Thomas Knittel has been named as new design principal in Seattle’s architecture studio. He is responsible for the overall design direction of projects in the studio, and together with Managing Principal Duncan Griffin, AIA, he is helping to lead HDR’s center of regenerative design.

Knittel most recently was a design partner at McLennan Design, which he started with his former colleagues from BNIM architecture firm. Prior to that, he was a senior principal of design for HOK.

Passionate about the intersection of architecture, sustainability and ecology as an engine for creativity, Knittel said he feels fortunate to have the opportunity to bring ideas to form and to mentor the next generation of architects. “As we move toward a circular economy and regenerative design practices, nature provides an inexhaustible source of technology and inspiration.”

Knittel is a frequent lecturer on design innovation and biomimicry, including giving the annual “Sustaining Our World” address in 2013 at the University of Washington. He earned a master’s degree from the Harvard Graduate School of Design, and he is a certified biomimicry professional. A volunteer design leader for the LEED and WELL Platinum William Jefferson Clinton Children’s Center in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, he also serves on the advisory board of the Biomimicry Center at Arizona State University.

"I look forward to partnering with Tom as we add intensity to HDR's focus on sustainability, and make a significant step toward positively impacting our planet through regenerative design,” said Griffin.

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