Since 2003, working at three very different firms in Chicago has expanded my viewpoint on both the benefits and deficiencies in the architectural field. The intent of returning to school for a Master's Thesis in Architecture allowed me the unique opportunity to reflect on what I have learned professionally, and at the same time I was able to utilize the university's resources to develop new ideas of how architects can re-engage in innovation through the use of software technology and open-source concepts. My studies led to an expanded network and conversation throughout Chicago's AEC industry, and as a result I now have an opportunity to engage mass-housing from a design/development perspective. Working with a collaboration of developer, John McLinden, and architect, Sarah Susanka, we are building well-designed homes accessible to the median homebuyer. Responsible architectural design should not be reserved only for the homes of the super-wealthy, and we are