Walter Pancewicz, AIA
In 1989, Walter became a founding member and Principal of Aria Group. As a member of the Board of Directors, Walter advises on the financial strategy and direction of the firm. Walter previously led one of the studios within the firm, leading a talented team of architects and designers creating innovative hospitality and entertainment projects.
Walter has managed the development, rebranding and growth of a number of national clients as well as independent restaurants and retailers. Multi-unit clients include U.S. based California Pizza Kitchen, Perry’s Steakhouse, Carve American Grille, Landry’s, and Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse. International clients include U.K.-based Nando’s (locations in the U.S. and Canada), Leon’s, and Ping Pong Dim Sum. Some of Walter’s large-scale projects include Hawthorne Casino & Racecourse; Eagle Ridge Resort in Galena, IL; Crown Office Building in Chicago, IL; City Park Lifestyle Shopping Center in Lincolnshire, IL, Fila U.S. corporate headquarters and the high-end fashion retailer, Ikram. Independent clients include Topolobampo & Bar Sotano for Rick Bayless, Pono Ono Poke, and Piccolo Sogno Due.
Walter began his career at Kessler & Merci Architects specializing in sports/health projects. He also worked at Bernheim & Kahn Ltd. where he worked as a Project Architect specializing in public works projects such as schools, and restaurants. It is also where he met his future partners. Walter is a member of the American Institute of Architects and the International Building Code Council. He currently carries licenses for 10 states. In his spare time, Walt is involved with the Oak Park Education Foundation’s innovative Vex Robotics Competition.
Bachelor of Architecture – Illinois Institute of Technology