What started as casual conversations between Christina Franklin and Generator co-founders Mike Kress and Tom Proebstle during the uncertainty of the COVID pandemic evolved into a transformative journey. Seeking to discover her place in Kansas City, Christina brought not only her expertise but also her drive to create something meaningful. She built Generator’s interiors team from the ground up, establishing it as a cornerstone of the studio. Through her vision and leadership, she helped shape Generator into a fully comprehensive design studio, cementing its reputation as an industry leader in hospitality-driven design for sports venues and beyond.
Get to know Christina Franklin, Generator Studio’s first female partner in this Q&A:
What was it that ultimately made you choose to join the Generator team?
“I craved a challenge and a chance to discover what Kansas City could mean for me, and that’s why I took a leap of faith. I hoped to find a love for sports, but more importantly, I wanted to make an impact and tell a story that mattered. The opportunity to build something from the ground up and shape what interiors would mean for Generator was irresistible—it was my chance to create something truly defining.”
What was it about creating an interiors team that was so enticing?
“The idea of creating my own department and being the one responsible for hiring everybody, and really strengthening our position in the interiors world. That kind of challenge was the most appealing thing because I could make it what I wanted to make it.
From the very beginning, the team said, ‘Tell us what you need. Go out, discover what works, and shape this interiors department into what you believe it should be. We’ll support you.’ That kind of trust and belief in my abilities was both humbling and empowering. Over the past three years, I’ve worked to create something I’m incredibly proud of, but it was only possible because of the mutual trust and shared commitment to building something great together.”
Beyond creating the interiors team we see today, what other evolutions have you seen in your time here?
“When I joined Generator, it was after a few uncertain years where new hires were rare—many team members had been here for five, six, even ten years. It was a tight-knit group with an established rhythm, and at first, I was mindful not to disrupt what was already in place. Fast forward to today, and the dynamic has shifted. We’ve welcomed many new voices, bringing fresh perspectives and ideas that have infused the studio with energy and adaptability. This evolution has transformed Generator into a place where change is embraced, and diverse viewpoints are not only welcomed but celebrated.”
What do you think brought on that shift?
“I’d like to think I played a role in being a catalyst for change, encouraging us to truly evaluate the talent we have, identify gaps, and fill them with the right people—individuals whose unique strengths and perspectives enhance our team. Over time, we’ve grown into a culture that deeply values connection and collaboration. As much as it might sound cliché, we really are a family—invested in one another and committed to creating an environment of openness and support.
There’s a genuine ‘no bad ideas’ mentality here, where everyone is encouraged to share their voice without fear or hesitation. What’s more, our team now has unprecedented access to both design and architectural leadership, fostering collaboration and mentorship in a way that elevates everyone. It’s a reflection of how far we’ve come as a studio and as a community.”
Can you expand on the accessibility aspect of Generator?
“At Generator, we prioritize giving every team member exposure to projects from the earliest stages. It’s rare here for principals or directors to operate in a silo. Instead, we actively involve our younger staff from the start, ensuring they engage not just with the project but also with the client and the overall process. This approach allows them to understand the project’s full evolution, providing a clear sense of direction and purpose—a hallmark of what we do exceptionally well. Everyone, regardless of their role, has a seat at the table.
Honest conversations are a cornerstone of our culture, driven by the accessibility of our leadership. Mike and Tom are always approachable, creating an environment where even the most junior staff feel empowered to share their thoughts. That level of openness and accessibility is incredibly rare and sets Generator apart as a truly collaborative and inclusive studio.”
Are there other unique characteristics that set Generator apart?
“What truly sets Generator apart is the level of genuine care within our team. I’m deeply invested in my team—understanding not just their work but who they are as individuals. That connection allows me to recognize when something isn’t sitting right, adjust my approach, and support them in a way that meets their needs. I know when to guide them toward growth and when to step back and let them find their own path.
This culture of care is mirrored throughout the studio. Mike and Tom’s investment in every team member fosters a mutual respect that is palpable across the office. Our size enables us to maintain personal relationships that go beyond just business. At Generator, we make it a priority to dig deeper, to truly know and support our people—not just in their work, but in their lives.”
Switching gears, what was your reaction when you were first approached by Mike and Tom for the opportunity to become an owner?
“When Mike and Tom approached me about the opportunity to become an owner, I was deeply honored. Despite not having been with the company as long as some of the other leaders, I was truly grateful for the trust they placed in me and for the chance to have a seat at the table. It was a powerful affirmation that they recognized not only the work I’ve done, but also who I am, and that they were eager to continue building the business together. That, to me, is monumental.
At a recent Women Leaders in Sports event, there was talk about the important role men play in supporting and advocating for women. To me, this opportunity is a living example of that commitment. In a male-dominated industry, they could have easily chosen a different path, but they chose to see value in me—not only as an individual but as someone offering a unique perspective. It’s a gesture that speaks volumes about their belief in what I bring to the table.”
How did you weigh the decision to become a part of the ownership group?
“Transitioning from being an employee to an owner brings a profound shift in mindset. As an owner, the responsibility extends far beyond day-to-day operations. It encompasses the future of the business, its growth, and the protection of everyone within the organization. The weight of this responsibility is far greater than that of an employee, but it’s through embracing this risk that you truly discover what you’re capable of. It’s about owning not just your role, but the entire vision and the future we’re building together.”
Now as a partner, are there any goals you see setting for yourself or Generator?
“Generator occupies a unique position, and with that comes a responsibility to maintain the size and structure of our team. There’s something truly special about the balance we have right now, and it’s important we protect that. We aim to demonstrate to the world that smaller studios can deliver at the same level as larger firms, by maintaining a focus on our team, culture, and the integrity of Generator as a whole.
From a business perspective, there are exciting opportunities for growth, particularly in markets where we can leverage our expertise in hospitality, especially within the sports and venue sectors. I am particularly passionate about expanding our reach in the food and beverage hospitality space—partnering with independent restaurants, bars, and hotels. Additionally, being present in and contributing to women’s athletics is a priority for both me and the team at Generator. We have the responsibility to drive those conversations forward and establish ourselves as a leading partner in these areas.”
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Christina joins the expanded ownership group of Generator Studio that includes Director of Architecture Andrew Kesel, Technical Director Peter Baird, and Co-founders Tom Proebstle and Mike Kress.