About Us

Professional design services

Cook Architectural Design Studio is an award-winning full service architectural firm, with its headquarters in Chicago, Illinois. Its principal Charles S. Cook is LEED accredited, with over 25 years of experience as a licensed architect.

We are client-focused and design driven. We believe great design comes from listening carefully, distilling the essence of our clients’ desires, and manifesting their goals into inspired solutions. Our LEED Accredited Professionals embrace Green Technology and energy conserving and sustainable solutions. The firm is also a member of the United States Green Building Council (U.S.G.B.C.) and is committed to protecting our planet’s valuable resources.

Services provided include Site Evaluation, Master Planning, Schematic Design, Design Development, Construction Documents and Construction Observation phases for projects ranging from complex, dynamic commercial facilities to luxurious private residences in some of Chicago areas’ finest neighborhoods as well as across the U.S.

Our designs are creative, sensitive and respectfully adept in a variety of styles ranging from contextually appropriate and historically accurate traditional elegance, to crisp, clean and refined contemporary styles.

Meet our team

CHARLES S. COOK

AIA, LEED BD+C
Principal

Chuck is the Founding Principal in charge of all operations of the firm and its team of talented professionals. With more than 25 years of experience as a licensed architect, his work includes many complex projects and buildings. Chuck’s philosophy is to treat each client with respect and focused attention and add creativity and value to every step from big concepts to small details. Read More

PATRICK MURPHY

AIA, LEED BD+C
Senior Project Manager

Patrick has over 15 years of architectural experience with an interdisciplinary approach to design. Academically, his background in mathematics and art history has led to a unique design methodology. Through his international studio research in Taiwan, Venice and Iceland, he developed an appreciation for vernacular design. It is these experiences that help position his sustainable methodology and his focus on passive strategies for environmental stewardship. Patrick advanced his commitment to sustainability by becoming a LEED Accredited Professional with a specialty in Building Design and Construction in 2014. Read More

AMANDA LAMIE

LEED AP BD+C
Assistant Project Manager

Amanda’s journey with CA / ds began as an intern during the summer of 2016. Her advanced understanding of architecture along with her easy-going personality proved to be a natural fit for our team. She earned her Master of Architecture and Minor in Interior Design from Ball State University and we are excited to have her working with us full-time. Her passion for architecture and interior design brings a unique energy and commitment to each project. With extensive Revit 3D modeling and rendering skills, she can assist clients in understanding the massing, details and materials of the final product before the shovel hits the ground. Her efficiency and thoroughness have beneficial impacts on every project she is involved with. She is passionate about the clients and providing their projects with devoted and thoughtful attention.

Amanda likes traveling with her husband, photography (especially of her dog, Walter) and adding to her Lego collection.

NOLAN VACK

Project Coordinator

Nolan has experience on luxury residential projects in a design-build approach as well as high-end hospitality design for popular downtown restaurants. He’s even worked on a rock-climbing gym. We love the creative diversity!

Originally from Michigan, Nolan moved to Chicago to obtain his Bachelor’s degree at IIT. He is currently working through all the necessary steps of the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards – Intern Development Program to become a licensed Architect. He keeps his technical skills sharp using Unreal Engine to develop architectural visualizations as well as VR experience experimentations.

Nolan enjoys spending time with his wife and their dog Hazel(nut). He is also an avid bicyclist and rides to the office every day, which is great for his wellbeing and the environment!

CAROL FINE

Office Manager

Carol has worked with Chuck for more than 20 years and is responsible for the day-to-day activities that keep our office running smoothly. In addition to the technical responsibilities of handling HR tasks, accounts payable/receivable, and planning company outings; she also enjoys making sure everyone is taken care of. Carol is often the first point of contact and embraces that critical role as our client liaison by helping to make sure all needs are responded to and resolved. Building relationships and being responsive are at the core of her character.

To the delight of all staff, and sometimes clients, Carol is an avid baker and often brings confectionery treats for all to enjoy. She uses most holidays (major or obscure) as an excuse to delight us with her thematic and delicious works of art. When not baking, she also loves to garden in her yard or dog-sit for Luke, her daughter’s two-year old ‘puppy’. At home or the office ‘Carol’ and ‘caring’ are synonymous.