About Smithsons
What We Do
This is where a community’s aspiration takes the form of a blueprint. Where data-driven candor builds the consensus needed for action. And where the most complex civic challenges—from infrastructural renewal to workforce transformation—are met with a partnership dedicated to seeing the work through.We work alongside visionary leaders to build what’s next, turning extraordinary ambition into enduring prosperity.
We are a global advisory firm built to collaborate with the nation's most ambitious developers, builders and municipalities to define a more prosperous and resilient future, through 'prepared places'.
Our tailored expertise is magnified by a national ecosystem of specialists in urban planning, sustainable economic stimulation, and workforce innovation, ensuring we deliver more durable and impactful outcomes. Our entire practice is dedicated to this work, and we have committed to bringing people together to learn and explore ideas about the environment and thoughtful development. We model beneficial ways to both preserve and develop land by focusing on Biophilic and New Urban Development Principles that are implemented in the Pajoma community.
Pajoma is the leading model for wellness communities, demonstrating common sense approaches to integrate development and living systems with land preservation. This innovative approach illustrates water and energy conservation, regenerative agriculture activities, and arts integrated with a range of housing choices mixed with commercial vitality of shops, restaurants, live/work spaces and hospitality. Pajoma is built in accord with nature rather than at its expense that results in economic returns and increased personal wellbeing.
The Smithsons Group team shares valuable lessons to integrate the environment, technology, communal spaces and biophilia to build resilient wellness communities.
Impact at a Glance
The challenges facing our communities are more complex than ever. They demand more than just plans; they demand integrated strategies, infrastructure excellence, and a deep understanding of the interconnected forces that shape our world.
The Smithsons Group is an advisory firm dedicated to forging a more prosperous and resilient future. We work alongside ambitious leaders who are not content with the status quo.
Our People
We bring a fresh perspective and infectious energy to every client relationship. Our emphasis on teamwork and trust helps clients focus on their opportunities, build their capabilities, and win the future. Together, we achieve results that bridge what is with what can be.
The Smithsons Group is led globally by our managing partners, our elected board of directors, our global leadership team, and the leaders of our offices and practices.
Gene Smith II
Global Managing Partner
Atlanta, GA
Pajoma Founder, Gene Smith II, believes that it takes strong partnerships in order to change the world. The vision for the wellness community of Pajoma was born in an effort to provide a prepared place for all people to go beyond living and truly experience what it means to live an abundant life.
After sunsetting his staffing and recruitment agency, Gene began to consider the concerns in the South revolving the two worlds evolving around him; the effects of economic downturns on the population of his beloved city of Atlanta, and the urban sprawl invading the green spaces as the city began to bloat.
Development plans for Pajoma has now begun, interlacing agriculture and preserved land with a range of housing choices mixed with shops, galleries, a wellness center, restaurants, a music studio, and a luxury hotel. The result is reminiscent of communities around the world where many of your everyday needs are within a walkable distance and neighbors know and care for each other. Today, Gene serves as the Managing Partner of The Smithsons Group and CEO of Pajoma. He's excited to live in the Pajoma community full-time along with his family.
Keosha Lucas
President, Americas
Atlanta, GA
Keosha Lucas is Managing Partner at The Smithsons Group, and Senior Vice President of Pajoma. Keosha has an extended background in operations and have worked on projects across transportation, education, hospitality, civil engineering, social impact, and government.
Keosha also oversees partnerships for Pajoma Hospitality and Rooted Farms, the CSA farm cooperative to be a part of Pajoma's development plan. She is incredibly excited to live in Pajoma with her family.
Our partners put our clients first, with a relentless focus on championing bold ideas that help them achieve the extraordinary. In every office, on every team, you’ll find passionate, collaborative people who care for you and your success.
Executive Leadership Team
Our Executive Leadership Team (ELT) is our leadership body that accelerates the delivery of our client service. The team connects leaders of regions and key capabilities, such as People, Risk & Resilience, and Finance, to support our firm’s performance and health.