Effective November 1, 2016, San Jose-based architecture and interior design firm AAI will join operations with the global design firm, NELSON. As a 2016 Rising Giant ranked by Interior Design Magazine, AAI has a growing presence in the Bay Area and larger Northern California region. The merger will add roughly 35 employees to NELSON, who is projected to exceed 120% growth over two years with the deal. The addition brings NELSON’s regional count to over 80 Teammates, the third largest region in its operation. The combined company will employ almost 650 Teammates globally, and bill over $100 million in gross revenue.
“The joining with AAI not only expands key practices to Northern California, but brings the horsepower of a global design firm and a fully integrated service offering to AAI’s network of clients,” said Ozzie Nelson Jr., Chairman & CEO of NELSON. “And with the impending launch of NELSON’s new TAMI Practice dedicated to the unique needs of the Technology, Advertising & Media, and Information Businesses, we’re bringing specialized knowledge and expertise right to one of the most well-known and largest technology hubs in the country.”
“Equally important, we feel AAI’s focus on creativity and collaboration, and impressive focus on quality and relationships makes our two organizations the perfect cultural fit.”
The joining further emphasizes the company’s move to expand its strategic position and services on both a national and global level. With a projected revenue of $6.4 million for 2016, AAI will represent NELSON’s largest acquisition to date on the West Coast.
“Part of what is so attractive about joining was NELSON’s established network and leadership. Pairing a high performing local team with a high performing national organization is an ideal fit,” said Susan Mueller, President of AAI.
The strategic partnership represents the second move in a year to support NELSON’s increased focus on strengthening design services throughout the West Coast and establishing a local footprint in Silicon Valley. NELSON’s additional West Coast offices include Los Angeles and Seattle.
About AAI
Established in 1979, AAI is the leading design firm in the Bay Area providing architectural services for the repositioning of properties that result in leased spaces. They have a long term relationship with the development community in the Bay Area including: The Irvine Company, Shorenstein, Hines, LBA Realty, Swift Realty, CBRE/CALSTRS, and Embarcadero Capital Partners. AAI is a strategic partner for businesses looking to benefit from creative workplace design and efficiency. For more information, visit http://aaidesign.com/