Baton Rouge firm gains footprint in New Orleans with acquisition, cites growth and innovation.
A big deal in the Big Easy recently closed with Baton Rouge-based GraceHebert Architects acquiring New Orleans-based HMS Architects.
Zweig Group, a full-service AE consultancy and publishing company based in Fayetteville, AR., represented the buying firm. Echoing remarks made by the leaders of both GraceHebert and HMS, Jamie Claire Kiser, Zweig Group’s director of consulting, said the deal was driven by growth and innovation.
“This acquisition strengthens the bench for one of the most prestigious firms in Louisiana, and provides new capacity and talent for both firms,” Kiser said. “This partnership aligns with GraceHebert’s mission to provide holistic, immersive design and will expand the tech-savvy firm’s ability to provide its signature client experience in a new office in New Orleans.”
GraceHebert is a regionally recognized firm that has set itself apart with a holistic and tech-based approach to sound creative design practices. The acquisition provides geographic growth opportunities for both firms as well as strengthening the foundation and resources for their respective collaborative processes.
“The acquisition of HMS stems from a mutually respectful and collaborative working relationship,” said Jerry Hebert, President of GraceHebert. “HMS’ outstanding reputation and long-standing legacy in the Greater New Orleans area, coupled with our resources and presence in a wide variety of industries, will endow both entities with new growth opportunities.”
The acquisition will increase GraceHebert’s size to 40 employees, and there are plans for immediate hiring in both the Baton Rouge and New Orleans offices.
“The GraceHebert partnership provides HMS with a boost in resources and staff to continue to serve our clients in the elite manner they have come to expect,” said Keith Steger, an HMS principal.“The entire team looks forward to joining GraceHebert and continuing our long history of providing the Greater New Orleans area with innovative design practices.”
HMS Architects, founded in 1996, offers a full range of architectural services and has a collective of over sixty years of project experience. Historically, HMS’ focus has been in the performing arts, hospitality, education, and industrial design.
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Zweig Group, a four-time Inc. 500/5000 honoree, is the premiere authority in AEC management consulting, the go-to source for industry research, and the leading provider of customized learning and training. Zweig Group specializes in four core consulting areas: Talent, Performance, Growth, and Transition, including innovative solutions in mergers and acquisitions, strategic planning, financial management, ownership transition, executive search, business development, valuation, and more. Zweig Group exists to help AEC firms succeed in a competitive marketplace. The firm has offices in Dallas and Fayetteville, Arkansas.
