SOM was founded on a radical model of interdisciplinary practice. Generations of firm leadership have upheld the idea that bringing architecture, engineering, and planning together could enable solutions to impossible problems. This ethos has been at the core of our work for decades: a steadfast belief in collaboration as a driver of design culture, a pioneering spirit of technical innovation, and optimism in environmental advocacy. Each new generation has expanded these values, creating a practice that champions inclusivity of expertise, people, and ideas—and together, cultivating an entrepreneurial mindset that equips our teams to continue to tackle the most pressing challenges of our time.

Each year we publish an Impact Report as part of our ongoing commitment to advancing equity, climate action, and civic benefit. With data, interviews, and authored articles, the Impact Report highlights areas where we are working to make a meaningful impact in our practice and the profession.

Cultivating a culture of equity and inclusion

Our people and culture are the foundation of our practice. We celebrate the diversity of our teams, and we advocate for a workplace where all of our colleagues have a voice and are valued. Ongoing initiatives to build greater equity at SOM and in the profession include our mentorship programs and expanded recruitment efforts.

Advancing a zero-carbon built environment

SOM was one of the first design and engineering firms to join the World Green Building Council’s Net Zero Carbon Buildings Commitment. In 2022, we became a carbon neutral business by applying strategies to reduce emissions across our global operations, together with carefully selected carbon offsets as we continue to reduce our environmental impact.

We continue to reduce carbon emissions in our projects which pursuing high-impact partnership and research, using our influence in the industry to accelerate the transition to a zero-carbon built environment. 

Making a difference where we live and work

Giving back to our local communities is a core value of our practice. Through project work as well as volunteer efforts, our staff around the world is deeply engaged in the places where we live and work. 

SOM’s Equity Design Lab Toolkit helps project teams integrate equity into decision-making, aligning design outcomes with community needs and priorities. At every stage of the design process, we evaluate how projects shape access, opportunity, and lived experience for the people they serve. Learn more in our 2025 Impact Report.