“Aaron has two qualities that aren't always found in architects and designers. First, he is talented with design and architecture. Second, he knows what works in the real world, having actual experience in the building trades. He used both of these skill sets to contribute greatly to the success of several projects when he was staff designer and project manager for FACE Properties, including an award winning restoration project that include tax credits and a tight budget. Aaron listens well, has vision but respects client ideas and is a joy to work with. When he got an opportunity to tackle a significant project with a different firm, we were sorry to lose him. Now that he is back in the area and has his own firm, we are again happy to employee his skills working on new projects with us. I recommend him without reservation.”

“GWA is the go-to team for adaptive re-use, historic renovation or restoration projects. Our project involved a 160 year old building that started out as a mattress factory, then printing businesses and a ladies department store, ultimately ending up standing nearly empty for 40 years. After complete interior renovation and major exterior repair the result is mixed-use, that is, commercial space on the ground floor with upscale residential lofts above. It has become a downtown Rockford (IL) icon, having won statewide and local awards. The building has been the subject of numerous organized tours benefitting not-for-profit, historic and downtown advocacy organizations. Working with the Gary Anderson team, loft owners designed their spaces to suit individual tastes. Visitors are typically surprised and delighted to see such starkly different interior treatments represented in the same building. In addition, residents can enjoy a rooftop deck and container garden throughout the majority of the year. Historic projects invoke uniqueness, individual owners expected attention to detail, and the overall scope of the project demanded plenty of project coordination. When updating very old buildings it is not unusual – and we did -- experience instances involving significant structural concerns, codes and regulation issues, supplier and material questions ... and plenty of others. Gary dealt with all of these in stride. He and the team were consistently dedicated, sensitive and responsive. It would be difficult to imagine better people to work with.”