ATLANTA, Ga.—John Portman & Associates is pleased to announce that Matthew C. Larson, Assoc. AIA, has joined the Atlanta headquarters office as vice president of business development. In this role, Larson will be responsible for expanding the firm’s business and relationships throughout the United States, with a focus on mixed-use, hospitality, office, and residential projects.
“We have been busy with design work in Asia, specifically in China, for many years, and that has sustained us through the recent recession,” explained Jack Portman, FAIA, the firm’s vice chairman. “But the market here in the U.S. has returned, and we see great potential to further expand our presence here. Matt comes with solid industry experience and a passion for the business. He’s just the guy who can connect the dots and open doors for us.”
Larson reflects on his mission, “I see tremendous opportunity here. There’s no doubt that the firm has a rich history with a strong story to tell; its impact on major urban centers worldwide is remarkable. Many people have great respect for the Portman name but are not aware of the depth, breadth, and quality of the latest design work and the firm’s amazing talent. Recent experience and innovative projects developed overseas now help inspire our work in the States. I’m excited to build on our projects just announced in Atlanta, Denver, and San Diego and to help find opportunities with others who value design as an integral part of successful developments.”
Prior to joining Portman, Larson served for 10 years as the director of business development for architecture firm Goettsch Partners in Chicago. He also worked in business development and marketing for RTKL in Chicago and ZGF in Portland, Ore. He started his career at venerable Chicago firm Holabird & Root.
Larson holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Architectural Studies from Bowdoin College in Brunswick, Maine. He is a member of the American Institute of Architects, the Urban Land Institute, and the Society for Marketing Professional Services.