CINCINATTI, OH – Two top regional architectural firms joined forces to unite their creative energies. Cincinnati-based Champlin Architecture and Lexington-based firm, EOP Architects, announced the finalization of their merger, which will provide greater creativity and insights to a wider range of project types and markets. While both firms have individually enjoyed steady growth attributed to their reputations for design, innovation, and service excellence, their deep desire to make a more profound and far-reaching impact on those they serve spurred them to begin considering other options for growth. Together, their combined professional staff of 128 will provide their clients with continued excellent service and unparalleled design talent.

Champlin Architecture is an award-winning architecture, planning, interior design, and graphic design firm located in Cincinnati, Toledo & Dayton, OH; Indianapolis, IN, and Lexington, KY. In business since 1978, Champlin Architecture was formed from the existing client base of Harry Hake and Partners, dating back to 1895. Champlin focuses primarily on healthcare, education, workplace, civic/community, and worship projects. The firm’s healthcare practice, having steadily grown to one of the largest in the country, focuses on creating environments that enhance the well-being of patients, caregivers, and families.

Having also designed projects for Fortune 500 companies, well-respected schools and universities, developers, various federal, state, and local governmental agencies, institutional owners of real estate, worship facilities and cultural and community agencies, Champlin’s thought leadership has far-reaching and trusted impact.

EOP Architects is an award-winning design firm, founded in 1981. EOP has studios in Lexington and Louisville, Kentucky, and focuses on architecture, interior design, master planning, and historic preservation services. Their design work includes projects for cultural, civic & visitor attractions, healthcare & academic institutions, hospitality, retail & tourism, recreation, multi-family housing, and workplace clients. They have designed projects for both public and private sector clients ranging from federal, state, and local governments to academic institutions, Fortune 500 companies and private developers. Their work can be found in over 32 states throughout the US as well as in the Caribbean and China.

“We are thrilled to come together and build on the legacy that both firms have built – this is exciting for our talented staff, our valued clients, and the communities where we live, work, and serve. We are confident that this will ensure our design influence endures for years to come," said Ben Richards, AIA, LEED AP, CEO.

In supporting this decision Rick Ekhoff, AIA LEED AP, founding partner of EOP Architects shares, “By bringing these two organizations together, both of which are clearly driven by the understanding that the full power of design can enhance and inspire, we can create incredible results for all lives touched.”

The combination of the expanded breadth of leadership, aligned values, and deep relationships are part of the continuation of this exciting new chapter for the firms, honoring the legacy that each has built. Both firms are looking forward to this new venture so that they can build on their past and expand well into the future by enriching lives through their work throughout the region.