McKenzie Samp: Fresh Thinking for Grocery’s Future

McKenzie Samp
Associate, BRR Architecture, Kansas City, Mo. / Age: 31
Favorite Time of Day: Dusk

WHY MCKENZIE?

McKenzie is helping shape the next generation of grocery retail. In her role at BRR Architecture, she leads projects for Whole Foods Market, guiding complex retail developments from early concept through construction while coordinating diverse teams of consultants, clients and stakeholders.

Her most notable work centers on Whole Foods’ new small-format concept, Daily Shop, designed to bring the brand’s offerings into dense urban neighborhoods. Under McKenzie’s leadership, the first locations opened in New York City in 2025, with additional East Coast locations planned in the coming years. She also contributed to the ambitious Whole Foods store at One Wall Street, a complex, multi-level grocery environment integrated into an existing skyscraper in Manhattan’s financial district.

McKenzie’s scope of work includes the Whole Foods Market Daily Shop concept, serving urban neighborhoods. PHOTO: GAKI MEDIA

Beyond project work, McKenzie is an active voice in the grocery retail community. She recently presented at the FMI Energy & Store Development Conference, sharing insights on collaborative construction and design strategies that accelerate project timelines. She also mentors emerging designers within the firm and volunteers through BRR’s community service initiatives. Through both her projects and industry engagement, McKenzie demonstrates how thoughtful grocery design can elevate everyday retail experiences for communities nationwide.

What role do you see physical stores playing in the future?

Physical retail stores will always have a place, but what they look like and how they function will continue to evolve. Technology will change, customer expectations will shift and store formats will adapt – but the need for brick-and-mortar experiences isn’t going away. Internally, we discuss what we’re seeing in the market and how our own experiences inform better design. I especially value when clients invite us into early brainstorming conversations about the future of grocery stores. Being part of those big-picture discussions and helping turn ideas into built environments is both exciting and incredibly rewarding.

Describe a recent project that made you proud.

One project I’m proud of is the recently opened fourth location of Whole Foods Market’s Daily Shop concept. I’ve grown attached to certain Daily Shop projects (especially the ones in New York) because of the unique challenges they present and the creativity they allow. These projects are a lot of fun to work on, and it’s incredibly rewarding to see them come to life and serve their communities.

Describe some of your outside-of-work initiatives and how they’ve influenced your career?

Networking locally is really important to me, which is why I’m an active member of Professional Women in Construction. Our field is still male dominated, and I’ve learned to stand my ground when I’m the only woman on a job site – making sure my presence is seen and respected. Equally important to me is creating an environment where other women feel supported and know there’s a place for them. My passion lies in helping anyone who might feel like they don’t belong recognize that they absolutely do. On a personal level, I read, travel and explore new experiences, and I think that balance helps me come back to projects fully present and more inspired in my work.

If I had a completely unlimited budget for a project, I would…

…design with all sustainable products.

My dream project would be…

…in historic preservation. The restoration of Notre Dame was fascinating to me.

The best part of my day is…

…cuddling with my cat while reading.