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Who We Are

Cinda K. Lester is an architectural storyteller, one whose love of stories runs deep on both sides of her family tree. Though she calls Chicago home, Cinda has lived and traveled all over the United States. She earned her Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch) from the University of Idaho, and later returned from the Great American West, bringing Henri along with her, to earn her Master of Urban Planning and Policy (M.UPP) at the University of Illinois at Chicago. Cinda is a licensed architect in Illinois and Wisconsin, as well as a Certified Planner.

Henri M. LamBeau is the strong (and often silent) backbone of the studio. He grew up around the world in an Air Force family before settling in eastern Washington for high school. He also earned his Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch) from the University of Idaho. Henri is a licensed architect in Illinois.

Cinda and Henri live in Downers Grove with their two children, both architectural storytellers in their own right. Their son, Cooper, is a master LEGO builder and artist. Their daughter, Kellar, is completing her Master of Architecture (M.Arch) at Kent State University and will join 12/12 Architects full-time in 2028.

We started 12/12 Architects nearly 25 years ago, with one small project and a leap of faith. Since then, our work has grown in size, scope, and reach, evolving into our primary focus: designing custom luxury Legacy Homes™. From northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin to scenic destinations across the country, we continue to grow, and we’re grateful every step of the way.

We’re not just looking for great projects; we’re looking for great people. Every home begins with the people who will live in it, so our best collaborations come from meaningful, lasting relationships.

Big design ideas are exciting, but so are the small ones. How you live, where the kids’ toys go, how holidays feel, what daily life looks like, matters more than finishes or square footage. When you tell us you need more storage or dream of a dining room that finally works, we get it, and we can help. Our one-on-one approach means every home is designed 100% for you. Together, we create thoughtful, functional, and beautiful spaces that reflect your family, your story, and the way you truly live.