Business Details
33 Years
experience
Award-Winning Sustainable Architecture & Design Solutions
Kipnis Architecture + Planning has been at the forefront of sustainable architectural design since 1993, pioneering the integration of high-design aesthetics with low-carbon principles. Our firm specializes in creating innovative architectural forms that leverage passive solar and bioclimatic design strategies, achieving Passive House accreditation and advancing net-zero energy goals. As early signatories to the AIA 2030 Commitment, we rigorously apply sustainable materials, advanced construction methods, and energy efficiency techniques across every project lifecycle. Our expertise spans residential renovations, mission-based designs, and commercial planning, with a focus on location-specific solutions that balance contemporary and historical contexts. Through our membership in NextHaus Alliance, we collaborate with multidisciplinary professionals to deliver holistic sustainable architecture, construction, and technology solutions.Our commitment to technical excellence and attention to detail ensures that each project meets rigorous environmental standards while maintaining architectural integrity. We work closely with clients to educate them on green building options, guiding them from initial concept through construction completion. Our team's deep understanding of construction mechanics and design innovation enables us to transform complex challenges into functional, aesthetically compelling spaces. With offices in Evanston, Illinois, and Boulder, Colorado, we serve clients seeking award-winning architectural solutions that prioritize environmental responsibility. Our proven track record of delivering sustainable, energy-efficient buildings demonstrates our unwavering dedication to reducing CO2 emissions across all project types.
Services
Residential Renovation
Sustainable Design
Net Zero Planning
Commercial Architecture
Passive House Integration
Bioclimatic Design
Aviation Facility Planning
Details
- Year established: 1993
Highlights and features
- We have 30+ years of experience in sustainable architectural design.
- Our team integrates passive solar and bioclimatic design principles.
- We are members of NextHaus Alliance for multidisciplinary collaboration.
- We maintain rigorous technical excellence in construction mechanics.
- Our designs achieve Passive House accreditation and net-zero energy goals.
Associations and certifications
- AIA 2030 Commitment
What people say
Pleasure to work with
Great eye for design
Amazing to collaborate
Knowledgeable professionals
Innovative design features
Services
Residential Renovation
We specialize in transforming existing homes into energy-efficient, sustainable living spaces while maintaining architectural integrity. Our approach combines passive solar principles with modern design to create functional, aesthetically pleasing environments. Each project receives personalized attention to meet specific client needs while achieving significant reductions in energy consumption.
Passive House Design
Our Passive House designs utilize advanced construction techniques and materials to create ultra-low energy buildings. By optimizing natural light and thermal performance, we deliver comfortable, healthy living environments that meet rigorous international sustainability standards. This approach reduces energy use by up to 90% compared to conventional construction.
Net Zero Planning
We develop comprehensive net-zero energy strategies that balance energy efficiency with renewable energy generation. Our designs incorporate solar panels, geothermal systems, and high-performance building envelopes to create self-sustaining structures. This approach ensures buildings produce as much energy as they consume over the course of a year.
Commercial Architecture
Our commercial architecture services create functional, sustainable workspaces that enhance productivity and environmental responsibility. We integrate bioclimatic design principles with modern aesthetics to develop office spaces that reduce operating costs while improving occupant comfort. Our solutions address both current needs and future adaptability.
Sustainable Consulting
We provide expert guidance on sustainable building practices and materials selection throughout the design process. Our consultants help clients understand environmental impact reduction strategies and certification requirements. This service ensures projects meet specific sustainability goals while maintaining architectural excellence and cost-effectiveness.
Questions
What types of architectural services do you offer?
We provide residential renovations, commercial architecture, net-zero planning, passive house design, and sustainable consulting services.
How do you incorporate sustainability into your designs?
We integrate passive solar principles, bioclimatic design, and energy-efficient materials to create buildings that minimize environmental impact while maintaining architectural excellence.
What is your design process like?
Our collaborative process begins with understanding client needs, followed by concept development, detailed design, and construction oversight to ensure implementation matches design intent.
Do you work outside the Chicago and Boulder areas?
While based in Chicago and Boulder, we collaborate with clients nationwide through virtual consultations and strategic partnerships with local professionals.
What sustainability certifications do you handle?
We specialize in Passive House certification and meet requirements for the AIA 2030 Commitment, ensuring projects achieve net-zero energy performance.
How do you ensure project quality during construction?
Our team provides continuous oversight, working closely with contractors to maintain design integrity and address technical challenges throughout the construction process.
