Christopher Paul Bankston has been shaping the architectural landscape for nearly two decades, celebrating 20 years with GGB Architects. As a Partner, Vice President, and Principal Design Director, Chris brings both vision and precision to every project, blending creativity with a deep respect for context and client needs.

His passion for design began in childhood with Lincoln Logs and building blocks, later nurtured by a fascination with watching buildings rise from the ground. That curiosity led him to pursue his Bachelor of Architecture at LSU after beginning his studies at Southeastern Louisiana University. Before joining GGB, he gained valuable experience working with three other firms, ultimately achieving his early goals of becoming a licensed architect and partner in a firm.

Chris approaches each project by first understanding the true desire and outcome the client envisions. For him, successful design means more than aesthetics, it is about creating spaces that are sustainable, low-maintenance, budget-conscious, and, most importantly, meaningful to those who use them. Collaboration is at the core of his process, ensuring that clients are active members of the design team from concept to completion.

Throughout his career, Chris has worked on a wide variety of projects, many of which hold a personal place for him. Standouts include the FGB Center, the Louisiana Workforce Commission Atrium, Lancaster Elementary School, Prairieville Middle School, Live Oak High School, and Southeastern Louisiana University’s Athletic Facility. Some of the most challenging and rewarding projects he has led include the major renovations of Pearl River High School and Florida Avenue Elementary School, where careful phasing and coordination allowed construction to progress safely while campuses remained occupied.

An active member of the architectural and design community, Chris belongs to the American Institute of Architects (National, Louisiana, and Baton Rouge chapters), the U.S. Green Building Council (Louisiana Chapter founder and past chair, as well as regional representative for Louisiana), and the Association for Learning Environments (past president and vice president). He also contributes locally as an active member of the City of Hammond DDD Design Committee and previously served as President of the City of Hammond Historic Commission.

Beyond architecture, Chris is deeply connected to Louisiana culture and community life. He serves as a Lieutenant and President of the Krewe of Eros, a Mardi Gras organization in New Orleans where he has been a member for more than 30 years. A man of many talents, he plays guitar and bass when time allows, and he has practiced Shotokan Karate for 35 years, holding a 3rd-degree black belt and training for his 4th. While at LSU, he competed on the karate team and won the collegiate men’s black belt division championship. His interest in Japanese culture, especially its architecture, remains a strong influence on his life and design work

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