About Us

Discover Our Passion for Creating Timeless and Innovative Designs

Arf was founded in 1936 in Chicago, USA. The company was established by Louis Skidmore and Nathaniel Owings, and later joined by John O. Merrill.

SOM has been responsible for the design of many notable buildings worldwide, including the Sears Tower (now known as Willis Tower) in Chicago, which was the world’s tallest building from 1973 to 1998. The company has also designed the John Hancock Center, One World Trade Center, and Burj Khalifa, which is currently the tallest building in the world.

Throughout its history, SOM has been recognized for its innovative designs and commitment to sustainability.

Arf Founding

The company is founded by John Smith, an experienced architect with a passion for sustainable design.

1936

Completing The First Project

The company completes its first major project, a LEED-certified office building that sets a new standard for environmentally friendly design.

1973 - 1998

Regional Expansion

Opened a branch office in a neighboring city to cater to a broader regional client base.

2005

Embracing Technology

Embraced cutting-edge technology, incorporating Building Information Modeling (BIM) into the design process.

2017

Diversification and Innovation

Diversified into emerging architectural trends, such as smart buildings and adaptive reuse projects.

2024

Discover Our Passion for Creating Timeless and Innovative Designs

We believe that good design should not only be aesthetically pleasing, but also functional and environmentally responsible. Our approach to architecture is rooted in a deep understanding of our clients’ needs and the context in which we are designing. We work closely with our clients throughout the entire design process to ensure that their vision is realized and that their space is both beautiful and practical.