Searl Lamaster Howe is a custom architecture and interior design studio renowned for its collaborative spirit, design innovation, and commitment to excellence. Our philosophy transcends trends, focusing instead on the principles of craftsmanship and timeless design; each project tells its own story. We work closely with our clients to ensure their visions are not just realized but elevated.

We strive to create spaces that enrich lives, seamlessly blending functionality, aesthetic beauty, and environmental sensitivity. Taking a holistic approach, we can provide both architecture and interior design services. Each project has a team directly engaged at every step of the design and construction process, from initial programming to move-in. The firm’s portfolio spans new construction to renovations; from residential to commercial to institutional.

As a certified woman-owned enterprise, we are committed to fostering a dynamic and inclusive studio culture. We are a diverse group of talented architects and designers who bring passion, expertise, and distinct perspectives to each project. Every voice at the table is heard and valued, especially those of our clients.

While based in Chicago, SLH’s work can be found throughout the Great Lakes in addition to Utah, the Great Smoky Mountains, London, the West Indies, and beyond. Regardless of the locale, SLH prides itself on its hands-on, personalized approach to every project.

ARCHITECTURE

A modern house with a wooden exterior sits in a green landscaped yard with a curved driveway and various shrubs, with tall trees and a blue sky in the background.
A modern house with large glass windows and a metal roof, illuminated from inside, surrounded by trees at dusk.
Modern house built into a wooded hillside with large glass windows, wooden accents, and a stone staircase leading up to a wooden deck, surrounded by dense green trees.
Modern building with curved black metal and white brick exterior, surrounded by a black metal fence. Tree branches in the foreground and shadows cast on the wall.
Modern house with a wooden exterior and large windows, surrounded by trees, with a gravel driveway and a vintage silver convertible car parked in front.
Modern house with white and beige exterior, large front windows, and a well-maintained garden with various plants and flowers. A person is walking on the sidewalk in front of the house.

We provide design services tailored to the specific needs and goals of each client and context; the diversity of our work is a clear reflection of this mission. Constants include a collaborative spirit, a methodical design process, and a desire to create spaces that are of their age, inspirational, innovative, responsible and functional.

INTERIORS

Modern living room with orange sectional sofa, abstract moon art, and potted cactus plants.
Bright dining area with white walls, large windows, and wooden floors. Features a circular white table with a bowl of peaches, surrounded by a navy blue upholstered banquette, white and red chairs. Decor includes colorful artwork and a striped rug.
A bright living room with large windows showing the cityscape outside. The room features two armchairs with upholstered cushions, a small wooden side table with books, a tall floor lamp, a potted plant, and a white area rug on dark hardwood floors.
A spacious lounge area with several light purple armchairs arranged around a small wooden table with a black and red checkers game. The room has large sliding glass doors, and there is a potted plant, a purple couch, and a wall-mounted TV. The ceilin
Modern living room with large windows, a blue sofa, striped armchairs, a coffee table with books and decorative items, a large abstract wall art, a floor lamp, indoor plants, and a cozy area rug.
View of a modern living room corner with a light wood cabinet, artwork on the wall, and a partial view of a person's leg in the foreground.

The quality of a space is defined not just by its exterior or spatial characteristics but by the most subtle of details. We therefore highly value the relationship of architecture to interior design. Whether handling things in-house or collaborating with an independent interior designer, we aim to create spaces that reflect a common vision.