we met with Mike and knew from the first meeting that he was who we wanted to work with. His attention to detail brought a whole other level of "wow" to our project. He listened to our needs and wants, kindly put up with our may changes and in the end, both the interior and exterior are perfect. We will absolutely use Mike for any architectural needs that we have going forward.
Steve Stelmachowski
Nov 23, 2020
Report
I asked Mike to draw plans for rehab of an investment property I was working on and he did a great job. Because of my schedule I wasn't able to meet him in person but we connected seamlessly via phone and email and he was able to quickly and effectively develop the plans i needed. I will definitely call on him in the future. Thanks Mike!
Serafin Sanson
Jun 01, 2020
Report
We used Liv by Design (Mike Malloy) to help us with our new 20 x 40 bedroom suite addition that is attached to our existing house. This is the first time we have worked with Mike and it's been a fun experience. We created a footprint of what we want and Mikes vision captured our ideas. He is very personable and we would recommend any person looking for new or renovation work to call him first.
Hope
Oct 04, 2018
Report
Working with MIke was such a pleasure. Mike was very patient and thorough. Several changes needed to be made in the construction drawings to meet code. Mike never dropped the ball once and we were able to get a zoning permit on the second try. I also like MIke's design ideas as he thinks with a fresh, innovative approach and never misses the little details. You know he will come up with a design that is a little different with a big WOW factor. Mike turned my 1930's farmhouse into a sleek 60's makeover. I highly recommend using his services for your architectural needs; you won't be disappointed
Lora Neave
Aug 26, 2018
Report
Mike is very professional, easy to work with, listened to us and gave us some great ideas. He explained the process and got back together with us quickly with several options for our home remodel project. We highly recommend Mike to anyone looking for an architect. We will use his service in the future.
