Populous Acquires OJB Landscape Architecture, Expanding Global Landscape Architecture, Urban Design and Planning Capabilities

Populous, a global design firm renowned for its work in sports, entertainment, and large-scale public assembly venues, has announced its acquisition of OJB Landscape Architecture, a leading firm in landscape architecture and urban design. The deal, which took place on May 6, 2026, involves an undisclosed amount and is expected to significantly enhance Populous' capabilities in landscape architecture and urban design.

The acquisition brings together two highly respected design practices that share a commitment to people-centric design. Populous has a strong portfolio that includes iconic projects such as Pittsburgh's North Shore and the Minnesota Twins' Target Field, while OJB Landscape Architecture is celebrated for its transformative public spaces, including the Omaha RiverFront and Downtown Cary Park. Both firms have a history of collaboration, notably on Baylor University's McLane Stadium, which has received accolades from the American Society of Landscape Architects.

OJB Landscape Architecture, founded in 1989, is known for its design excellence and environmental sensitivity, with a focus on creating engaging outdoor spaces. The firm will continue to operate under its current leadership and maintain its studio locations, allowing for a seamless integration into Populous' global network. This strategic move is anticipated to unlock new opportunities across various sectors, including sport, entertainment, civic, and mixed-use developments.

The acquisition aligns with Populous' recent expansion of its service offerings, including the launch of its Real Estate Strategy service line. By incorporating OJB Landscape Architecture's expertise, Populous aims to create more integrated environments that enhance urban living and community engagement. The addition of OJB's capabilities will allow Populous to design complete, immersive experiences that extend beyond venues to the public spaces surrounding them.

As the landscape architecture sector continues to evolve, this acquisition reflects a broader trend of firms seeking to enhance their design capabilities through strategic partnerships. The combination of Populous and OJB Landscape Architecture is expected to strengthen their competitive position in the market, particularly as cities increasingly prioritize sustainable and people-oriented design in urban planning. The collaboration is poised to set a new standard for integrated design practices, ultimately benefiting communities and enhancing the quality of public spaces globally.