Education
Master of Architecture, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Bachelor of Science in Architectural Studies, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
"It's exciting to be able to apply what you're learning in real time during a site visit and see yourself getting better at your craft.”
Bernard Arend
Architectural Designer
Architecture & Design Studio
As an Architectural Designer, Bernard brings strong spatial thinking and a multidisciplinary approach to the firm's projects, particularly excelling in the iterative design process that happens in real time during site visits and client walkthroughs.
What sets Bernard apart is his ability to think in three dimensions—running through complex structural and spatial relationships mentally before they're ever modeled. This skill allows him to anticipate design challenges early, whether coordinating floor plates with structural systems or understanding how a space will function before it's built. His approach combines analytical problem-solving with creative exploration, examining each project from multiple angles to find solutions that work technically while serving the place and its people.
Bernard is energized by projects that require continuous learning and adaptation. He thrives in fast-paced environments where there's something new to respond to at every site visit, keeping the design process dynamic and focused. His work reflects a commitment to getting better at his craft with each project—applying lessons learned and refining his ability to translate ideas into built reality.
Outside the office, Bernard plays basketball and values the kind of teamwork that comes from understanding how each person moves and sees the game differently—a perspective that translates naturally to collaborative design work.