Gunta Mackars

Gunta Mackars brings both client and design-side perspective to major transit, aviation, and multimodal hub projects. Her public and private sector experience gives her a strong understanding of how funding and delivery models influence project outcomes. She aligns stakeholder priorities with design decisions that support long-term viability.

For Gunta, Transportation systems are more than networks to move people—they are opportunities to create destinations that elevate the passenger journey. As a global traveler and regular public transit user, she brings firsthand insight into the importance of circulation, accessibility, and amenities. She combines these user needs with new technologies to improve vibrant third spaces, supported by alternative revenue streams such as Retail and Restaurants. Her approach integrates placemaking and sustainable design in ways that add lasting value.

Through her leadership of site standards, wayfinding, universal accessibility, and public art, she creates welcoming stations and terminals. Coordinated sightlines, signage placement, lighting, seating, and service amenities help passengers understand where they are, where they need to go, and how to move through complex environments with greater ease.

Her focus on resilience carries into her community advocacy. Gunta founded an urban forest initiative that helps trees reach maturity, reinforcing her commitment to sustainable practices.