Reflections

Phase I of the Kentucky Exposition Center is rising as crews set massive precast panels that double as vertical electrical rooms, laying the groundwork for a highly flexible expo hall. Steel trusses, 27-foot columns, and utility-ready floor boxes are now taking shape on-site. See the progress up close.

An overlooked textured wall inside the Indiana Repertory Theatre has become a striking design feature through creative lighting and a client-first approach. This transformation shows how thoughtful collaboration can reveal the hidden potential already within a space. Dive into the full story to see how the design came together.

At the end of this year, John “JR” Robertson will step down from his role as principal in charge of our Healthcare Studio. After more than 40 years devoted to meaningful healthcare design, JR will continue supporting Schmidt Associates in a consulting capacity. He will remain close, offering insight and wisdom.

JR has guided many of our most significant healthcare projects and helped bring Arrasmith into the Schmidt Associates family in 2019. His influence continues through the strong Healthcare Studio team he helped build and mentor. That team is active, energized, and ready to carry this important work into the future.

JR shared the following reflection on this moment in his career: “Working alongside our clients and our team has been the honor of my career. I am proud of the healthcare practice we have built together. The team is strong and ready for what comes next, and I look forward to supporting them in new ways. I will always be close by and cheering them on.”

As we approach our 50th anniversary in 2026, our commitment to healthcare design remains unwavering. We look forward to partnering with healthcare organizations to continue creating spaces that improve lives and strengthen communities.

Samantha White, AIA, has officially become a licensed architect, marking an exciting step in a career shaped by curiosity, problem-solving, and fresh perspectives. From Hudson Middle School to UofL Health’s Kentucky Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, her work reflects thoughtful, purpose-driven design. Join us in applauding her achievement.

Interior Designer Kathryn Roche has been named a 2025 NextGen Rising Star by the Education Market Association. Her commitment to inclusive, forward-thinking design continues to shape learning environments that empower students and educators alike. Read more about Kathryn’s impact.

Graduate Landscape Architect Stephanie Gates has earned her Certified Playground Safety Inspector certification, strengthening our commitment to safe, inclusive play spaces. Her work helps make play safer and childhoods brighter. Help us celebrate her achievement.

Each year, we celebrate the holidays by supporting meaningful causes that strengthen our communities, and we want you to help guide our giving. We’ve selected several nonprofit organizations making an impact. Click here to vote for the one that resonates most with you and help shape where our donation goes this season.

Tariffs, long-lead delays, and material price swings create real challenges for Owners. This blog shares how market insights, flexible budgeting, and strong construction partnerships help protect project goals and reduce risk, even in uncertain conditions. Explore the full approach.

Many organizations are feeling the strain of rising costs and aging systems, prompting a closer look at how energy is managed. A smarter, data-driven approach can strengthen performance, unlocking savings, comfort, and long-term stability. See why it may be time to reconsider your strategy.

Ball State University architecture students stopped by for the Downtown Student Firm Crawl, getting a behind-the-scenes look at purposeful, people-centered design. After hearing from design architect Steven Schaecher, AIA, LEED AP, CDT, students toured the office, met team members, and explored life in the profession. See more from their visit.

First-year students at Marian University Indianapolis’ E.S. Witchger School of Engineering explored real-world mechanical engineering as Andrew Eckrich and Thomas Kennedy walked them through HVAC systems, materials, and project documents. Explore highlights from the visit.

Prosser Career Education Center celebrated two major openings in October: a 1,316-square-foot Advanced Manufacturing Collaborative Lab and a new 3,446-square-foot Plumbing and Pipefitting Lab. Both spaces expand hands-on, industry-level training for students across the region. See photos from the celebration.

Strategic facility management is more than maintenance. It is a proactive approach that protects people, preserves investments, and empowers Owners to make clear, confident decisions. See how the right strategy extends building life, reduces risk, and supports long-term goals.

Keep Indianapolis Beautiful’s growth revealed the need for better alignment between its team and its physical environment. Waypoint Strategies partnered with the organization to assess needs, streamline operations, and build a roadmap that supports its mission far beyond the building itself. See how thoughtful planning strengthened KIB’s future.