Global architecture and design practice Perkins&Will announced that Matthew Krissel has been appointed Design Director for the firm’s New York and Philadelphia studios.
 
Krissel will lead design at both studios alongside Sommer Schauer, who became Principal, Design Director last year when the company joined forces with workplace strategy and design firm Architecture Plus Information (A+I). Together, Krissel and Schauer will shape multi-disciplinary design strategy across a variety of sectors, including business, education, healthcare, science and technology.
 
“The appointment of Matt as Design Director is a testament to the breadth of design voices that shape the dynamic work that we do every day. It’s especially telling that he and Sommer, both of whom come from different backgrounds and perspectives, are partners in the leadership of our design culture. The work we will be doing, and the talented people who will be part of their team, are sure to be greatly enriched by this one-of-a-kind partnership,” says Robert Clemens, Managing Director and Director of Strategic Growth, Perkins&Will, New York.
 
“Their deep experience in research, strategy, design, and construction speaks to our vision of helping transform clients’ businesses and create places that truly resonate with the people who use them,” says Kate Thatcher, Managing Director, Perkins&Will, New York.
 
A Fellow of the American Institute of Architects (FAIA), Krissel has more than two decades experience as an architect and design leader. He’s led work both nationally and internationally for firms in both New York City and Philadelphia, amassing extensive experience in research, planning, higher education, and institutional projects. Krissel joined Perkins&Will, as a Design Principal in 2024.
 
“I am excited to join Sommer in shaping design across the two studios with expanded ambition and reach,” says Krissel. “The opportunity before our teams in New York and Philadelphia is rare. To create an architecture of consequence and places that endure. To partner with institutions on the questions that matter and build a practice that learns faster than the world changes.”

A+I merged with Perkins&Will in September 2025, doubling the size of the New York studio. The union has significantly expanded Perkins&Will’s strategic design and branding talent, allowing the firm to take on more complex projects.
 
Prior to the merger, Schauer spent three decades at A+I, most recently serving as Principal and Chief Design Officer. A leading voice in workplace interiors, experience and strategy, her expertise spans tech startups, consumer brands, financial firms and global real estate developers.
 
“Matthew’s deep experience and research-focused approach have never been more crucial in driving design,” says Schauer. “I’m looking forward to collaborating on ways we can use architecture to foster a culture focused on people, human experiences and storytelling.”