Scott Hurst

Biography

As a Design Director at Gensler Chicago, Scott has brought his passion and energy to some of Gensler’s most influential and award-winning projects. His focus on local, contextual, and community driven projects can be seen across a wide array of building types including detail-oriented gallery spaces, corporate headquarters, and innovative learning environments.

Regardless of project scale or scope, Scott’s process aims to amplify the client’s mission through work that blends creative storytelling and technical rigor. Outside of the office, Scott has taught graduate classes at the University of Illinois, focusing on innovative, affordable housing solutions. His recent work with the Urban Land Institute reimagined the post-pandemic future of Chicago’s Michigan Avenue, the Magnificent Mile, and the future of our cities.

Great architecture grows from a clear sense of place and purpose, translating a client’s mission into something people can see, feel, and believe in.

Selected Projects

project

Columbia College Chicago Student Center

By turning a traditional building inside-out, Columbia College Chicago’s student center creates a vibrant hub for creativity, collaboration, wellness, and cross-disciplinary learning.

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Ironworkers Local 63 Training Center

A new training center makes ironworking visible, combining hands-on education, architectural metalwork, and sustainable design to prepare the next generation of skilled tradespeople.

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Avon Lake Renewable Master Plan

A retired coal-fired power plant is reimagined as a national model for turning obsolete energy infrastructure into a resilient waterfront district.

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John Glenn Columbus International Airport Terminal

A new terminal reimagines the Columbus travel experience with intuitive journeys, a strong sense of place, and room to grow with the region.

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Mercedes-Benz Financial Services Headquarters

Mercedes-Benz Financial Services’ Michigan headquarters draws on the region’s woods, lakes, and grasslands to create an amenity-rich workplace centered on well-being and connection.

In the News

News

Fast Company

Profiles Gensler’s Glass Training Center as a “jewel box” that showcases ironworking craftsmanship and helps attract a new generation of talent.

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Chicago Sun-Times

Highlights the 12,000-square-foot training center along I-290, emphasizing its curved glass façade and highly visible presence.

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Architectural Record

Highlights the facility as a hands-on “laboratory of learning,” with spaces designed for steel and curtain wall training.

Scott's Posts

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[FPO] Blueprint for Change: How Modern Training Centers Are Redefining the Trades

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Qualifications and Recognition

Bachelor of Science in Architectural Studies, University of Louisiana at Lafayette

Member, American Institute of Architects (AIA)

Member, Urban Land Institute (ULI)

Presenter, Zak World of Façades Conference, 2025, “Ironworkers Local 63 Training Center: Laboratory of Learning”

Keynote Speaker, John Glenn Columbus International Airport new terminal program,

Keynote Speaker, DesignColumbus, 2025

Mentor, Chicago, ACE Mentorship

Board Member, Design Museum of Chicago

Expertise

Education Aviation Build to Suit & Headquarters Consumer Goods Healthcare