Welcome to our WBE Spotlight Series! Today, we’re thrilled to shine the spotlight on Mary Brush, FAIA, Owner and Principal Architect of BRUSH Architects, LLC. Join us as we delve into Mary’s entrepreneurial journey and uncover the driving force behind her success in the Architecture industry.
What inspired you to start your own business?
I had created the preservation departments at 2 large engineering firms and 1 large architecture firm – I was president of AIA Illinois and I found the opportunity to launch on my own reputation to create BRUSH Architects. We now have a great team of architects practicing our term of Progressive Preservation
What is a business milestone or achievement that you are most proud of?
Preservation is our core approach to existing buildings – what was the original intent and how do we bring the building into its next generation. This applies whether the building was originally constructed in 1840 or just a few years ago. The first big achievement was being awarded the Preservation Architect retainer contract with University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, and then other retainer contracts with University of Illinois-Chicago and the Federal Government General Services Administration, which kept our project portfolio in large buildings. We are now designing, along with our team of 12 consulting experts , the adaptive reuse of a church to bring the interior and exterior into the next generation use.
What challenges have you faced as a woman business owner, and how did you overcome them?
Public work requires only a tiny set aside for WBE firms. 5% we see as a lowest percentage as a starting discussion for our fee. Many design firms see that as a ceiling. We would really like 5% to be raised to equal to or equivalent to a combined W/MBE 25% or 30%. 5% does not bring us onto the team as an equal talent contributor and we have proven our unique expertise time and again.
What advice would you give to aspiring women entrepreneurs?
Try it. It’s exciting.
BRUSH Architects, LLC
BRUSH Architects, LLC is a Woman-Owned Business in Chicago with over 12 years of experience delivering exceptional architectural services. Guided by “Progressive Preservation,” they expertly balance historic preservation with contemporary design and sustainability. Specializing in restoration, adaptive reuse, and historic preservation for commercial, municipal, and academic projects, BRUSH Architects breathes new life into existing structures while maintaining their original character. Their unique approach creates a harmonious dialogue between past and present, offering innovative solutions that honor history while embracing the future.
Try it. It’s exciting.