Larson & Darby Group

This week, we’re excited to shine the employee spotlight on Maxwell Keating, LDG’s newest Architectural Designer! Maxwell’s passion for architecture began early, earning him the Award of Excellence in the Indiana High School Architectural Design Competition. This recognition sparked his drive to pursue a Bachelor of Architecture at IIT in Chicago, where he immersed himself in the city’s dynamic architectural landscape. Following graduation, Maxwell spent three years in Nashville, gaining valuable design experience and fresh perspectives on the built environment. Now back in the Chicago area, he’s eager to bring his creativity and passion for design to LDG. We’re thrilled to have Maxwell on our team and look forward to seeing his expertise shine in our projects! Welcome to LDG, Maxwell! ?? #LDGteam #EmployeeSpotlight #rockford #rockfordillinois #architecture #engineering #interiordesign #architecturefirm

This week, we’re excited to shine the employee spotlight on Ryan Carlson, LDG’s newest Architectural Designer! Ryan earned a Master of Architecture with a focus in Urbanism from the University of Illinois, fueling his passion for designing safer, cleaner, and more efficient urban environments. He believes that circulation in design is paramount—just as the human body relies on efficient circulation to survive, healthy-designed spaces thrive on accessibility and the seamless transition between essential programs. With a strong background in schematic design, Ryan brings creative, big-picture thinking that helps shape a project's overall vision. Outside of architecture, Ryan has an impressive history in competitive hockey. He attended Team USA Development Camps, competed in three state championships and two national tournaments, and was drafted to the Madison Capitols in the USHL in 2014. In his free time, he enjoys traveling, spending time with friends, and cheering on his favorite sports teams. He also loves taking his Mini Aussie, Lua, on adventures with her sisters, Kona and Kala. We’re thrilled to have Ryan on the LDG team and look forward to seeing his creativity and expertise in action. Welcome to LDG, Ryan! ?? #LDGteam #EmployeeSpotlight #UrbanDesign #rockford #rockfordillinois #architecture #engineering #interiordesign #architecturefirm

?? We are thrilled to announce that Julie Williams, LDG's Associate Director of Interior Design, has been appointed as a trustee to the Board of Directors for the Discovery Center Museum in Rockford! Julie's passion for design and education shines in everything she does, and we know she’ll do amazing work in this new role. Congratulations, Julie! ?? #LDGFamily #CommunityLeadership #DiscoveryCenterMuseum #rockford #rockfordillinois #interiordesign #architecturefirm

As we close out the year, we’re taking a moment to reflect on one of our favorite events of 2024—our United Way Fundraising Week! Back in October, our team came together for a spirit-filled week to support a cause close to our hearts: improving literacy for the children in Winnebago County. Through fun activities like wearing your favorite kicks, a Nerf war, a costume contest, and even a lunchtime viewing of Beetlejuice, we raised funds to help make a difference in our community. Here’s what two of our amazing organizers had to say: ? Julie: “Since coming onboard with the United Way Committee 4 years ago, I’ve had the honor of witnessing and experiencing the generosity and commitment of staff and leadership to our local United Way, as well as their continued support to us as their committee.” ? Oceanz: “Our annual United Way campaign week has always been a memorable occasion for me at Larson & Darby Group. Not only is it a week composed of different activities, games, and prizes, but I get to witness the generosity and intentionality of my colleagues as we join the fight to increase literacy in Winnebago County.” A heartfelt thank-you to everyone who participated and contributed, with a special shoutout to the “Boo Crew”—Chris, Julie, Oceanz, and our United Way representative, Angela Lundin—for making it all possible. Together, we’re making strides to create a brighter future for our community. Here’s to carrying this spirit of giving into 2025! #rockford #rockfordillinois #architecture #engineering #interiordesign #architecturefirm

Congratulations to Bill Waldorf on 40 amazing years with Larson & Darby Group! His journey here has been nothing short of inspiring, and his teammates have shared some wonderful words in honor of his anniversary. "Bill - Thank you so much for all you have done for L&D and for all of us you have helped guide over the years!" -Joe W. "Your kindness to allow me to shadow you while I was an engineering student at RVC gave me the opportunity to further explore my true passion: Architecture. I am eternally grateful for the experience and knowledge you have shared with not only me, but the entire team." -Ryan C. "I've always liked Bill and admired him professionally, and as time went on, he became one of my very favorite LDG peeps. I hope a dark beer by the pond will continue even after he eventually, maybe someday, actually retires. Congratulations on 40 years Bill! So glad to have been able to spend 30 of them with you!" - Jerry B. #Anniversary #40years #staffappreciation #congratulations #rockford #rockfordillinois #architecture #engineering #interiordesign #architecturefirm

After more than three incredible decades of dedication and innovation at Larson & Darby Group, one of our Senior Architects, John Heimbach, is officially heading into retirement! As John heads off to enjoy this next chapter in life, we want to thank him for his incredible contributions and wish him all the best. The impact he has had on our team and the communities we’ve served is immeasurable. You’ve built more than great spaces, John—you’ve built a lasting legacy. Congratulations on your retirement and your remarkable career! It’s been a privilege to work with you, and you’ll be greatly missed! #RetirementCelebration #ArchitectureLegacy #LDGLegacy #rockford #rockfordillinois #architecture #engineering #interiordesign #architecturefirm

Every day at LDG, we are reminded of how fortunate we are to work alongside such creative and talented professionals. Their hard work and passion are the foundation of our business, and we couldn't do it without them! This Thanksgiving, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to our team, our clients, and our partners. May your holiday be full of warmth, happiness, and wonderful memories. #HappyThanksgiving #Thankful #LDGArchitecture #Gratitude #rockford #rockfordillinois #architecture #engineering #interiordesign #architecturefirm

This year’s IASB Trade Show was a huge success! ?? From meeting so many great people at our booth to hosting a lively Friday night party, we had an unforgettable time. Thank you to everyone who joined us—it was a pleasure connecting with both familiar faces and new ones. We are especially thankful for everyone who attended, the IASB team who organized a flawless event, and the banquet staff and their exceptional service. We appreciate you all and can’t wait to do it again next year! #IASB2024 #IASBTradeShow #ArchitectureCommunity #ArchitectsAtWork #rockford #rockfordillinois #architecture #engineering #interiordesign #architecturefirm

We’re excited to share the recent installation of wall graphics in the LDG office! A major thank you to John Kitchen from Studio 22 and our very own Allison Harms for the design, Susan Earnest from MDC Interior Solutions for fabricating the materials, and Jason Larsen & his team at Midwest Painting & Decorating for installation. These stunning additions have transformed our office, and truly capture the spirit of LDG. #rockford #rockfordillinois #architecture #engineering #interiordesign #architecturefirm

Our team is heading to the #IASB/IASA/IASBO 2024 Joint Annual Conference! We’re excited to discuss the impact of architectural design on educational success and how it can empower the next generation. Visit us at Booth 1111 to learn how we create spaces that foster collaboration, creativity, and growth in education. #EducationalArchitecture #DesignForEducation #IASBConference #BetterLearningSpaces #rockford #rockfordillinois #architecture #engineering #interiordesign #architecturefirm