R – root; the cause or source of something
Z – zero; the beginning and the end of something
Founded by William Rodon Hornof in 1992, 2rz is a Chicago based architecture firm committed to developing futuristic, organic designs that embody a contemporary interpretation of our urban culture and our affinity for nature. With its core design philosophy– a vision for the city of the future based in the spiritual and emotional needs of residents – 2rz endeavors to create a balance between humanity, the city, and the environment.
Our typical projects are Residential Remodels, New Single Family homes, New Multi-Family Housing and Commercial Build-outs.
William Rodon Hornof AIA, Principal
William graduated from the University of Illinois with “distinction in design”. After working for the architectural firms of Jordan Mozer + Associates and F.I. Torchia in Chicago, William left the office environment to gain experience in the field of construction, as well as a career in art, in which his paintings where exhibited in local galleries. It was through the process of making paintings that led to the idea of merging the “conceiving and realization” aspects of architecture. William eventually started his own construction company, which grew into a design build firm, ultimately becoming a root of 2rz.
2rz was officially formed in 1992 where its main goal was to merge the construction and design arts into the practice of architecture. This is where the architect would remain central to the process of design and construction while at the same time allowing the project team i.e. trades to have a determinative say in the overall outcome of the project. 2rz would build 75% of its designed work.
William’s focus with the firm today is aligning himself with skilled craftsmen which allow the firm to generate works of art but which also meet his client’s needs.
Colette Rodon Hornof ASID, Principal
Upon graduating from the University of Wisconsin - Madison, Colette moved to Chicago to pursue an internship at Haworth, Inc. Upon completing her internship, she worked for both Torchia Associates and Lohan Associates in developing her skills in Commercial Interior Design. Realizing that her focus was best suited for residential projects, she honed her design talent in the Kitchen and Bath industry. She pursued Kitchen & Bath design at both Deguilio and Chicago Kitchen & Bath. She also worked for a major appliance distributor educating other design professional in the specification of appliances.
In 1996, Colette joined her husband at 2rz to assist in the design and specification of their residential projects, specifically with kitchen and bathroom design, helping clients with the varied array of choices of material and product that is available.
When Colette is not working she usually is herding their two cats, Coco + Leo out of her garden.
Kaitlyn Woodward, Project Architect
Kaitlyn recently graduated from the University of Illinois at Chicago with a Bachelor’s and Master’s in Architecture. While in school, she interned at several architecture firms gaining knowledge in interior design and residential architecture as well as working with professors on urban installations. Kaitlyn continues to explore her fascination of architecture as the spectacle and the consequences of the individual and the experience. Outside of the office you can find her exploring restaurants in the city, giving architecture tours to friends and family, and uncovering her skills as an amateur chef.
Kelly Phillips, Project Architect
Kelly Phillips received her Master of Architecture from the renown Cranbrook Academy of Art. Prior to working at 2RZ she gained a wealth of experience working on high profile commercial projects and the continued revitalization effort in the city of Detroit. Outside of the office, Kelly continues to maintain her personal practice as a visual artist focusing on the intersection of bodies and space. When she is not designing or writing you can find her running or biking by the lake or in the kitchen experimenting with vegan baking.
Rudy Mendoza, Project Architect
Rudy earned his Master of Architecture from Washington University in St. Louis in December 2010. His Bachelor of Science was completed at the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign in 2008.
While at UIUC, Rudy participated in the Versailles Study Abroad program, giving him the opportunity to study architecture while traveling throughout Europe. At Washington University, his graduate work was published in Approach 08-10 and submitted for the 2011 NCARB Prize.
After practicing in New York City, Rudy returned home to the Chicago area a few years back to continue his focus on residential design.