RATIO Design merges with Kansas City's Helix Architecture + Design

What's the deal? Indianapolis-based RATIO DesignDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom → has merged with Kansas City architectural firm Helix Architecture + DesignDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom →, the firms announced August 7, 2026. The combined Kansas City operation will run as RATIO | Helix, while other studios keep the RATIO name.

What changes for clients? The Kansas City team keeps the same leadership and staff. Erika Moody, principal and president at Helix, becomes vice president and joins RATIO's executive leadership team.

Who's involved? Helix's senior team includes Doug Stockman, principal and director of architecture design, and Alissa Wehmueller, who stays as principal and director of interior design. The merger was backed by Hennick & CompanyDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom →, which made a strategic investment in RATIO Design in 2021.

What's the endgame? The firms see a chance to expand across Missouri and Kansas and into nearby regional markets. "Together, we see opportunities to create purposeful work across Missouri and Kansas while expanding into nearby regional markets that naturally align with our studios and our clients," said Bill Browne, principal and CEO of RATIO Design.

The bigger firm: Founded in 1982, RATIO has completed projects in more than 41 states and 15 countries. Its portfolio spans higher education and sporting venues, including the Payne Indoor Athletic Facility at the University of Georgia and the James T. Morris Arena at Indiana University, due to open in late 2026.

The signal: The deal reflects continued consolidation among mid-sized design firms seeking regional reach and shared resources. "We share a similar commitment to design, collaboration, and community impact," Moody said.

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