Global design firm HKS has expanded its Seattle leadership bench with the addition of two senior architects to support the office’s technical and project delivery capabilities.
Eric Ritchey, AIA, has joined the firm as Principal and Office Technical Leader, while Richard Wilson, AIA, has been appointed Vice President and Senior Project Architect within HKS’ Mission Critical Studio. Both will be based in the firm’s Seattle office and are tasked with advancing design execution on complex assignments.
Ritchey brings more than 25 years of experience leading technically sophisticated projects and coordinating multidisciplinary design teams. In his new role as Office Technical Leader, he is expected to focus on reinforcing technical design standards across the Seattle practice. His responsibilities include helping project teams align behind a shared vision and supporting the delivery of innovative, high-quality solutions for clients.
Wilson joins HKS with a portfolio that spans a range of project types across the West Coast. His background includes work on renovations, tenant improvements, high-density developments and technically complex facilities that employ wood, steel and concrete construction systems. As a registered architect in Washington, he has led multidisciplinary teams through all phases of design and construction, from early planning through project completion.
Within the Mission Critical Studio, Wilson’s Senior Project Architect role is expected to draw on that broad technical and delivery experience. The studio focuses on facilities that require high levels of reliability and performance, and Wilson’s track record with complex building systems and structures aligns with that mandate.
The addition of Ritchey and Wilson reflects HKS’ ongoing investment in its Seattle presence. By appointing leadership with deep technical expertise and experience managing diverse project types, the firm aims to support its teams in delivering work that meets demanding design and performance criteria. HKS has emphasized that these hires are intended to strengthen the office’s ability to manage sophisticated assignments and coordinate multidisciplinary contributors.
By expanding its leadership ranks in Seattle, HKS is reinforcing its commitment to serving clients with projects that require rigorous technical execution. The firm notes that Ritchey and Wilson will work closely with existing teams to enhance project outcomes, maintain quality standards and continue building the office’s portfolio of technically complex work across the region.
