HED Integrates Urban Planning Practice Led by Lesley Roth

CHICAGO, Oct. 29, 2026 /CourierPR/ -- HED, a leading design firm, has expanded its services by integrating an Urban Planning and Design practice. The new practice, led by Lesley Roth, AIA, AICP, LEED AP, aims to create connected, resilient communities through a blend of urban planning and HED’s architecture, engineering, and landscape architecture expertise.

With over 25 years of experience in architecture and planning, Roth has led numerous projects across the United States and internationally. Her portfolio includes significant urban planning initiatives such as the City of Chicago Citywide Plan, Morgan Park Commons, and the Clinton-Peabody Redevelopment Plan. Her work has also extended to the City of St. Louis, Village of Riverdale, and various transit-oriented development projects.

Roth’s integration into HED’s practice is seen as a strategic move to enhance the firm’s ability to address complex design challenges through urban strategies, placemaking, public and stakeholder engagement, and sustainable planning.

Roth’s leadership is recognized through various accolades, including the Architect of the Year at the 2023 Illinois Real Estate Awards, a 2022 Crain's Notable Leader in Community Development, and a Community Inspiration award from the Far South Community Development Corporation. Her commitment to community development is further evidenced by her board and volunteer work with organizations such as the Peggy Nortebaert Nature Museum and Lambda Alpha International Society for Land Economics.

HED, known for its diverse team of over 400 professionals operating in every time zone nationwide, continues to deliver architecture and engineering excellence through integrated and all-encompassing design. The firm’s commitment to sustainability and community engagement is reflected in its mission to create efficient, sustainable, and responsive solutions to clients' evolving needs.

The integration of urban planning into HED’s multi-disciplinary approach is expected to significantly enhance the firm’s ability to deliver comprehensive and innovative solutions for communities and campuses. This move aligns with HED’s broader strategy to leverage imagination, purpose, process, and advocacy to create efficient, sustainable, and responsive solutions to their clients' evolving needs.

Roth’s extensive experience and recognition underscore her capability to lead the new practice effectively. Her work will integrate urban design and place-based planning to catalyze investment, strengthen economic vitality, and create distinctive, connected places. By partnering with public and private sector leaders, Roth aims to shape transformative districts, vibrant downtowns, thriving campuses, and transit-oriented neighborhoods that translate long-term vision into lasting value.

HED’s commitment to fostering strong, inclusive communities is further highlighted by Roth’s diverse portfolio and her recognition in the industry. Her leadership will undoubtedly contribute to HED’s continued growth and success in the design and planning sector.