20 Years of Summit: Building More Than Structures
Twenty years ago, Summit Design + Build started with a vision—one rooted in hard work, strong relationships, and a commitment to delivering quality projects. What began in a small office in Chicago’s Fulton Market has grown into a nationally recognized construction firm, but our foundation has remained the same: Build with integrity, prioritize our clients, and let the work speak for itself.
Laying the Groundwork (2005–2010)
In 2005, we took our first steps, establishing Summit Design + Build with a handful of dedicated professionals and an ambitious outlook. Our first office at 1035 W Lake Street may have been modest, but our goals were anything but. That same year, we hired our first employee, marking the beginning of a team that would grow into one of the industry’s most trusted.
The following year, we completed our first project—an office build-out for Common Ground Marketing. It was a small project, but it set the tone for our approach: listen to clients, understand their needs, and deliver exceptional results.
As our reputation grew, so did our opportunities. By 2007, we had outgrown our original office and relocated to 1032 W Fulton Market. Around the same time, we completed our first industrial project, Crossroads Corporate Center in Bolingbrook, solidifying our ability to handle large-scale commercial work.
The next few years saw steady growth as we expanded our expertise. We took on increasingly complex projects, navigated industry challenges, and refined our processes. By 2011, we had achieved a significant milestone—completing our first LEED-certified project, Testa Produce. Sustainability and innovation became key elements of our approach, setting the stage for future projects that would push the boundaries of construction.
Expanding Horizons (2011–2017)
With each passing year, we built not only structures but a reputation for excellence. In 2015, we delivered the Method manufacturing plant, a groundbreaking 150,000-square-foot facility in Chicago’s Pullman neighborhood. This project wasn’t just another industrial build—it was the nation’s first LEED Platinum-certified consumer-packaged goods plant, proving that sustainability and large-scale development could go hand in hand.
By 2017, we had reached another major milestone—$500 million in revenue. But we weren’t just growing financially; we were expanding geographically. That year, we took our first big step beyond Chicago, opening our Tampa office to better serve clients in the Southeast.
A New Era of Growth (2018–2021)
As Summit entered its next chapter, we continued to evolve. In 2020, we completed a major milestone in our own story—the construction of our new headquarters at 1040 W Fulton Market. This state-of-the-art space was more than just an office; it was a testament to our journey and our commitment to the future.
That same year, we expanded again, this time into Austin, Texas. With a booming real estate market and a growing demand for high-end multifamily and commercial spaces, Austin was a natural fit for our expertise.
Despite the challenges of a global pandemic, we remained focused and continued delivering exceptional projects. By 2022, we had reached an incredible achievement—$1 billion in revenue. It was a testament to the trust our clients placed in us and the dedication of our team.
Looking to the Future (2022–2025)
With 10 million square feet built by 2023, we entered our 20th anniversary year stronger than ever. In 2024, we expanded our services by launching SDI Insurance, further enhancing the resources we provide to our clients.
Now, as we celebrate 20 years in 2025, we’re focused on what comes next. Our goal is to reach $150 million in annual revenue, and we’re on track to get there. But beyond the numbers, our success will continue to be defined by the relationships we build, the projects we deliver, and the impact we have on the communities we serve.
A Legacy of Excellence
From a small Chicago office to a national presence, our journey has been one of steady, thoughtful growth. We’ve never been about chasing trends or rapid expansion. Instead, we’ve built our success on a strong foundation—one that values quality over quantity, relationships over transactions, and long-term trust over short-term wins.
As we look ahead, one thing remains clear: Summit Design + Build is just getting started. With two decades behind us, we’re ready to take on the next 20 years—building not just structures, but a lasting legacy.
