Schaub Projects Architecture + Design, a leading St. Louis–based high-end residential architecture firm, today announced the formation of a new Structural Engineering Department led by respected structural engineer Aaron S. Odle.
The formation of this new department enables collaboration between architectural and engineering designs at the earliest stages of design. By reducing reliance on outside consultants, Schaub Projects expects to shorten project timelines, identify structural considerations earlier, and streamline the client experience from concept through construction.
The firm also projects that the new capability will contribute approximately 20% in additional annual revenue.
“Structural engineering is now integrated throughout our design process instead of being brought in after the architectural drawings are substantially developed,” said David Schaub, Founder and Managing Principal of Schaub Projects. “That means fewer delays, fewer design compromises, and more opportunities for our architects and clients to explore ambitious ideas. Having this expertise in-house is a major advantage for our clients.”
Residential architecture firms traditionally engage outside structural engineering consultants. Obtaining proposals, coordinating schedules, and managing revisions can add weeks—or potentially months—to a complex project. Schaub Projects’ integrated approach allows its architects and structural engineering team to collaborate in real time, addressing challenges before they affect schedules or construction.
Odle brings experience from more than 2,500 projects, including custom homes, mixed-use buildings and other residential, commercial and institutional developments. As Director of Structural Engineering, he will lead the firm’s structural services, oversee projects from concept through construction, and collaborate with architects on solutions that support each project’s design intent.
Known for a collaborative, solutions-oriented approach, Odle finds structurally sound ways to realize creative ideas without unnecessarily limiting the design.
“My role is to determine how we can make an idea work so the architect’s and client’s vision can come to life,” said Odle. “I am excited to join a team that is willing to push creative boundaries for its clients, making this an ideal environment in which to build an integrated structural engineering department.”
The department reflects Schaub Projects’ strategy of pairing creative design with the technical expertise needed to carry ambitious concepts through construction. Odle will help establish its standards, workflows, and long-term growth plan. He will work on Schaub’s internal projects, but other architectural firms can also send work to Schaub’s in-house Structural Engineering Department.
“Aaron combines deep technical experience with the collaborative mindset that defines our firm,” said Drew Schaub, CEO and Principal of Schaub Projects. “He understands that great engineering should support great architecture. His leadership will help us work more efficiently while continuing to elevate what we deliver for our clients.”
Schaub Projects expects to hire a junior structural engineer within the coming year as demand grows.
The department advances the firm’s broader growth strategy and strengthens Schaub Projects as an integrated, multidisciplinary, and design-driven practice. With architecture and structural engineering working together from day one, the firm can provide a more efficient process while preserving the craftsmanship, creativity and personal collaboration for which it is known.
About Schaub Projects
Schaub Projects is a St. Louis–based architectural firm specializing in high-end custom residential design. Founded in 1992 by David Schaub, the firm is recognized for its creative vision, client-first approach, and ability to translate ideas into exceptional homes. Through a distinctive combination of hand-drawn artistry, technical expertise, and collaboration, Schaub Projects creates homes that are both timeless and distinctive. In a field often marked by rigidity and ego, the firm stands apart for its warmth, flexibility, and genuine partnership with clients. For more information, visit schaubprojects.com.
