LaRue and Ahn join HMFH as associates

Seong-Il Ahn, AIA, LEED AP, and Matthew LaRue, AIA join HMFH as associates. In response to HMFH's growing client needs in educational and sustainable design, both Ahn and LaRue will assume responsibilities for design and management of the firm's projects. Ahn is project architect for the new Wayland (Mass.) High School. LaRue is project architect for Dame-Eastman School in Concord, N.H. "Educational institutions face tremendous challenges in matching programmatic goals and facility needs with budget realities," said George Metzger, AIA, president of HMFH. "As part of a deliberate effort to renew our focus on design excellence and expand our capabilities in emerging technologies, Seong and Matt bring new expertise that will further our hard-earned reputation for innovative design, careful attention to program needs and responsible use of our clients' resources. Our ability to serve clients well and adapt to rapidly changing design and construction practices has been essential to our success in a very difficult economy." Ahn earned his Bachelor of Architecture degree from Hong-Ik University in Seoul and Master of Architecture degree from Rhode Island School of Design. He is a registered architect and LEED Accredited Professional by the U.S. Green Building Council. Ahn is member of the American Institute of Architects as well as the Association of College and University Housing Officers International (ACUHO-I). Prior to joining HMFH, he was a senior architect and project manager for a Connecticut architectural firm. With more than 15 years experience as an award-winning designer, Ahn specializes in designing academic facilities for public and private schools, as well as colleges and universities. LaRue earned his Bachelor of Art degree from Northeastern University and Master of Architecture degree from Harvard University Graduate School of Design. He is a member of the American Institute of Architects and Boston Society of Architects and a registered architect in Massachusetts. He is currently a lecturer at Northeastern University School of Architecture. Prior to joining HMFH, he was an associate and project manager for a Boston architectural firm, where he concentrated on high performance design for educational clients. HMFH is committed to making a positive and enduring contribution to the public realm, with a majority of the firm's projects in educational environments and community-based settings.