Designing the Future: MKSK’s 8th Annual Design Summit Sparks Innovation and Connection

MKSK’s 8th Annual Design Summit united voices from across our 12 studios in a dynamic celebration of design, sparking bold ideas, meaningful connections, and a shared vision for shaping more vibrant, resilient communities.

Day One

The first day of the Design Summit began with a thoughtful presentation on MKSK’s internal Storytelling Initiative, led by Staff Council Co-Chairs Alisa Burnside and Casey Elmer. Attendees then embarked on a curated tour of MKSK’s landmark projects in Downtown Columbus — including the Arena District and the Scioto Peninsula Cultural District — offering space for reflection, idea exchange, and camaraderie among colleagues from every corner of the firm.

Day Two

On the second day, hosted at the Columbus Museum of Art, attendees were inspired by keynote speakers Ruth Milligan, founder of Articulation, who offered expert insights on communication, storytelling, and presence, and Claudia West, Partner at Phyto Studio, who shared her internationally recognized perspective on ecological planting design. The day also featured reflections from MKSK Principals Darren Meyer and Andy Knight, and Associate Principal Cullen Meves, who recounted the unique origin stories of our Greenville/Atlanta, Louisville, and Cleveland studios. Through interactive sessions and open dialogue, the Summit reinforced a shared vision for the future — one rooted in innovation, collaboration, and purpose-driven design.