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Site by Matthew Paul Studios
Ken Brinkman launched Environs Development in 1991 to design and deliver custom homes of exceptional character and lasting value. He brought a unique set of skills to the enterprise:
• Expertise as a Registered Architect
• A strong sense of design
• A deep understanding of the Chicago real estate market
• A proven aptitude for finance
He built a team of experienced professionals at Environs who share his vision. Together, they have created more than 130 superior Chicago homes.
Ken takes a personal interest in every Environs project. He participates in initial design work and directly manages each project team.
Prior to founding Environs Development, Ken worked in real estate development with JMB Urban Development Company. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Architectural Studies from the University of Illinois and a Master of Business Administration in Finance from the University of Chicago.
Karen Hunter provides critical accounting, business management, and project coordination leadership for Environs Development. Her responsibilities include financial analysis, reporting, and administration of acquisition and construction financing. She ensures sound, efficient, and smooth business operations and client communication.
Prior to joining Environs in 1997, Karen provided accounting consulting services to small businesses. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Regis University, in Denver.
As head of construction for Environs Development, Tony Schneller is responsible for consistently delivering the finest quality homes as promised, on time and within budget. He oversees a team of construction managers who honor that commitment on each project.
Tony has spent more than 15 years in the construction industry and worked with leading residential developers on Chicago's North Shore. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Construction Management from Southern Illinois University and has completed the coursework for OSHA certification.
Our Project Managers oversee and coordinate all aspects of each home we design and build. A Project Manager will work to ensure our team provides all the information needed for our clients to make their decisions and stay on schedule throughout the process. He will answer every possible question and keep the client informed their homes progress each step of the way. Another Project Manager coordinates the in-house work to ensure building materials are ordered and delivered to the site on-time and on-budget.
Project Managers have business degrees combined with education or work experience in the residential development field.
Project architects at Environs Development bring more than 20 years of collective experience in the design and construction industry to the process of developing custom home designs. They also prepare construction drawings, coordinate the permitting process, and oversee all structural aspects of construction.
Each Environs architect has a professional degree in Architecture and is fully licensed or completing licensing requirements.
Construction managers at Environs Development are responsible for monitoring all aspects of the construction process, including purchasing, cost estimating, scheduling, code enforcement, and on-site safety. They ensure the highest level of customer service and prompt follow-through on any warranty work.
Environs construction managers are experienced and credentialed, with degrees or certifications in Construction Management and Construction Technology.
In-house design coordinators at Environs Development work closely with clients to select interior and exterior finishes that reflect the homeowners' tastes and the unique style of each custom home. Design coordinators both enhance and simplify the decision-making process, bringing knowledge of industry trends, new products, and current design ideas. They meet with suppliers and help to find the right materials–cabinets, countertops, tiles, and paint colors–for each space and budget.
Environs design coordinators hold degrees in Architectural Studies, Fine Arts, and Interior Design.