Hastings+Chivetta Announces Strategic Acquisition by Grace Hebert Curtis Architects
Hastings+Chivetta Architects (H+C), a national design firm recognized for its innovative education architecture, is excited to announce its strategic acquisition by Grace Hebert Curtis Architects (GHC), a prominent national design firm with a strong presence in the southern United States.
GHC has a successful track record of delivering forward-thinking, modern designs for a broad range of client types in the education, civic, healthcare, senior housing, and hospitality markets. Founded in 1967, the firm has nine locations across Louisiana, Texas and Florida.
“GHC has a reputation for outstanding work across the country’s growing southern region. We are excited to join the firm in this strategic partnership to offer new expertise to our clients and further expand our market base across the country. Our partners at GHC share our commitment to personalized client service and innovation in design,” said Christopher Chivetta, President of Hastings+Chivetta. “Our combined team will enable us to offer new design expertise and perspectives to our clients.”
Hastings+Chivetta will maintain its office at 2464 West Port Plaza Drive in St. Louis and its current staff of 38 employees.
The partnership will enable GHC to expand its national presence while offering a new set of services to its clients including Campus Master Planning, Architecture of Enrollment Management® and Space Utilization Studies.
“H+C has an exceptional reputation as the premier campus architect, for providing exceptional master planning, space utilization, architecture, and interior design services that accommodate modern teaching styles while helping to shape and improve campus life. We’re pleased to bring on a team that shares in our long-standing commitment to innovation and best-in-class client service,” said GHC CEO Jerry Hebert.
About Hastings+Chivetta Architects, A GHC Studio
Hastings+Chivetta Architects, A GHC Studio is a nationally recognized architectural firm dedicated to design innovation and client service. With experience in 42 states, Hastings+Chivetta designs one-of-a-kind places that are alive, connected and forever evolving with time. The firm serves a range of market types, including higher education, K-12, municipal and corporate.
About Grace Hebert Curtis Architects
Grace Hebert Curtis is a widely recognized AE firm with locations in Texas, Louisiana, and Florida. With an unmatched legacy and commitment to clients, Grace Hebert Curtis provides in-depth insight and a broad range of innovative design and development solutions for a wide range of end markets, including education, civic, healthcare, commercial office, and hospitality. To learn more about GHC, please visit ghc-arch.com.
Hastings+Chivetta is excited to introduce the latest additions to our team!
Lisa LeMasters, AIA joins us as a Vice President, Project Manager, where her management expertise and passion for integrating art and design drive exceptional project outcomes. Outside of work, she is an avid sports enthusiast and coaches the Mid-County Composite Mountain Biking Team with her family, exemplifying her commitment to both community and leadership.
Kevin Gremmelsbacher, AIA joins us as a Project Manager, where he leads the planning and design process focusing on collaboration and client advocacy. His passion for architecture began in childhood, when he meticulously drafted plans for his treehouse, down to the exact number of nails needed.
Taylor Williamson, RA joins us as a Project Manager, where he is known for his positive energy, excellent communication, and problem-solving skills. His passion for architecture was inspired by his grandfather, whose architectural drawings of pools and buildings left a lasting impression on him from a young age.
Amanda Klos joins us as an Interior Designer, where she works closely with the interiors group to deliver cohesive and impactful project outcomes, creating spaces that deeply resonate with clients. Amanda’s lifelong passion for art and design led her to a career in interior design, where her love for diverse cultures and traditions inspires her innovative approach.
Katy Price joins us as a Senior Executive Assistant, leveraging her extensive experience and passion for organization. After transitioning from college and a sales job, she discovered that her skills in organization and problem-solving made administration the perfect fit for her.
Erica Villamayor joins us as a Junior Architectural Designer, where she creates renderings and detailed drawings, plans, sections, and elevations. Her passion for design and planning, which began with a high school course in home and interior design, drives her long-standing commitment to architecture.
Diana Daly joins us as a Senior Proposal Coordinator, where she combines her love for design with her professional skills. After discovering a passion for architecture and interior design, Diana pursued a Master of Science in Design. Her diverse background and keen interest in the impact of the built environment on our lives now drive her work in shaping and promoting impactful spaces.
Stefanie Barnes joins us as a Senior Proposal Coordinator, where she leverages her expertise in proposal development and strategic communication to support our marketing efforts. With a wealth of experience and deep knowledge, Stefanie brings a fresh perspective and a strategic approach to the team.
We’re thrilled to welcome these talented individuals to Hastings+Chivetta. We look forward to the exciting projects ahead and encourage anyone interested in joining our team to explore our current job openings here.
Hastings+Chivetta is pleased to announce that the Saint Louis University, O’Loughlin Family Champions Center has been featured for its outstanding design in the American School and University, Educational Interiors Showcase magazine.
The Educational Interiors Showcase highlights exceptional design in educational environments, celebrating projects that excel in creating functional, innovative, and aesthetically pleasing spaces for learning. Projects featured in this showcase are often selected for their creative approaches to space planning, use of materials, integration of technology, and ability to foster an engaging and effective learning environment.
The O’Loughlin Family Champions Center exemplifies these qualities, providing a state-of-the-art facility that supports the academic and personal success of student-athletes. Its thoughtfully designed spaces, including the Performance Nutrition Center, Student Success Suite, and Billiken Victory Room, enhance the educational experience, support diverse teaching and learning styles, and contribute to the overall well-being of students and faculty.
We are honored to see our work recognized on this platform and remain committed to designing spaces that drive excellence in education and support the needs of our clients. This recognition is a testament to our team’s dedication and creativity, and we look forward to continuing to create innovative solutions that make a lasting impact.
The Hastings+Chivetta team will be attending and exhibiting at this year’s National Association of College and University Business Officers (NACUBO) Annual Meeting taking place on July 20th-23rd, in Chicago, Illinois.
The National Association of College and University Business Officers (NACUBO) has been around since 1962 providing knowledge for campus leaders across the country who work in higher education business and finance. With a mission “to advance the economic vitality, business practices, and support of higher education institutions in pursuit of their missions”, NACUBO provides opportunities to collaborate and offers resources to address the evolving challenges in higher education. This conference presents numerous opportunities for higher education professional to expand their networks and enhance their institutional strategies. Attendees can join an array of workshops, sessions, and seminars led by industry experts providing practical tools and strategies.
Design Principal Erik Kocher and Vice President/Project Manager Lisa LeMasters will be attending and exhibiting at booth #720.
Learn a bit more about the H+C attendees below.
Erik Kocher, AIA, LEED AP BD+C, Design Principal, brings nearly 40 years of design experience at Hastings+Chivetta. Erik has vast experience in higher education projects across the country along where he oversees and guides the majority of the firm’s projects. He strives for the physical expression of sound planning ideas, innovation, and creativity combined with the open flow of communication with clients.
Lisa LeMasters, AIA, Vice President/Project Manager, brings over 20 years of experience leading a wide range of projects. Lisa’s leadership and communication skills are informed by her extensive experience on projects across the country.
We eagerly anticipate connecting with the attendees!
Hastings+Chivetta will be attending, exhibiting, and presenting at this year’s NIRSA Florida Summit conference taking place on Thursday, June 13 & Friday, June 14, 2024, in Fort Myers, Florida.
The NIRSA Florida Summit brings together professionals and students involved in sports, fitness, and wellness programs within the state of Florida. This conference offers opportunities for professional development, networking, community building, education, and collaboration to advance the field within the state. Design Principal Erik Kocher will be in attendance and presenting.
Erik Kocher will be delivering an engaging presentation on outdoor recreation spaces, filled with insights and innovative ideas titled “Take the Party Outside: The Next Generation of Facility Design” on Friday, June 14 at 11:30am ET. During this presentation Erik will be joined by collegiate recreation leaders Amy Swingle and Suzanne Ries. Amy Swingle former Recreation Director at Florida Gulf Coast University comes with 29 years of experience and Suzanne Reis the Senior Director, University Recreation and Wellness at Florida Gulf Coast University brings 18 years of experience in collegiate recreation. Hastings+Chivetta designed the Recreation and Wellness Center at Florida Gulf Coast.
- Erik Kocher, AIA, LEED AP BD+C, Design Principal, has been involved in the design and construction of more than 300 collegiate sports, recreation, and wellness facilities, including many NIRSA award-winning projects. He is a frequent speaker at national conferences and has been a juror for Athletic Business’ Facility of Merit Awards five times.
Each year, Learning By Design publishes a celebrates outstanding educational design solutions that enhance learning environments and experiences. Showcasing a diverse array of outstanding PK-12 and post-secondary campus structures, Learning By Design highlights newly completed or upcoming projects. Hastings+Chivetta is pleased to announce that our design for the Principia School, Bill Simon Field House has been honored with a Learning by Design Educational Facilities Design Award for Spring 2024.
We have worked on an array of projects for the Principia School ranging from the IDEA Center Library Renovation, Library and Fine Arts Concept, Campus Master Plan and the new Bill Simon Field House.
The Bill Simon Field House, our latest project, stands proudly as a welcoming landmark at the entrance of campus. Named in tribute to a cherished coach, it is strategically positioned amidst various sports facilities, featuring a light-filled lobby and a performance gymnasium with retractable bleacher seating. Alongside practice courts and a running track, it boasts amenities like a fitness center, locker rooms, and coaching offices. Together, these elements enhance the campus sports environment and foster team building which is vital to the Principia School experience.
We are thrilled to have been part of such a great project!
Hastings+Chivetta is pleased to announce that we have been given the opportunity to work on the Campus Master Plan for St. Joseph’s Academy. In 2023, St. Joseph’s Academy finalized their strategic plan, IMPACT 28: Calling Forth More. The purpose of this strategic plan is to steer their mission-oriented efforts for the next five years. Hastings+Chivetta’s planning team will work with the school’s stakeholders to address facilities needs in conjunction with the Strategic Plan’s outcomes to provide a framework for decision-making over the next decade.
Previously we have worked with St. Joseph’s on a variety of projects ranging from academic and STEM renovations to the gym and performing arts complex. Check out details below on those previous projects!
Art, Science, and Campus Ministry Renovations
St. Joseph’s Academy engaged Hastings+Chivetta Architects to enhance and expand its art, science and campus ministry facilities to support the school’s mission and meet current pedagogical requirements. The third level of the main school building was reconfigured to accommodate the school’s chemistry, physics, life sciences and digital innovation labs. New art studios are located on the second floor, while the new Campus Ministry is located on the first floor where it promotes a flexible, student-centered space in an ideal location with high visibility and easy access.
Student Life Center
Hastings+Chivetta converted the existing gymnasium into a performing and fine arts space, including a 700-seat theater, as well as additional spaces for drama, speech, and music. A new two-court performance gymnasium was also built, with spectator seating for 800. Designed as a multipurpose facility with a divider curtain, it allows PE classes and other activities to occur simultaneously.
The Hastings+Chivetta team will be attending the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) Annual Conference February 28th through March 1st as well as the Missouri Park and Recreation (MPRA) Conference & Expo March 5th through the 8th. Both conferences will be held in Saint Louis, Missouri this year.
The National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) is a nonprofit membership association that that offers services to over 2,000 schools and school associations in the United States and internationally. NAIS is the largest association of independent schools that help shape the future of education. The NAIS conference will provide school leaders, educators, and professionals to come together to network, collaborate, and provide professional development opportunities. President Chris Chivetta, Senior Vice President/Project Manager Steve DeHekker, Vice President/Project Manager Lisa LeMasters, and Senior Associate/Project Designer Al Wolf will be attending and exhibiting at booth #110.
The Missouri Park and Recreation (MPRA) is a nonprofit organization that supports park and recreation services throughout the state of Missouri. MPRA works towards opportunities that allow all citizens to engage in leisure activities, offers resources and training for professionals and raises awareness of how recreation contributes to a well-rounded lifestyle. The MPRA conference allows attendees to engage in professional development, educate, and inspire individuals in the parks and recreation field. President Chris Chivetta, Design Principal Erik Kocher, and Vice President/Project Manager Lisa LeMasters will be attending and exhibiting at booth #118.
Learn a bit more about the H+C’s attendees below.
Christopher Chivetta, P.E., LEED AP BD+C, President, brings over 35 years of experience and has been with the firm for over 30 years. He is responsible for all projects at Hastings+Chivetta. His strong interpersonal skills and passion for what he does make him a skilled project facilitator. Chris constantly pushes for design innovation and excellence, and his intrinsic desire to exceed his clients’ expectations leads to successful project collaborations.
Erik Kocher, AIA, LEED AP BD+C, Design Principal, brings nearly 40 years of design experience, with 36 at Hastings+Chivetta. His design talents enable him to quickly and expertly illustrate a range of solutions for any given architectural challenge. Erik has vast experience on independent K-12 and park and recreation projects across the country along where he oversees and guides the majority of the firm’s projects. Erik strives for the physical expression of sound planning ideas, innovation, and creativity combined with the open flow of communication with clients.
Steve DeHekker, AIA, LEED AP BD+C, Senior Vice President/Project Manager, has been with Hastings+Chivetta for 32 years and brings extensive experience leading a range of independent K-12 and parks and recreation projects. His strong, diverse background results in highly effective project leadership and management.
Lisa LeMasters, AIA, Vice President/Project Manager, brings over 20 years of experience leading a wide range of independent K-12 and park and recreation projects. Lisa’s leadership and communication skills are informed by her extensive experience on projects across the country.
Al Wolf, AIA, LEED AP, Senior Associate/Project Designer, has nearly 35 years of design and production experience. He has been with Hastings+Chivetta for almost 30 years and has spent most of his time as a project designer for a variety of independent K-12 and park and recreation projects. Al is an expert in the complex design issues that go into designing modern academic spaces.
Our team is looking forward to connecting with attendees at both conferences!
Hastings+Chivetta is thrilled to introduce our latest additions to our team.
Megan Wiest joins our interiors team as a Junior Interior Designer, where she is responsible for space planning, construction and design development documentation, 3D renderings, and selecting finishes and furniture. Growing up in a construction environment, Megan developed a profound appreciation for shaping spaces and its impact on people’s emotions within an environment.
Zach Hantak, Associate AIA joins our architectural team as a Construction Administrator, where he actively engages in collaborative efforts with our clients, consultants, and contractors while overseeing the build process and providing valuable input and expertise.
Steve Bilsland, RA joins our architectural team as a Construction Administrator, with over 35 years of industry experience. Steve collaborates directly with our clients, consultants, and contractors to ensure smooth communication and coordination during the construction phase, all while facilitating and assisting in delivering a high-quality project.
Delaney Pinkley joins our programming team as a Research Assistant with a master’s in business administration, focused on Project Management. Delaney supports our planners and programmers as they collaborate with our clients in the research and decision-making process during the programming phase.
Sara Holt, AIA joins our architectural team as a Project Architect, involved in all phases of project delivery, including design, construction documents, and construction administration. Sara has over 10 years of experience, including higher education, student housing and health care projects. Her love for problem solving makes her a real asset in seeing projects through completion.
Kimberly Estes joins our administrative team as Chief Financial Officer, overseeing the daily financial operations of the company. With her education and years of experience, Kimberly will optimize operations within our Accounting Department, placing a strong emphasis on delivering exceptional client service and improving efficiency.
Hastings+Chivetta extends a warm welcome to our newest team members, whose arrival fills us with great excitement for the valuable contributions they will bring. If you’re interested in joining our team, please explore our open positions here.