Ci Design Opens Dallas Office, Names New Lead for Mission Critical Practice

Baltimore-based architectural firm Ci Design has opened an office in Dallas and announced that Dutch Wickes has joined the firm to lead its Mission Critical Practice globally from the Dallas office.

The firm said its new Dallas location, at Premier Place at 5910 N. Central Expressway, expands its network to six locations across the U.S. The new office brings Ci’s practices in science and technology, commercial and mixed-use, residential, mission critical, workplace, manufacturing, and industrial to the Southwest and beyond.

“By establishing a foothold in the Southwest, we’re not just growing our geographic reach; we’re unlocking new possibilities and reinforcing Ci’s influence across the United States,” President and CEO John Larsen said in a statement. “We’re excited to bring our talented team with strong client relationships to this thriving metropolis.”

Dallas office strengthens Ci’s Southwest portfolio

The firm said the Dallas office is a strategic addition and is Ci’s first venture in the Southwest region. The firm noted, however, that it has led multiple projects in this area for years.

CI said that within each of its practices, the firm’s multidisciplinary team of experts in Dallas will provide services in architecture, planning, landscape design, experiential graphics and branding, lab and manufacturing planning, interior design, procurement, strategy, and change management. This comprehensive suite of services underlines the firm’s commitment to diversification, CI said.

“Building on our portfolio in the Southwest, Ci will continue to make strides through our creative talent, insight and technical expertise,” VP and COO Christopher M. Ladd said in a statement. “Our new office isn’t just a physical space; it allows us to enhance our offerings to existing clients, develop new client relationships, and deepen our unwavering commitment to architectural excellence.”

Focusing on Mission Critical Practice

The firm said that Wickes will ensure that critical data infrastructure facilities can adapt to evolving technologies and maintain uninterrupted 24/7 operation, safeguarding vital data and systems for Ci’s clients.

“Dutch’s role in expanding our Mission Critical Practice is pivotal, especially in an era where the architecture of technology infrastructure design becomes increasingly crucial in the vast expanse of data collection and digital integration,” Larsen said. “His unparalleled expertise and innovative approach will undoubtedly propel us forward, setting new standards in the industry.”

Wickes brings over 40 years of experience in the industry, practicing architecture and bolstering mission critical expertise across market sectors, including healthcare, commercial, sports, hospitality, and higher education, the firm said. Wickes previously was an SVP and global practice director of HKS Architects’ Mission Critical Practice, where he established a prosperous client base and expert staff to provide services to hyperscale, colocation and enterprise clients.

“Joining Ci provides me with the opportunity to cultivate a Mission Critical Practice within a well-rounded firm and an already diverse client base,” Wickes said. “Being part of a team that comprehensively understands complex project types such as semiconductor, manufacturing, pharmaceutical and laboratories perfectly aligns with the current needs of data center clients. I am enthusiastic about building upon the successful work that Ci has already undertaken.”

‘A new chapter in architectural innovation and global impact’

Ci said its Mission Critical Practice has designed more than 2 gigawatts of data centers for high-profile clients. In his role as global practice director and principal, Wickes will continue to grow Ci as a competitive architecture firm in this thriving industry, which is forecasted to rise at a considerable rate in the next five years, CI said.

“Dutch’s vast ability to drive our global Mission Critical Practice represents more than just an addition to our team; it marks a significant step in Ci’s ongoing pursuit of innovation and excellence,” Ladd said. “Dutch’s insight and visionary leadership are key in navigating this ever-evolving landscape, ensuring that Ci remains at the forefront of creating solutions that are not only essential but transformative.”

Ci said it plans to open locations in Chicago and Phoenix to further expand the Mission Critical Practice and the firm’s presence across the U.S.

Ci’s offices in Dallas, Baltimore, Maryland; Boston, Massachusetts; Dallas; DC Metro; Greenville, South Carolina; and Raleigh, North Carolina work collaboratively with over 100 team members providing services and shaping industry-leading developments for their regional, national and international clients.