Craig Smith Joins Firm

We are pleased to announce the addition of Craig Smith, AIA, NCARB, SCUP, to Eckenhoff Saunders as Principal. In his role, Smith will focus on broadening the firm’s higher education, hospitality, athletic facility, and performing arts portfolio.

“Craig engages his clients through open collaboration and communication and is always looking for a tailored project approach rather than a one size fits all solution,” said Walter Eckenhoff, Founding Principal of Eckenhoff Saunders Architects.

“We’re excited to have him on board and look forward to the impactful relationships he will continue to build upon as he’s done throughout his career,” he continued.

Smith joins ESA after serving as Principal and Chicago Studio Leader at Ratio Architects. There, he was instrumental in leading multiple higher education and hospitality, award-winning projects, including the restoration of University Hall at the University of Illinois Chicago, the Hope College Library Master Plan, and multiple Graduate Hotels for Adventurous Journeys (AJ Capital Partners).

Prior to Ratio, Smith was a Principal at Loebl Schlossman & Hackl. During his time there he oversaw dynamic projects such as the University of Illinois at Springfield Founders Residence Hall, the College of DuPage Culinary and Hospitality Building, and Northwestern University’s Ryan Field Renovation.

Smith is a licensed Architect in Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, and Wisconsin and is NCARB certified. His professional affiliations include the American Institute of Architects and the Society of College and University Planners. He is Vice President of the Board of Trustees for Northlight Theater.