Andrew Elmer, PLA

Andrew’s passion and enthusiasm for sports and recreation design stems from his recognition of these spaces' transformative power to promote meaningful communal experiences. A Kansas City native, Andrew thrives on connecting with people and bringing strategic ideas and solutions to clients.

He understands the positive impact quality design and access to recreation can have on individuals, teams and communities. Based in our Kansas City, Missouri, architecture studio, Andrew implements business-building strategies to grow our sports and recreation design practice. His leadership ensures quality design, innovative planning and exceptional client service on regional, national and global scales. 

With over 16 years of experience in athletic facility design, Andrew’s journey includes leadership roles at HOK, HNTB and Populous. His expertise spans higher education, athletic facilities master planning, project management and project direction. Notable career achievements include shaping stadiums, arenas, and facilities for prestigious institutions such as the University of Mississippi, Syracuse University, University of North Carolina – Charlotte, Baylor University, the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and The Ohio State University. Andrew’s experience extends to the professional realm in master planning projects for MLB, NFL, MLS and NHL organizations.

An active participant in regional design and sports communities, Andrew leans into his experiences as a former men’s lacrosse student-athlete, sharing insights and fostering collaboration on the rapidly evolving business of sports and recreation. He has published bylined articles in Athletic Business and frequently speaks at national conferences and industry events. An avid traveler and experience-seeker, Andrew is on a journey to attend Kansas City Royals games at every Major League Baseball stadium with his son.