A boutique architecture studio nestled in the Andersonville neighborhood of Chicago.
We offer big ideas and creative solutions for architectural projects of all sizes.
Our Mission
To bring joy to our clients by realizing their architectural dreams.
Through experience, active listening, developing a strong bond of trust with our clients and the entire project team, remaining curious about possible ideas, materials, and regulations, and staying the course from the first meeting through to the final move-in, we create the best possible solution to our clients’ architectural design goals and challenges—all while living by our virtues and seeking and creating joy at every opportunity.
Our Values
JOY
CURIOSITY
TRUST
VIRTUE
GRIT
Jean Dufresne & Higgins
Q & A with Moth Architects
Principal Jean Dufresne, AIA NCARB
After 21 years as a Principal and Co-Founder of a successful architecture firm, what made you decide to start over with Moth?
Change is a great thing. I am ready for something new. I want to slow down, be more selective in my work and have the bandwidth to focus more on my clients and their projects personally. I will miss my team the most, but feel that I am where I am today for all that they have taught me and inspired me.
What makes your approach to architecture different from your competitors?
I think everyone's approach to architecture is unique. How I listen to my clients, how I process their wants and needs and ultimately, how I translate that into a custom space for them is what makes me different. I am passionate about my projects and my clients, and make sure to be available to all involved on a project, not just the client, but the whole team, including the general contractor, consultants, city officials, and even the sales team for troubleshooting, answering questions, and explaining architectural concepts.
Why did you choose to go into architecture?
From a young age, I would drag my mom to open houses in our small quiet suburb, grab copies of the floor plans and run home to make changes to them. Combined with my love for math, geometry and artistic skills, my parents told me about architecture and I was hooked.
How physical space makes me feel has always intrigued me, and I wanted to have a hand in how people experience their environment.
What were some of your favorite projects and why?
So many. Each project brings its own reward. Sometimes it's the opportunity to use a material I have dreamt of using, sometimes it's a process and a team that makes the experience memorable. But, my favorite project is the one where the client is happy, truly happy. That feeling that I have managed to interpret the dream they had about their space, and brought it to life. There is no better feeling.
You built your own home...what was it like being your own client?
It was a huge learning curve. For all the years of supporting clients and being their advocate through their projects, it was amazing to be my own client. To have a seat on the other side of the table. It was one of the most rewarding experiences in my life, one that I never thought would happen. I was blessed with a great GC, supportive suppliers, and friends who encouraged me.
Where are you licensed to practice architecture?
I am licensed in Illinois, Michigan, Indiana, Pennsylvania and Utah.
What do you love most about Chicago?
The people. I moved here in 1998 for work from a small town in Quebec. I did not know a soul. The Midwest is such a warm and inviting place, with people ready to lend a hand and say hello. That is what I love about Chicago. It welcomed me with open arms, and here I am today, an American citizen (and still a proud Canadian) with an incredible group of friends and colleagues.
Michael Herman, CEO at Chicago House and Social Service Agency
“Jean is a creative professional who puts his clients first. As the architect on one of our capital projects, he was responsive to our needs and found solutions to problems that arose during the project. I enthusiastically recommend Jean to you for your future projects.”
John Ketner, Executive Recruiting at Google
“I am continually impressed with not only with Jean's vision, design skills and technical acumen, but also with his willingness to go the extra mile to ensure that a project is a success. Jean makes himself available to all involved with a project including the developer, general contractor, and even the sales team for troubleshooting, answering questions, and explaining architectural concepts.”
Mary Vidal Hays, Estate Planning Attorney
“I had heard wonderful things about Jean's work however it wasn't until my husband and I hired Jean this past year that I became the beneficiary of his creativity and knowledge. Jean provided us with plans for our home remodeling that exceeded our expectations and which maximized our current space. He is wonderful to work with and receptive to our ideas for our home. We look forward to working with him in the coming year on this project.”
Jodi Murphy, President/Owner Murco Recycling
“Jean found me to help a client who was massively remodeling her historic home. I was impressed by Jean's sincere desire to see that the outgoing items (cabinets, appliances, etc.) find a good home. He is obviously a fellow believer in reuse and recycling in both incoming and outgoing design. I hope to do more projects with him. He was an absolute delight to work with. The man knows his stuff”
Thaddeous Wong of @properties