“Architecture defines a community’s identity and vision, but it is the passion of its people that defines its character. Design should be purposeful in connecting place with people.”
Gary W. Anderson, AIA
founder
Gary envisioned a career in which he could combine his passion for architecture with community activism and revitalization. His interest in historic preservation, sustainability, reinvention, and renovating historic structures has shaped and defined the firm’s quality of work as well as its reputation. He founded what is today Studio GWA in 1982 and continues to maintain and service many of those decades-long client relationships – a testament to his philosophy of caring, understanding, and commitment.
Gary shares his knowledge, love of local history, and passion for the community in which he born and raised by leading summer walking and biking architecture tours of downtown Rockford.
favorite project
“The reconstruction of Edward’s Apple Orchard after it was devastated by tornado was probably one of my most satisfying career experiences. It was challenging to complete on the necessary timeline, but in true barn-raising fashion, our team, the owners, and multiple contractors worked tirelessly to ensure thousands of families wouldn’t miss a year of the cherished fall family tradition.”