About
Forty years ago, a small design-oriented firm, founded by Jack D. Ball, put forth the mission of positively influencing the area’s built environment.
Today, Ball Architects continues to carry out this mission, by involving our clients and staff in the pursuit of excellence. Over 70% of the work we do is for our existing clients – a percentage we are very proud of.
Although our portfolio and expertise have expanded, we are still a small firm that prides itself in personalized service. Recognizing that architecture is a service occupation, we work with our clients to design projects on an individual basis.
Our team is intentionally small enough to remain intimately involved in your project from start to finish. We are a young, energetic, and forward-thinking team, capable of creative collaboration relevant to today’s civic architecture.
Every project, no matter the size, requires cooperation and open communication between all members of the design team. Everyone with a vested interest in the project is part of the design team. This includes the architect, engineering consultants, and most importantly the owner and end-users.
Chris, a Springfield, MO native, is President and Principal Architect of Jack Ball Architects PC. He earned his Bachelor of Architecture from the University of Kansas and began his career in Colorado Springs before returning to Springfield to join his family’s firm, becoming President in 2000. Throughout his career, Chris has remained active in professional leadership, serving as President of AIA Springfield and AIA Missouri, representing the state on the AIA Strategic Council, chairing the Missouri Architects Political Action Committee, and serving on the Missouri Board for Architects and related professions. Outside work, Chris enjoys biking, running, and time with his family.
Joey, originally from Licking, MO, took Drafting & Design classes at Rolla Technical Institute while in High School and discovered an interest for Architectural design. After high school, he spent a summer in residential construction before working at a local lumberyard doing design and material take‑offs while earning his associate’s degree from East Central College. Upon graduating in 1998, he moved to Springfield to join Jack Ball & Associates Architects, beginning a long career with the firm.
His role at the firm has changed over the years, starting out as a draftsman working on a variety of project types, working his way up to project manager. During that time, working under a licensed architect, he made the decision to work towards becoming licensed himself. Along with managing and running projects, he has a secondary role as the firm’s IT person, which includes CAD/BIM management.
Bio coming soon! Stay tuned as we share more about Susan and the important role she plays on our team.
Matt, originally from St. Peter’s, MO, graduated from Drury University in May 2022 with a Master of Architecture and a minor in Fine Arts. He began his journey with Ball Architects as a student intern and moved into a full‑time position after graduation. Since joining the firm, he has contributed to a wide range of project types, including office buildings, manufacturing facilities, schools, churches, and residential work, gaining valuable experience along the way.
Outside the office, Matt enjoys spending time with loved ones, painting, sketching, exploring the outdoors, and hiking with his dog, Capone, who often joins his adventures.
Ceanna, a Springfield, Missouri native, graduated from Missouri State University in December 2024 with a degree in Interior Design and a minor in Childhood Development. Since joining the firm, she has played a key role in designing interiors for schools, churches, and residential projects, bringing creativity and thoughtful detail to every space.
In addition to her design work, Ceanna also serves as the firm’s Marketing Coordinator. In this role, she supports brand development, manages social media and proposal content, and helps shape the firm’s public presence through thoughtful storytelling and visual communication.
Outside the office, Ceanna enjoys spending quality time with friends and family, traveling with her fiancé, and relaxing at home with their two goldendoodles, Melon and Squash.
Blake, originally from St. Louis, MO, graduated from Drury University in May 2022 with a Master of Architecture. He began his career at Ball Architects as a student intern and transitioned into a full‑time role after graduation. Since joining the firm, Blake has earned his Architect’s License and serves as an active Chair member of the local Young Architects Forum chapter. His project experience includes office buildings, manufacturing facilities, schools, churches, and residential work.
Outside the office, Blake enjoys spending time with his wife, Aubrey, their two cats, and watching or playing a variety of team sports.
Emery is from Columbia, Missouri and is currently in her final year in the Master of Architecture program at Drury University. Emery will be earning a minor in Environment and Sustainability with certificates in International Immersion and Design Solutions for Environmental Issues.
Emery joined Ball as a student intern in 2025. Emery is passionate about the environment and is excited to contribute to the world of architecture through environmentally conscious design. In her spare time Emery enjoys rock climbing, sewing, and spending time with her family and her pets Roscoe and Rosie.