— Welcome Home —
Every Picture tells a story and details matter! The firm’s continued success is a result of quality design and listening to our clients. Each one of our projects is custom designed to be an authentic reflection of the people who live there. Our designs range from classical to modern, paying close attention to detail which is revealed in the finished product. We feel that beauty is achieved through well-proportioned and gracefully detailed structures and interiors. We work with many different architectural vocabularies to create environments which are perfectly fit to the individuals who use them. We have had the pleasure to work with some of the most energetic, open-minded, and interesting clientele which is evident in the final designs.
— Process —
Fortman, Peterson & Associates uses multiple techniques to explore and illustrate the design concept. Traditional sketches and hand renderings are supplemented by digital and physical models. We begin each project with a detailed examination of our clients special needs and vision creating sketches and an image book to guide the process. Through collaboration with our clients, landscape architects and interior designers the resulting projects are fully integrated into the landscape, thoughtfully incorporating the placement of furniture and artwork.
— Collaboration —
Fortman, Peterson & Associates collaborates with some of the most talented consultants, designers, builders, and craftspeople that contribute to our projects. Putting together the right team is critical to the success of each of our projects. Our projects are intended to be timeless in style and appear as if they were always there. Carefully crafted structures, appropriate for their site and context using materials that look and feel authentic. In addition, technology, lighting and mechanical systems are carefully integrated to work seamlessly with the design, enhancing the client experience.
— Craftsmanship —
We’ve developed a reputation for excellence in design, client responsiveness and trusted project administration. Our aim is to create spaces that are beautiful, comfortable, and of exceptional craftsmanship. Our projects have been recognized with both national and regional awards — most recently with the Institute of Classical Architecture and Art’s
2016 ACANTHUS AWARD OF ARETE
For a project that best exemplifies accomplishment of its purpose.
— Team —
Fortman, Peterson & Associates is a team of experienced and reliable professionals providing trusted advice on building and renovation projects. Each member of our team is dedicated to honestly approaching each project with a keen eye on design but also a set of common-sense criteria to smoothly guide our clients through the design and construction process.
Scott Fortman, AIA, LEED AP
As president of Fortman, Peterson & Associates, Scott Fortman has spent his professional career working with the most discerning clientele. Timeless and elegant designs, impeccable finishes, custom millwork, and one-of-a-kind details are just part of the reason for his success. Above all else, Scott’s primary accomplishment has been to provide steady and trusted guidance through the design and construction process by being the client’s advocate every step of the way.
After receiving his Bachelor of Arts in Architecture from Iowa State University in 1986, Scott moved back to Chicago, began working on custom residential projects, and soon realized that he enjoyed the most intricate and detailed projects. In 1990, Scott joined Richard Gibbons & Associates as Project Architect. In 2000, he became a partner and vice president at Gibbons, Fortman & Associates, and in 2015, he was appointed president of the firm. In 2024, Scott proudly announced a new chapter for the company, now known as Fortman, Peterson & Associates, with Nick Peterson as vice president and partner.
Scott has been an active member of the American Institute of Architects, Leaders of Design Council, Luminarts Foundation and has served on the Oak Park Historic Preservation Committee. Scott is a board member and President Emeritus of the Chicago-Midwest Chapter of the Institute of Classical Architecture & Art. Scott has donated his time to Habitat for Humanity and Designs for Dignity providing Pro Bono design services for non-profits.
Nick Peterson, NCARB, LEED AP
Nick Peterson joined Gibbons, Fortman, and Associates in 2007, became a partner with the firm in 2016, and has enjoyed helping shepherd the firm into a new era as Fortman, Peterson, and Associates since 2024. He has been responsible for both residential and commercial projects, from initial concept through construction, across the country. Nick is passionate about creating timeless homes and spaces that reflect his clients’ unique personalities and interests.
Nick grew up in a small town in Wisconsin before moving to Chicago to pursue his passion for architecture. He received his Masters in Architecture from the University of Illinois at Chicago, and a BS in psychology from the University of Wisconsin – Madison. Bucky Badger was a guest at his wedding.
Nick has been a member of the Chicago ICAA, the Goodman Theatre Scenemakers Board, and the American Institute of Architects, and has worked with a number of non-profits including Designs for Dignity and Gigi’s Playhouse.
Shawn Hoover
Shawn Hoover grew up in the Chicagoland area during a residential construction boom, which sparked his interest in the field. After attending The Ohio State University for a Bachelor of Science in Architecture, he returned to Chicago in 2008 to pursue a Master of Architecture from the University of Illinois at Chicago. Ever since, Shawn has been actively involved in residential design and construction management throughout Chicago and the surrounding area. After joining the firm in 2018, he quickly became a Project Manager and has developed projects of various scale from early conceptual phase through construction.
Kelsey Tucker
Kelsey Tucker joined the firm in 2021 after working in orthodontics for almost 10 years. She grew up in the construction industry watching her dad build custom homes, so she is no stranger to the field. Kelsey handles the day-to-day coordination of the office and staff, product and sample ordering, bookkeeping, and scheduling. In addition to enjoying the many perks of living in Chicago, she participates in at least one Architectural Boat Tour each summer.
Chris Maj
Chris Maj was born and raised in West Michigan and grew up admiring the architecture along the shores of Lake Michigan. He attended the University of Michigan earning a B.S. in Architecture before heading to Philadelphia briefly to intern and work with several local architects. He then moved to New York to pursue a Masters degree from Pratt Institute. Since joining the firm in 2023, Chris has been an integral team member and enjoys spending time near the lake with his dog and fiancé.
