Hitchcock Design Group Market Research Report

Background

Overview

Hitchcock Design Group (HDG) is a national, multi-disciplinary landscape architecture, placemaking, and urban design firm established in 1980. Headquartered in Naperville, Illinois, with additional offices in Austin, Texas; Indianapolis, Indiana; and Florida, HDG specializes in creating sustainable, community-focused spaces across various sectors, including parks, hospitality, healthcare, education, and mixed-use development.

Mission and Vision

HDG's mission is to improve people's lives and the communities in which they live, work, and play through interactions with creative outdoor places and spaces. Their vision emphasizes design excellence, collaboration equity, and life balance, aiming to create better places through human-centered design with sustainable solutions.

Industry Significance

As one of the largest landscape architecture firms in Illinois, HDG has earned a reputation for client-focused planning and design. Their extensive portfolio includes award-winning projects that enhance community engagement and environmental sustainability.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

HDG focuses on building lasting relationships with clients and communities by delivering innovative and functional designs that enhance the human experience. Their strategic objectives include expanding their national presence, fostering collaboration, and integrating sustainable practices into their projects.

Areas of Specialization

The firm's areas of specialization encompass:

Landscape Architecture

Placemaking

Brand Identity Design and Development

Branded Environments

Master Planning and Land Use Planning

Urban Design

Green Infrastructure

Resilient Design

Specialty Gardens

Public Parks and Open Spaces

Green Roofs

Key Technologies Utilized

HDG employs advanced design technologies, including computer-aided design (CAD) software, geographic information systems (GIS), and 3D modeling tools to create detailed and accurate representations of their projects. These technologies facilitate efficient planning, design, and visualization processes.

Primary Markets Targeted

The firm's primary markets include:

Multifamily and Mixed-Use Developments

Civic and Community Projects

Healthcare Facilities

Educational Institutions

Recreational Spaces

Hospitality and Senior Living

Financials and Funding

Funding History

HDG is a privately held firm and has not publicly disclosed detailed financial information or funding history. The company has grown organically through its reputation and successful project portfolio.

Recent Developments

In September 2025, RVi Planning + Landscape Architecture acquired Hitchcock Design Group, expanding RVi's capabilities in key markets across the U.S. This acquisition aims to combine expertise and resources to create innovative spaces and experiences nationwide.

Pipeline Development

Key Projects

HDG's portfolio includes notable projects such as:

EastVillage, Austin, Texas: A mixed-use development integrating live, work, and play spaces.

465 North Park, Chicago, Illinois: Designing engaging amenity spaces for a premier Chicago address.

The Morton Arboretum, Chicago, Illinois: Creating interactive spaces to engage children and families with nature.

Kankakee Riverfront Master Plan, Kankakee, Illinois: Developing a comprehensive plan to enhance and sustain the riverfront area.

Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital, Barrington, Illinois: Designing a healing garden to support mind, body, and spirit.

Anticipated Milestones

Specific timelines for project completion and milestones are not publicly disclosed. However, HDG's strategic focus on sustainable and community-oriented designs suggests a commitment to long-term project development and impact.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

HDG utilizes proprietary design methodologies that integrate sustainable practices and community engagement strategies into their projects. These approaches ensure that designs are not only aesthetically pleasing but also environmentally responsible and socially inclusive.

Significant Scientific Methods

The firm employs evidence-based design principles, utilizing research and data analysis to inform planning and design decisions. This scientific approach ensures that projects meet the functional needs of communities while promoting environmental sustainability.

Leadership Team

Key Executives

Bill Inman: CEO of Hitchcock Design Group, leading the firm's strategic direction and operations.

Steve Konters: Principal, overseeing design and project management.

Tim King: Principal, focusing on business development and client relations.

Sheila Bushong: Principal, specializing in landscape architecture and urban design.

Geoff Roehll: Principal, leading the firm's sustainability initiatives.

Trent Rush: Principal, managing the firm's operations and project execution.

Eric Hornig: Principal, focusing on creative design and innovation.

Leadership Changes

In September 2025, Hitchcock Design Group was acquired by RVi Planning + Landscape Architecture. This strategic move aims to enhance the combined firm's capabilities and market presence.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The landscape architecture and urban design industry is characterized by a growing emphasis on sustainable and community-focused designs. Firms are increasingly integrating green infrastructure and resilient design practices to address environmental challenges and enhance the quality of urban spaces.

Competitor Analysis

Key competitors in the industry include:

RVi Planning + Landscape Architecture: A national firm specializing in planning, landscape architecture, and urban design, known for its creative strategy and design.

Norris Design: A landscape architecture and planning firm with a focus on sustainable design and community engagement.

Carol R. Johnson Associates (CRJA-IBI Group): Specializes in landscape architectural design services, offering a range of planning and design solutions.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

The acquisition by RVi Planning + Landscape Architecture in September 2025 is a significant strategic collaboration, expanding HDG's resources and capabilities across the Midwest and South.

Operational Insights

Strategic Considerations

The acquisition by RVi Planning + Landscape Architecture positions the combined firm among the industry's leaders, with one of the largest teams in the U.S. focused on planning, landscape architecture, visioning/branding, and urban design. This strategic move aims to enhance the firm's market position and competitive advantage.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Strategic Roadmap

The combined firm's strategic roadmap includes expanding its national presence, integrating sustainable design practices, and fostering innovation in urban design. By leveraging the strengths of both firms, the organization aims to deliver impactful and functional designs that meet the evolving needs of communities.

Future Business Directions

Future directions involve exploring new market opportunities, enhancing service offerings, and continuing to build strong client relationships. The firm is committed to creating spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also environmentally responsible and socially inclusive.