HKS Deepens Commitment to Denver and America West with Strategic Hire of Local Design Leader, David Morris
HKS, a global design firm named one of Fast Company’s Most Innovative Architecture Firms, has announced the appointment of David Morris as Principal and Office Director of its Denver studio.
David Morris, known for his contextual design approach, talent-forward leadership, and landmark projects like 1401 Lawrence and 1701 ‘One Platte’—his arrival signals a bold new chapter for HKS in the Mountain West region and one that’s sure to grab the attention of the mixed-use market.
With a career spanning architecture, interior design, and urban planning, David is widely recognized for shaping some of Denver’s most iconic and forward-thinking buildings and interiors. At HKS, he will lead the firm’s regional growth strategy while cultivating strong design teams and client relationships across mixed-use, commercial office, residential, hospitality, and health
“HKS has a long and proud history of delivering transformative work in Colorado – from Four Seasons Denver to the Ritz-Carlton Bachelor Gulch and the Hutchinson Family Stockyards Event Center at the National Western Center Campus,” said Sam Mudro, President and Chief Financial Officer of HKS. “David’s innovative leadership and strong connections within the Denver design community are poised to further enhance our practice in the region.”
The hire reflects HKS’s ongoing investment in the America West, where the firm has designed more than a dozen major projects, including:
- Lincoln Property Company Denver Innovation Campus (ongoing) – A 790,000-sf innovation district with mass timber amenity center and three tenant buildings
- US Air Force Academy Falcon Stadium (2024) – A transformative renovation introducing a dramatic new entrance, heritage plaza, and reimagined fan experience
- Aurora Highlands Master Plan (2023) – A 350-acre mixed-use vision anchored by health care and community-centered development
- Denver Health Outpatient Medical Center (2020) – A 275,000-sf facility integrating specialty clinics, telehealth, and surgical services
- Le Méridien / AC Hotel Denver (2017) – A 474-key dual-branded hotel in downtown Denver
- 100 St. Paul, Cherry Creek (2015) – A LEED Gold mixed-use office and residential complex
- Four Seasons Denver (2010) – A luxury hotel and private residences tower in the city’s heart
- Ritz-Carlton Bachelor Gulch (2001) – A premier mountain resort with hotel and private residences
“I’ve long admired HKS’s ability to pair innovation and technical rigor with thoughtful, intentional design,” said David. “This is a firm that embeds deeply in the places it works, and that alignment with Denver’s evolving identity is what excites me most.”
With Morris at the helm, the HKS Denver studio is poised to grow its influence in urban development, sustainable design, and community-building across the America West, serving as both creative catalyst and strategic partner.
About HKS: HKS is a global firm of architects, designers, advisors, and makers driven by curiosity and devoted to creating places that combine beauty with performance. Our 1,400 people in 25 offices are united by our shared culture and sense of purpose. We value honesty, diversity, and inclusion and we celebrate creative thinking across our firm. In partnership with each other, our clients, and our partners, we craft powerful ideas and solutions. Together we create places that stand apart. For more information, visit www.hksinc.com.