architecture interior design master planning
Aptus
sees every project as an opportunity to design places and spaces that eclipse their function to engage and harmonize with the environment and the people who move through them.
Aptus is more than an architecture firm
Aptus was founded in 2003 by R. Brandon Sprague, FAIA, with the sole purpose of providing the highest level of professional service and delivering value to our clients through architecture, master planning and interior design.
At Aptus, our team members work around an open table, engaging open communication. We believe informal, honest conversation is the best way to build trust. Trust leads to clarity of purpose, true engagement and doing the best work for every client.
Architecture can reinforce a sense of place, enhance communities and provide wellbeing for the people who live, work and interact with the spaces and places we create.
We are inspired by our clients who develop office/workplace, mixed-use, hospitality, retail, public, recreation, residential, education, restaurant, industrial/warehouse and non-profit spaces. This work includes new ground-up construction, tenant improvements, renovations, remodels and expansions.
Aptus means ‘suitable, appropriate, fitting in...’
It is our name because it is our purpose. We invest energy and experience to create space that is the best fit for everyone.
Aptus currently employees 11 professionals between our offices in Chicago and Las Vegas.
We’re helping define a world we want to live in. When beautiful ideas emerge, they become powerful instruments for change.
One mindset
As creators, innovators and designers, we’re helping define a world we want to live in. When beautiful ideas emerge, they can become powerful instruments for change.
Our approach to the craft of architecture is simple: we believe in creating environments where people thrive, and culture and communities can flourish. Aptus observes the world with a broader lens than just the narrow focus of each project’s general considerations. We open our eyes to the design possibilities and explore how to make the architecture come alive.
Aptus has the foresight to plan for the future and the expertise to direct the approach for every built environment we design.
A legacy of foreseeing client needs and creating innovative design solutions embodies who we are — and how we move forward. Relationships with clients are built on trust, respect, commitment and mutual success. When they succeed, we succeed, and the world is a better place.
core values
Our Core Values
Passion and humility are our traits, joy is our guiding light, and community is uplifted with our work.
COMMUNITY
We value thriving, sustainable communities–from home to office to neighbor hood–working to create deeper connections that strengthen communities.
HUMILITY
Consideration of others and the team before self. Creating an environment where all voices collaborate toward common goals between us and our clients.
PASSION
Combining curiosity and caring in a relentless search for the right solution.
JOY
Idea to outcome and all of the conversations in between, having fun along the journey fills us with joy.
We are deeply committed to creating positive and lasting social impacts on our communities.
Architecture
Aptus designs buildings and spaces that reflect client desires and people’s needs, while respecting the environment and social context of each place. We are driven by our imaginations, entrenched in technical expertise and believe in collaborative communication. We are focused on delivering architecture that inspires our clients and improves human life.
Interior design
The planning and execution of beautiful, efficient and functional interior environments goes well beyond just the décor within a space. An interior designer must have expert knowledge of space planning, building materials and finishes, as well as an understanding of expected human behavior within the space. The diversely talented interior designers at Aptus have extensive experience and can transform your vision and goals into an innovative environment.
Master planning
The first step, for many projects, is master planning. This is the framework – a succinct road map – where an entire project is carefully reviewed, forecasted and developed, down to the last detail. We consider all aspects of the project, including everything from budgetary, structural requirements and permitting, to design options and landscaping.
meet the team
Since founding Aptus in 2003, Brandon has grown the firm from a home-based, single-person practice into a thriving company of talented professionals and studios in Las Vegas and Chicago. While he is responsible for the overall management and design efforts of Aptus, Brandon thrives on being at ground zero for every project’s design and management to ensure our clients are getting every bit of attention and quality that Aptus has been known for.
As Director of the Chicago studio since it’s opening in 2015, Behrnt brings more than 20 years of architecture excellence and experience that has proven crucial to our projects. As a Chicago native and celebrated for his design sensibilities and attention to detail, Behrnt brings an added dimension to Aptus. In addition to being an exceptional project manager and architect, he also plays a key role in Quality Control / Quality Assurance as well as Business Development and overall company operations.
R. BRANDON SPRAGUE, FAIA founder | principal-in-charge
BEHRNT J. AABERG, AIA director | chicago
The Aptus team has a passion for creating spaces that are inviting, inclusive, sustainable and fitting to the unique character and spirit of a place.
