At NELSON, we believe architecture has the power to create a transformative sense of place, supporting communities and strengthening the fabric of cities across the nation and around the world. Recently named the #2 fastest growing architecture firm, we’re celebrating our growth, people, and projects that are boldly transforming architecture. To do so, we’ve created our latest series, “Architecture Spotlight” to introduce you to a few thought leaders within the NELSON Architecture Team.  You’ll not only get an exclusive look at our people, but hear what’s in store for the future.

This week we interview Jim Harkin, AIA, NCARB, SVP Principal at NELSON. Keep reading to learn more about his career, point-of-view, and what he think is next for the industry.

Q: What is your role at NELSON and how long have you been an architect?

A: I am the National Practice leader for Mixed-Use Co-lead of the Architecture Discipline and member of the NELSON Management Team. I have been an architect for 32 years.

Q: What is your favorite architecture trend of today?

A: The trend of “discovery” is my favorite. I don’t believe that we are in an era or style of Architecture, as in the past. We are in a time of technology, evolution, and pushing the limits of our current construction technology, all while discovering new ways.

Q: What advice would you give a young architect?

A: Be well-rounded, be uncomfortable, be humble, and follow through with any and all opportunities presented to you.

Q: What do you think the future holds for architecture?

A: I think the future is bright, but we must redefine Architecture as a profession.  We are clinging to old ideals and need to catch up to the tools, ideas, and world that are available to us.

Q: What is the biggest challenge the architecture industry faces today?

A: Finding people. Period. There are many choices for “cousin” professions that more and more young creatives are pursuing. Schools need to change and our profession needs to change to attract new young architects.

Q: What sets NELSON apart from other architecture firms?

A: Diversity, size, geographic locations, type of disciplines and practices. There are so many avenues you can pursue at NELSON. A professional can pave their own path.

Check out the latest article from Healthcare Facilities Today, featuring insights from Healthcare Director and Senior Design Leader, Cheryl Lauren Spigler. The piece explores how the principle of “Do No Harm,” central to the Hippocratic Oath, extends beyond physicians to everyone involved in a healthcare facility— including designers and construction teams. Learn how design and construction practices can uphold the commitment to patient safety and care, treating every individual as a member of the family. Don’t miss this thoughtful discussion on the critical role of healthcare design in safeguarding patient well-being.

Read more here.

Foreword: Every 3 years, 100,000+ visitors flock to an international destination to experience all things retail. Hailed as the “Global Retail Trade Fair,” EuroShop covers all things retail related, from store design to visual merchandising. Located in Dusseldorf, Germany, the event offers 17 exhibition halls within 19 different buildings.  A group of lucky FRCH-ers made the trip this year and will be sharing global trends and inspiration from the conference and nearby travel all week!

These eye catching London retail spaces are not just store environments, but art forms that intrigue. Rather than quiet, neutral backdrops for the product, these spaces take the opposite approach; they successfully surprise and delight with bold materiality and captivating displays. The result is a memorable store environment that is exciting to visit and, in turn, generates customers who become loyal brand advocates.

Liberty infuses personality into each touchpoint of the shopping experience. The flooring, a mix of stained wood and colorful marble planks dance around the space. Velvet tabletops and bold wallcoverings add a tactile element and a touch of drama, complementing the beautiful products on display.

Dover Street Market is known for their “ongoing atmosphere of beautiful chaos”. Wild and unexpected, the unconventional environment intrigues the customer at every turn. Shunning traditional fixture displays, the products are integrated into art installations that piques the curiosity of the shopper.

Selfridges recently opened a IoT Zone in the basement of the building which features the latest gadgets in an interactive environment, with an upside-down car as the focal display. The new Accessories Department in Selfridges attracts shoppers with it’s soft color palette, beautiful lighting and in-house bar, located at the center of the space.

At NELSON, we believe architecture has the power to create a transformative sense of place, supporting communities and strengthening the fabric of cities across the nation and around the world. Recently named the #2 fastest growing architecture firm, we’re celebrating our growth, people, and projects that are boldly transforming architecture. To do so, we’ve created our latest series, “Architecture Spotlight” to introduce you to a few thought leaders within the NELSON Architecture Team.  You’ll not only get an exclusive look at our people but hear what’s in store for the future.

This week we interview Mark Levine, AIA, Managing VP of NELSON Los Angeles. Keep reading to learn more about his career, point-of-view, and what he think is next for the architecture industry.

Q: What is your role at NELSON and how long have you been an architect?

A: At NELSON, I am the Managing Vice President working out of our Los Angeles office. Currently, I am leading design teams through master planning, retail prototype development, domestic and international retail programs, and various retail mixed-use and commercial projects in the Western Region. I’ve been a practicing designer/architect for 24 years and hold memberships in ICSC and ULI.

Q: What is your favorite architecture trend of today?

A: I enjoy today’s trends in visualization. Our profession is predicated on communicating the built environment. What got me into architecture at a young age was the art of architectural drawings, renderings, construction drawings, sections, axons, etc. Each year, visualization advances even more with VR, AR, and 3-D modeling. I’m excited by the possibility of infusing tools with the same sense of artistry as a hand sketch.

Q: What advice would you give a young architect?

A: My advice for any young, aspiring architect is to always work on expanding the boundary of your interests. Just because you are an architect doesn’t me those passions can’t be paired with another. Taking things even further, I advise any young professional to simply read something out of their element. For example, if technology is your thing take a break to read an article about literature or commerce occasionally. It’s the connections we make with seemingly unassociated ideas that can have a tremendous and impact spark a new sense of creativity.

Q: What do you think the future holds for architecture? 

A: Architecture is one of the oldest professions. The tools, methods, aesthetics, and styles have gradually changed with time, but our aspirations are rooted in the fundamentals of humanity. Architecture will continue to evolve in the future  as an ever-changing practice. With that in mind, architects should always be aware of these aspirations and reflect these in the design and execution of our work.

Q: What is the biggest challenge the architecture industry faces today?

A: The biggest challenge for architecture is understanding, responding and reflecting within changing industries. Today humans fluidly interact with environments, meaning that one space is expected to do many things. For example, malls/retail centers are longer just a place to shop. These types of experiences have shifted to retail mixed-use environments that blur the lines of retail, hospitality, and entertainment. Today’s consumers think less in channels turning toward environments that solve a need or cater to desires.

Q: What sets NELSON apart from other architecture firms?

A: I think it’s the immense effort undertaken by the entirety of the firm to improve and become better is what makes this company so special. At NELSON, we are constantly changing, evolving, and growing. This has proven that the company is always up for a challenge that will make us stronger.

How to lend a hand while staying home

Are you feeling overwhelmed during this time of uncertainty? Are you wondering how you can give back while remaining socially distant? Here are five ways you can help from home during COVID-19:

1. Donate blood – The American Red Cross and other agencies are in critical need of healthy blood donors. Visit their website to learn more about donating blood safely during COVID-19 and to make an appointment near you.
2. Give to a local food bank – Find your local food bank on Feeding America’s website to learn how you can give back. Although some food banks are limiting in-person volunteers to keep others safe, most are accepting online donations.
3. Support small businesses – Many local restaurants and businesses are being affected by stay at home policies around the world. Take time to purchase gift cards, shop online, leave positive reviews, and engage with their social media channels. Find your favorite business on Help Main Street to show your support.
4. Volunteer – In today’s digitally connected society, there are many non-profits and organizations seeking help without having to be in-person. Alone connects the elderly with volunteers across the country through technology. You can sign up to be a telephone volunteer to check on older adults during COVID-19.
5. Stay home – The easiest way to help is to follow your state’s orders to practice social distancing. Only leave the house for essential work or grocery runs and be extremely cautious if you must go out. Learn more helpful tips about staying home here.

Leading by example: What we’re doing to support our communities

NELSON Worldwide teammates from across the country are doing their part to make a difference. From donating blood, to sewing protective masks, we are making a positive impact in our communities and encourage everyone to do the same.

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We’re honored that several of our projects with OTG at LaGuardia and Newark airports were named finalists in the 2025 Airport Food and Beverage (FAB) + Hospitality Awards.

Among many impressive projects, our work with Calista Taverna, Soleil Brasserie, CIBO Express Food Hall, Prime Steakhouse, and Victory Grille were recognized by FAB.

See all finalists here.

Sean McCorry has joined NELSON Worldwide as vice president, national business leader in the retail practice. He brings over 25 years of experience managing global retail concepts, where he previously served as director of global store environments for Timberland. 

Additionally, Maya Wahyudharma has joined the company as workplace and asset strategy regional practice leader. She brings over 20 years of experience in a variety of building typologies and training in architecture, interior design, and landscape.  

Read more with Interior Design here.