Craig M. Smith

Craig M. Smith, AIA has over 40 years of experience in the architecture industry. Currently, they are working as a Principal at Eckenhoff Saunders Architects (ESA), where they focus on creating a balance between form and function, requirements and vision, and innovation and tradition.

Prior to their current role, Craig served as a Principal at RATIO Architects, an interdisciplinary design firm offering services in various fields such as architecture, historic preservation, interior design, and landscape architecture. During their time at RATIO, they gained experience in diverse market sectors, including higher education, community, K-12, life sciences, workplace, lifestyle, and cultural projects.

Before joining RATIO, Craig was a Principal at Loebl Schlossman & Hackl, a historic architectural practice in Chicago, where they specialized in higher education projects. Notable projects completed during this time include the Berg Instructional Center Renovation at the College of DuPage and the Advanced Chemical Technology Building (ACTB) at the University of Illinois at Chicago.

Earlier in their career, Craig held positions as a Principal at PDS, a healthcare and education-focused design firm in Chicago, and as the President of Griskelis + Smith Architects, Ltd., where they led projects in higher education, athletic facilities, banking, commercial interiors, and renovation. Some of the notable projects completed during their tenure at Griskelis + Smith Architects, Ltd. include Ryan Field and University Hall at Northwestern University.

Craig's architectural journey began as an Architect and Planner at BCI and later as an Architect at Schipporeit Inc., Bertrand Goldberg Associates, and Piano + Rogers. These early experiences contributed to their growth and development in the field of architecture.

Throughout their career, Craig has demonstrated expertise in a wide range of architectural projects, with a particular focus on higher education, healthcare, and community sectors. Craig M. excels in achieving a balance between innovation and tradition, creating spaces that harmonize form and function.

Craig M. Smith, AIA began their education journey in 1970 at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Craig M. earned a Bachelor of Architectural Studies in Architecture in 1974. Building upon their undergraduate studies, they pursued a Master of Architecture degree from the same institution, completing it in 1976.

In addition to their educational accomplishments, Craig M. Smith, AIA holds additional certifications. Craig M. is registered with the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) and is also a licensed architect in the State of Illinois, as regulated by the State of Illinois Department of Professional Registration. The exact dates of obtaining these certifications are not provided.