Anders Rustin

Partner & director of strategy

Anders’ commitment to the practice of architecture and its people has been evident since he joined OKW in 2018. He quickly demonstrated a knack for thinking big, clearly communicating his ideas, and advocating for people. A few years later, he became the leader of OKW’s Sustainability Action Group and then originated the role of the firm’s first Director of Strategy in 2024.

Thanks to his authentic character, rigorous work ethic, and culture-driven approach, he was named the firm’s next Partner in 2026. This made Anders the youngest partner since OKW formed in 1999. In this role, he uses his visionary planning and strategic mind to help steer OKW into the future.

When he’s not raising the bar on our projects, he’s doing his best to spread the gospel of architecture to the next generation. Between his professorship at Harold Washington College and his work volunteering for the ACE Mentor program, he works tirelessly to ensure that the field of architecture reaches a wider, more diverse group of students.

Originally from Cincinnati, Anders has called Chicago home since 2013. He earned his bachelor’s degree from DAAP at the University of Cincinnati and completed his master’s at the Illinois Institute of Technology. First licensed in 2018, he is a member of the American Institute of Architects and has had work recognized by the AIA’s Chicago chapter.

Favorite movie: Amélie

If you could have one superpower: Telekinesis. Jean Grey was my idol as a child

Most inspirational space in Chicago: The Lake is awe-inspiring every time I see it.