Founding Partner, Douglas Mohnke Retires

Douglas A. Mohnke, AIA, has retired after 50 years in the architecture profession.

For half of his career, Doug has been the ‘M’ in LCM Architects. Doug and fellow LCM founders Dick Lehner and Jack Catlin were colleagues at Loebl Schlossman & Hackl. Friendship and mutual respect fueled what Doug calls an “ambitious, uncertain adventure that evolved into an overwhelmingly rewarding venture”. Those sentiments have only deepened as LCM has grown from the original threesome to a force of 60 talented professionals.

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"Our partnership of pooled talents has thrived because we are friends with a shared commitment."
Dick Lehner, AIA
Founding Partner
“A common vision, respect for differing viewpoints, and humor have helped us weather some challenging times together.”
Jack Catlin, FAIA (1947-2023)
Founding Partner

With Bachelor and Master degrees in Architecture from the University of Michigan, Doug began his Chicago career at C.F. Murphy Associates. Experience that followed, as an Architect/Planner at SOM, provided a foundation and lasting interest in master planning principles and artistry. With passion and craft, Doug set the design direction for LCM’s most expansive master planning and new construction projects.

Among these are the 210-acre Carle at the Fields in Champaign, IL. The master plan transforms an undeveloped tract into a vibrant live/work/play community. Doug also led the design for the development’s anchor: the new 280,000 sf Carle Foundation Hospital Administrative Center. His plan for a 15.5-acre, exurban multifamily housing development is underway in Mahomet, IL.

Doug has played a key role in developing and advancing LCM’s reputation as an industry leader in accessibility consulting. He is recognized as an authority on the design and construction provisions of the Fair Housing Act. As a reliable and dedicated mentor, Doug has shared his knowledge and wisdom with colleagues in LCM’s FHA consulting group.

“Doug has been a great leader and role model for our team,” says Mark Small, LCM’s Partner in Charge of FHA consulting. “He has an exceptional command of variances of the FHA standard. That knowledge and his dedication to client service are part of his legacy for us all.”

Legal support has been an important part of Doug’s practice. He regularly participated in accessibility compliance litigation on behalf of plaintiffs and defendants or as a neutral third party.

Reflecting on his years at LCM, Doug says: “LCM’s success was built on all who have passed through our doors. It continues with a talented group working together with solid leadership.” As he, too, passes through those doors, he adds, “I am excited about what the future holds.”

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