Ali Summerford New Associate Principal

Last year marked a significant milestone for ACI Boland as we continued to strengthen our leadership team and deepen our roots in the St. Louis community. We were thrilled to welcome Ali Summerford to the firm as our newest Associate Principal and St. Louis Office Leader.

With a career defined by design excellence and a passion for collaborative growth, Ali brings a fresh perspective to our studio. Since stepping into her role midway through last year, she has already begun shaping the strategic direction of our St. Louis operations, focusing on fostering innovation and delivering impactful spaces for our clients.

In this exclusive interview, we sit down with Ali to discuss her journey in architecture, her vision for the St. Louis office, and what she sees on the horizon for the future of ACI Boland.

Roots & Inspiration

What initially drew you to the design industry?

Growing up, I shared a room with my sister, and with limited space, I was constantly sketching floor plans to rearrange and maximize every inch. I loved space planning and creating new concepts even then. I also went on countless architectural tours with my parents, which deepened my appreciation for design and sparked my lasting passion for architecture.

Tell us a little bit about your journey in the design industry so far.

I’ve had a unique and well-rounded career journey. I began on the owner’s side, working for State Farm Corporate Headquarters in their Planning and Design group. After moving to St. Louis, I transitioned to an architecture firm. When the recession hit, I returned to the owner side and joined BJC’s PDC group. From there, I chose to come back to the A&D side, where I’ve continued to grow and build my expertise ever since.

Experience & Philosophy

Looking back at your career so far, do you have a project or accomplishment you are most proud of? How did it prepare you for this leadership role?

I have been fortunate to have worked on so many projects throughout my career. Some notable ones include Missouri Baptist Sullivan Hospital, Mercy Jefferson Labor and Delivery, Rawlings Headquarters and Cook Children’s Las Vegas Trails Neighborhood Health Center. These experiences have provided me with a wide range of expertise and prepared me to lead teams and projects with confidence and vision.

What is your personal design philosophy, and how do you see it complementing ACI Boland’s existing work and culture?

My personal design philosophy centers on creating thoughtful, functional, and human-focused spaces that enhance the experience of everyone who uses them. I enjoy designing environments that are not only visually engaging but also intuitive, comfortable, and tailored to the way people live and work. Collaboration and integrating diverse perspectives are also key to my approach, ensuring that every design resonates with both clients and users.

This philosophy complements the firm’s existing work and culture by aligning with its commitment to high-quality, impactful design while fostering a collaborative, supportive environment. By focusing on both the strategic and experiential aspects of design, I aim to contribute to the firm’s growth while helping create spaces that truly connect with people and elevate the user experience.

Joining The ACI Boland Team

What drew you to ACI Boland? What made you excited to join the team?

The opportunity itself is what drew me to ACI Boland. Leading the architectural and interiors team is an incredible responsibility and one that energizes me. The firm’s four guiding principles align closely with my own values and the path I’m committed to pursuing. I’m genuinely excited to help grow and shape the STL office for the future.

What is your strategy for mentoring and developing the talent within our firm?

My strategy is to be present, accessible, and intentional in supporting each person’s growth. I aim to understand individual strengths and goals, then provide meaningful opportunities, clear feedback, and guidance that help people advance. I also want to foster a collaborative, fun culture where emerging professionals feel supported and see a future with the firm. By leveraging expertise across offices, we can strengthen skills and elevate the STL team together.

How would you define the role of Associate Principal, and what key responsibilities are you most excited to take on?

I define the role of an Associate Principal as a key leadership position, someone who exemplifies the firm’s values, drives strategic growth, and actively prepares for Principal-level responsibilities. It’s a role that is earned through consistent performance, dedication, and the ability to lead both people and projects with vision and accountability.

I’m most excited about helping grow and elevate the St. Louis office. This includes leading the office relocation, strengthening and expanding our team through thoughtful hiring and development, and proactively pursuing new opportunities while nurturing client relationships. I also look forward to contributing to the firm’s financial success and cultivating a collaborative, energetic, and fun office culture.

”I want the firm to be known not only for its work, but also for its culture and the opportunities it provides for the next generation of leaders

Looking Forward

How do view the potential for growth in both the St. Louis and Kansas City offices?

I see tremendous potential for growth here so much so that it was a major factor in my decision to join the firm. St. Louis already has strong client relationships, and we plan to continue strengthening and expanding them over time. While healthcare and workplace have been my primary focus, I’m committed to broadening our reach into additional markets as we grow and bring on strategic hires. I also want to leverage the expertise and leadership within the KC office to help elevate our presence and opportunities in the St. Louis market.

What does “success look like for you in this role, and what is your biggest aspiration for the firm?

For me, success in this role means delivering on the goals I outlined, growing the STL office, strengthening client relationships, expanding into new markets, and building a strong, engaged team. Achieving these milestones will advance the firm and demonstrate my readiness to take on the responsibilities of a Principal, which is a key long-term goal for me.

My biggest aspiration for the firm is that we continue to grow while remaining a place where people, especially emerging professionals, feel supported, valued, and truly at home. I want the firm to be known not only for its work, but also for its culture and the opportunities it provides for the next generation of leaders.