Firm History

Chipman Design Architecture traces its roots to 1952 when Albert B. Chipman established one of the first professional practices devoted to retail planning and design. His son, architect John Chipman was working internationally in the late 1970s when he returned to Chicago to join his father as he neared retirement. Forming the architecture firm Chipman Design Ltd., John took the business from an initial staff of only three and boldly added developing computer technology geared to a then little-known 1985 client Blockbuster Video.

John’s college roommate from the University of Illinois, architect Daryl Adams, joined the rapidly expanding practice in 1988. Renaming the firm Chipman Adams Ltd. when Daryl became a partner in 1990, they took the company to a staff of 70, adding state-of-the-art computer technology as well as architectural licensing throughout the United States. National recognition grew along with an impressive list of corporate clients, and in 2004 the firm opened a West Coast office now located in Pasadena.  That national expansion has continued with an office in Manhattan, establishing an East Coast presence.

At the close of 2009, Daryl Adams retired and the practice as well as the firm’s original name returned to John as the Founding Principal.  With leadership transitioning at the launch of a new decade, Architect Dan Tessarolo became a Principal.  Already providing an invaluable presence managing the firm’s concurrent national accounts, Dan lends his practiced perspective to national multi-unit corporate expansions and has become integral to complex client programs.

As it has for 33 years, Chipman Design continues to offer innovation and professionalism not only through complete architectural and interior design services but also through a commitment to evolving communications and technology.  As members of the AIA and certified with the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards, the Principals hold individual licenses throughout the United States and several Canadian provinces.  Membership in the U.S. Green Building Council enhances the firm’s commitment to sustainability and continues to reinforce its recognition of the critical role of architects in today’s world – a sensitivity integrated into its projects and unwavering client values.