The AIA awards this distinction to less than three percent of its members in recognition of their exceptional work and contributions to the field of architecture nationally.
Paul Woolford, FAIA, IIDA, LEED AP BD+C, a senior vice president and design principal in HOK’s San Francisco and Seattle offices, has been elevated to the American Institute of Architects (AIA) prestigious College of Fellows.
Woolford’s unique design vision integrates built structures with nature to create holistic environments focused on sustainability, human health and well-being. His work has earned numerous accolades, including three AIA COTE Top Ten Awards and consistent LEED Platinum certifications.
“Paul is a remarkably talented and passionate architect committed to designing innovative, sustainable and people-centered buildings,” said Eli Hoisington, HOK’s co-CEO. “His elevation to the AIA’s College of Fellows is a testament to his leadership, design excellence and impact on the profession. Our San Francisco studio has seen remarkable success during Paul’s time there, having been recognized as AIA California’s Firm of the Year as well as leading our firm in design award recognitions and in all of our areas of practice—architecture, interiors, planning and engineering. I’m honored to have Paul as part of the design leadership of our firm.”
Stanford School of Medicine Center for Academic Medicine
Woolford has served on HOK’s board of directors and design board for the past two decades. His projects are known for elements that promote sustainability and a connection with nature. Examples include Stanford School of Medicine’s Center for Academic Medicine, which incorporates biophilic elements and restorative outdoor spaces, and the NOAA Daniel K. Inouye Regional Center in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, a design using bioinspired ventilation systems. Other notable projects under Woolford’s direction include the Central & Wolfe Campus in Sunnyvale, California, Ng Teng Fong Hospital in Singapore, the Library interiors for King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) in Saudi Arabia, the 10th and O Street State Office Building in Sacramento and the Georgia State Archives.
Central & Wolfe Campus
Woolford is an influential figure in architectural education. He has taught at the University of California, Berkeley, Cornell University and the Savannah College of Art and Design, and frequently serves as a lecturer, juror and design critic.
Beyond his professional contributions, Woolford has been an engaged member and leader of organizations like the Urban Land Institute, San Francisco Chamber of Commerce, the YMCA of SF and Opera Parallèle. He has served as a longtime board member of the San Francisco Bay Area Planning and Urban Research Association (SPUR), focusing on urban planning in the Bay Area, and as president and board member of the Golden Gate Chapter of Lambda Alpha International. Demonstrating his commitment to public service, Woolford has contributed his time and expertise to the Fulton County Library Commission, the Atlanta Urban Design Commission, the San Francisco Arts Commission and the San Francisco Public Works Commission.
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Daniel K. Inouye Regional Center