The challenge
Perkins+Will, one of the world's largest and most sustainability-forward design firms, was doing ambitious, values-driven work across sectors. But the firm's story wasn't always reaching the broader industry, public, or policy influencers in a way that reflected its full impact. From launching technical tools like The Transparency Project to stewarding high-profile global partnerships, the firm needed communications that could move between deep subject matter, high design, and accessible storytelling.
The strategy
I partnered with Perkins+Will as a strategic communications advisor across multiple initiatives, campaigns, and project rollouts. While the initial engagement focused on launching The Transparency Project, a sustainability benchmarking tool for the built environment, the relationship expanded into ongoing, high-touch corporate communications support. Key efforts included:
- Designing and leading integrated campaigns to announce landmark projects, sustainability milestones, and thought leadership platforms
- Media strategy and placement for firm leaders across top-tier outlets and industry trades
- Collaborative storytelling with mission-aligned institutions including the U.S. Green Building Council, the National Building Museum, and the AIA
- Supporting internal alignment and messaging, particularly around sustainability, transparency, and equity narratives
- Positioning the firm as a design leader and systems-level voice in regenerative architecture and material health
The outcome
- Elevated Perkins+Will's executive visibility on a global stage, including international speaking engagements and high-profile editorial features
- Built sustained media momentum across a portfolio of innovative projects, tool launches, and organizational initiatives
- Strengthened firm-wide messaging around design for human and environmental health
- Positioned Perkins+Will as a vanguard firm in transparency, materials innovation, and climate leadership