A Legacy of Vision, Design, and Dedication

For 40 years, Chris was more than an architect—he was a cornerstone of ZCA, shaping not only skylines but also the very fabric of our firm. Since he first walked through our doors in March of 1985, his passion for design, unwavering commitment to excellence, and collaborative spirit left an indelible mark on all of us.

Chris approached each project with a keen intellect and purposeful vision, creating spaces that were not only visually striking but also deeply meaningful. His contributions to architecture—particularly in urban residential design—have left a lasting impact, shaping skylines, transforming communities, and enriching lives through thoughtful, innovative design.

Yet, beyond the buildings, Chris’ greatest impact was on people. He was a mentor, a teacher, and a source of endless inspiration. He guided generations of young architects with patience, wisdom, and humor, always ready with a quiet word of encouragement or a well-timed joke. His legacy lives on in the countless careers he helped shape and the friendships he forged along the way.

Chris also brought a unique spirit of camaraderie and creativity to ZCA. His sharp wit and boundless enthusiasm made our workplace more than just an office—it was a family. From the legendary Air Show launched from the third-floor bridge to the friendly rivalry of his annual Super Bowl lottery, he reminded us that architecture is not just about what we build, but also about the joy we bring to the process.

Words cannot fully express our gratitude for all that Chris has given to this firm and to each of us. His influence will be felt for years to come—through the buildings he designed, the lessons he imparted, and the culture of creativity and mentorship he fostered.

Chris, thank you for your vision, your dedication, and your friendship. You will be deeply missed, but your legacy will continue to stand tall—just like the remarkable structures you brought to life.

— R. Scott Ziegler, AIA