Biography
Hao is Gensler's Global Director of Design and a Regional Design Principal, focusing on building a dynamic practice through an open and collaborative culture. An inquisitive architect by nature, he is passionate about transforming experiences through deep research, the craft of technical excellence, and rigorous intellectual thought, all while striving to design beautiful places that change people's lives for the better.
Hao's projects, including The Tower at PNC Plaza, NVIDIA Headquarters, and Under Armour Headquarters, have elevated the firm's national and international profile and are well known for their innovation and quality. He was elevated to the AIA College of Fellows in March 2024 and has served on Gensler's Board of Directors. Hao is an alumnus of UC Berkeley, where he graduated with highest honors, and the Harvard University Graduate School of Design.
Design distilled to its essence is about creating places where people want to be and can come together in unexpected ways. Coming together as people, whether to play, to live, or to solve the world's greatest problems, is the most powerful human thing to do.
Selected Projects
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Qualifications and Recognition
Master of Architecture, Harvard University
Bachelor of Arts in Architecture, University of California, Berkeley
Registered architect: California, New York
FAIA, LEED AP
Fellow, American Institute of Architects (AIA), California
American Institute of Architects (AIA) College of Fellows, 2024
Don Brinkmann Award, 2023, Awarded annually to a Gensler principal whose exemplary talent, leadership, and vision is driving the firm forward
The Registry Bay Area's ELEVATE: Elevation Nominee, 2020
Hao Ko (SF) was named one of The Registry Bay Area's ELEVATE: Elevation Nominees. The nomination recognizes men who mentor women in the commercial real estate industry.
40 Under 40, Building Design + Construction, 2012
Young Architects Award, American Institute of Architects, 2012
Panelist, AIA California, Emerging Professionals and Emeritus Reception, “Constellation of Stars,” 2023
Speaker, UC Berkeley Haas School of Business, “A Net-Zero Now: A Case for High Performance Buildings,” 2023
Speaker, Greenbuild Conference, “Power Shift,” 2022
Speaker, Santa Clara University Leavy School of Business, “Designing the Future of Work,” 2022.
Panelist, Women at Langan Leadership Summit, “How Can Men Champion Equality?” March 16, 2022
SPUR, Board + City Advisory Board Member