Even though the confetti has settled, there’s still plenty to celebrate. As EskewDumezRipple heads into 2026, our teams are settling back into a rhythm of ideas, collaboration, and momentum—moving projects forward while continuing to shape what comes next.

Before diving into a new year, we’re taking a moment to reflect on the milestones, leadership shifts, and lessons that defined 2025.

Firmwide studio photo in our new studio in New Orleans.

New Leadership

2025 marked an important moment of transition and growth for several key leaders within our firm with each stepping into expanded roles that strengthen how we practice, collaborate, and operate.

Christian Rodriguez was named Managing Principal, a leadership role that reflects his long-standing commitment to firm culture, mentorship, and operational stewardship. His focus ensures that the values embedded in our public work are equally present in how the practice is led day to day.

Ian O'Cain, AIA was named Director of Operations. Building on his previous role as Director of Technology, Ian brings a systems-driven mindset to firmwide operations, supporting efficiency, scalability, and long-term growth across studios.

Marta Fenollosa, AIA LEED AP was named Director of the DC Studio. Her leadership continues to guide the DC team with clarity and intention, strengthening the studio’s national and regional identity while supporting collaboration across the firm.

Office Move

A few highlights:

Abundant natural daylight with user-controlled shades and thermostats
A workplace designed to support focus, flexibility, and daily interaction
Seeking WELL Certification through International WELL Building Institute (IWBI)

The energy of the space is felt every day, and we’re excited about what this studio enables for the future of our work.

Looking Ahead to 2026

Industry Insights from Our Principals

We asked our Principals where they see the industry—and their markets—heading in the year ahead, along with the projects they’re most excited to see realized.

Learning Environments

Jack Sawyer on helping universities achieve greater efficiency

“As the cost of higher education continues to rise, colleges and universities are being pushed to do more with less. We’re seeing institutions rethink how their existing buildings and spaces can work harder and support new academic models while addressing operational inefficiencies and growing student-to-staff ratios. Our data-driven approach to campus planning aligns naturally with this moment, helping schools make strategic space decisions that maximize impact without unnecessary expansion.”

Looking forward to: The completion of the George and Scheller Towers at Georgia Institute of Technology —a 416,500 SF research building serving the engineering and business colleges.

Check out these amazing videos from Georgia Tech n Instagram.

George and Scheller Towers at Georgia Tech, Atlanta, GA; Opening 2026. Photo by Jonathan Hillyer.

Z Smith on using performance data to drive smarter campuses

“From a performance standpoint, this shift is essential. Using data to understand how buildings actually perform (how often spaces are occupied, how much energy they use, and how they support health and learning) allows institutions to reduce waste while improving outcomes. Smarter use of existing space isn’t just more efficient; it’s one of the most impactful sustainability strategies campuses have today.”

Looking forward to: The opening of Our Lady of the Lake Interdisciplinary Sciences Building at Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, which will revolutionize the research landscape of LSU!

Our Lady of the Lake Interdisciplinary Sciences Building at LSU, Baton Rouge, Louisiana; Opening 2026.

Live/Work

Jose Alvarez on turning underused buildings into new opportunities

“Across the Live/Work sector, we’re seeing a strong push toward adaptation—particularly through the reuse of existing buildings and the conversion of underutilized office space into housing. Cities and clients are increasingly open to new ideas, creating opportunities to bring national design expertise into regional markets in ways that are both forward-looking and deeply responsive to local context.”

Looking forward to: The continued progress of the 515 North Site development in Salt Lake City, a mixed-use project that combines adaptive reuse and new housing to expand access to quality, affordable living—while informing our ongoing 2025–2026 Research Fellowship focused on Affordable Housing.

Jill Traylor on designing interiors that foster well-being and a sense of belonging

“From an interiors perspective, people are craving spaces that feel welcoming, meaningful, and worth gathering in again. Bringing a hospitality lens to work, living, and shared environments helps create places that support well-being, encourage connection, and foster a sense of belonging—spaces that are as comfortable and human as they are memorable.”

Looking forward to: The opening of The Warbler boutique hotel on St. Charles Avenue and the completion of the Louisiana Future Energy Nexus at The Beach at UNO.

Civic/Cultural

Christian Rodriguez on the evolution of civic and cultural spaces

“Civic and cultural spaces are no longer single-purpose destinations. Clients are asking how their buildings can serve broader audiences, support more diverse programming, and remain active beyond traditional hours. That shift is fundamentally changing how these spaces are planned, programmed, and experienced.”

Looking forward to: The public opening of Gover nor Nicholls Wharf Riverfront Park in New Orleans and the first performance at the transformed THE OLNEY THEATRE CENTER FOR THE ARTS INC in Maryland.

Governor Nicholls Wharf Riverfront Park, New Orleans, LA; opening Spring 2026.

Steve Dumez on designing adaptable public places

“From a design perspective, this evolution requires spaces that are highly adaptable, able to balance technical, security, and operational needs in ways that are open and welcoming. The most successful civic and cultural places today function as true public living rooms, offering multiple reasons to engage throughout the day and year.”

Looking forward to: Visiting the new US Courthouse in Greenville, Mississippi, designed with Duvall Decker (newest AIA Firm Award winner!) and walking through the dogtrot at the nearly completed Burden Welcome Center at the LSU AgCenter in Baton Rouge.

New US Courthouse, Greenville, Mississippi; designed with Duvall Decker Architects; coming 2026.

Finance

Jenifer Navard on why financial clarity matters more right now

“Across the A/E industry, firms are operating in a more volatile environment—tighter margins, shifting labor dynamics, and greater pressure to perform. The firms that are staying ahead are the ones using real-time financial and operational data to make informed decisions early, rather than reacting once issues surface.”

Onward

Looking back, 2025 was a year of meaningful change—new leadership, a new space to work in, and a lot of thoughtful conversations about where design is headed. It gave us a chance to pause, reflect, and refocus.

As we move into 2026, we’re excited about what’s ahead and grateful for the clients, collaborators, and teammates who make the work rewarding. Here’s to another year of good ideas, shared effort, and design that makes a difference.

Let's create something remarkable together.