Future-Makers: How HLW’s Emerging Designers Are Shaping What Comes Next

At HLW, we’ve always believed that the future of design is written by those bold enough to imagine it. This year, our emerging designers have proven that imagination is one of our strongest assets. From coast to coast and across the Atlantic, HLW’s next generation is earning recognition from Interior Design Magazine, Mix Interiors, IIDA, and Metropolis. Their achievements reflect more than talent; they embody the curiosity, leadership, and purpose that shape how we design for the world ahead.

Today we celebrate this remarkable group of architects and designers; individuals who challenge convention, advocate for people-first solutions, and continue to push our practice toward new forms of creativity and impact.

A Global Cohort Rising Together

Across our studios, HLW’s young designers are stepping into the spotlight with accolades that span continents and disciplines.

In London, Rachel Khoo continues her momentum following her Mix Interiors 30 Under 30 recognition. Over the past year, she led the design of a global tech workspace in Warsaw from concept through construction, a journey she credits to speaking up, staying curious, and owning her perspective: “If you think something isn’t working, say so — it’s how you gain confidence and shape better projects.” Rachel’s evolution reflects the path of a designer becoming a leader, one bold decision at a time.

On the West Coast, Sarah Geske has been honored as the IIDA Southern California Emerging Leader, a recognition reserved for designers making meaningful contributions early in their career. Rooted in storytelling and purpose, Sarah’s work extends far beyond the studio — from serving on the IIDA LA City Center Board to applying trauma-informed design through Flip4Good to re-shape transitional housing. Her approach reminds us that design is as much about empathy as it is about craft.

In San Francisco, Thwisha Shah stands out as both an Interior Design Magazine 30 Under 30 honoree and a Metropolis Arch30 SF recipient. Alongside architectural designer Manushi Sheth, Thwisha represents the creative force driving our West Coast team; designers redefining collaboration, questioning norms, and exploring what the future of the workplace can be. Their recognition underscores the culture of possibility that fuels HLW’s San Francisco studio.

Meanwhile, in Los Angeles, Kasey Erffmeyer, a Metropolis Future100 alum, continues to build a career defined by growth, visibility, and courage. Since being featured, Kasey has taken on panel speaking engagements, expanded her industry network, and transitioned into large-scale design through a serendipitous connection sparked by her Future100 feature. Her journey is a testament to how opportunity meets readiness.

And in New York, Benjamin Oberstein and Vatsal Upadhyay represented HLW at Metropolis’ Arch30 NY, where rising architects gathered to explore how design must evolve to meet shifting social needs. Their reflections echo a shared generational ethos: architecture must be adaptable, sustainable, and fundamentally shaped by people. “Architecture is shaped by people rather than the other way around,” Benjamin noted. Vatsal reflected on the collective desire to move beyond the ‘starchitect’ era toward one of empowerment, equity, and community impact.

But perhaps one of our most decorated emerging voices this year is Rhea Roy Thomas, recognized nationally as an Interior Design Magazine 30 Under 30 honoree and celebrated as a recipient of the Interior Design Magazine NEXT Award.

A Designer of Layered Identities: Rhea Roy Thomas

Rhea’s nomination highlights not only her design excellence, but the depth and humanity she brings to every project.

Her recent leadership on a 500-seat café floor for a financial client demonstrates her ability to merge conceptual storytelling with technical rigor. From coordinating exposed ceilings to shaping distinct yet cohesive service zones, she crafted what she calls a “layered identity”, a space where individuality and unity coexist. Her focus on adaptability, circulation, and performance reflects the evolving demands of workplace design.

Rhea’s first HLW project, an adaptive reuse within New York’s historic Chelsea Market, set the foundation for her approach. Drawing on her academic background, she likened the work to a musical remix, honoring the building’s heritage while transforming it for a contemporary tech client.

Her design philosophy centers on flexibility without sacrificing character: spaces with soul and staying power. Her personal style: bold, eclectic, and rooted in her Indian heritage mirrors this ethos. Whether upcycling vintage pieces, capturing architectural details, or mentoring emerging designers, Rhea leads with creativity, confidence, and curiosity.

A Collective Vision for the Future

Together, these designers: Rachel, Sarah, Benjamin, Vatsal, Manushi, Thwisha, Kasey, and Rhea represent the spirit of innovation at HLW. They remind us that design is not just about what we build, but how we think, collaborate, and challenge ourselves to do better for the people who inhabit the spaces we create.

This cohort is united by shared values:

• A people-first approach, where design adapts to human needs and not the other way around.

• A belief in storytelling, using narrative to shape place, identity, and meaning.

• A commitment to sustainability, not as a feature but as an essential responsibility.

• A willingness to take risks, speak up, and redefine the boundaries of the profession.

Most importantly, they are shaping the narrative of what’s next at HLW, a future grounded in empathy, layered identities, technical excellence, and bold imagination.

To our emerging designers: Congratulations. We are inspired by your vision, your leadership, and the impact you’re already making at HLW and beyond. The future of design is brighter because of you and we can’t wait to see where you take us next.