We have over 600 professionals working coast to coast, and licensure across all 50 states, so we can collaborate no matter where you’re based. We seek to deliver the right balance of simplicity and innovation to align teams and technology around what matters most—your customer.
licensed in states STAFF 600+ professionals
7 COUNTRIES
2
20,000+ projects permitted across OFFICES
2,000+ communities
who we are
Our Vision
Amplify our Solution Suite to clientpartners through securing vital talent and harnessing advancing technologies.
Our Purpose
Leading clients to fulfill their vision while building lasting partnerships.
Our Culture
HFA aspires to be a people first culture of empowerment where talent thrives.
single-source studio
At HFA, we unite the expertise of your multi-discipline team of architects, engineers, permitters, and other industry professionals, so you can: Bring your whole design team together.
+ Maximize coordination across disciplines
+ Streamline communications and gather feedback earlier
+ Create higher quality documents that can be delivered sooner
fully integrated disciplines
Architecture
Electrical Engineering
Fire Protection Engineering
Civil Engineering
Landscape Architecture
Fueling Design
Mechanical Engineering
Plumbing Engineering
Structural Engineering
Interior Architecture
Refrigeration
Kitchen Design
specialized partners
Full Concept Development Services
HFA leads a broad team of specialized partners supporting clients with fully developed venues.
Golf Tech
Golf Equipment
Gaming - Arcade
Batting Bays
Pool Designers
Vendor Lighting
Branding
Signage
AV / Low Voltage
focused on design
A concept design service with a simple mission: Bring storytellling to life through the built environment.
Our Formula
+ Understand your identity
+ What do your patrons value?
+ Create a narrative tailored to your interest
+ Transform the story into the built environment
The Power of Thoughtful Design
Keeping your patrons at the center of our design process helps us create environments that are not only functional, but also create the most positive interactions between your space and your customers.
meet the team Experience That Brings Hospitality to Life
Nicole
vice president of hospitality + entertainment
Nicole Poole has built a distinguished 19-year career in architectural design, focusing on innovative projects within the hospitality sector. She believes that good design should be immersive, sparking emotions and connections in everyone who walks through the door. Her passion lies at the intersection of creativity and practicality, crafting spaces that are as visually stunning as they are functional. Nicole’s expertise spans everything from interior architectural design to large-scale, ground-up building projects. Nicole first honed her skills in Chicago, where she spent 16 years helping to shape the city’s dynamic dining scene. She played a key role in designing award-winning restaurants and spearheaded the historic renovation of a Chicago firehouse, transforming it into an iconic dining destination. Her talent for conceptual design extends to global brands like Topgolf and Shake Shack, where she has been involved since 2010.In 2021, Nicole brought her passion and leadership back to Northwest Arkansas, where she now leads an exceptional team at HFA. As the head of the firm’s Hospitality + Entertainment Team, she continues to push boundaries with her visionary approach to every project. Her portfolio is packed with standout destinations like WorldSprings, Golf Ranch, Smash Park, Fielding’s, Dave & Buster’s, Zion Hot Springs, Home Run Dugout, and Omni Toptracer.A proud alumna of the University of Arkansas, Nicole holds a Bachelor of Architecture with a Minor in Art. She is a Registered Architect through AIA and NCARB, and a LEED Accredited Professional, underscoring her dedication to sustainability in design.
Brent Tweedy
Poole, aia, ncarb, leed ap vice president
Brent Tweedy joined HFA in 2006 and currently oversees the engineering services for multiple c-store and restaurant clients. His primary duties are client management and development, working within the integrated A+E team, and maintaining quality control for project and prototype documents. Brent brings more than 20 years of experience, including mechanical and plumbing design, code compliance, and construction administration over several project types, including convenience stores, commercial retail, and quick-service restaurants. He has worked on several building types ranging from new construction, renovations, tenant-infill, building expansions, and multi-tenant.
Giancarlo Botazzi, pe, secb
vice president
As the Vice President of Structural Engineering at HFA, Giancarlo spearheads a dynamic team of engineers and designers, bringing nearly four decades of extensive experience in diverse building structural engineering projects across the United States. With a profound understanding of design standards and codes encompassing structural steel, concrete, precast concrete, masonry, and wood, Giancarlo is well-versed in the International Building Code (IBC) and specific state building code requirements. Giancarlo’s portfolio showcases his proficiency in designing intricate new structures and addressing challenging structural rehabilitation and renovation projects. His collaborative approach enables him to effectively partner with project design teams and building owners, devising creative and cost-efficient solutions that align with architectural design criteria and client objectives. Licensed in 23 states and Puerto Rico, Giancarlo is also an esteemed member of the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES).
meet the team
Kevin Hayre
sr team lead / designer
Kevin Hayre is a Senior Team Lead/Designer with more than 16 years of experience in the architectural industry, specializing in hospitality projects with an emphasis on entertainment environments. He has managed everything from one-of-a-kind developments to large national programs, the latter of which gave him a strong foundation in high-volume nationwide project delivery.
His background includes extensive work on complex multi-site programs, where consistency, efficiency, and adaptability are critical to success. Kevin oversees both new construction and renovation projects, coordinating teams to deliver solutions aligned with client goals, schedules, and budgets.
In addition to project leadership, Kevin mentors and leads a highly skilled hospitality design team, overseeing project delivery, client relationships, and departmental financials while supporting each team member’s professional growth. He is known for his steady approach, collaborative mindset, and ability to manage complex workloads across diverse project types.
Miranda Sawyer, aia
architect
Miranda Sawyer is a Architect at HFA with a diverse background in mathematics and architecture. With more than 7 years of experience, Miranda has worked on various projects, including retail remodels and expansions, a local project, the Northwest Arkansas Food Bank, restaurant work, and even a personal project that found her remodeling a historic home. Currently, Miranda is a Architect on the Hospitality + Entertainment team at HFA, where she collaborates with multiple disciplines and external consultants to meet client expectations. Miranda’s most important skills include strong communication, strategic and analytical thinking, and excellent organization. In her past as Client Lead for one of HFA’s most profitable teams, Miranda ensured that her fellow designers understood and upheld client expectations and outlined efficient processes for completing accurate deliverables.
Landon Foster, ncarb, aia
architect
Landon has more than 12 years of experience and has a diverse range of design and project management experience. His industry experience includes civic, commercial, retail, educational, health care, industrial, and residential projects. Landon enjoys finding creative inspiration for projects from within their physical, organizational, or cultural context. He finds ways to incorporate those inspirations at all scales, from campus pedestrian connections to the design of custom door pulls and light fixtures.
Quang Nguyen
designer
Quang Nguyen is a Designer at HFA, bringing over six years of experience in Architectural Design, and three years of product management and development. At HFA, Quang plays a key role in new project initiatives, leveraging his expertise in CAD and BIM standards to develop and update the latest Revit templates for the firm’s D&B projects. His current work includes collaboration on the Dave & Buster’s projects, where he applies his technical skills and design insight to support project development. Prior to joining HFA, Quang contributed to several notable projects across a range of sectors, including hospitality, entertainment, and residential. His portfolio includes work on Topgolf, Shake Shack, luxury condominiums, casinos, restaurants, storage units, and residential homes. During his time at previous firms, Quang helped streamline processes by developing CAD and BIM standards, and he was instrumental in creating one of Topgolf’s prototypes.
Chuong Pham
designer
Chuong is a skilled architect, holding a BARCH degree from the New York Institute of Technology in Manhattan, NY. Before joining the Matchstick team, Chuong spent six years working as a concept designer for an award winning architecture firm in Dubai, where he was involved in designing high-end residential apartments, villas, resorts, hotels, and commercial hospitality entertainment centers. One of the prominent projects Chuong worked on in the past was the Bay Residence in Hayat Island, which won the Golden Nugget award for best international commercial/ residential project in 2017.
Egle Gornick
sr designer
Egle Gornick is a Designer at HFA with over 12 years of experience in hospitality and entertainment projects. She leads HFA’s Matchstick process, a concepting design service focused on enhancing the patron experience. She also contributes to projects from early concept development through construction.
Her portfolio includes projects such as World Springs, Smash Park, Fielding’s (River Oaks), Home Run Dugout, Golf Ranch, and Zion Canyon Hot Springs. Egle specializes in space planning, detail-oriented design, and creating environments that align with client visions, defined by character and authenticity. She also mentors younger designers, sharing her technical knowledge and design experience to strengthen team collaboration.
Dedicated to building long-term client relationships, Egle brings a deep understanding of spatial design, brand identity, and guest experience to every project. Her collaborative process and eye for timeless design ensure every detail contributes to a cohesive and memorable environment.
meet the team
Estefania Toledo
designer
Estefania is a Designer on HFA’s Hospitality team, where she contributes to projects ranging from sports field houses to restaurants and golf facilities. She has four years of experience and contributes across all phases of design, supporting projects through schematic development, documentation, and coordination. She works closely with internal teams and consultants to deliver creative, code-compliant solutions. Her portfolio includes work on Dave & Busters, the Mammoth Fieldhouse, and the HAPi Golf project. Estefania is especially proud of her role in the Mammoth Fieldhouse, supporting both the design and technical documentation of a large-scale sports facility. She brings a well-rounded skill set to each project, blending creative design thinking with precise technical execution. Proficient in Revit, AutoCAD, and Adobe Suite, Estefania values collaboration, attention to detail, and continuous learning within HFA’s multidisciplinary environment.
Jaime Castañeda, pe
mep program lead / electrical engineer
Jaime brings 20 years of experience to HFA in lighting design, power distribution, short circuit analysis, voltage drop analysis, load diversity, life safety, and communication systems, and design of back-up emergency and critical power systems. Jaime is responsible for various commercial facilities’ electrical design, including retail, grocery, maintenance, and manufacturing facilities. Jaime’s primary roles at HFA include responsibility for accuracy, constructability, code compliance of overall electrical designs and calculations, and electrical staff training.
Cruz Eslick, pe, ashrae
sr mechanical engineer
Cruz Eslick is a Lead Mechanical Engineer at HFA with over 11 years of experience in the A/E industry. He oversees mechanical and plumbing design across multiple teams, primarily supporting retail and commercial projects. His responsibilities include developing construction documents, mentoring junior staff, and contributing to business development through proposal efforts.
Cruz brings deep expertise in HVAC and plumbing system design, building load calculations, and energy modeling. He’s recognized for his attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and collaborative project approach. His professional involvement includes serving as President of the Central Arkansas Chapter of ASHRAE (2021–2022) and receiving the ASHRAE Region VIII STAR Award for Technology Transfer in 2020. Outside of work, Cruz contributes to his church community as a member of the worship team, playing electric guitar.
Jordan Falls, pe
team lead / electrical engineer
Jordan Falls is a licensed Electrical Engineer with more than seven years of industry experience. During his five years at HFA, Jordan has had a hand in developing prototypes for several clients, including some in the restaurant, retail, and automotive service industries. He serves as one of the lead electrical engineers for HFA’s local work and helps manage the electrical work for our Franklin studio, too. Jordan is especially proud of his knowledge of power distribution design for large buildings, including emergency and legally required standby systems. He also brings prior experience working in the healthcare industry and with high-rise designs.
Maggie Chenoweth, pe
team lead / structural engineer
Maggie Langston is a Structural Engineer at HFA. She is primarily responsible for analyzing and designing buildings, coordinating and finalizing construction documents. Maggie runs multiple programs from a structural perspective, coordinating with architects, clients, and other disciplines involved. She also helps to establish and maintain project budgets and proposals. Maggie is a licensed professional engineer in the state of Arkansas and brings more than four years of experience to her role.
Josh Clark, pe
discipline lead / fire protection engineer
Josh Clark is a Fire Protection Engineer and Team Lead with over seven years of experience in the industry. Since graduating from the University of Arkansas in 2016, Josh has honed his attention to detail and adaptability skills. In his current role at HFA, he oversees various projects from Walmart and Sam’s Club remodels to new store designs and has played an integral part in driving the design for the retailer’s micro-fulfillment center projects.
Ana Ruiz
designer
Ana Ruiz is a Designer on HFA’s Entertainment and Hospitality team, with five years of experience in architecture and interior design. Her background spans projects from small residential spaces to large-scale entertainment and hospitality venues, including restaurants, casinos, and recreational developments. At HFA, she focuses on the design and development of interior spaces from early concept through construction documentation. From the first sketch to the final execution, Ana enjoys every stage of the design process. For her, design is not just about aesthetics—it’s an opportunity to positively impact people’s lives through the spaces they inhabit. Ana contributes to projects such as Slim Chickens and HAPi Golf, where she helps translate client goals into thoughtful, buildable designs. Known for her attention to detail, creative thinking, and adaptability, Ana collaborates closely with teams to balance beauty, function, and constructability.
project experience
Home Run Dugout
client | home run dugout
location | katy, tx
size | 40,000 sf
HFA was honored to lead the concept design for Home Run Dugout in Katy, TX. The 40,000-squarefoot sports and entertainment complex includes 12 simulated hitting bays, a music stage, and a Wiffle Ball field. Our Hospitality + Entertainment Team used the Matchstick process throughout concept design, schematic design, design development, and construction administration. The collaborative process with the client led to spaces where the enduser feels comfortable and engaged with sports amenities throughout the facility that appeals to patrons looking for a destination experience, as well as those wanting a neighborhood feel. Our team was serious about the mission to make anyone at Home Run Dugout feel like they can hit a home run.
WorldSprings is a recreational wellness and social experience mineral spa at the Grandscape in Colony, TX. We enjoyed leading all aspects of architecture for this nine-acre project. Our Hospitality + Entertainment Team provided support for concept design, schematic design, design development, and construction documents for the buildings on the property. The Matchstick process uncovered patron needs and expectations that led to experiential features throughout the building including a food and beverage component, spa with treatment rooms, retail spaces, and a luxurious locker room. Our design team was mindful of the need for comfortable and efficient flow in each space and fulfilled the vision of a lodge-like, authentic natural hot springs experience.
project experience
Golf Ranch
client | golf ranch location | various size | various
Our collaboration with Golf Ranch began by reimagining the traditional driving range as a concept that welcomes both golfers and non golfers. Following the success of the Connecticut renovation, we expanded this unique ambiance to Dallas and Kansas City. Each facility shares the same welcoming atmosphere and Toptracer technology, while offering distinct amenities such as mini golf and vibe bays tailored to the location. As a bridge between entertainment golf and traditional experiences, Golf Ranch provides a casual, inclusive environment with offerings like food, drinks, private classes, and a family-friendly atmosphere. Our services, evolving with Golf Ranch’s growth, covered concept design, schematic design, design development, and construction administration. From brand and program development to the use of shipping containers for versatile purposes, each aspect focused on enhancing the customer journey. The inviting patio, characterized by crushed granite ground cover and diverse seating options, epitomizes the relaxed, fun, and inclusive atmosphere of Golf Ranch‚ a place for everyone to belong, chill, and enjoy a less formal golfing experience.
project experience
Smash Park
client | smash park location | roseville, mn; la vista, ne size | 30,000 sf (indoor); 15,000 sf (outdoor)
Our journey with Smash Park began by understanding the brand identity, translating it into a guiding narrative for the design process—from concept to visuals. In collaboration with passionate clients, we created a vibrant, inclusive space featuring outdoor pickleball courts, courtyard games, and a covered patio with diverse seating. Indoors, we incorporated four pickleball courts, an arcade, axe throwing, duckpin bowling, and a private paddle club for adults, complete with a DJ booth, karaoke room, and versatile event space. Balancing creativity with cost-effectiveness, we delivered a budget-friendly design that captures the dynamic synergy between pop art and Smash Park’s unique identity, ensuring a uniqueness within pickleball culture.
project experience
Icons
client | icons
location | nassau, bahamas
size | 10,000sf
Our renovation and rebranding project at ICONS, part of The Pointe property near Margaritaville Beach Resort in downtown Nassau, involved transforming the existing entertainment center with amenities like a movie theater, bowling lanes, and a sports VR simulator. In collaboration with the client, our Hospitality + Entertainment team optimized the layout to improve traffic flow and operational efficiency, while also introducing a new arcade element to diversify offerings and enhance revenue. Despite challenges such as low ceilings and a limited budget, we implemented bold, cost-effective design solutions, including vibrant abstract murals and energetic colors. The integration of multifunctional seating areas maximized space usage, and we proposed distinctive yet budget-friendly design solutions for the exterior entrances to complement the interiors. Our comprehensive services covered concept design, floor plans, interior and exterior renderings, and a detailed FF&E and finish spec package, ensuring a cohesive and standout transformation for ICONS.
Partnering with Arco Murray, we undertook a design/build project for Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate in the heart of central Florida. The venture involved renovating an existing golf facility and adding a 7,000 square foot entertainment building. This expansion included open seating, a covered patio, and an indoor/outdoor bar. A connecting teeline, equipped with TopTracer technology, caters to both professional and amateur golfers. Our services encompassed the production of construction documents and the seamless execution of construction administration for this 13,700 square foot project in the vibrant locale of central Florida.
project experience
Zion Canyon Hot Springs
client | arco murray, world springs location | laverkin, ut size | 38,150 sf (4 buildings)
In collaboration with Arco Murray and World Springs, our team played a key role in a multi-building project for a new hot springs resort just outside of Zion National Park in LaVerkin, Utah. Encompassing 38,150 square feet across four buildings, our services extended from concept design through construction administration. The architectural vision included a main entry, office and locker room building, a food and beverage facility for the outdoor venue, and two mechanical support buildings. Designed to seamlessly integrate into the arid hillside surroundings, the structures provide a unique and relaxing experience. Our contribution covered architecture, interior design, and the meticulous execution of construction documents, ensuring a successful realization of this distinctive hot springs resort.
project experience
Springfield Cardinals Master Plan
client | springfield cardinals location | springfield, mo size | 8,000+ spectator ball park
The Springfield Cardinals Master Plan reimagines the existing ballpark as a year-round destination that supports a range of events beyond baseball. The plan introduces a more connected layout, improved circulation, and expanded program areas to enhance both game-day and non-game-day use.
A key component of the plan is a continuous 360-degree concourse that improves connectivity throughout the stadium and supports new activity zones. These include expanded food and beverage areas, social gathering spaces, family-focused amenities, and flexible outdoor areas designed to accommodate a variety of uses.
The plan also introduces a range of seating and premium spaces, along with areas for interactive activities and group events. These additions support a broader mix of users while increasing opportunities for private events and community programming. The master plan establishes a flexible framework for future development, allowing the stadium to support concerts, festivals, and other events alongside baseball, while improving overall functionality and longterm use of the venue.
project experience
Downtown Centerton Master Plan
client | city of centerton location | centerton, ar
Design Narrative
size | 30,000 resident master planned community spanning 14 miles 2
Leverage existing roadways, residential neighborhoods, and the city’s green spaces to create seamless connections to — and invigorate — the historic Old Town area. New mixed-use developments featuring housing above and commercial or retail spaces on the ground floor will foster opportunities for coffee houses, cafés, shops, and restaurants, bringing renewed vibrancy and activity to Old Town.
This master plan for Downtown Centerton reimagines the city’s future at a pivotal moment of growth, transitioning it from a primarily residential “bedroom community” into a vibrant, connected, and self-sustaining destination. Rooted in a deep understanding of the region’s rapid expansion and evolving needs, the plan establishes a bold yet practical framework that balances density, economic development, and quality of life. At its core is a continuous green corridor that weaves together parks, trails, waterways, and civic spaces—linking Old Town to the emerging New Town while celebrating the city’s natural assets. This landscape-driven approach not only enhances recreation and wellness, but also becomes the defining identity of Centerton, creating a cohesive and memorable sense of place.
Develop new city guidelines that require all future development along the expansive park and trail system to meaningfully respond to the park through thoughtful design and planning.
Multiple areas have been zoned for future multi-family development to increase housing density and expand affordable living options within the city limits.
Through strategic land use planning, integrated infrastructure, and forward-thinking zoning principles, the plan fosters a dynamic mix of residential, commercial, educational, and recreational opportunities. Walkable streets, mixed-use nodes, and pedestrian-oriented design guidelines encourage active, human-scaled development, while thoughtful roadway planning improves connectivity and reduces congestion. The vision also prioritizes longterm resilience by leveraging green infrastructure for stormwater management and allocating space for future schools and a potential higher education campus. The result is a flexible, implementable roadmap that positions Centerton for sustained growth—one that not only attracts investment and development, but also enriches the daily lives of its residents through a balanced, livable, and distinctly place-driven environment.
New roadway designed to attract and efficiently route throughtraffice around the city, improving connectivity and reducing congestion.
Designated land for a future higher education campus — ideally a fish and game college leveraging the hatchery to advance Arkansas’ outdoor heritage.
Employee Owned. People Powered.
Planning for Future Growth
Utilize green space, lakes, and existing creeks to manage flooding throughout New Town development and to mitigate existing issues in Old Town.
A natural new walking trail and bike park experience, seamlessly integrated with a vibrant local brewery — designed to foster community, wellness, and the outdoor spirit of Centerton.
Expanded parks and recreation spaces woven throughout both New Town and Old Town, offering residents enhanced opportunities to connect with nature and enjoy the outdoors.
Pedestrian-friendly downtown destination with expansive sidewalks, modern architecture, and active street-level storefronts.
Centerton lakeside: a vibrant destination for multi-use living, dining, and entertainment along the waters edge.
project experience
Oak Hills Lodge
client | arco murray, world springs location | bowie, tx sq. footage | 34,500 sf
Oak Hills Lodge in Bowie, Texas, is a 34,500-square-foot, three-story boutique hospitality retreat for which HFA provided architectural and interior design services for.
The project includes 32 guest rooms, with a mix of standard accommodations and suites, along with central public spaces that support dining, gathering, and group retreat functions. A covered porte-cochère establishes a clear arrival sequence, leading to a lobby, dining area, bar, and flexible conference space. Outdoor patios and a planned pool area extend the guest experience beyond the building footprint.
Drawing from regional ranch traditions, the design combines natural stone, heavy timber, and steel elements to create a contemporary lodge that reflects its North Texas setting.
project experience
Dave & Buster’s
client | dave & buster’s location | tampa, fl size | 39,000 sf
The Tampa Dave & Buster’s remodel transformed an existing 39,000-square-foot entertainment venue, with HFA providing architectural design services. The renovation included upgrades to the bar and finishes across primary guest areas, including dining spaces and circulation zones. The design introduced new social bays and game arenas, expanding the venue’s interactive entertainment offerings and improving overall space utilization.
Enhancements to the upper “watch” area included new finishes, updated seating, and the addition of a large DVL screen to support an improved viewing experience. A VIP room adjacent to this space provides an additional amenity for group events and private gatherings. Targeted updates throughout the venue modernized the interior while maintaining the existing footprint, resulting in a refreshed environment that supports both daily operations and group use.
