Anthony Perry and A. Perry Homes are in the business of creating magical experiences and crafting the spaces for life’s remarkable moments. Distinguishing itself within the luxury custom-home market through its architect-led, design-build approach, A. Perry Homes places architectural vision and client collaboration at the forefront of every project. 

This unique model is unlike traditional construction companies, where the design and building phases might be handled by separate entities. At A. Perry Homes, every detail—from initial wish lists and inspirational imagery from clients to architectural design, to construction and warranty—is meticulously curated with a single, cohesive team. This integration ensures that the architectural integrity, aesthetics, and functionality of the home are preserved and enhanced throughout the building process, resulting in a home that is both beautiful and bespoke.

“Our company began with a belief that an architect-led, design-build business could make things better—for a family, for a neighborhood, for an entire community. We feel truly privileged to work as a custom residential architect and builder that helps families create homes that are filled with architectural beauty and customized function that make their lives better,” Anthony shares.

A. Perry Homes, a family-run business, was founded seventeen years ago by Anthony’s father, Tony Perry, a seasoned architect and builder. Tony was driven by the desire to offer something markedly different: 

“A home that isn’t simply a beautiful testament to the architect or builder, but a functional, working piece of art that serves the family that embarked upon the project for their needs and lifestyle,” explains Anthony. This philosophy has guided Tony; Anthony; Kent DeReus, CEO, and Nate Lochner, vice president of architecture, who lead the design team; and the rest of the team to prioritize the homeowners’ vision, crafting spaces that foster gathering and memory-making, and stand the test of time.

By engaging homeowners in discussions, wish list creation, and inspirational imagery sharing, the firm ensures that each home reflects the personal tastes, lifestyle, and dreams of its occupants. This client-centered approach fosters a deeper connection between the design team and homeowners, leading to more personalized and satisfying outcomes. 

Their collaborative design process ensures that ideas are shared freely, keeping everyone aligned from the get-go. “Our team enjoys having fun, and if we can get our clients to have fun in the design process, they feel comfortable to let their guard down and reveal their authentic selves. When that happens, we are granted the privilege to design and build something for them that surpasses their expectations. Together, we create the home where you can live a remarkable life," Anthony shares.

For real estate agents, this level of collaboration and commitment to excellence makes working with A. Perry Homes a dream. “REALTORS® have told us they like that our firm takes care of everything from start to finish. They are relieved, knowing their client is in good hands,” Anthony emphasizes. “We handle the design, selections, permitting, and competitive bidding, and deliver a magical building experience for their clients. Our goal on every project is to receive glowing reviews from the homeowners and REALTORS® who referred us, and to have the homeowner be a raving fan who is excited to tour the next client through their home.” 

There’s another big reason why REALTORS® can rest assured their clients are in good hands: founded during the Great Recession, A. Perry Homes emerged as a symbol of innovation and resilience in a time when the construction industry faced unprecedented hardships. This can also be said of the company today, as they were insulated from the rising costs of materials due to supply chain scarcity. “Being larger than most custom-home builders, our professional systems and processes, and deep vendor and subcontractor relationships allowed us to source materials from suppliers that others couldn't,” explains Anthony. “We were able to service our clients with minimal disruptions.”

Anthony joined his father after working for a few years at a private equity commercial real estate firm, and now serves as the president to the company. Engrained with his father's entrepreneurial spirit and deep-seated passion for design, custom home building, and the client experience, Anthony began assisting in any way he could and quickly became an integral part of the company. He worked in many positions to see the business from all angles, started from the bottom up, and is incredibly proud of their talented team. “About one-third of our team are Perrys, either through blood or marriage, and the other two-thirds are comprised of exceptionally talented people whom the Perrys have the pleasure of working with every day,” he says.

Anthony has always been driven to work hard, find success with the things he loves, and surround himself with the best people. He played three sports while in high school, worked at Marshall Field’s in the winter months and caddied over the summers. During college, he majored in real estate and finance, managed apartment buildings on campus, was president of the real estate club, and interned for several local real estate companies.

Having always maintained a busy schedule, Anthony’s life hasn’t changed much over the years. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with his wife, Amy, and their two daughters, Maya (8) and Brenna (6). Together they enjoy playing golf, riding bikes on the Des Plaines River Trail System, and cheering each other on at all their various sporting events, plays and musicals, and company- and community-building activities. Currently, Anthony is also working on the ridiculously large and fun, custom playground that his father designed for his kids in his backyard.

With a deep passion for the community, Anthony often donates the company’s studio space to charities, schools, and nonprofits for events, fundraisers, and community-building activities. They also grow a rooftop garden in the summer and donate the majority of their produce to local organizations. “Our studio is truly special, and for anyone who has not seen it, we welcome you anytime!” Anthony shares.