San Francisco, USA – Architect Sean Quinn, AIA, LEED AP BD+C, BREEAM, will lead the new HOK studio as director of regenerative design.

Based in San Francisco, Quinn previously served as the firm’s sustainable design leader for performance.

Over his two-decade career, Quinn has demonstrated his commitment to performance-based sustainable design and a progressive approach to biomimicry in projects across the world.

“Reducing our footprint won’t prevent a climate catastrophe,” said Quinn. “We need to leverage the power of design as a positive force to restore and regenerate the natural world. We want to continue conserving while also creating abundance.”

HOK has long been a leader in designing for sustainability, resilience, health and well-being. This new studio will bring regenerative strategies to enhance design on all types of projects, from planning and urban design to architectural, landscape, interior design and experience design. The team’s data-driven approach will ensure that its solutions are based on ecosystem performance metrics related to water, air, carbon, soil, biodiversity, and health and well-being.

“Design is an expression of our innate desire to create,” said Quinn. “In our role within the development of all types of spaces, buildings and cities, we have always looked to nature for inspiration. Now we’re looking at nature as our partner and as a key part of the outcome.”

“By putting life at the center of our design solutions – and basing these solutions on data and building science – we can help restore the natural world,” said Bill Hellmuth, FAIA, LEED AP, HOK’s chairman and CEO. “Regenerative design brings value to the living world, the built environment and our society. It also enhances our ability to work with clients to create special places that make profound contribution to their communities.”

Sustainability has always been about balancing social, economic and environmental resources. “Our regenerative design practice is also focused on nourishing communities with the resources that provide resilience, abundance, affordability and quality of life,” said Anica Landreneau, ASSOC. AIA, LEED AP BD+C, WELL AP, HOK’s director of sustainable design. “Regenerative design is not a new concept, but it’s an area in which our green building practices haven’t spent nearly enough time. We’re thrilled that Sean is leading this practice across our firm and profession.”

Current and recent clients for HOK’s regenerative design studio include Microsoft Corporation, the Ford Motor Company and the U.S. General Services Administration.