Perkins&Will: Company Profile
Background
Perkins&Will is a global interdisciplinary architecture and design firm established in 1935 by Lawrence B. Perkins and Philip Will Jr. in Chicago, Illinois. The firm operates with the mission to create healthy, sustainable environments that enhance communities and transform lives. Guided by the vision of integrating design excellence with social responsibility, Perkins&Will has grown into one of the world's leading design practices, employing over 2,000 professionals across more than 20 offices worldwide.
Key Strategic Focus
Perkins&Will's strategic focus centers on delivering innovative, sustainable, and human-centered design solutions across various sectors, including healthcare, education, civic, commercial, and residential projects. The firm's core objectives include:
- Sustainability Leadership: Integrating environmental stewardship into all projects, with a commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions and promoting ecological health.
- Research and Innovation: Utilizing research-driven methodologies and advanced technologies to inform design decisions and enhance project outcomes.
- Diversity and Inclusion: Fostering an inclusive culture that values diverse perspectives and promotes social equity within the firm and in the communities served.
- Global Collaboration: Leveraging a global network of offices to collaborate on projects that address complex challenges and deliver impactful solutions.
Financials and Funding
As a privately held firm, Perkins&Will does not publicly disclose detailed financial information. However, industry rankings provide insight into the firm's financial standing:
- Revenue: In 2021, Perkins&Will reported a revenue of $572.5 million, ranking second among U.S. architecture firms.
- Growth and Expansion: The firm has demonstrated consistent growth through strategic mergers and acquisitions, including the 2025 merger with Abramson Architects, enhancing its Southern California practice.
Pipeline Development
Perkins&Will's project portfolio spans various sectors, with notable projects such as:
- Healthcare: Designing sustainable healthcare facilities that promote patient well-being and operational efficiency.
- Education: Creating learning environments that foster innovation and inclusivity.
- Civic and Cultural: Developing public spaces that reflect community values and cultural heritage.
- Commercial and Residential: Designing spaces that balance functionality with aesthetic appeal.
The firm continues to pursue projects that align with its mission of creating transformative and sustainable environments.
Technological Platform and Innovation
Perkins&Will distinguishes itself through several technological platforms and innovative practices:
- Living Design Approach: A holistic methodology integrating environmental, social, and design considerations to promote ecological health and well-being.
- Research Labs: The firm operates 10 Research Labs that catalyze innovative design technologies and solutions, resulting in smarter and more competitive built environments.
- Sustainable Design Tools: Development of resources like the Now Database, a searchable directory of sustainable and circular products, and the Circular Design Primer, a guide focusing on circular sourcing of design elements.
Leadership Team
Perkins&Will's leadership team comprises seasoned professionals committed to the firm's mission and values:
- Phil Harrison: Chief Executive Officer since 2006, Harrison has tripled the firm's size and expanded its geographic reach, emphasizing design excellence and innovation.
- Lindsey Peckinpaugh: President, leading the firm with a focus on sustainability and equity, inspiring teams to deliver excellence in every aspect of their work.
- Jason F. McLennan: Chief Sustainability Officer, known for his work in regenerative design and creator of the Living Building Challenge, joined Perkins&Will in 2022 to enhance the firm's sustainability initiatives.
Leadership Changes
In 2022, Perkins&Will appointed Jason F. McLennan as Chief Sustainability Officer, integrating his expertise in regenerative design and sustainability into the firm's strategic direction.
Competitor Profile
Market Insights and Dynamics
The global architecture and design industry is characterized by increasing demand for sustainable and innovative design solutions. Firms are focusing on integrating technology and research to meet evolving client needs and environmental challenges.
Competitor Analysis
Key competitors to Perkins&Will include:
- Gensler: The largest architecture firm globally, known for its diverse portfolio and innovative design solutions.
- HKS: A global firm specializing in healthcare, commercial, and residential projects, recognized for its sustainable design practices.
- Perkins Eastman: An international firm offering architecture, urban design, and planning services, with a focus on community-oriented projects.
These firms compete in similar markets, emphasizing sustainability, innovation, and client-centric design approaches.
Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships
Perkins&Will has formed strategic partnerships to enhance its service offerings:
- Schmidt Hammer Lassen Architects: A Danish practice known for cultural sector work, merged with Perkins&Will in 2018 to expand its global presence.
- Lauckgroup: A Dallas-based interiors firm acquired in 2018, strengthening Perkins&Will's interior design capabilities.
- McLennan Design: A merger in 2022 with Jason F. McLennan's firm, enhancing sustainability expertise within Perkins&Will.
Operational Insights
Perkins&Will's operational strategy focuses on:
- Sustainability Leadership: Implementing sustainable design practices across all projects to meet environmental goals.
- Research and Development: Investing in research labs and tools to drive innovation and maintain a competitive edge.
- Global Collaboration: Leveraging a global network to deliver diverse and innovative design solutions.
Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions
Perkins&Will is well-positioned to capitalize on:
- Sustainable Design Demand: Expanding its portfolio of sustainable projects to meet increasing client and regulatory demands.
- Technological Integration: Enhancing the use of technology and research in design processes to improve efficiency and innovation.
- Global Expansion: Leveraging strategic mergers and partnerships to enter new markets and strengthen its global presence.
Contact Information
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