Shawn Hoover

Shawn Hoover, Residential Architect

When I was 10 my family first moved to Illinois, more specifically the Western Chicago suburbs during a residential construction boom. Streets of subdivisions were filled with homes under construction – so of course I went exploring! Seeing homes in multiple stages of construction, from exposed wood studs to all the various systems and exteriors coming together like a big puzzle sparked a curiosity. Combine this with a very healthy Lego habit and ability to take drafting classes in high school (even partaking in a statewide drafting competition), I’ve always wanted to be an architect.

Early in my schooling I thought I wanted to design high-rises for Chicago’s skyline. Very quickly I realized those kinds of projects didn’t allow for the deep engagement with the design process that I wanted. Residential projects allow for a holistic approach – seeing the overall design goals while still being able to dial into specific details and relationships. This and designing spaces that can be lived in and filled with client’s lives and memories is what drives my passion for home design to this day!

When I’m not architecting, you can find me driving race cars or flying planes (don’t get too excited – gaming simulators only), exploring the Chicagoland area with my wife, watching college football (go Buckeyes!), finding new bakeries to sample and, of course, building the occasional Lego set.

Shawn Hoover, Architecture Resumé

Shawn received his Bachelor of Science in Architecture from The Ohio State University in 2008 and his Masters of Architecture from the University of Illinois at Chicago in 2010. He obtained his license to practice architecture in the State of Illinois in 2022.

His career has been focused on residential projects; ranging from custom home building in Chicago’s western suburbs, to mid-sized residential projects in the city and owner’s representation for high-end homes across the country. In 2018 he joined Fortman, Peterson & Associates, where work included condo renovations and new homes in Chicago, Colorado, Wisconsin and Florida. The size and scope of projects allowed him to focus on impactful details and thoughtful design.