Clohessy Harris & Kaiser

Founded in 1987 by Eamon Clohessy, A.I.A. and James Harris, A.I.A., CHK Architects has established itself as a leading architectural firm in Connecticut. With a core philosophy emphasizing collaborative solutions and a dedication to exceeding client expectations, CHK Architects has grown to encompass a wide range of architectural and interior design services. Beginning with a focus on commercial office building design, the firm broadened its expertise to include interior design, facilities planning, and project management. This expansion was further fueled by the addition of Richard Kaiser, A.I.A. in 1989, who significantly contributed to the development of the company's interior design segment, serving a growing clientele in the Greater Hartford area.

Throughout the 1990s, CHK Architects continued its trajectory of expansion, extending its services to encompass a diverse portfolio of sectors including workspaces, dining, technology, wellness, retail, industrial, and ecclesiastical spaces. This expansion reflects the firm's commitment to adapting to the evolving needs of the market and its clients. Recognizing the value of a cohesive and collaborative approach, CHK Architects further strengthened its leadership team in 2018 by promoting Rodolfo Garcia, Steven Hine, and Hugh Schweitzer to Partner.

Since its inception, CHK Architects has consistently garnered recognition for its exceptional design solutions and unwavering commitment to responsible environmental practices. The firm has been awarded multiple accolades for its project work, cementing its reputation as an innovative and forward-thinking architectural practice.

Though proudly rooted in Connecticut, CHK Architects' experience extends far beyond the confines of New England. The firm has collaborated with numerous national and international corporations headquartered in Hartford County, executing projects across several states. This diverse project portfolio, encompassing residential architecture in Hartford to commercial, secure, governmental, and university buildings, has honed CHK's ability to gracefully navigate the unique requirements of each client and project type.

Services Offered

CHK Architects provides a comprehensive range of architectural and interior design services, tailored to meet the specific needs of each client. From initial concept development to construction administration, the firm's expertise encompasses every phase of the design process.

The firm's commitment to delivering exceptional solutions is evident in its service offerings:

• Full Design Services: CHK Architects offers a full spectrum of architectural and interior design services, including space programming, strategic master planning, blocking and stacking analysis, furniture and equipment selection and specification, workspace standards development, architectural site analysis and master planning, building assessment and feasibility studies, capital needs analysis and planning, code and accessibility compliance, security and access control design, data and network technology integration, and sustainable design.
• Construction Documentation + Specifications: CHK Architects meticulously prepares comprehensive construction documents and detailed specifications, ensuring clear and concise communication between the design team, contractors, and stakeholders.
• Construction Administration: CHK Architects provides diligent construction administration services, overseeing the construction process, managing project documentation, and ensuring that the project is executed in accordance with the design intent.
• Rebranding Rollout Service: CHK Architects understands the importance of a cohesive brand identity. The firm offers rebranding rollout services, ensuring that the design elements accurately reflect the client's brand vision across all touchpoints.
• Landlord Master Planning: CHK Architects assists property owners with developing comprehensive master plans, optimizing building layouts, and maximizing space utilization.
• Building Conditions Survey and Documentation: CHK Architects conducts thorough building conditions surveys, documenting the existing building structure, systems, and conditions to inform decision-making and guide future renovations.
• BOMA Calculations and Maintenance: CHK Architects performs BOMA (Building Owners and Managers Association) calculations to ensure accurate building measurements and facilitate efficient property management.
• Code and Accessibility Survey: CHK Architects ensures compliance with building codes and accessibility standards through comprehensive surveys and evaluations.
• Blocking and Stacking Analysis: CHK Architects conducts blocking and stacking analysis to optimize space utilization and create efficient building layouts.
• Access Control and Egress Analysis: CHK Architects designs secure and compliant access control and egress systems, ensuring the safety and security of building occupants.
• Common Area Upgrades: CHK Architects enhances shared spaces through thoughtful design and upgrades, creating welcoming and functional environments for building occupants.

Technology Utilization

CHK Architects embraces cutting-edge technology to enhance its design processes and deliver exceptional results. The firm utilizes the latest Revit software, transforming design ideas into photorealistic renderings. This sophisticated architectural visualization technology fosters a stronger collaborative approach with clients, enabling them to visualize and fully comprehend their future spaces during the design stages.

Commitment to Excellence

At CHK Architects, building enduring relationships with clients is paramount. The firm's approach centers on collaboration, working hand-in-hand with clients to understand their needs, goals, and visions. This collaborative process ensures that design solutions are tailored to meet specific requirements, optimize functionality, support long-term business objectives, and ultimately result in competitive construction document bid packages.

CHK Architects' deep-rooted commitment to excellence is further demonstrated by its unwavering adherence to sustainability principles, its talented team of licensed professionals, and its widespread recognition within the architectural community.