Populous acquires The Office of James Burnett

Populous has acquired OJB Landscape Architecture, strengthening its capabilities in landscape architecture, urban design, and planning. The acquisition brings together Populous's focus on creating iconic, people-centric venues with OJB's award-winning expertise in designing public spaces and urban environments. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

The joining of these two firms builds on a history of collaboration, most notably seen at Baylor University's McLane Stadium. OJB Landscape Architecture is renowned for projects such as the Omaha RiverFront and Seaport Village in San Diego. Meanwhile, Populous has contributed to landscape architecture at venues like Pittsburgh's North Shore and Miami Marlins’ LoanDepot Park. This acquisition will see OJB maintain its independent studios and leadership while integrating more deeply across Populous’ international network, which now comprises more than 950 employees in the Americas and over 1,600 worldwide.

For Populous, this move enhances its ability to offer comprehensive design solutions that integrate sports venues and the surrounding public spaces. As highlighted by Populous Chairman and CEO, the addition of OJB enables the company to create more cohesive and immersive environments. This alignment is central to Populous’s strategy to expand the breadth and impact of its design practices globally.

OJB Landscape Architecture, founded in 1989, has gained acclaim for its design excellence and environmental sensitivity, influencing how outdoor spaces are utilized and experienced. The firm's president emphasized shared values with Populous, noting that both organizations believe in the transformative power of design to unite and build community-focused environments.

As the landscape architecture sector evolves, this acquisition underscores a trend towards multi-disciplinary approaches in urban development. Populous, which recently introduced a Real Estate Strategy service line, is clearly positioning itself to leverage these holistic design opportunities in civic, sporting, and mixed-use projects.

Looking ahead, the integration process will be closely monitored, particularly how OJB collaborates within Populous’s expanded platform. With the sectors they operate in constantly shifting, the effectiveness of this acquisition will depend on how well these firms can deliver on their shared vision for designing integrated, meaningful public spaces.