HDR: Engineering the Future of Architecture and Sustainable Design

Introduction: Engineering Tomorrow, Today

In the dynamic world of architecture and engineering, HDR stands as a beacon of innovation and excellence. Founded in 1917, this 100% employee-owned firm has evolved into a global powerhouse, delivering integrated services that span architecture, engineering, environmental, and construction sectors.

With a presence in 225+ locations worldwide and a team exceeding 12,000 professionals, HDR is not just participating in the future—they're actively designing it. Whether it’s groundbreaking hospital designs, major infrastructure projects, or high-tech sustainable buildings, HDR is leading the charge toward a better-built world.

And in a competitive industry dominated by firms like Gensler, Perkins&Will, and HOK, how does HDR measure up? Let’s dive in.

Comprehensive Service Offerings: Beyond Conventional Design

HDR’s multidisciplinary approach ensures that every project is a harmonious blend of form, function, and sustainability. Their services include:

Architectural Design

HDR’s architects and designers create spaces that enhance human experiences and drive sustainability forward. They design everything from state-of-the-art healthcare facilities to high-performance commercial buildings, always pushing the limits of what’s possible.

✔ Commercial & Mixed-Use Architecture – High-efficiency, tech-driven buildings that redefine modern work and living spaces.
✔ Healthcare & Science Facilities – Cutting-edge hospitals, research labs, and biotech hubs that push the boundaries of medical innovation.
✔ Education & Institutional Design – Universities, research centers, and schools that foster learning and growth.
✔ Civic & Cultural Spaces – Museums, performance halls, and community hubs that reflect history, art, and innovation.

Engineering & Infrastructure Innovation

Unlike many competitors, HDR is deeply rooted in engineering. They provide integrated solutions that combine world-class design with complex technical expertise.

✔ Building Engineering – High-performance building systems that maximize energy efficiency, functionality, and sustainability.
✔ Transportation & Infrastructure – Smart highways, bridges, transit hubs, and urban mobility solutions that future-proof cities.
✔ Water & Environmental Engineering – Cutting-edge solutions for water management, sustainability, and climate resilience.
✔ Computational & Predictive Analytics – Data-driven architecture that adapts to future needs in real time.

Interior & Experience Design

The inside of a building should be just as inspiring and functional as the exterior. HDR’s interior design specialists create dynamic, human-centered spaces.

✔ Corporate & Workplace Interiors – Transforming offices into collaborative, high-performance environments.
✔ Retail & Hospitality Spaces – Engaging, interactive spaces that enhance guest and customer experiences.
✔ Healthcare & Healing Environments – Interiors designed for comfort, efficiency, and well-being.
✔ Educational & Cultural Interiors – Spaces that promote learning, creativity, and community engagement.

How HDR Stacks Up Against Industry Competitors

HDR competes with some of the biggest names in the industry. But how does it compare to Perkins&Will, Gensler, and HOK? Here’s what makes HDR unique:

✔ What Sets HDR Apart?

• Engineering + Architecture – Unlike firms that focus on pure design, HDR brings deep engineering expertise into every project.

• Employee-Owned Model – Employees have a stake in the company’s future, ensuring long-term commitment to innovation.

• Healthcare Industry Leadership – Named #1 healthcare design firm, specializing in hospitals, research centers, and biotech facilities.

Why Work at HDR?

For ambitious professionals looking to change the world through design and engineering, HDR offers:

✔ Global Reach, Local Impact – Work on projects that span continents while shaping communities close to home.
✔ Career Development & Education – Access to mentorship, training, and leadership programs.
✔ Diversity & Inclusion – A workplace that champions diverse perspectives and experiences.
✔ Industry-Leading Innovation – Be part of a firm that is setting the standard for sustainable, smart design.
✔ Employee-Owned Culture – A stake in the company’s success ensures long-term career investment.

What’s Next for HDR?

HDR continues to lead with groundbreaking projects and initiatives:

✔ Innovative Data Center Cooling – HDR is designing a data center in Australia that will utilize wastewater, including toilet water, for cooling—a groundbreaking approach to reducing energy and water consumption.

✔ New Leadership – John Henderson became CEO in January 2024, bringing decades of experience in operations, engineering, and infrastructure.

✔ Top Healthcare Design Firm – HDR remains #1 in healthcare architecture, shaping the future of hospitals and medical research centers.

✔ Expanding in San Diego – Strengthening its presence in biotech, life sciences, and healthcare with a new architecture studio in Southern California.

With these bold moves, HDR isn’t just keeping up with the future of architecture and engineering—they’re shaping it.