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Houston Studio of Perkins&Will Announces Promotion

Lea Anne Leatherwood has been promoted to Associate Principal of the Houston studio of Perkins&Will.

“It is always meaningful to see our team members grow and advance their careers within our studio,” said Diana Davis, principal and managing director of the Houston studio. “Lea Anne has a creative spark which she pairs with an understanding of the often-complicated technical needs of her projects, resulting in impactful designs which allow clients to move forward in their own missions in exciting ways.”

Lea Anne brings more than 19 years of experience to her new position. Having previously served as senior project manager in the areas of healthcare, laboratory, and research-based projects, Leatherwood will now join the leadership team in the studio’s Science and Technology practice.

Lea Anne has been a part of multiple projects for Texas A&M University, including design and project management for their Global Health Research Complex, the campus’ Memorial Student Center, their Emerging Technologies and Economic Development Building, and the Interdisciplinary Life Sciences Building. She has completed additional university-based science and technology efforts for University of Tennessee, University of Houston, Baylor University, and University of Texas Southwestern.

She has been instrumental in Perkins&Will’s long-term partnership with Chimp Haven, a sanctuary for chimpanzees retired from biomedical research. Over the multi-year evolution and expansion of Chimp Haven, Leatherwood has collaborated with the organization’s animal behaviorists to create comfortable and engaging indoor and outdoor spaces for the more than 300 chimps who call the facility home. Additional notable projects include work on NASA’s Space Medial Clinic and the Princess Nora Bint Abdulrahman Women’s University in Saudi Arabia.

“I am eager to continue my work with our clients in the science and technology sector from the perspective of this new role,” said Leatherwood. “The growth we are experiencing in science and research is quickly advancing and with an ability to change lives in truly profound ways. I find it incredibly fulfilling to be part of this work and look forward to where the future of technology, science, and design leads us.”

Leatherwood holds a Bachelor of Architecture from University of Houston, where she graduated Cum Laude. She is also a LEED Accredited Professional and a member of the American Institute of Architects. She is an active volunteer with Canstruction Houston, benefitting Houston Food Bank and also mentors architecture students through NOMA and the ACE local mentorship programs.