Lisa Opper

Lisa Opper enjoys designing experiences that bring people together and excels at the fast pace and quick problem-solving nature of event architecture. Based in Denver, Lisa is a proven leader, effectively managing teams from the design process through construction and event operation. Lisa has led the planning and design of prominent sporting events, including the NCAA Women’s Final Four basketball tournaments, four consecutive Democratic National Conventions and the Kentucky Derby. Additionally, Lisa leads Populous’ Olympic consultancy work on behalf of the International Olympic Committee and local organizing committees. She is knowledgeable about the technical side of design and construction including, building codes, ADA requirements and event guidelines.

Lisa began her sports architecture career working on Minute Maid Park, home to the Houston Astros. She credits this project with giving her the foundation of sports facility knowledge that she continues to utilize in her work today.

Lisa plays a vital role in strengthening Populous’ culture, serving on an internal resource group dedicated to enhancing the value of the workplace diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging. She also strives to enhance the firm’s sustainability efforts, serving on an internal sustainable design committee and working to highlight the inherent sustainability of event work.