Two experienced architects bring deep expertise to HOK’s Healthcare and Sports + Recreation + Entertainment practices.
HOK has welcomed Elizabeth Sullivan, Assoc. AIA, LEED Green Associate, EDAC, as principal and regional co-leader of Healthcare for the Northeastern United States, and Doug Barraza, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C, who rejoins the firm as a principal and director of HOK’s Sports + Recreation + Entertainment practice in Kansas City.
Sullivan, based in HOK’s New York studio, will partner with Philadelphia-based Laura Poltronieri, AIA, to to lead the Healthcare practice across the Northeast Region, shaping the practice’s strategy, thought leadership and project delivery for academic medical centers, health systems and specialty providers. Sullivan brings more than two decades of experience leading hundreds of projects, ranging from modular outpatient clinics and ambulatory hubs to high-acuity inpatient expansions and international initiatives.
Her background includes work from both the owner and consultant perspectives, enabling her to translate complex clinical needs into efficient, adaptable spaces that advance care delivery. Sullivan champions evidence-based, resilient design and teaches graduate-level healthcare design at the New York School of Interior Design. She serves on AIA New York’s Design for Health Committee, Women in Healthcare and the New York chapter of the Association of Medical Facility Professionals (AMFP).
Barraza returns to HOK’s Kansas City studio as a director of the Sports + Recreation + Entertainment practice. Over his 35-year career, he has designed award-winning stadiums, arenas, training centers and master plans for universities and professional sports teams.
Barraza’s broad market knowledge and relationships, informed by presenting at Athletic Business, the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA) and NIRSA – Leaders in Collegiate Recreation conferences, help clients create projects for future success while elevating fan and player experiences today.
“Elizabeth brings exceptional insight into the challenges and opportunities facing institutions at the forefront of research, health and education,” said Carl Galioto, FAIA, president of HOK. “Her leadership will help our clients create transformative facilities that advance discovery, resilience and community well-being.”
“Doug’s return underscores our commitment to shaping next-generation sports and recreation environments,” Galioto said. “His ability to translate program goals into flexible, high-performance venues will strengthen our Kansas City team and the clients we serve across the nation.”
With Sullivan expanding HOK’s healthcare reach in the Northeast and Barraza driving sports innovation from the Midwest, the firm continues to invest in expertise that delivers strategic, human-centered design solutions for clients around the world.
