Global architecture and design firm Perkins&Will  announces the promotion of Koleman Uresti, AIA, LEED AP BD+C, to managing director in the country’s fastest-growing major metropolitan city. Drawing upon his experiences as a project manager and operations director, Uresti will lead the firm’s Austin studio through a period of rapid transformation.  

“As our studio grows alongside our city, we will continue to prioritize excellence in everything we do,” says Uresti. “I look forward to fostering our partnerships with clients and community members to help tell their story through design while simultaneously creating the healthiest, most sustainable, and equitable future possible for Austin.”

A Promise to Austin: Living Design

In his expanded role, Uresti will champion the firm’s commitment to Living Design, which focuses on a holistic approach to sustainability, resilience, regeneration, and social equity.  Living design goes beyond the standard definition of “sustainability”— it is about delivering successful concepts to clients that foster well-being. Uresti will encourage projects throughout Austin that are inclusive and positively contribute to the environment to help life thrive at the individual and community scale. 

Two Decades of Industry Experience 

Uresti will maintain his current role as operations director, applying his business and financial expertise to ensure a positive and rewarding client experience from project start to completion. He has over 22 years of experience in the architecture industry, five of which have been with Perkins&Will’s Austin studio. 

During that time, he helped transform Austin’s educational landscape, having led the design team for such notable projects as Rodriguez Elementary School and San Marcos High School, both of which serve the growing population within the San Marcos Consolidated Independent School District. Even with his expanded leadership responsibilities, Uresti will pursue his passion for educational architecture. 

A Bright Future for Austin 

“Koleman has played an integral role in  making our Austin studio successful,” says Tom Reisenbichler, AIA, LEED AP who manages the firm’s practice in the Southwest, which includes Perkins&Will’s Austin, Houston, Dallas, and Denver studios in the U.S. and its Monterrey studio in Mexico. “As we look toward an exciting future, Koleman will continue to serve our clients and the community with an unparalleled commitment to well-being, inclusion, and sustainability.”  

Inspired by Austin studio’s mission, Uresti will encourage staff and associates to organize programs that tackle social issues and promote equity within the community. He plans to focus on giving back to the community through outstanding design.

“I am excited to further provide our clients with design excellence while keeping community and sustainability top of mind,” says Uresti. “With the firm’s commitment to putting people first, we are aiding in the development to create a healthier, more inclusive environment.”