Hoyt Architects
Studio | Research

We explore built spaces through real-time modeling to improve what we build and how we live.

2 Companies, 1 Studio.

Developing unique architectural solutions requires new ways of thinking about architectural problems. Our studio environment promotes collaboration among Architects, Landscape Architects, Planners, VR Artists, and Programmers to design, test, and build projects.

If the software and tools don't exist, we write new software and create new tools through research and development, and our tech company, Imerza.

Our immersive design process creates a deeper understanding of each project by studying design parameters ranging from mass, scale, topography, circulation, sun orientation and lighting to materials, texture and finishes.

We prototype architecture and urbanism through interactive visualization and custom software.

Test urban ideas in real time

Hoyt's team is made of architects, game developers, city planners, and computer scientists, following a methodology we call “urban analog” or real-time analysis of multiple variables and solutions. 

We have been facilitating interactive visual communication for architecture and urbanism for over 20 years.

We utilize AI technology

We continually develop and use AI to do real time simulations of crowd flows, pedestrian, bicycle, and vehicle travel. By utilizing our AI model we have been able to test how different iterations of a single design can effect our built environment.

We create digital twin models

Our Digital Twin models are living, breathing, urban laboratories where design ideas can be tested and shared. Through these models users can develop analytical, block-by-block alternatives and see how these alternatives influence the use and experience of urban places.

Urban Studies Speaker Series

Hoyt Architects’ Urban Studies Speaker Series brings diverse voices and perspectives to the community, fostering thoughtful dialogue on timely and relevant topics. The series features engaging speakers from a wide range of disciplines, sparking conversation, education, and meaningful community connection through thought-provoking presentations and discussions.

John Snow - Professional Arborist 

The Urban Forest Lifecycle: Designing Cities With Trees That Last 50 Years or More

Snow explored how cities can balance high-quality urban development with the long-term health of their natural resources. Attendees learned strategies for planning, planting, and maintaining urban trees so they thrive for decades, creating resilient urban forests that benefit both communities and the environment.

Drawing on decades of experience in arboriculture, Snow shared practical insights for homeowners, city planners, designers, and anyone interested in sustainable urban landscapes. His talk highlighted how thoughtful, long-term planning can transform urban trees into vital infrastructure that supports vibrant, healthy cities.

Dr. Matthew Wielicki - Geochemist, Publisher 

Measured vs. Modeled: Climate Data and Design Decisions

Dr. Matthew Wielicki delivered a data-driven discussion on how climate information is applied—and often misapplied—in long-range planning, environmental policy, and design.

A geochemist and former university faculty member, Dr. Wielicki studies Earth’s changing systems through the planet’s geologic record—often called Earth’s natural “hard drive.” With a PhD in geochemistry from UCLA, he is known for making complex climate and Earth science topics accessible, practical, and evidence-based. His work focuses on the intersection of climate data, uncertainty, and public policy, emphasizing accountability and real-world outcomes.

Dr. Wielicki is also the publisher of the reader-supported Irrational Fear Substack, where he examines climate claims, extreme weather statistics, and energy tradeoffs, helping readers separate fact from speculation.

David Nelson - Commercial Real Estate Developer

Preserving a Legacy: The Summerhill Case Study 

David Nelson’s presentation on Atlanta’s Summerhill neighborhood offered a compelling case study in how urban areas can be revitalized while preserving their cultural and historical identity.

Summerhill reflects a bold yet thoughtful approach to redevelopment—one that honors the past while embracing innovation. Located on the former site of Atlanta’s Olympic Stadium, this 80-acre district sits within one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods, just minutes from downtown.

Guided by a long-term, organic process rooted in preservation and rehabilitation, Summerhill is transforming into a walkable, dynamic community that seamlessly integrates culture, dining, entertainment, education, and housing.

Leadership

Gary Hoyt — FAIA

Gary is the founding Principal of Hoyt Architects and serves as its President and Design Director. He has more than 30 years experience in the design field as an Architect and Urban Designer. Prior to forming his own firm, Gary worked as a Design Architect for Safdie Architects where he was involved in several notable projects such as Cambridge Center and The National Gallery of Canada. Gary co-founded Design Options, one of the first 3rd party programs for AutoCAD dedicated to using CAD as a design tool. He is also the co-founder of the visualization company, HAL, and tech company Imerza.

Chris Gallagher — AIA, NCARB

Chris is Managing Partner and VP of Hoyt Architects, he has more than 30 years of experience in design, planning, and construction. He manages operations of the firm and oversees the firm’s renovation, historic preservation, and other more traditional Architectural design projects. Chris addresses human scale detailing and historical reference for the firm. Chris is also past chair of the City of Sarasota Planning Board and Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce.

George Scarfe — Associate AIA

George manages a wide range of projects from small-scale retail properties to high-rise skyscrapers. He has been instrumental to the design of Hoyt Architects’ projects including One Park Sarasota, The Mark, and many others. Scarfe, a U.S. Navy veteran, began his education in 2000, later earning a Master of Architecture degree from the University of South Florida in 2011. He joined Hoyt Architects following his Architectural Experience Program with the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB)