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05.11 2026

45 Years In: A Perspective on People, Projects, and Progress

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May 2026

45 years—the Blue Sapphire Anniversary—is quite a milestone. To me, it represents consistent leadership: people who plan ahead and lead by example.

When I interviewed over 20 years ago, I came in with an overly complicated portfolio to show off my design abilities (something we’ve all laughed about since). What I wanted was to be at an architecture firm. I had previously been at a large engineering firm with an architecture department, where design often felt like an afterthought.

Fortunately, Mike, Jack, and Tamra saw something in me that I’m not sure I fully recognized at the time. What I saw in TK was a close-knit team doing work that felt both thoughtful and exciting. At that point, I knew very little about cinema, entertainment, or food and beverage design. Through their patience—and my many questions—I began to understand the technical side of the spaces that define our core building types.

I was encouraged to restart my licensure process and supported in participating in the AIA Pillars Leadership Program. Following in Ted and Mike’s footsteps, attending International Cinema Technology Association (ICTA) expanded both my technical knowledge and my relationships with vendors across the industry.

Ted and the principals at the time would return from trade shows energized, sharing stories about clients and ideas they were excited about. What I didn’t fully realize then was that they were building a brand with international recognition. By the time I began attending those same events, many doors were already open—relationships had been built long before I stepped into the room.

Over time, the firm expanded to include in-house structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing engineering. That shift changed how we work in a meaningful way. While TK has always maintained strong relationships with external consultants, having these disciplines under one roof brings a different level of collaboration. It allows for real-time problem-solving, stronger mentorship, and a more integrated approach—something especially valuable for younger staff as they learn how all aspects of a project come together.

Our relationships with vendors are a direct reflection of our 45-year history. Many of these partnerships go back to the early days of the firm, and in some cases, span multiple generations—much like TK itself now supports its third generation of ownership. These long-standing relationships bring a level of trust and creativity to projects where everyone is invested in delivering the best possible outcome.

The same can be said for our clients. Many are family-owned businesses that have also transitioned through generations. Each brings a new perspective while continuing to build on an established brand. That shared history creates a natural rhythm in how we work together, and it often leads to stronger, more thoughtful projects. We’ve had the opportunity to see these brands evolve alongside our own.

With a firm of this longevity, there are even projects where we’ve worked on the same building across multiple ownerships—designing the original space, then later renovating it for a new client, and occasionally even a third. Each iteration brings a new identity and guest experience, and being part of that evolution is one of the more rewarding aspects of our work.

As we move into year 46, our focus remains the same: continue pushing design forward, strengthening relationships with clients and vendors, and leading within the entertainment, cinema, and food and beverage industries. We’re also continuing to explore new concepts and areas of growth that will shape the future of the firm.

To our clients, vendors, and industry partners—thank you for being part of these first 45 years. And to those we haven’t yet had the opportunity to work with, we look forward to what’s ahead.

As we celebrate our Blue Sapphire Anniversary, we reflect on the qualities often associated with the stone—wisdom, clarity, and strength—and the role they play in shaping our work. The future of TK is bright, and we’re excited for what comes next.

Principal, Theresa English

04.24 2026

The Experience Is the Product: Insights From CinemaCon 2026

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April 2026

It was great to be back at CinemaCon this year, reconnecting with colleagues, partners, and friends from across the exhibition and entertainment industry. Each year offers a good look at where cinema is headed, and 2026 made one thing clear:

The theatrical experience continues to evolve and adapt in meaningful ways.

This year’s programming and conversations, especially those highlighted by Cinema United, reinforced a shared sense of optimism about the future of moviegoing. From advancements in premium large format experiences to continued investment in food, beverage, and hospitality-driven amenities, exhibitors are leaning into what makes theatres unique—an experience you simply can’t replicate at home.

There was also a noticeable focus on innovation, not just in technology, but on how cinemas connect with their communities. Whether through loyalty programs, creative programming, or rethinking lobby and social spaces, the industry is working to meet audiences where they are while giving them reasons to return more often.

Of course, none of this exists without content, and the studio presentations delivered. The upcoming slate points to a strong mix of blockbuster franchises, original storytelling, and event-level releases. The energy in the room during these previews is always a highlight and a reminder of the role theatres continue to play in shaping shared cultural moments.

For us at TK Architects, CinemaCon is more than a trade show. It’s an opportunity to listen, observe, and translate what we’re seeing into practical design solutions. This year, conversations consistently pointed toward a more holistic approach to entertainment design—one that brings together cinema, dining, social interaction, and flexible programming into a cohesive guest experience.

What stood out most was the continued shift toward experience-driven environments. Clients and operators are thinking beyond the auditorium, with greater emphasis on arrival, lobby activation, and food and beverage as a central component of the overall experience. These spaces are no longer just transitional; they’re destinations. That mindset aligns closely with how we approach design, focusing on layered environments that extend the experience beyond the screen.

We’re also seeing increased demand for flexibility. Spaces need to adapt to different audience needs throughout the day and week. From premium auditoriums, multifunctional lounges, or adjacent entertainment offerings, the goal is to balance guest engagement with operational efficiency. It’s a challenge, but one that continues to push us to think creatively about how design can support evolving business models.

CinemaCon also reinforced the importance of collaboration. The future of exhibition isn’t being shaped by any one group, it’s the result of strong partnerships between owners, operators, studios, designers, and vendors, all working toward the same goal: creating experiences that keep audiences coming back.

This year also offered a moment to reflect on industry legacy and longevity. Celebrating 55 years, the International Cinema Technology Association (ICTA) continues to play an important role in advancing innovation and strengthening connections across the industry. At the same time, we’re proud to be marking 45 years of TK Architects. Having participated in ShowWest and CinemaCon since 1987, it’s rewarding to see how far the industry has come—and to know we’ve been part of that evolution along the way.

Leaving CinemaCon, it’s clear the industry isn’t standing still. It’s evolving with intention, and we’re looking forward to carrying that momentum forward as we continue shaping spaces for today’s audiences.

Principal, Levi Lawson

04.23 2026

Where Food Halls are Headed (and Why It Matters for Design)

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April 2026

A Shift Worth Paying Attention To

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.

Principal, Levi Lawson

04.08 2026

Mirror, Mirror, on the Wall — Is the Movie Still the Star of It All?

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April 2026

I recently caught up on WhatsApp with an old friend I met years ago during a long stretch of international travel. The conversation went on for quite a while — helped along by a few glasses of red — and it pulled my old brain back into thinking about the cinema business again. Specifically, how many operators remain stuck in the same tired exhibition model.

What we discussed is something I’ve believed for a long time: the cinema business is not doomed. But for it to stay meaningful in the long run, it must undergo a fundamental, irreversible transformation — a shift at a scale we simply haven’t seen yet. The era of cinema’s monopoly on moving-image entertainment is long gone. Everyone knows by now that the future lies not in competing with home entertainment on convenience or price. The future lies in offering what cannot be replicated at home: a social, sensory, event-based experience.

Over the past decade, some operators have tried shifting the industry from convenience to event-driven experiences. What we’ve learned is that cinema will survive anywhere — the real question is what kind of cinema survives in a specific location. And we’ve already seen some clear directions emerging:

1. The Megaplex for Event Films

These are the large venues built for premium formats of every kind: massive screens, thunderous sound systems, and luxury seating. They thrive on tentpole films — superhero blockbusters, action spectacles, and epic sequels. This is the classic “see it on the biggest screen possible” model.

2. The Boutique / Arthouse Cinema

These are smaller venues built around curation, community, and comfort. They succeed by offering:

  • Specialized Programming: Independent films, foreign cinema, documentaries, classics, and themed series.
  • Elevated Food & Beverage: Local cuisine, quality cocktails, craft beer, and dine-in service.
  • Cultural Connection: Filmmaker Q&As, post-film discussions, book clubs, and a sense of belonging.

The problem is the bulk of the industry still lies in the middle-ground — the standard multiplex with average screens and sticky floors. These vulnerable venues offer neither spectacle nor specialness. They must be reimagined.

At the core of this transformation is a simple idea: exhibitors must stop selling just a movie ticket and start selling a night out — an experience that can’t be duplicated at home. Some exhibitors have tried elements of this, but rarely with full commitment.

Current approaches include:

  • Subscription Models like A-List and Season Pass
  • Premium Formats such as IMAX and Dolby Cinema
  • Dine-In Theatres with full-service food and beverage
  • Loyalty and Membership Programs with app support
  • Alternative Content  like live events, concerts, sports, opera, and more

But the real opportunity lies ahead:

Future Offers — Where Things Get Interesting

  • Hyper-Personalization: Adjustable seat movement intensity, temperature control, scent effects — all app-driven.
  • Interactive Screenings: Choose-your-own-adventure films where audiences steer the narrative.
  • Gaming & Esports: Big-screen tournaments with immersive sound and theatrical energy.
  • VR Pre-Shows: Transform the lobby experience into a narrative gateway to the film.
  • Dynamic Pricing: Airline-style ticketing reflecting demand, time, and seat quality.


A Fresh Design Approach — Time to Start Over

The old shoebox cinema — a corridor with identical auditoriums hanging off it — is outdated. The next generation should merge social spaces and cinematic experiences into one cohesive environment. Let’s call this concept the Social Cinema.

Key Design Features

1. The Central Atrium as a Social Hub

A vibrant, multi-story heart of the building featuring:

  • A full-service bar and restaurant
  • Coffee shops, lounges, comfortable seating, fireplaces, bookshelves, aquariums
  • Co-working areas by day, social spaces by night
  • Play areas for children
    This atrium becomes a destination whether you’re seeing a movie or not.

2. Experience-Based Cinema Zones

Auditoriums radiate from the hub in defined zones:

  • The Spectacle Zone: Premium large formats; bold, futuristic architecture
  • The Boutique Zone: Intimate, unique aesthetic rooms inspired by classic cinemas or modern living spaces with ultra-plush seating
  • The Flex Zone: Movable walls and seating for films, concerts, conferences, sporting events, TV events, competitions, weddings, events of all kinds

3. Blurring Inside and Outside

  • Rooftop open-air cinema and garden with bar service and lawn seating
  • Retractable glass walls that open the atrium into public plazas, integrate cinema and the urban environment

4. Architectural Storytelling

  • The path to your seat becomes part of the show. For a sci-fi screening, imagine ambient corridor lighting, soundscapes, and subtle trailers previewing the world of the film.
  • With AI advancing at breathtaking speed, this kind of immersion is no longer theoretical — it’s already possible.

5. Sustainability as an Experience Driver

  • Use reclaimed materials, natural light, solar installations, and green roofs.
  • Sustainable design not only reduces long-term operational costs but resonates strongly with today’s environmentally conscious guests.


A Final Word on Concessions

I’ve long believed concessions need reinvention. A modular, plug-and-play approach would allow customizable offerings tailored to local tastes. Anchor modules — popcorn, soda, etc. — maintain prime positions, while secondary modules, authentic and tailored to the local markets – pizza, sweets, beer, coffee, etc. – that can rotate in and out without major renovation.

There is still enormous opportunity in this industry. But it requires a bold leap — someone willing to break old habits and fully rethink what the cinema experience can be.

The cinema business is not failing; it is evolving from a commodity service into a premium experience economy. The winners will be those who understand they are no longer just showing films; they are curating memorable social and sensory events. And I firmly believe architectural design is the linchpin. When we move away from a utilitarian model toward immersive, flexible, socially engaging environments, the cinema becomes a destination worth leaving home for.

These ideas barely scratch the surface, and the potential for reinvention remains enormous. But the conversation shouldn’t stop here. How do you envision the next evolution of the cinema experience?  What innovations excite you—or concern you—as the industry moves forward?
Join the dialogue. Let’s explore where cinema goes next. 

Sr. Principal, Jack Muffoletto

03.03 2026

World of Concrete: Innovation, Craftsmanship, and Award-Winning Design

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March 2026

Steve Petracek, Principal

World of Concrete – Craftsmanship Still Leads the Industry

I attended the World of Concrete (WOC) convention in Las Vegas for the first time at the end of January, and it did not disappoint. Between the expansive vendor exhibits, product demonstrations, and hands-on challenges and competitions, the energy on the show floor was contagious. One of the highlights was watching mason apprentices and tenders construct a CMU wall with an exceptional level of craftsmanship—a reminder that skill and pride in workmanship remain at the heart of the industry.

A Project Put to the Test

My primary reason for attending was to see how TK Architects’ design of the Larry H. Miller Megaplex Entertainment Center would fare in the Insulated Concrete Forms (ICF) Awards competition in the Heavy Commercial category. The competition was stiff, with an impressive range of projects represented, so it was exciting to see the Megaplex Daybreak project in South Jordan, Utah selected as a top-three finalist.

This being my first time at WOC, I knew the convention was large—but I didn’t fully grasp the scale until I experienced it firsthand. It covered approximately 900,000 square feet across both indoor and outdoor venues, which helps explain why it is considered the largest construction-industry convention in the world. Photos truly don’t do it justice. Companies from all over the world filled the space, showcasing everything from small handheld grinders to towering batch-plant systems. It felt like a “kid in a candy store” event for anyone who has an appreciation for the concrete industry.

And while concrete was the star, it wasn’t the only act. Helical pile foundation systems, ICF wall bracing solutions, and even a booth offering moisturizer to combat the effects of long, skin-abusive days on the jobsite were all part of the experience.

What’s next in Concrete Reinforcement

While my primary focus at the convention was attending the ICF Awards banquet, I also spent a good portion of my time walking the floor with a fellow structural engineer—mostly visiting ICF manufacturers. Each company has its own characteristics that, depending on the application, allow it to stand out. One topic that came up repeatedly was fiber reinforcement.

Replacing a 20-foot No. 6 steel bar—typically weighing around 30 pounds—with a GFRP alternative weighing approximately 7.5 pounds represents a significant reduction in labor and fatigue. Over the course of a full workday, that difference matters.

The current code, ACI 440.11 (Building Code Requirements for Structural Concrete with Glass Fiber-Reinforced Polymer [GFRP] Bars), governs the use of GFRP bars. At present, the bars meet requirements for low seismic activity areas but do not meet the requirements for high seismic use. That said, progress in this area is clearly moving—whether that comes through a fully glass fiber system or some form of hybrid approach.

If you have an interest in anything concrete-related, World of Concrete is well worth the trip. The innovation, craftsmanship, and sheer scale of the event are impressive—and you’re bound to walk away inspired (and with some great merch).

And if you want to see how those ideas translate into real-world, award-recognized design, visit the Larry H. Miller Megaplex Daybreak Entertainment Center in South Jordan, Utah.

If you’re looking for what’s next in concrete, go to World of Concrete.
If you want award-winning design built to perform, work with TK Architects.

Principal, Steve Petracek