Karen S. Freeman, AIA, ACHA, NCIDQ, EDAC, LEED AP BD+C, has been promoted to firmwide director of HOK’s Healthcare practice, joining Los Angeles-based Amine Khemakhem in leading the global group.
Based in the firm’s Atlanta studio, Freeman brings more than 25 years of planning and design experience with special expertise in pediatrics and subspecialty care for children’s health. She had been serving as interim director and will continue as firmwide practice leader for HOK’s Children’s Health group.
As a firmwide director of HOK’s Healthcare practice, Freeman will drive strategy, advance key pursuits and oversee project delivery, partnering closely with clients and design teams across the firm.
“Karen’s experience, skill and passion make her an ideal leader for our Healthcare practice,” said Susan Klumpp Williams, HOK’s co-CEO. “Together with Amine, she will help shape the next chapter of our work for healthcare clients around the world.”
“Karen has been an exceptional partner in co-leading the practice over the recent months, bringing tremendous leadership, collaboration and commitment to the role,” said Khemakhem, HOK’s firmwide director of Healthcare.
As a licensed architect and registered interior designer, Freeman’s work supports dignity and well-being while meeting clinical and operational goals. During her career, she has led the delivery of 7.3 million square feet of healthcare space totaling more than $10 billion in construction costs. Her notable HOK projects include the Kenneth C. Griffin Cancer Research Building at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center in Miami and the Grady Health System Correll Pavilion in Atlanta.
Freeman is one of fewer than 480 architects certifild by the American College of Healthcare Architects and holds a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt in Healthcare. She is vice president of national nonprofit Women in Healthcare and is a founding member and past president of the Georgia Chapter, which was recognized as Chapter of the Year during her tenure. A frequent speaker and author, her thought leadership has appeared in Healthcare Design, Medical Construction and Design, and Building Better Healthcare.