HILARI JONES
HKS
SAY IT LOUD - FLORIDA Exhibitor
Florida Based Designer
Who or what inspires you professionally?
I find the evolution of the industry incredibly inspiring. The potential of new technology to blend with creativity to solve the problems of society through the built environment.
HILARI JONES
Bio:
The Great Designer Hilari Jones graduated from Mississippi State University with a Bachelor of Architecture and has worked in the design field for over 16 years. Specializing in the master planning of large scale and luxury resorts, she has designed projects for a variety of US-based and international clients. As Vice President and Studio Design Leader at HKS, Hilari is also involved in mentoring young professionals, as well as many community advocacy initiatives.
How did you first learn about architecture and when did you decide that built environment profession was an area of interest for you?
I have always loved to draw and sketch however it wasn’t until a family trip to Chicago where I was able to see the sketches of FLW that I made the connection with architecture.
What do you do?
As Studio Design Leader for the Hospitality practice at HKS in Miami I act as the Sr Project Designer for a variety of hotel, resort and master planning projects overseeing the project from concept and through the design phases
What excites you in the work you do?
I love creating spaces that affect people emotionally, spaces that excite people and bring people together and create memories.
Who or what inspires you professionally?
I find the evolution of the industry incredibly inspiring. The potential of new technology to blend with creativity to solve the problems of society through the built environment.
What is your proudest professional accomplishment or achievement?
It is always a moment of pride when you see one of your designs that began as a messy sketch become a realized place that people can experience. The opening of the Hilton Yas Bay in Abu Dhabi was my largest and most challenging project to date.
Featured Project Name:
Jacksonville Shipyards
Featured Project Location:
Jacksonville Florida
Featured Project Completion Date:
Spring 2026
Role in Featured Project:
Sr Project Designer
Featured Project Description:
In the heart of Jacksonville, situated on the St John’s river a new project will be the catalyst for the development of the entertainment district. The Shipyards project draws inspiration from the sleek lines and contours of luxury yacht geometry to create an vision of elegance. This 480,000sf development encompasses a Four Seasons Hotel & Residences, an Amenities Deck, an Office Building, and a Marina Support Building & Marina Riverfront Park.
