Emily Kirkland

 AIALEED Green Associate

Emily Kirkland, AIA, LEED Green Associate, is a Principal at HASTINGS Architecture with more than twenty years of experience leading the programming, planning, and design of institutional, academic, and commercial projects. As a nationally-recognized industry leader, Emily has been responsible for the design of large-scale, complex projects across the United States, employing an approach that balances innovation, performance, and long-term value. 

Emily’s work is grounded in a deep understanding of advanced building systems, collaborative design and construction processes, and sustainable strategies. Her experience at distinguished academic institutions—including Princeton University, Stanford University, Purdue University, and The University of Texas at Austin—strengthens HASTINGS’ higher education portfolio and supports the firm’s mission to create architecture that advances pedagogy and positively shapes campus and community life.

Emily worked in New York City for two decades with Ennead Architects and Allied Works. She received her Bachelor of Architecture and Bachelor of Arts in Art and Architecture from Rice University. 

She is also an accomplished speaker and recognized thought leader in the design of academic and research environments. She has presented at Society for College and University Planning (SCUP), Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC), Lab Design Facilities + Infrastructure, Tradeline, and the Deloitte Energy and Construction Conference, sharing insights on inclusive laboratories, collaborative culture, and the transformation of higher education through design.