Destination Luncheon - Architect Gary Anderson

DESTINATION LUNCHEON:  Prairie Street Brewhouse

Architect GARY ANDERSON 

Thursday, February 23rd - Prairie Street Brewhouse

Cosmo Luncheon – 12:00 p.m.

The recent renaissance in downtown Rockford excites Anderson, who’s playing a big role in transforming many historic properties. He’s played a role in restoring the Rockford Trust Building, also at the corner of Wyman and State. And, he’s engaged in discussions with the Rockford Public Library about creating a modern facility downtown.

Still, being an advocate for change, and creating opportunities ahead of the curve, has brought many challenges.  “Sometimes, I ask myself, ‘Why do I always want to be in the firing line?’ Sometimes, it’s the right thing to do,” says Anderson. “Sometimes, what’s right doesn’t always sit well with people, and to me, truth always wins out. Stand up to what you believe in, and good things will happen.”

Preserving Rockford’s architectural treasures is a marathon, Anderson says, and it’s one that’s worth running.

“I think it’s been exciting and hard work, and sometimes discouraging, but on the other hand, it’s also been very encouraging to see people start to get it, and realize we can’t take these structures for granted,” he says. “You can be a change agent, if you start thinking about what you’re doing. It’s about rebuilding the value of our community.”

Gary W. Anderson  AIA

PRINCIPAL ARCHITECT

Gary has over 40 years of experience in renovation, restoration, construction, and development. As the firm owner and lead architect, Gary helps clients visualize and articulate the vision for their project. As Project Manager, Gary performs site observations and coordination. He is actively involved in all phases of a project depending on client needs and project scale.  Recently, Gary was presented with the Gold Medal Award, the highest honor given by AIA Illinois in recognition of outstanding lifetime service by an AIA member.

Project Experience

• Ingenium Technologies
• Heyl Royster Voelker & Allen
• Sterling Park District—Duis Center Renovations
• P.A. Peterson Center for Health Renovations
• Crusader Community Health
• Burpee Museum of Natural History
• Tinker Swiss Cottage Museum & Barn​
• Midway Village & Museum Center​
• Culver’s Restaurant—Ft. Collins, CO​
• Winnebago County CourthouseWinnebago County Administration Building​
• Edwards Apple Orchard​
• Rockford Bank & Trust Co.​
• Northwoods Cabin​
• Prairie Street Brewhouse