HOK

Congratulations to Thomas Bayer, FAIA, on being elevated to The American Institute of Architects (AIA) College of Fellows! As technical principal in our Houston studio, Tom leads technical direction for projects across Texas and the Gulf Coast. His recent projects include the George Bush Intercontinental Airport FIS Building, Houston’s Allen Mixed-Use Development and Austin’s Texas Facilities Commission Capitol Complex Phase II, all shown below. “Tom exemplifies what it means to advance both the technical excellence and human aspects of our profession,” says HOK President Carl Galioto, FAIA. “His leadership in developing, implementing and monitoring standardized quality management systems while fostering a culture of mentorship and knowledge-sharing has elevated not just our firm’s capabilities but the entire profession’s approach to technical innovation.” A U.S. Marine Corps veteran with over 30 years of experience, Tom has made lasting impacts through his work with the Houston ACE Mentor program, Prairie View A&M University and Texas Tech University, helping guide over 1,000 students from underserved communities toward careers in architecture. 📸George Bush Intercontinental Airport FIS Building's new International Central Processor photo courtesy of Houston Airport System.

📢 Calling all workplace planners, designers and managers! Don't miss this month's HOK Up Next: Designing for Neuroinclusivity in the Workplace. We're bringing together an expert panel for an interactive discussion right here on LinkedIn. Click the link below to RSVP and learn more!

Modern, sleek and dynamic—Roig Arena is set to redefine Valencia’s entertainment landscape. Opening this year, the 15,600-seat multipurpose venue will be the city’s premier destination for music, arts, culture and sports, serving as the home of the men’s and women’s Valencia Basket Club teams. Beyond the arena, the project will revitalize the surrounding neighborhood with a nearly five-acre public park and new facilities for the local Les Arts school. Developed by LICAMPA 1617, an enterprise founded by Spanish entrepreneur Juan Roig, the arena is designed in collaboration between HOK and ERRE. Renderings by Drawfield Studio.

Did you know that HOK is a majority female firm? That's right. Women comprise 51% of our global workforce. In recognition of International Women's Day and Women's History Month, we are celebrating the hundreds of women (873 to be exact!) who make HOK an exceptional place to be. Thank you for your service, expertise and leadership! 🙏 💪

We are excited to welcome Francesca R. Oliveira, FAIA as technical principal of our Southeast practice!  Based in Washington, D.C., Francesca brings an unwavering commitment to technical excellence from concept to final details. Her holistic approach to decarbonization, including pioneering work with mass timber construction, integrates systems and materials from the start. Using data-driven methods, she helps project teams achieve ambitious carbon reduction goals while meeting strict budget requirements.  “Our responsibility is to create resilient buildings that serve people through integrated systems, smart material choices and relentless attention to detail—all while dramatically reducing carbon impact,” says Francesca. “When we succeed, the solutions appear effortless.” Originally from the East Coast, Francesca spent the past 11 years based in California where she recently completed a term as president of AIA San Francisco. In 2024 she received one of architecture’s highest honors, being accepted as a member of the AIA College of Fellows.  Please join us in welcoming Francesca to HOK!  Read more about Francesca’s design approach and leadership: https://bit.ly/43rUQUN

👷🏼♂️🏗️👷♀️ HOK's Atlanta team recently attended the groundbreaking of the new Georgia State University Research Tower. Located in downtown Atlanta, the 9-story facility will include state-of-the-art labs, modern classrooms and dynamic workspaces in support of groundbreaking discoveries and interdisciplinary partnerships. “This is more than just a physical space," said Georgia State President M. Brian Blake. "This building expands our capacity for discovery and learning both at Georgia State University and in the Atlanta area." 

We are excited to continue our design partnership with Auburn University and Auburn Football! The Jordan-Hare Stadium North End Zone Project will enhance the Auburn fan experience by providing new premium seating, concessions and stadium support facilities, along with versatile conference event spaces, retail venues, student activity spaces, meeting rooms and more. “This is another step in ensuring Jordan-Hare Stadium remains one of the preeminent facilities in college football,” said Auburn Athletics Director John Cohen. “The biggest supporters of Auburn Athletics are Auburn students, and this project reimagines an iconic venue to include spaces that will benefit students year-round,” added Bobby Woodard, Auburn Senior Vice President for Student Affairs. HOK is collaborating on the project with associate architects CDFL Architects + Engineers P.A. and WORKSHOP ARCHITECTS and construction manager Robins & Morton. Read more about the North End Zone Multi-Use Facility: https://lnkd.in/gD8sCW4m Image: The HOK-designed Auburn University Woltosz Football Performance Center Photographer: Christy Radecic

We are thrilled to celebrate the partial opening of the HOK-designed International Central Processor (ICP) at George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston! Last week, the Houston Airport System unveiled the Terminal E ticketing lobby, 10 streamlined TSA security screening lanes and a spacious 10-lane departures curb, all providing a smoother and more efficient traveler journey. The design features soaring ceilings, natural wood materials, intuitive wayfinding, contemporary finishes and floor-to-ceiling windows. We’re look forward final construction completing later this year, which will further elevate the traveler experience with biometric screening, self-service check-in kiosks and modernized baggage handling systems. This milestone is a significant step in the $1.458 billion terminal redevelopment program to transform the airport into a modern, global hub for travelers. Images courtesy of Houston Airport System.

In recognition of 𝗪𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗻 𝗶𝗻 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘀𝘁𝗿𝘂𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗪𝗲𝗲𝗸, we are spotlighting HOK Senior Design Professional Gozde Yildirim, Assoc. AIA. Gozde is currently serving as the construction administration lead for Cedar Hill Regional Medical Center, a new inpatient hospital in Washington, D.C., scheduled to open this year. Prior to becoming the CA for the project, Gozde had fears of fitting in on the job site, making mistakes and effectively communicating with contractors. “Little did I know that these apprehensions would soon be replaced by valuable lessons that reshaped my professional journey,” says Gozde. “My experience in this phase of the building process has fortified my technical proficiency and enriched my confidence in making informed decisions as an emerging architect.” Gozde recently wrote about her experience as a CA for the AIA College of Fellows Quarterly. Check out her inspiring story here: https://lnkd.in/gqMdZwj2 #wicweek25

What does the future of architecture, planning, engineering and design look like? We're excited to explore these questions in our latest issue of the HOK Design Digest. From dynamic workplace interiors and groundbreaking scientific research buildings to community-centered behavioral and community health facilities, we're ready to design and build the future. Read on to learn more!