Planned merger strengthens CannonDesign’s pediatric healthcare expertise, establishes presence in Texas and Ohio
We are excited to share that Houston-based FKP is set to join CannonDesign. The firms signed a memorandum of understanding and are working through the steps to complete a merger. This planned merger represents a remarkable fusion of expertise — bringing together our leading design practice with one of the most respected healthcare, science and education design firms in the nation. Together as one firm, we will leverage our combined 19 office locations and nearly 1,000 employees to better serve our clients as they seek to innovate, transform and prepare for the future.
“CannonDesign’s five-year strategic framework focuses on proactive strategies for strengthening our client partnerships through personal and firm growth by office expansions, new hires and mergers,” said CannonDesign’s CEO Brad Lukanic, AIA. “Today’s announcement of the planned merger with FKP intentionally increases CannonDesign’s commitment to total health solutions with a focus on children’s health, while advancing our design impact, being a top-tier employer, and taking a stronghold in key geographic areas like Texas and Ohio.”
Led by CEO Diane R.K. Osan, FAIA, ACHA, FKP is an internationally recognized design firm with offices in Houston, Dallas and Columbus. Known specifically for its expertise in pediatric healthcare, the firm has designed children’s facilities throughout the U.S., including Nemours’ A.I. DuPont Hospital for Children in Wilmington, Delaware; the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia’s Buerger Center for Advanced Pediatric Care in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; and numerous projects for Texas Children’s Hospital.
Reflecting on the shared benefits of the merger, Osan notes the opportunity to profoundly impact community health. “In order to effectively improve the conditions of our communities, we have to start by addressing the needs of children. Not just healthcare for children, but education, research, recreation, nutrition and that list goes on. All of these factors are critical in setting the path for a child’s future, and our firms’ combined expertise will allow us to address these factors and set children and communities up for success.”
Osan will assume the role as leader of CannonDesign’s Pediatric Health Practice. Looking beyond the traditional definition of healthcare, she will lead the practice in exploring ways to support the health and wellbeing of children across numerous environmental settings. She’ll also be joining the firm’s board of directors.
“Both of our firms have solid foundations,” added Lukanic. “Now we can expand in key areas to further serve our clients and create partnerships to evolve our design practice.”
Once the merger is finalized, FKP will conduct business as FKP | CannonDesign until a future transition to the CannonDesign name.
