HGA started the new year with exciting projects on campuses, including a residence hall and welcome center in the Midwest, and research labs designed to advance quantum science on the West Coast. We are also honored to have been recognized as a Best-in-Class Employer, reaffirming our commitment to cultivating a supportive and empowering workplace. In the Los Angeles region, we will continue to support our people and the recovery efforts during the ongoing wildfire crisis. Explore more updates from across the firm below:
New Projects
The new Residence Hall and Welcome Center at Macalester College in St. Paul, Minnesota, is among the first projects to emerge from the College’s Comprehensive Campus Plan, spearheaded by HGA. Located at the northwest corner of the campus, the five-story building is envisioned as a “front door”, activating the street level and celebrating Macalester’s identity as a liberal arts community within the city. Designed to welcome prospective students and their families, the first floor will feature a welcoming plaza, a public coffee shop, and a multipurpose “living room” space for students, alongside admissions offices and a welcome center. The upper four levels will house 223 students in thoughtfully designed “pod” units with shared kitchen spaces. These pods aim to foster a sense of community among upper-level students while offering them independence and autonomy. Advancing the college’s commitment to carbon neutrality, the project incorporates key sustainability features such as a geothermal plant, a restored green space with native plantings, a high-performance building envelope, and a rooftop terrace. Learn more about this exciting development here.
HGA is collaborating with the University of California (UC), Berkeley, on an interior renovation of research spaces in Birge Hall, designed to support the innovative work of new Physics Department faculty members Victoria Xu and Harry Levine. This transformative project will reimagine multiple suites into state-of-the-art laboratories tailored for experimental research in Atomic, Molecular, and Optical (AMO) physics, driving advancements in their groundbreaking quantum science work. Prominently situated just east of the iconic Campanile Tower, Birge Hall has been a cornerstone of physics research at Berkeley since its construction in 1961. The renovations will strategically reconfigure the spaces to meet the specialized needs of AMO research, with a focus on developing experimental laser labs, equipment rooms, and support spaces. Discover more about UC Berkeley’s leadership in quantum science and technology here.
Recently Photographed
HGA collaborated with Placer County to expand and reimagine the Veterans Services lobby in Rocklin, California, enhancing its ability to serve veterans and their families. Veterans Services provide critical support, including counseling, education, benefits assistance, and advocacy. Recognizing the growing demand in Placer County, the redesigned lobby now accommodates up to 20 guests, offering an improved experience for more efficient service delivery. Key enhancements include an expanded service counter and a self-service kiosk, streamlining interactions and reducing wait times. Offices were updated with windows overlooking the lobby, enabling staff to provide timely assistance as needed. Emergency exit routes were integrated to enhance safety throughout the space. The design features warm wood paneling and biophilic elements, creating a calming, welcoming environment. Artwork honoring Veterans in the line of duty is prominently displayed, reinforcing a sense of respect and gratitude. This thoughtfully reimagined space underscores Placer County’s commitment to serving those who have served.
Awards
HGA has been recognized as a Best-in-Class Employer for the third time since 2020, according to the annual Benefits Strategy & Benchmarking Survey by Gallagher. The award highlights organizations that are dedicated to supporting their employees’ physical, emotional, and financial well-being, as well as their career growth, key factors that placed HGA in the top quartile of large employers. The survey evaluated employers using benchmarks such as benefits and compensation strategies, turnover rates, well-being and communication initiatives, and workforce engagement survey results. Trends among other Best-in-Class Employers included investments in HR technology, mental health training for leadership and HR teams, strategies to enhance employee engagement, DEI initiatives aligned with core values, and financial well-being programs for employees. HGA is proud to be acknowledged for its ongoing commitment to fostering a supportive and empowering workplace for its nationwide team. Learn more here.
Our Communities
HGA stands in solidarity with our colleagues, clients, and the communities affected by the devastating wildfires in Southern California. Team members in Los Angeles are volunteering their time to assist with relief efforts, organizing donation drives and partnering with local organizations doing meaningful work on the ground, such as the Santa Monica YMCA. To meet urgent demand, HGA is contributing to the American Red Cross to aid immediate relief efforts, with the hope that this donation will provide real help to those in need. We are committed to supporting the recovery efforts in the Los Angeles area community and to aid in the long journey of rebuilding safely. The HGA Los Angeles and San Diego offices remain open, and we continue to monitor emerging threats.