Last week, I had the opportunity to attend the first-ever Future of Food Halls Conference in Minneapolis. hosted by our friends at GoTab. It was energizing to be surrounded by operators, developers, and designers who are actively shaping one of the fastest-evolving segments of the built environment. Food Halls are becoming a core component of how communities gather, dine, and experience a place. Architecture deeply influences not just the physical form of these spaces, but their long-term viability and cultural relevance.
Experience Is the Differentiator
One of the strongest themes throughout the conference was that programming – not just food – is what sustains foot traffic. Longer-lasting events were cited as a key driver of repeat visitation, and research shared during the sessions noted that a large percentage of millennials prefer spending time on experiences. That insight aligns with what many of us see across hospitality and retail: spaces that succeed are those that continually give guests a reason to return. This reinforces the importance of incorporating dedicated event space into the initial layout. Community-driven programming spaces, flexible seating arrangements, and multipurpose zones are becoming essential design components. Even smaller elements, like allocating a small percentage of seating to low-top lounge environments, can significantly influence how long guests stay and how they interact within the space.
Perhaps the most meaningful takeaway was the emphasis on community. Many successful food halls now incorporate dedicated community event spaces designed to host local gatherings, educational programming, and cultural events. This reinforces the role of architects as facilitators of connection. When designed thoughtfully, food halls become more than dining destinations – they become civic living rooms.
Leaving the conference, I found myself thinking less about square footage and more about experience. Food Halls are becoming highly choreographed environments where architecture, operations, and programming intersect. The takeaway is clear: designing a successful Food Hall is no longer just about arranging vendors around seating. It’s about building infrastructure that supports change, spaces that invite interaction, and environments that can evolve alongside the communities they serve. As the industry continues its growth, those of us involved in shaping these spaces have an opportunity to design with flexibility, community, and experience at the forefront.
At TK Architects, we design high-performance Food & Beverage environments that redefine what the word Food Hall means. We welcome the opportunity to explore what your next evolution could look like.
I had the opportunity to attend the 2026 Dine-In Cinema Summit in Austin, Texas last week. It was exciting to be in the same room with operators, vendors, and industry partners—all focused on the same goal: tailoring the experience inside the building.
The most forward-thinking exhibitors are moving beyond asking how to improve ticket sales alone. Instead, they are analyzing how to increase dwell time, per-capita spending, and frequency of visits—much of it driven by big data. Food and beverage offerings are evolving beyond traditional concessions into boutique menus, craft cocktails, and full-service dining concepts. At the same time, auditoriums are being reimagined as go-karting, bowling, arcades, competitive social sports venues, event spaces, and flexible lobbies that transform from queuing areas into entertainment hubs. Cinemas are becoming true multi-experience destinations.
This shift is a strategic response to box-office volatility and evolving consumer habits. Diversified entertainment offerings create multiple income streams under one roof—and, more importantly, give guests reasons to visit beyond opening weekend. Seeing exhibitors present raw data, ROI studies, and sales performance reinforced a simple truth: this approach works.
TK Architects works alongside operators throughout this evolution. Today’s Family Entertainment Centers (FECs) require thoughtful planning from day one, and complexity increases exponentially as competitive social gaming, food and beverage, and auditoriums are layered together. When fully planned and executed well, the result is a returnable destination built around experience. The exhibitors who will thrive over the next decade are those who design for flexibility—spaces that can adapt as consumer expectations continue to shift.
At TK Architects, we design immersive, high-performance entertainment environments that redefine what the word cinema means. We welcome the opportunity to explore what your next evolution could look like.
International Bowl Expo 2025 – Levi Lawson, Principal, TK Architects
Bowl Expo 2025: Designing the Future of Bowling
My first Bowl Expo experience, just outside Washington D.C., was nothing short of inspiring. The energy on the tradeshow floor was contagious—two full days surrounded by people who live and breathe bowling. Even during a week when many would enjoy the short week to celebrate July 4th, attendees showed up ready to learn, connect, and explore ways to take the bowling experience beyond the lanes.
Today’s successful centers aren’t just about great lanes; they’re about creating memorable, multi-layered experiences that keep guests coming back. Think of arcades buzzing with energy, inviting food and beverage options, and additional attractions that boost revenue while keeping customers engaged for hours.
Augmented reality (AR) lanes: Projection-based graphics creating immersive gameplay and interactive experiences for casual players and families.
Immersive theming options: Projection mapping and interactive LED systems that transform lanes for themed events or seasonal experiences.
Lane-side dining enhancements: Full-service menus delivered directly to lanes, with tech-enabled ordering and customization for a seamless guest experience.
Next-gen arcades: Arcade manufacturers showcased games that combine VR, motion sensors, and interactive screens to create a more immersive environment.
Escape rooms and mini attractions: Some centers are integrating smaller-scale experiences like VR escape rooms or interactive challenges near the bowling area to increase dwell time.
We were proud to partner with our long-time friends at Proctor Companies, meeting both familiar faces and new operators eager to innovate. These conversations weren’t just about design—they were about strategy. How do you monetize your space by design? How do you create a customer journey that feels effortless yet unforgettable? That’s where TK Architects excels. We remove the guesswork and design environments that work hard for you, blending function, efficiency, and an unbeatable guest experience.
With decades of expertise in cinema, dining, and entertainment design, TK Architects knows how to integrate bowling into a complete entertainment offering that works for your market. We’re at events like Bowl Expo because we believe in this community—and in the value that great design brings to both operators and patrons.
Are you ready for a fresh take and a proven formula for the future? Let’s talk. We’ll see you in Nashville, TN for International Bowl Expo 2026—and we can’t wait to keep the conversation going.
In today’s energy-conscious landscape, utility companies across the country offer energy credits and incentives to encourage replacing outdated HVAC systems with high-efficiency models. For building owners, these credits can offset the costs of upgrades, improve operational efficiency, and enhance environmental sustainability. Navigating commercial HVAC energy credits can be complex, but the financial and environmental benefits make it worthwhile. At TK Architects, our engineers have helped our clients maximize their energy credit potential in all five regions of the United States.
Understanding Energy Credit Programs
Utility companies, often regulated by state and federal energy efficiency mandates, design energy credit programs to encourage adoption of high-efficiency HVAC systems. These programs vary widely in scope, eligibility requirements, and payout structures. Generally, energy credits are offered in the form of:
• Utility Rebates: Require submission of an application post-purchase.
• Federal Tax Credits: Offered by the federal government for specific energy-efficient upgrades.
In addition to efficiency mandates, utility companies are motivated to reduce overall energy demand, particularly during peak usage times. When their customers install energy-efficient equipment, utilities can defer the need for new power plants and infrastructure investments. Energy credits are a win-win, promoting sustainability while helping utilities manage demand.
Financial Benefits
Upgrading to energy-efficient HVAC equipment provides financial benefits beyond energy credits. Key benefits to consider:
• Upfront cost savings: Energy credits can cover a portion of equipment costs, reducing initial capital outlay. Timing the upgrade properly helps to align with program cycles and funding availability, while still considering seasonal demand and potential downtime. Additionally, grants or special financing programs can be a good fit in certain cases.
• Long-term energy savings: High-efficiency systems lower energy consumption and reduce utility bills, depending on the building size and usage patterns. Energy-efficient equipment typically has a higher upfront cost, so the credit can offset that as the payback period and ROI are being calculated.
• Tax advantages: In addition to utility credits, federal incentives like the 179D deduction can apply to commercial buildings meeting energy efficiency thresholds. Combine multiple incentives to stack them where permissible.
• Improved asset value and building comfort: Buildings with higher-efficiency equipment typically appraise higher than their standard counterparts. Additionally, an often overlooked benefit is enhanced comfort that comes along with improved climate control and air quality.
Identifying Available Energy Credits
Local utility companies often have information on applicable rebates and incentives for their products available online:
• Visiting your local utility company’s website to explore available programs may help avoid common pitfalls. Some examples TK Architects commonly sees are not obtaining pre-approval, incomplete Construction Documentation, selecting standard equipment, and not being aware of completion or application deadlines.
• We advise at this time contacting utility representatives for detailed information. It is usually a free service offered where a utility agent or specialist can provide real dollar amounts for each piece of equipment. A recent project in Florida was offering $600-800 per rooftop unit depending on tonnage, plus an additional $500 each for providing a CO2 sensor for demand control ventilation. You will generally be asked to provide a Tax ID number for rebate payment quickly after installation.
• Federal tax rebates allow building owners to have deductions or credits applied to their tax liabilities.
Procore
Identifying Eligible HVAC Equipment
To qualify for energy credits, HVAC equipment must meet specific energy efficiency standards. TK Architects has experience specifying equipment that complies with ASHRAE 90.1 Standards, SEER, EER, and HSPF, among others.
Examples of HVAC equipment types eligible for energy credits include:
• High-efficiency chillers and boilers
• Variable refrigerant flow (VRF) systems
• High efficiency rooftop units (RTUs)
• Heat pumps (air source, water source, and geothermal)
Learning about eligible HVAC equipment can also point to future trends in energy credit programs. TK Architects is anticipating more aggressive credit programs targeting net-zero emissions as decarbonization efforts intensify. There might also be expanded eligibility for innovative technologies, such as more advanced heat pumps and energy storage options. And finally, there is also a very high likelihood that smart grid systems will enhance their integration to optimize energy use in commercial applications.
Steps to Navigate the Process
To explore energy credit opportunities, here are recommended steps:
1. Consult with an Engineering Professional at TK Architects to identify opportunities for improvement
Assessing current energy usage identifies inefficiencies in your existing HVAC systems and determines the potential benefits of upgrading. Existing buildings that have undergone remodels or have reduced occupancy (such as a theater recliner conversion) are great candidates for equipment replacement. We will also engage with manufacturers for equipment selection.
2. Research local utility programs
Utility companies typically publish details of energy credit programs on their websites. Often there are agents available to guide pre-approval. Many programs require pre-approval before purchasing or installing equipment. This ensures compliance and reserves funds for the project.
3. Obtain necessary Construction Documents
Engineers at TK Architects will create permit documentation outlining all equipment specifications and calculations. We will also assist with the application process and ensure compliance.
4. Submit applications
Ensure the selected equipment meets or exceeds the efficiency standards required by the utility program, complete all forms, include supporting Construction Documents, and follow submission guidelines. Keep a record of submission confirmations.
5. Installation and verification
Proceed with equipment installation. The energy credit programs will require post-installation verification and/or inspections for proof of purchase and installation. The installation contractor may also need to submit certification documents.
6. Receive Credits
Energy credits may come as a check, bill credit, or tax deduction. It is also advised to keep record for future reference or audits.
Conclusion
Navigating energy credits for replacement HVAC equipment in commercial buildings can be complex, and understanding the available incentives and the process is crucial. By conducting due diligence, engaging our professionals, and staying informed on program requirements, businesses can successfully leverage energy credits to make energy-efficient upgrades more affordable. As energy efficiency programs evolve, we at TK Architects are dedicated to staying informed and proactive, ensuring your business remains at the forefront of smart energy management.
Ready to explore how energy credits can support your next upgrade? Let’s talk!
Principal, Levi Lawson
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TK Architects International, Inc.
1100 Main Street, Suite 2200
Kansas City, Missouri 64105
