Miami-based partner will help drive growth, innovation and cross-practice collaboration across the global Place sector

Global design firm HKS has named Sergio Saenz as global sector director of its Place sector, reinforcing the firm’s integrated leadership approach and continued focus on growth, innovation and client value. Based in HKS’ Miami office, Saenz will lead the Place sector, which includes the firm’s Hospitality, Mixed-Use, Mission Critical, Multifamily Residential and Senior Living practices.

“We have an incredible opportunity to unlock new growth and expand the value HKS brings to clients worldwide through deeper collaboration across the Place sector,” Saenz said. “When we connect knowledge, research and ideas across practices and markets, we create stronger solutions and open new possibilities for innovation. For our clients, that means deeper partnerships, better outcomes and ideas that translate vision into value. For our people, it means working together across disciplines to imagine what’s possible and make it real.”

Saenz approaches design with architectural longevity in mind, creating landmark, resilient projects that help clients future-proof their assets against climate change, evolving environments, and natural disasters. Born in Texas and raised in Mexico, he brings a global perspective shaped by work across diverse regions and strong relationships throughout HKS. He was named to the Design Futures Council’s 40 Under 40 and received the Luis Barragan Design Media Award.

His appointment reflects HKS’ belief that placemaking is essential to the success of any region, city or neighborhood. Through a collaborative, cross-practice approach, the Place sector is positioned to deliver economically, socially and environmentally sustainable solutions that help clients and communities thrive.

Previously, as the global leader of Hospitality, Saenz led one of HKS’ most visible practices, helping expand its global reach and reputation. He is recognized for guiding complex, high-profile projects with clarity and creativity, bringing multidisciplinary teams together to deliver innovation and performance at every scale. He is also respected for bridging creativity and strategy so that design decisions advance both vision and value.

The Place sector’s collaborative model continues to strengthen partnerships and create new opportunities across markets by connecting design, delivery and advisory expertise. This integrated approach enables HKS to deliver high-performing solutions tailored to evolving client needs and market opportunities.

Notable upcoming projects under the Place sector include AMAALA Yacht Club on the Red Sea coast of Saudi Arabia, Four Seasons Jacksonville, The Setai St. Maarten and The Eastpoint development in Nashville. Legacy work includes Rosewood’s Las Ventanas al Paraiso, Astra Tower, Conrad Orlando, Querencia at Barton Creek, Aligned Data Centers and Pier Sixty-Six.

Saenz’s appointment underscores HKS’ commitment to evolving its leadership in ways that build momentum, deepen collaboration and expand opportunities for impact across the built environment.

About HKS

HKS is an interdisciplinary global design firm. Our team of 1,800 architects, designers, planners and advisors across 29 offices partner with clients to design and develop elegant solutions to complex challenges. From iconic gathering places to healing environments, our designs enhance experiences and elevate outcomes for all stakeholders. Our work is inspired by curiosity, driven by research and technology and informed by a deep understanding of human and environmental needs. Proud to be a carbon neutral firm since 2023, HKS was named #1 Most Innovative Architecture Firm by Fast Company in 2026.