IIDA NY honors Polucci the 2026 Leadership Award of Excellence

Manhattan, NY The International Interior Design Association’s New York Chapter (IIDA NY) has named Tom Polucci, FIIDA, AIA, LEED GA, firmwide director of interiors at HOK, as the recipient of the chapter’s 2026 Leadership Award of Excellence. Polucci was celebrated among more than 800 attendees at IIDA NY’s Leaders Breakfast on May 14^th at Pier Sixty, Chelsea Piers.

With more than 25 years of professional experience, Polucci leads HOK’s interiors teams across the globe in creating spaces that enhance people’s lives. Trained as an architect, he brings a multi-dimensional, human-centric approach to each project, with a driving passion for designing workplaces that empower employees and shape organizational culture. 

His portfolio spans large, recognizable brands including Teach for America, Starwood Hotels + Resorts, Avon North America, the Accenture Innovation Hub, and the WPP Campus at 3 World Trade Center. He also serves on HOK’s executive committee and board of directors.

Polucci was also recognized for his commitment to advancing the design industry beyond the studio. A fellow of the International Interior Design Association—one of the profession’s highest honors — he has long been a driving force in elevating the role of interior design on a global stage. He also serves as chair of DIFFA, the Design Industries Foundation Fighting AIDS, bringing the design community together in support of one of the industry’s most enduring philanthropic causes.

At the IIDA NY’s Leaders Breakfast, colleagues and supporters acknowledged Polucci’s passion for design and his collaborative, client-centered philosophy. “Over the course of almost three decades, he has become one of the design industry’s most respected leaders,” said Anne Drysdale, co-chair of IIDA NY’s Leaders Breakfast committee. “Tom is known not only for his exceptional talent and creative vision, but also for his sense of humor and ability to connect with those around him,” said Currie Gardner, co-chair.

During his acceptance speech, Polucci said, “I am deeply honored to receive IIDA NY’s 2026 Leadership Award of Excellence. This chapter represents an incredible community of designers and leaders from across New York City and the state, and it is the diversity of perspectives and the strength of relationships here that make it so special. I also want to acknowledge HOK, where I have had the privilege of leading within a firm built on a deep sense of stewardship — of our people, our profession, and the communities we touch. I am grateful for the opportunity to give back through our partnership with DIFFA, and for a career grounded in shared values, mentorship, and a commitment to something larger than ourselves.”