Populous acquires longtime collaborator, adding OJB Landscape Architecture to its urban design portfolio

A Houston-based firm playing a key role in the vision for a sprawling urban park — spanning a capped section of I-670 in downtown Kansas City — is joining the portfolio of a high-profile global design firm with its own foundations set just blocks away.

Populous, a Kansas City-built innovator in design for sports, entertainment and large-scale public assembly venues, announced on Wednesday the acquisition of OJB Landscape Architecture, an award-winning leader in landscape architecture and urban design.

Terms of the strategic acquisition were not disclosed.

“We are committed to expanding the breadth of our practice and the impact of our work,” said Bruce Miller, chairman and CEO of Populous, touting OBJ’s ability to create meaningful, enduring public spaces.

A rendering shows a ground-level view of inclusive play plans for Roy Blunt Luminary Park; renderings courtesy of OJB Landscape Architecture

OJB’s renderings recently were unveiled locally as part of an April reveal event for new offerings at the future Roy Blunt Luminary Park, a 5.5-acre stretch of I-670 from Wyandotte Street to Grand Boulevard.

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While Populous is leading early design visioning for the Royals’ new ballpark at Crown Center, the local firm did not play a role in the downtown park project, though a representative said Populous will support OBJ designers as needed.

The two firms have collaborated previously on projects through the years, most notably including Baylor University’s McLane Stadium, which opened in 2014 and was recognized by the American Society of Landscape Architects.

McLane Stadium opening at Baylor University, near the Brazos River in Waco Texas; photo by Christy Radecic

OJB’s most iconic work includes the Omaha RiverFront in Omaha, Nebraska, Downtown Cary Park in Cary, North Carolina, and Seaport Village in San Diego, California.

Populous’ landscape architecture and urban design portfolio includes work at Pittsburgh’s North Shore, the Minnesota Twins’ Target Field, the Miami Marlins’ LoanDepot Park and Minnesota United’s Allianz Field.

Target Field in Minneapolis, Minnesota; photo by Paul Crosby

“Bringing OJB Landscape Architecture into Populous strengthens our ability to design complete, immersive environments, from venues to the public realm around them, ensuring every part of the experience is thoughtful and cohesive,” said Miller. “Both firms are focused on people-centric design and that is reflected in the cultural fit between us.”

Founded in 1989, OJB Landscape Architecture will maintain its current studios and leadership while collaborating across Populous’ network. With the acquisition, Populous grows to more than 950 employees in the Americas and more than 1,600 worldwide.

“Populous shares our belief in the power of design to bring people together and shape communities,” said Jim Burnett, president of OJB Landscape Architecture. “Together, we can extend the reach and impact of our work, creating more integrated and meaningful environments for people around the world.”

This acquisition significantly enhances Populous’ capabilities in landscape architecture, urban design and the public realm — unlocking new opportunities across sport, entertainment, civic and mixed-use developments, the firm said.