News

James Childs Architects has announced the retirement of the firm’s President and founder, James E. Childs, effective September 30, 2012.

“This is a bittersweet moment for me personally.” commented James Childs.  “However, the timing just felt right.  I will certainly miss the many people I have met since I started the company in 1972.  In many cases, these clients have become personal friends of mine.  Our relationships grew over the course of multiple projects and shared experiences.”

“Jim and I have worked together for the past thirty-three years,” agreed Martin Murphy, a principal with the firm.  “Obviously, this is a milestone event.  However, with retirement, Jim and his wife Pat will be able to spend more time in the Florida Keys and pursue their many other interests which had been postponed.  We wish them all the best.”

Another James Childs Architects principal, Mark Leblang, added: “We are grateful for Jim’s leadership through the years and are thankful that the firm has been able to remain strong, despite the recent economic downturn.  He has been a good mentor to all of us.  Fortunately, Jim has agreed to remain involved in a consulting capacity.”

Murphy will assume the responsibilities of President, and Leblang will continue in his current role as Secretary/Treasurer of the company.

Based in South Bend, Indiana, James Childs Architects is comprised of eight registered architects and a total staff of fourteen people.  The firm has emerged as a leader in the design of multi-family apartments, public housing communities, and institutional buildings for both regional and national clients.  It is currently practicing in seven states throughout the Great Lakes, east coast and southwest.

Notable recent projects designed by James Childs Architects include:  the Studebaker National Museum, Heritage Place at LaSalle Square, the Roger B. Francis Library and the Michiana Health & Rehabilitation Center.  Additionally, the East Bank Emporium, Barnes and Thornburg Law Offices, and Trane Building would rank among the well-known, local commissions from earlier in the firm’s history.  The Trane Building is now home to the company.