Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Partner for Architectural Design Solutions
Founded in 1939, HKS has evolved into a global architectural firm driven by a commitment to design excellence and meaningful impact. Our multidisciplinary team combines research, technology, and human-centered insights to create spaces that inspire, connect, and perform. With expertise spanning architecture, interior design, sustainable design, and advisory services, we prioritize environmental stewardship, social equity, and governance in every project. Recognized with awards such as the AIA Architecture Award and Forbes Best Mid-Size Employer, our legacy of innovation is rooted in the vision of our founder, Harwood K. Smith. We serve clients across sectors including healthcare, education, hospitality, and mission-critical facilities, operating from 25+ offices worldwide.Our leadership team, including CEO Heath May, brings decades of experience in advancing design that addresses complex challenges while fostering community well-being. Through initiatives like the Building Brains Coalition, we bridge neuroscience and architecture to reimagine spaces that enhance human health. Our research-driven approach ensures solutions are informed by data, while our global presence enables localized, culturally responsive design. We maintain partnerships with clients to deliver iconic projects like SoFi Stadium and the UC San Diego Living and Learning Neighborhood, demonstrating our ability to transform visions into award-winning realities.
Services
Architecture
Interior Design
Sustainable Design
Advisory Services
Structural Engineering
Experiential Branding
Research
ESG in Design
Mission Critical Research
Multifamily Residential
Details
- Year established: 1939
Highlights and features
- We offer over 80 years of experience in architectural design.
- Our team includes certified experts with extensive industry knowledge.
- We prioritize sustainable design practices aligned with ESG principles.
- Our research-driven approach ensures innovative solutions.
- We have a global presence with offices in major cities worldwide.
Services
Architecture
HKS delivers innovative architectural solutions tailored to client needs, blending aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability. Our expertise spans healthcare, hospitality, education, and mixed-use developments. With a focus on research-driven design, we create spaces that enhance human well-being and environmental resilience.
Sustainable Design
Our sustainable design practice integrates ESG principles to minimize environmental impact while maximizing efficiency. We prioritize materials, energy systems, and layouts that promote long-term ecological balance and occupant health. Projects like the UC San Diego Living and Learning Neighborhood exemplify our commitment to net-zero goals.
Advisory Services
HKS provides strategic advisory services for complex projects, including financial feasibility studies and facility planning. Our multidisciplinary team collaborates with clients to align design with operational and business objectives. Recent work includes tourism development and healthcare system planning globally.
Interior Design
We craft interior environments that reflect brand identity and enhance user experience. Our designs balance aesthetics, functionality, and cultural context, serving sectors like hospitality, corporate offices, and healthcare. Attention to detail ensures spaces are both inspiring and practical.
Research
Research underpins all our projects, driving informed decisions and breakthrough solutions. Our team explores how design impacts health, productivity, and community engagement. Initiatives like the Building Brains Coalition connect neuroscience with architecture to reimagine spaces for human well-being.
People
Heath May
CEO & Chairman
Heath May leads HKS with a focus on innovation and sustainability, succeeding Dan Noble. He champions research-driven design and global collaboration to address complex challenges in architecture.
Dan Noble
Former CEO & Chairman
Dan Noble, FAIA, FACHA, LEED AP, served as CEO of HKS for decades, driving its growth into a global firm. His legacy includes fostering a culture of design excellence and community impact.
Upali Nanda
Global Sector Director, Innovation
Upali Nanda, PhD, leads HKS' innovation efforts, integrating research with design. Her work explores how architecture affects human health and organizational performance, earning recognition in healthcare and sustainability fields.
Michelle Jutt
Global Practice Director, Advisory
Michelle Jutt directs HKS' advisory services, combining healthcare expertise with strategic planning. Her background in nursing and business informs solutions for complex healthcare facility challenges globally.
Harwood K. Smith
Founder
Harwood K. Smith founded HKS in 1939, establishing a legacy of artistic vision and architectural excellence. His entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to design continue to shape the firm's culture today.
Questions
What industries does HKS specialize in?
HKS serves healthcare, hospitality, education, mission-critical facilities, mixed-use developments, and sustainable design projects globally.
How does HKS incorporate sustainability into designs?
We integrate ESG principles, prioritize eco-friendly materials, and aim for net-zero goals through research-driven strategies and certifications.
Where are HKS offices located?
HKS operates from 25+ offices worldwide, including Dallas, London, Shanghai, and Dubai, enabling localized design solutions.
What awards has HKS won?
HKS has received the AIA Architecture Award, Forbes Best Mid-Size Employer, and COTE Top Ten awards for design excellence.
How does HKS approach research in design?
Our research team explores how design impacts health, productivity, and community well-being, informing data-driven, innovative solutions.
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