/* ========================================
   DESIGN TOKENS
   ======================================== */
:root {
  /* Colors */
  --color-primary-blue: #34a2e2;
  --color-accent-blue: #4ec8f4;
  --color-dark-navy: #0f3049;
  --color-text-navy: #26435d;
  --color-white: #ffffff;
  --color-light-tint: #f3fafb;
  --color-sky-blue: #b8e4f7;

  /* Typography */
  --font-heading: 'Montserrat', sans-serif;
  --font-body: 'Raleway', sans-serif;
  --font-size-body: 17px;
  --line-height-body: 1.6;
  --line-height-heading: 1.2;

  /* Components */
  --button-radius: 10px;
  --shadow-natural: 0 2px 6px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.08);
  --shadow-card: 0 4px 12px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.1);
  --divider-color: var(--color-primary-blue);
  --divider-width: 186px;
  --divider-height: 3px;

  /* Spacing */
  --section-padding: 80px 0;
  --container-max-width: 1200px;
  --container-padding: 0 24px;
}

/* ========================================
   RESET
   ======================================== */
*, *::before, *::after {
  margin: 0;
  padding: 0;
  box-sizing: border-box;
}

html {
  scroll-behavior: smooth;
}

body {
  font-family: var(--font-body);
  font-size: var(--font-size-body);
  line-height: var(--line-height-body);
  color: var(--color-text-navy);
  background: var(--color-white);
  -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;
}

img {
  max-width: 100%;
  height: auto;
  display: block;
}

a {
  color: inherit;
  text-decoration: none;
}

ul, ol {
  list-style: none;
}

button {
  font-family: inherit;
  cursor: pointer;
  border: none;
  background: none;
}

/* ========================================
   SHARED UTILITIES
   ======================================== */

/* Offset for fixed navbar on anchor links */
section[id] {
  scroll-margin-top: 80px;
}

.container {
  max-width: var(--container-max-width);
  margin: 0 auto;
  padding: var(--container-padding);
}

.section-label {
  display: block;
  font-family: var(--font-heading);
  font-weight: 600;
  font-size: 13px;
  text-transform: uppercase;
  letter-spacing: 3px;
  color: var(--color-primary-blue);
  margin-bottom: 12px;
}

.section-label--center {
  text-align: center;
}

.section-label--light {
  color: var(--color-accent-blue);
}

.text-accent {
  color: var(--color-primary-blue);
}

.section-heading--light .text-accent {
  color: var(--color-accent-blue);
}

.hero__title .text-accent,
.contact-cta .text-accent {
  color: var(--color-accent-blue);
}

.section-heading {
  font-family: var(--font-heading);
  font-weight: 600;
  font-size: 32px;
  color: var(--color-dark-navy);
  line-height: var(--line-height-heading);
  margin-bottom: 16px;
}

.section-heading::after {
  content: '';
  display: block;
  width: var(--divider-width);
  height: var(--divider-height);
  background: var(--divider-color);
  margin-top: 12px;
}

.section-heading--center {
  text-align: center;
}

.section-heading--center::after {
  margin-left: auto;
  margin-right: auto;
}

.section-heading--light {
  color: var(--color-white);
}

.section-heading--light::after {
  background: var(--color-accent-blue);
}

.btn {
  display: inline-block;
  font-family: var(--font-heading);
  font-weight: 600;
  font-size: 15px;
  padding: 14px 32px;
  border-radius: var(--button-radius);
  transition: background-color 0.3s ease, transform 0.2s ease;
}

.btn--primary {
  background: var(--color-primary-blue);
  color: var(--color-white);
}

.btn--primary:hover {
  background: #2b8bc4;
  transform: translateY(-1px);
}

.btn--outline {
  background: transparent;
  color: var(--color-white);
  border: 2px solid var(--color-white);
}

.btn--outline:hover {
  background: var(--color-white);
  color: var(--color-dark-navy);
}

/* ========================================
   1. NAVIGATION BAR
   ======================================== */
.navbar {
  position: fixed;
  top: 0;
  left: 0;
  right: 0;
  z-index: 999;
  background: transparent;
  transition: background 0.3s ease, box-shadow 0.3s ease;
}

.navbar--scrolled {
  background: var(--color-white);
  box-shadow: 0px 2px 20px 0px rgba(39, 170, 217, 0.25);
}

.navbar__inner {
  display: flex;
  align-items: center;
  justify-content: space-between;
  height: 72px;
}

.navbar__logo-img {
  display: block;
  height: 40px;
  width: auto;
  transition: filter 0.3s ease;
}

.navbar--scrolled .navbar__logo-img {
  filter: brightness(0);
}

.navbar__list {
  display: flex;
  gap: 32px;
}

.navbar__link {
  font-family: var(--font-heading);
  font-weight: 500;
  font-size: 14px;
  color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.9);
  letter-spacing: 0.5px;
  transition: color 0.3s ease;
  position: relative;
  padding-bottom: 4px;
}

.navbar__link::after {
  content: '';
  position: absolute;
  bottom: 0;
  left: 50%;
  width: 0;
  height: 2px;
  background: #ffffff;
  transition: width 0.3s ease, left 0.3s ease;
}

.navbar__link:hover {
  color: #ffffff;
}

.navbar__link:hover::after {
  width: 100%;
  left: 0;
}

.navbar--scrolled .navbar__link {
  color: var(--color-text-navy);
}

.navbar--scrolled .navbar__link::after {
  background: var(--color-primary-blue);
}

.navbar--scrolled .navbar__link:hover {
  color: var(--color-primary-blue);
}

.navbar__toggle {
  display: none;
  flex-direction: column;
  gap: 5px;
  padding: 4px;
}

.navbar__toggle span {
  display: block;
  width: 24px;
  height: 2px;
  background: #ffffff;
  transition: transform 0.3s ease, opacity 0.3s ease, background 0.3s ease;
}

.navbar--scrolled .navbar__toggle span {
  background: var(--color-dark-navy);
}

@media (max-width: 768px) {
  .navbar__toggle {
    display: flex;
  }

  .navbar__nav {
    position: fixed;
    top: 72px;
    left: 0;
    right: 0;
    background: var(--color-white);
    padding: 24px;
    box-shadow: 0 8px 20px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.1);
    transform: translateY(-100%);
    opacity: 0;
    visibility: hidden;
    transition: transform 0.3s ease, opacity 0.3s ease, visibility 0.3s;
  }

  .navbar__nav--open {
    transform: translateY(0);
    opacity: 1;
    visibility: visible;
  }

  .navbar__list {
    flex-direction: column;
    gap: 20px;
  }

  .navbar__link {
    font-size: 16px;
  }
}

/* ========================================
   2. HERO SECTION
   ======================================== */
.hero {
  position: relative;
  height: 92vh;
  min-height: 550px;
  overflow: hidden;
}

.hero__slider {
  position: relative;
  width: 100%;
  height: 100%;
}

.hero__slide {
  position: absolute;
  top: 0;
  left: 0;
  width: 100%;
  height: 100%;
  background-size: cover;
  background-position: center top;
  opacity: 0;
  transition: opacity 1s ease;
}

.hero__slide--active {
  opacity: 1;
}

.hero__overlay {
  position: absolute;
  inset: 0;
  background: linear-gradient(180deg, rgba(15, 48, 73, 0.75) 0%, rgba(15, 48, 73, 0.85) 100%);
}

.hero__content {
  position: relative;
  z-index: 2;
  height: 100%;
  display: flex;
  flex-direction: column;
  justify-content: center;
  align-items: center;
  text-align: center;
}

.hero__title {
  font-family: var(--font-heading);
  font-weight: 700;
  font-size: clamp(32px, 5vw, 56px);
  color: var(--color-white);
  text-transform: uppercase;
  letter-spacing: 2px;
  line-height: var(--line-height-heading);
  margin-bottom: 16px;
}

.hero__subtitle {
  font-family: var(--font-body);
  font-size: clamp(16px, 2vw, 20px);
  color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.9);
  max-width: 600px;
  margin-bottom: 32px;
}

.hero__ctas {
  display: flex;
  gap: 16px;
  flex-wrap: wrap;
  justify-content: center;
}

.hero__indicators {
  position: absolute;
  bottom: 100px;
  left: 50%;
  transform: translateX(-50%);
  display: flex;
  gap: 12px;
  z-index: 10;
}

.hero__dot {
  width: 12px;
  height: 12px;
  border-radius: 50%;
  border: 2px solid var(--color-white);
  background: transparent;
  cursor: pointer;
  transition: background 0.3s ease;
}

.hero__dot--active {
  background: var(--color-white);
}

.hero__stats {
  position: absolute;
  bottom: 0;
  left: 0;
  right: 0;
  z-index: 10;
  background: rgba(15, 48, 73, 0.6);
  backdrop-filter: blur(8px);
  border-top: 1px solid rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.1);
}

.hero__stats-grid {
  display: flex;
  justify-content: space-around;
  padding: 24px 0;
}

.hero__stat {
  display: flex;
  flex-direction: column;
  align-items: center;
  text-align: center;
}

.hero__stat-number {
  font-family: var(--font-heading);
  font-weight: 700;
  font-size: clamp(24px, 3vw, 32px);
  color: var(--color-white);
  line-height: 1;
  margin-bottom: 6px;
}

.hero__stat-label {
  font-family: var(--font-body);
  font-size: 12px;
  text-transform: uppercase;
  letter-spacing: 1.5px;
  color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);
}

@media (max-width: 768px) {
  .hero__stats-grid {
    flex-wrap: wrap;
    gap: 20px;
    justify-content: center;
  }

  .hero__stat {
    width: 45%;
  }
}

/* ========================================
   3. THE LONG GAME
   ======================================== */
.long-game {
  padding: var(--section-padding);
}

.long-game__inner {
  display: grid;
  grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr;
  gap: 60px;
  align-items: center;
}

.long-game__text p {
  margin-bottom: 16px;
  color: var(--color-text-navy);
}

.long-game__image img {
  border-radius: 8px;
  box-shadow: var(--shadow-card);
  width: 100%;
  object-fit: cover;
}

@media (max-width: 768px) {
  .long-game__inner {
    grid-template-columns: 1fr;
    gap: 32px;
  }
}

/* ========================================
   4. CLIENT LOGOS
   ======================================== */
.client-logos {
  padding: 48px 0;
  background: var(--color-light-tint);
}

.client-logos__heading {
  font-family: var(--font-heading);
  font-weight: 600;
  font-size: 18px;
  text-align: center;
  color: var(--color-dark-navy);
  text-transform: uppercase;
  letter-spacing: 1.5px;
  margin-bottom: 32px;
}

.client-logos__grid {
  display: flex;
  justify-content: center;
  align-items: center;
  gap: 40px;
  flex-wrap: wrap;
}

.client-logos__item {
  opacity: 0.45;
  transition: opacity 0.3s ease;
  display: flex;
  align-items: center;
  justify-content: center;
}

/* Logos are recolored-navy PNGs of differing shapes (wide wordmarks like KOCH/
   LENNOX vs compact marks like GP/BD/COX). Bound each by BOTH a height band and
   a max width, with object-fit so long wordmarks letterbox rather than outgrow
   the compact marks. Widths still flow from each logo's aspect ratio. */
.client-logos__item svg,
.client-logos__item img {
  width: auto;
  height: 38px;
  max-width: 150px;
  object-fit: contain;
}

.client-logos__item:hover {
  opacity: 1;
}

/* Greystar is the anchor (Theo: "prevalent"): larger than the others,
   but the SAME dimmed tone, so it stands out by size only, not color. */
.client-logos__item--anchor svg,
.client-logos__item--anchor img {
  height: 56px;
  max-width: 220px;
}

/* ========================================
   CASE STUDIES
   Detail pages reuse hero--vertical, stats, fa-overview, and the testimonial
   blockquote. The only addition is a left-aligned two-column content list for
   the Scope / Challenges / Approach / Results sections.
   ======================================== */
.case-study-section {
  padding: var(--section-padding);
}

.case-study__list {
  list-style: none;
  margin: 28px auto 0;
  max-width: 880px;
  padding: 0;
  display: grid;
  grid-template-columns: repeat(2, 1fr);
  gap: 12px 40px;
  text-align: left;
}

.case-study__list li {
  position: relative;
  padding-left: 22px;
  line-height: 1.55;
}

.case-study__list li::before {
  content: "";
  position: absolute;
  left: 0;
  top: 9px;
  width: 7px;
  height: 7px;
  border: 1.5px solid #34a2e2;
  border-radius: 50%;
}

@media (max-width: 768px) {
  .case-study__list {
    grid-template-columns: 1fr;
  }
}

/* Representative outcome statement: dark pull-quote band. */
.case-study-quote {
  position: relative;
  overflow: hidden;
  background-color: var(--color-light-tint);
  background-image:
    linear-gradient(0deg, rgba(15, 48, 73, 0.05) 1px, transparent 1px),
    linear-gradient(90deg, rgba(15, 48, 73, 0.05) 1px, transparent 1px),
    linear-gradient(135deg, rgba(184, 228, 247, 0.18) 0%, transparent 60%);
  background-size: 32px 32px, 32px 32px, 100% 100%;
  color: var(--color-dark-navy);
}

/* The quote sits in a contained navy box (below) on the light grid section,
   mirroring the contact-page cards. No section-level watermark needed. */

.case-study-quote .container {
  position: relative;
  z-index: 1;
  max-width: 900px;
}

.case-study-quote blockquote {
  max-width: 780px;
  margin: 0 auto;
  padding: 44px clamp(26px, 5vw, 52px);
  background: linear-gradient(135deg, #0a253a 0%, #1a3d5a 45%, #0f3049 100%);
  border-radius: 16px;
  color: #fff;
  font-family: var(--font-heading, 'Montserrat', sans-serif);
  font-weight: 500;
  font-size: 18px;
  line-height: 1.7;
  text-align: center;
}

.case-study-quote cite {
  display: block;
  margin-top: 22px;
  font-style: normal;
  font-size: 12px;
  letter-spacing: 1.5px;
  text-transform: uppercase;
  color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);
  text-align: center;
}

/* Case-study stat band: some values are multi-word ("CFO / CIO / HR",
   "Multi-Vertical"), which overflow the large number size. Use a smaller
   number and vertically centered cards so all four boxes stay balanced. */
.stats--compact .stats__number {
  font-size: clamp(26px, 2.6vw, 34px);
  line-height: 1.15;
}

.stats--compact .stats__card {
  display: flex;
  flex-direction: column;
  justify-content: center;
}

/* Case-study DETAIL hero: same navy split layout, but a distinct rising
   diagonal line motif. Confined to the lower-right corner and dimmed so it
   frames the content instead of crossing the subtitle/CTAs, and stays
   distinct from the industry sub-pages (left-anchored horizontal waves). */
.hero--casestudy .hero--service__visual {
  left: auto;
  right: -20px;
  top: auto;
  bottom: 0;
  width: 340px;
  height: 55%;
  opacity: 0.5;
}

/* Case-study JOURNEY: a vertical zigzag timeline through the story.
   Numbered nodes on a hairline connector; content alternates left/right;
   faint down-chevrons signal progression. Collapses to a left rail on mobile. */
.journey {
  position: relative;
  max-width: 1040px;
  margin: 0 auto;
}

.journey::before {
  content: "";
  position: absolute;
  left: 50%;
  top: 0;
  bottom: 0;
  width: 1px;
  background: linear-gradient(to bottom, rgba(52, 162, 226, 0) 0%, rgba(52, 162, 226, 0.4) 6%, rgba(52, 162, 226, 0.4) 94%, rgba(52, 162, 226, 0) 100%);
  transform: translateX(-50%);
}

.journey__step {
  position: relative;
  display: grid;
  grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr;
  column-gap: 88px;
  margin-bottom: 64px;
}

.journey__step:last-child {
  margin-bottom: 0;
}

.journey__marker {
  position: absolute;
  left: 50%;
  top: 0;
  transform: translateX(-50%);
  width: 48px;
  height: 48px;
  border-radius: 50%;
  background: #fff;
  border: 1px solid rgba(52, 162, 226, 0.5);
  display: flex;
  align-items: center;
  justify-content: center;
  font-family: var(--font-heading, 'Montserrat', sans-serif);
  font-weight: 700;
  font-size: 14px;
  color: #26435d;
  z-index: 2;
}

.journey__content {
  padding: 26px 30px;
  background: #f3f7fb;
  border: 1px solid rgba(38, 67, 93, 0.08);
  border-radius: 12px;
}

.journey__step:nth-child(odd) .journey__content {
  grid-column: 1;
}

.journey__step:nth-child(even) .journey__content {
  grid-column: 2;
}

.journey__content .section-heading {
  font-size: 26px;
  margin: 6px 0 14px;
}

.journey__content > p {
  line-height: 1.65;
  margin: 0 0 14px;
}

.journey__content > p:last-child {
  margin-bottom: 0;
}

.journey .case-study__list {
  grid-template-columns: 1fr;
  max-width: none;
  margin: 14px 0 0;
}

/* faint down-chevron between steps */
.journey__step:not(:last-child)::after {
  content: "";
  position: absolute;
  left: 50%;
  bottom: -38px;
  width: 9px;
  height: 9px;
  border-right: 1.5px solid rgba(52, 162, 226, 0.6);
  border-bottom: 1.5px solid rgba(52, 162, 226, 0.6);
  transform: translateX(-50%) rotate(45deg);
}

@media (max-width: 768px) {
  .journey::before,
  .journey__marker,
  .journey__step:not(:last-child)::after {
    left: 23px;
  }
  .journey__step {
    grid-template-columns: 1fr;
  }
  .journey__step .journey__content {
    grid-column: 1 !important;
    padding-left: 64px;
  }
}

/* ========================================
   5. OUR EXPERTISE
   ======================================== */
.expertise {
  padding: var(--section-padding);
}

.expertise__layout {
  display: flex;
  gap: 64px;
  align-items: flex-start;
  margin-top: 48px;
}

.expertise__functions {
  flex: 1;
}

.expertise__industries {
  flex: 1;
}

.expertise__label {
  font-family: var(--font-heading);
  font-weight: 600;
  font-size: 18px;
  color: var(--color-dark-navy);
  margin-bottom: 24px;
  text-transform: uppercase;
  letter-spacing: 1px;
}

.expertise__list {
  list-style: none;
  padding: 0;
  margin: 0;
  display: flex;
  flex-direction: column;
  gap: 16px;
}

.expertise__item {
  display: flex;
  align-items: center;
  gap: 16px;
  padding: 14px 20px;
  border-radius: var(--button-radius);
  transition: background 0.3s ease;
}

.expertise__item:hover {
  background: var(--color-light-tint);
}

.expertise__icon {
  flex-shrink: 0;
  width: 40px;
  height: 40px;
  display: flex;
  align-items: center;
  justify-content: center;
  color: var(--color-primary-blue);
}

.expertise__name {
  font-family: var(--font-heading);
  font-weight: 600;
  font-size: 16px;
  color: var(--color-dark-navy);
}

.expertise__divider {
  width: 2px;
  background: var(--color-primary-blue);
  align-self: stretch;
  opacity: 0.3;
}

.expertise__cards {
  display: flex;
  flex-direction: column;
  gap: 14px;
}

.expertise__card {
  padding: 16px 20px;
  background: var(--color-white);
  border: 1px solid #e0e8ed;
  border-left: 3px solid var(--color-primary-blue);
  border-radius: 0 8px 8px 0;
  transition: box-shadow 0.3s ease, border-color 0.3s ease;
  color: var(--color-dark-navy);
  transition: background 0.3s ease, border-color 0.3s ease;
}

.expertise__card:hover {
  box-shadow: 0 4px 12px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.08);
  border-left-color: var(--color-accent-blue);
}

.expertise__card-title {
  font-family: var(--font-heading);
  font-weight: 600;
  font-size: 15px;
  color: var(--color-dark-navy);
  margin-bottom: 4px;
}

.expertise__card-desc {
  font-size: 13px;
  color: var(--color-text-navy);
  line-height: 1.4;
}

@media (max-width: 768px) {
  .expertise__layout {
    flex-direction: column;
    gap: 40px;
  }

  .expertise__divider {
    width: 100%;
    height: 2px;
    align-self: auto;
  }
}

/* ========================================
   7. TESTIMONIALS
   ======================================== */
.testimonials {
  position: relative;
  padding: 100px 0;
  background: var(--color-dark-navy);
  overflow: hidden;
}

.testimonials__bg {
  position: absolute;
  inset: 0;
  opacity: 0.08;
  pointer-events: none;
  background-image:
    radial-gradient(circle at 20% 50%, var(--color-accent-blue) 1px, transparent 1px),
    radial-gradient(circle at 80% 20%, var(--color-accent-blue) 1px, transparent 1px),
    radial-gradient(circle at 60% 80%, var(--color-accent-blue) 1px, transparent 1px),
    radial-gradient(circle at 40% 30%, var(--color-accent-blue) 1px, transparent 1px),
    radial-gradient(circle at 90% 60%, var(--color-accent-blue) 1px, transparent 1px);
  background-size: 100% 100%;
}

.testimonials::before {
  content: '';
  position: absolute;
  inset: 0;
  opacity: 0.05;
  pointer-events: none;
  background:
    linear-gradient(45deg, transparent 40%, var(--color-accent-blue) 40.5%, var(--color-accent-blue) 41%, transparent 41.5%),
    linear-gradient(-45deg, transparent 40%, var(--color-accent-blue) 40.5%, var(--color-accent-blue) 41%, transparent 41.5%),
    linear-gradient(135deg, transparent 40%, var(--color-accent-blue) 40.5%, var(--color-accent-blue) 41%, transparent 41.5%),
    linear-gradient(-135deg, transparent 40%, var(--color-accent-blue) 40.5%, var(--color-accent-blue) 41%, transparent 41.5%);
  background-size: 200px 200px;
}

.testimonials__inner {
  position: relative;
  z-index: 2;
}

.testimonials__carousel {
  position: relative;
  min-height: 200px;
  margin-top: 48px;
}

.testimonials__slide {
  position: absolute;
  width: 100%;
  opacity: 0;
  pointer-events: none;
  transition: opacity 0.6s ease;
  text-align: center;
}

.testimonials__slide--active {
  position: relative;
  opacity: 1;
  pointer-events: auto;
}

.testimonials__mark {
  font-family: Georgia, serif;
  font-size: 72px;
  color: var(--color-accent-blue);
  line-height: 0.5;
  display: block;
  margin-bottom: 16px;
}

.testimonials__quote p {
  font-family: var(--font-body);
  font-size: 22px;
  font-weight: 300;
  font-style: italic;
  color: var(--color-white);
  max-width: 700px;
  margin: 0 auto;
  line-height: 1.6;
}

.testimonials__author {
  display: block;
  margin-top: 24px;
  font-style: normal;
}

.testimonials__author strong {
  display: block;
  font-family: var(--font-heading);
  font-weight: 600;
  font-size: 16px;
  color: var(--color-white);
}

.testimonials__author span {
  font-size: 14px;
  color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);
}

.testimonials__dots {
  display: flex;
  justify-content: center;
  gap: 12px;
  margin-top: 40px;
}

.testimonials__dot {
  width: 10px;
  height: 10px;
  border-radius: 50%;
  border: 2px solid rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.5);
  background: transparent;
  cursor: pointer;
  transition: background 0.3s ease, border-color 0.3s ease;
}

.testimonials__dot--active {
  background: var(--color-white);
  border-color: var(--color-white);
}

/* ========================================
   8. LATEST INSIGHTS — BLOG TEASER
   ======================================== */
.insights {
  padding: var(--section-padding);
  background: var(--color-white);
}

.insights__grid {
  display: grid;
  grid-template-columns: repeat(3, 1fr);
  gap: 24px;
  margin-top: 48px;
}

.insights__card {
  display: block;
  text-decoration: none;
  color: inherit;
  background: var(--color-white);
  border-radius: var(--button-radius);
  overflow: hidden;
  box-shadow: var(--shadow-natural);
  transition: box-shadow 0.3s ease, transform 0.2s ease;
}

.insights__card:hover {
  box-shadow: var(--shadow-card);
  transform: translateY(-4px);
}

.insights__image img {
  width: 100%;
  height: 200px;
  object-fit: cover;
}

.insights__body {
  padding: 24px;
}

.insights__title {
  font-family: var(--font-heading);
  font-weight: 600;
  font-size: 17px;
  color: var(--color-dark-navy);
  margin-bottom: 8px;
  line-height: 1.3;
}

.insights__excerpt {
  font-size: 14px;
  color: var(--color-text-navy);
  line-height: 1.5;
}

.insights__logo {
  display: block;
  margin: 0 auto 16px;
  max-height: 48px;
  width: auto;
}

.insights__cta {
  text-align: center;
  margin-top: 40px;
}

@media (max-width: 768px) {
  .insights__grid {
    grid-template-columns: 1fr;
  }
}

/* ========================================
   9. WHY MERIDIAN
   ======================================== */
.why-meridian {
  padding: var(--section-padding);
  background: var(--color-light-tint);
}

.why-meridian__grid {
  display: grid;
  grid-template-columns: repeat(2, 1fr);
  gap: 24px;
  margin-top: 48px;
}

.why-meridian__card {
  background: var(--color-white);
  border: 1px solid #e0e8ed;
  border-radius: var(--button-radius);
  padding: 32px;
  transition: box-shadow 0.3s ease, transform 0.2s ease;
}

.why-meridian__card:hover {
  box-shadow: var(--shadow-card);
  transform: translateY(-4px);
}

.why-meridian__number {
  display: block;
  font-family: var(--font-heading);
  font-weight: 700;
  font-size: 28px;
  color: var(--color-primary-blue);
  margin-bottom: 16px;
  line-height: 1;
}

.why-meridian__title {
  font-family: var(--font-heading);
  font-weight: 600;
  font-size: 17px;
  color: var(--color-dark-navy);
  margin-bottom: 12px;
  text-transform: uppercase;
  letter-spacing: 0.5px;
}

.why-meridian__desc {
  font-size: 15px;
  color: var(--color-text-navy);
  line-height: 1.6;
}

@media (max-width: 768px) {
  .why-meridian__grid {
    grid-template-columns: 1fr;
  }
}

/* ========================================
   10. CONTACT CTA
   ======================================== */
.contact-cta {
  padding: var(--section-padding);
  background: var(--color-dark-navy);
}

.contact-cta__inner {
  text-align: center;
}

.contact-cta .section-label {
  color: var(--color-accent-blue);
}

.contact-cta .section-heading {
  color: var(--color-white);
}

.contact-cta__text {
  font-size: 18px;
  color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.8);
  max-width: 500px;
  margin: 0 auto 32px;
}

/* ========================================
   11. FAQ
   ======================================== */
.faq {
  padding: var(--section-padding);
  background: var(--color-white);
}

.faq__list {
  max-width: 750px;
  margin: 48px auto 0;
}

.faq__item {
  border-bottom: 1px solid #e0e5ea;
}

.faq__item:first-child {
  border-top: 1px solid #e0e5ea;
}

.faq__question {
  width: 100%;
  display: flex;
  justify-content: space-between;
  align-items: center;
  padding: 20px 0;
  font-family: var(--font-heading);
  font-weight: 600;
  font-size: 16px;
  color: var(--color-dark-navy);
  text-align: left;
  background: none;
  border: none;
  cursor: pointer;
  transition: color 0.2s ease;
}

.faq__question:hover {
  color: var(--color-primary-blue);
}

.faq__icon {
  font-size: 24px;
  font-weight: 300;
  color: var(--color-primary-blue);
  transition: transform 0.3s ease;
  flex-shrink: 0;
  margin-left: 16px;
}

.faq__item--open .faq__icon {
  transform: rotate(45deg);
}

.faq__answer {
  max-height: 0;
  overflow: hidden;
  transition: max-height 0.3s ease, padding 0.3s ease;
}

.faq__item--open .faq__answer {
  max-height: 300px;
  padding-bottom: 20px;
}

.faq__answer p {
  font-size: 15px;
  color: var(--color-text-navy);
  line-height: 1.6;
}

/* ========================================
   12. FOOTER
   ======================================== */
.site-footer {
  background: var(--color-dark-navy);
  padding: 60px 0 32px;
}

.site-footer__inner {
  display: flex;
  flex-direction: column;
  align-items: center;
  gap: 24px;
}

.site-footer__logo {
  max-height: 45px;
  width: auto;
}

.site-footer__nav {
  display: flex;
  gap: 32px;
  flex-wrap: wrap;
  justify-content: center;
}

.site-footer__nav a {
  font-family: var(--font-heading);
  font-weight: 500;
  font-size: 14px;
  color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);
  transition: color 0.2s ease;
}

.site-footer__nav a:hover {
  color: var(--color-white);
}

.site-footer__social {
  display: flex;
  gap: 16px;
}

.site-footer__social a {
  color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);
  transition: color 0.2s ease;
}

.site-footer__social a:hover {
  color: var(--color-accent-blue);
}

.site-footer__copy {
  font-size: 13px;
  color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.4);
  margin-top: 8px;
}

/* ========================================
   PRACTICE AREAS — 4-card layout (spine v5 update)
   ======================================== */

.expertise__intro {
  text-align: center;
  font-size: 17px;
  color: var(--color-text-navy);
  max-width: 720px;
  margin: 0 auto 48px;
  line-height: 1.5;
}

.expertise__cards--four {
  display: grid;
  grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr;
  gap: 24px;
  align-items: stretch;
}

.expertise__cards--four .expertise__card {
  padding: 28px 28px 24px;
  border-left-width: 4px;
  border-radius: 0 12px 12px 0;
  display: flex;
  flex-direction: column;
}

.expertise__cards--four .expertise__card-title {
  font-size: 22px;
  margin-bottom: 12px;
  letter-spacing: 0.2px;
}

.expertise__cards--four .expertise__card-desc {
  font-size: 15px;
  line-height: 1.55;
  margin-bottom: 12px;
}

.expertise__card-roles {
  font-size: 13px;
  color: var(--color-text-navy);
  opacity: 0.85;
  margin-top: auto;
  padding-top: 8px;
}

.expertise__card--feature {
  grid-column: 1 / -1;
  background: linear-gradient(135deg, var(--color-light-tint) 0%, var(--color-white) 100%);
  border-left-color: var(--color-accent-blue);
}

.expertise__card-sub {
  margin-top: 14px;
  padding: 16px 18px;
  background: var(--color-white);
  border: 1px solid #e0e8ed;
  border-left: 3px solid var(--color-primary-blue);
  border-radius: 0 8px 8px 0;
}

.expertise__card-sub strong {
  display: block;
  font-family: var(--font-heading);
  font-weight: 600;
  font-size: 14px;
  color: var(--color-dark-navy);
  margin-bottom: 6px;
  letter-spacing: 0.5px;
  text-transform: uppercase;
}

.expertise__card-sub p {
  font-size: 14px;
  color: var(--color-text-navy);
  line-height: 1.5;
}

@media (max-width: 768px) {
  .expertise__cards--four {
    grid-template-columns: 1fr;
  }
  .expertise__card--feature {
    grid-column: 1;
  }
}

/* Three-card variant. Used by Practice Areas (FA / HR / IT) after Real Estate moved to the Industries dropdown in May 2026. */
.expertise__cards--three {
  display: grid;
  grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr 1fr;
  gap: 24px;
  align-items: stretch;
}

.expertise__cards--three .expertise__card {
  padding: 28px 28px 24px;
  border-left-width: 4px;
  border-radius: 0 12px 12px 0;
  display: flex;
  flex-direction: column;
}

.expertise__cards--three .expertise__card-title {
  font-size: 22px;
  margin-bottom: 12px;
  letter-spacing: 0.2px;
}

.expertise__cards--three .expertise__card-desc {
  font-size: 15px;
  line-height: 1.55;
  margin-bottom: 12px;
}

@media (max-width: 900px) {
  .expertise__cards--three {
    grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr;
  }
}

@media (max-width: 600px) {
  .expertise__cards--three {
    grid-template-columns: 1fr;
  }
}

/* ========================================
   SUB-MARKETS — Where We Place Leadership (NEW)
   ======================================== */

.sub-markets {
  padding: var(--section-padding);
  background: var(--color-light-tint);
}

.sub-markets__intro {
  text-align: center;
  font-size: 17px;
  color: var(--color-text-navy);
  max-width: 740px;
  margin: 0 auto 40px;
  line-height: 1.55;
}

.sub-markets__grid {
  display: grid;
  grid-template-columns: repeat(4, 1fr);
  gap: 20px;
  max-width: 1200px;
  margin: 0 auto;
}

.sub-markets__item {
  background: linear-gradient(160deg, var(--color-dark-navy) 0%, var(--color-text-navy) 100%);
  border: none;
  border-radius: 12px;
  padding: 32px 24px 28px;
  text-align: left;
  display: flex;
  flex-direction: column;
  gap: 14px;
  transition: transform 0.25s ease, box-shadow 0.25s ease;
  position: relative;
  overflow: hidden;
}

.sub-markets__item::before {
  content: "";
  position: absolute;
  top: 0;
  left: 0;
  right: 0;
  height: 3px;
  background: var(--color-accent-blue);
  opacity: 0.65;
  transition: opacity 0.25s ease;
}

.sub-markets__item:hover {
  transform: translateY(-4px);
  box-shadow: 0 14px 32px rgba(15, 48, 73, 0.22);
}

.sub-markets__item:hover::before {
  opacity: 1;
}

.sub-markets__icon {
  color: var(--color-accent-blue);
  margin-bottom: 2px;
  display: inline-flex;
}

.sub-markets__title {
  font-family: var(--font-heading);
  font-weight: 600;
  font-size: 19px;
  color: var(--color-white);
  letter-spacing: 0.2px;
  margin: 0;
  line-height: 1.3;
}

.sub-markets__desc {
  font-size: 14px;
  color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.78);
  line-height: 1.55;
  margin: 0;
}

@media (max-width: 968px) {
  .sub-markets__grid {
    grid-template-columns: repeat(2, 1fr);
  }
}

@media (max-width: 540px) {
  .sub-markets__grid {
    grid-template-columns: 1fr;
  }
}

/* Two-card variant. Used on the Contact page where the Direct Contact section has only Email + Office; the default 4-column grid would leave them left-aligned. This modifier centers a tighter 2-column row on the page. */
.sub-markets__grid--two {
  grid-template-columns: repeat(2, 1fr);
  max-width: 760px;
}

@media (max-width: 540px) {
  .sub-markets__grid--two {
    grid-template-columns: 1fr;
  }
}

/* ========================================
   INSIGHTS — intro line (spine v5 update)
   ======================================== */

.insights__intro {
  text-align: center;
  font-size: 16px;
  color: var(--color-text-navy);
  max-width: 720px;
  margin: 8px auto 40px;
  line-height: 1.5;
}

/* ========================================
   NAVBAR DROPDOWN — service pages under "What We Do"
   ======================================== */

.navbar__item--has-dropdown {
  position: relative;
}

.navbar__chevron {
  display: inline-block;
  margin-left: 4px;
  font-size: 10px;
  transform: translateY(-1px);
  transition: transform 0.2s ease;
}

.navbar__item--has-dropdown:hover .navbar__chevron,
.navbar__item--has-dropdown:focus-within .navbar__chevron {
  transform: translateY(-1px) rotate(180deg);
}

.navbar__dropdown {
  position: absolute;
  top: 100%;
  left: -8px;
  margin-top: 8px;
  background: var(--color-white);
  list-style: none;
  padding: 8px 0;
  min-width: 240px;
  border-radius: 10px;
  box-shadow: 0 8px 24px rgba(15, 48, 73, 0.12);
  border: 1px solid #e6edf2;
  opacity: 0;
  visibility: hidden;
  transform: translateY(-8px);
  transition: opacity 0.2s ease, transform 0.2s ease, visibility 0.2s ease;
  z-index: 100;
}

.navbar__item--has-dropdown:hover .navbar__dropdown,
.navbar__item--has-dropdown:focus-within .navbar__dropdown {
  opacity: 1;
  visibility: visible;
  transform: translateY(0);
}

.navbar__dropdown li {
  list-style: none;
}

.navbar__dropdown-link {
  display: block;
  padding: 10px 18px;
  color: var(--color-text-navy);
  text-decoration: none;
  font-family: var(--font-body);
  font-size: 14px;
  font-weight: 500;
  transition: background 0.2s ease, color 0.2s ease, padding-left 0.2s ease;
}

.navbar__dropdown-link:hover {
  background: var(--color-light-tint);
  color: var(--color-primary-blue);
  padding-left: 22px;
}

@media (max-width: 768px) {
  .navbar__dropdown {
    position: static;
    opacity: 1;
    visibility: visible;
    transform: none;
    box-shadow: none;
    border: none;
    margin-top: 4px;
    margin-left: 16px;
    padding: 0;
    background: transparent;
  }
  .navbar__chevron {
    display: none;
  }
}

/* ========================================
   CONTACT CTA — distinctive dark navy box
   ======================================== */

.contact-cta__box {
  max-width: 760px;
  margin: 0 auto;
  background: linear-gradient(135deg, var(--color-dark-navy) 0%, var(--color-text-navy) 100%);
  border-radius: 16px;
  padding: 64px 48px 56px;
  text-align: center;
  box-shadow: 0 10px 30px rgba(15, 48, 73, 0.18);
  position: relative;
}

.contact-cta__box::before {
  content: "";
  position: absolute;
  top: 0;
  left: 50%;
  transform: translateX(-50%);
  width: 120px;
  height: 4px;
  background: var(--color-accent-blue);
  border-radius: 0 0 4px 4px;
}

.contact-cta__box .section-label {
  color: var(--color-accent-blue);
  letter-spacing: 1.5px;
}

.contact-cta__box .section-heading {
  color: var(--color-white);
}

.contact-cta__box .text-accent {
  color: var(--color-accent-blue);
}

.contact-cta__box .contact-cta__text {
  color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.82);
  max-width: 540px;
  margin: 16px auto 32px;
}

@media (max-width: 768px) {
  .contact-cta__box {
    padding: 48px 28px 40px;
  }
}

/* ========================================
   FOOTER — Multi-column structure
   ======================================== */

.site-footer__main {
  display: grid;
  grid-template-columns: 1.5fr 1fr 1fr 1fr 1fr;
  gap: 40px;
  align-items: start;
}

.site-footer__brand-block {
  display: flex;
  flex-direction: column;
  gap: 16px;
}

.site-footer__brand-block .site-footer__logo {
  display: block;
  height: 48px;
  width: auto;
  max-width: 240px;
  margin-bottom: 4px;
  -webkit-filter: brightness(0) invert(1) !important;
  filter: brightness(0) invert(1) !important;
}

.site-footer__tagline {
  font-size: 14px;
  line-height: 1.6;
  color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.72);
  max-width: 280px;
}

.site-footer__brand-block .site-footer__social {
  display: flex;
  gap: 12px;
  margin-top: 4px;
}

.site-footer__col {
  display: flex;
  flex-direction: column;
  gap: 14px;
}

.site-footer__col-heading {
  font-family: var(--font-heading);
  font-weight: 600;
  font-size: 12px;
  letter-spacing: 2px;
  text-transform: uppercase;
  color: var(--color-accent-blue);
  margin: 0;
}

.site-footer__col-list {
  list-style: none;
  padding: 0;
  margin: 0;
  display: flex;
  flex-direction: column;
  gap: 10px;
}

.site-footer__col-list li {
  list-style: none;
}

.site-footer__col-link {
  font-family: var(--font-body);
  font-size: 14px;
  color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.78);
  transition: color 0.2s ease;
}

.site-footer__col-link:hover {
  color: var(--color-white);
}

.site-footer__col-text {
  font-size: 14px;
  color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.6);
}

.site-footer__bottom {
  margin-top: 56px;
  padding-top: 24px;
  border-top: 1px solid rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.1);
}

.site-footer__bottom .site-footer__copy {
  font-size: 13px;
  color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.4);
  margin: 0;
}

@media (max-width: 900px) {
  .site-footer__main {
    grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr;
    gap: 40px;
  }
}

@media (max-width: 560px) {
  .site-footer__main {
    grid-template-columns: 1fr;
    gap: 36px;
    text-align: center;
  }
  .site-footer__brand-block {
    align-items: center;
  }
  .site-footer__tagline {
    text-align: center;
    max-width: none;
  }
  .site-footer__col {
    align-items: center;
  }
}

/* ========================================
   CLIENT LOGOS — pattern background + refined heading (overrides earlier rules)
   ======================================== */

.client-logos {
  padding: 80px 0;
  background-color: #e8f0f6;
  background-image:
    radial-gradient(circle, rgba(52, 162, 226, 0.22) 1.5px, transparent 1.5px);
  background-size: 26px 26px;
  position: relative;
}

.client-logos__inner {
  background: var(--color-white);
  border-radius: 16px;
  padding: 56px 40px;
  max-width: 1080px;
  margin: 0 auto;
  box-shadow: 0 6px 24px rgba(15, 48, 73, 0.08);
  position: relative;
  z-index: 1;
}

.client-logos__heading {
  font-family: var(--font-heading);
  font-weight: 500;
  font-size: 12px;
  text-align: center;
  color: var(--color-text-navy);
  text-transform: uppercase;
  letter-spacing: 2.8px;
  margin-bottom: 36px;
  opacity: 0.7;
}

.client-logos__grid {
  position: relative;
}

@media (max-width: 768px) {
  .client-logos {
    padding: 56px 0;
  }
  .client-logos__inner {
    padding: 40px 24px;
  }
}

/* ========================================
   SERVICE-PAGE HERO VARIANT
   Solid primary-blue color block. Split layout: bold heading on left,
   description + single CTA on right. Decorative concentric-ellipse SVG
   anchored partially off the left edge. Reusable template for HR / IT
   / Real Estate service pages.
   ======================================== */

.hero--service {
  position: relative;
  min-height: 64vh;
  background: linear-gradient(135deg, #0a253a 0%, #1a3d5a 45%, #0f3049 100%);
  display: flex;
  align-items: center;
  overflow: hidden;
  padding: 130px 0 90px;
}

.hero--service__visual {
  position: absolute;
  left: -50px;
  top: 0;
  bottom: 0;
  width: 380px;
  pointer-events: none;
  display: flex;
  align-items: center;
  z-index: 1;
}

.hero--service__visual svg {
  width: 100%;
  height: 92%;
}

.hero--service__inner {
  display: grid;
  grid-template-columns: 1.05fr 1fr;
  gap: 80px;
  align-items: center;
  position: relative;
  z-index: 2;
}

.hero--service__title {
  font-family: var(--font-heading);
  font-weight: 700;
  font-size: clamp(40px, 5.5vw, 64px);
  color: var(--color-white);
  line-height: 1.05;
  letter-spacing: -0.5px;
  margin: 0;
}

.hero--service__action {
  display: flex;
  flex-direction: column;
  align-items: flex-start;
}

.hero--service__subtitle {
  font-family: var(--font-body);
  font-size: 18px;
  line-height: 1.6;
  color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.94);
  margin: 0 0 36px;
  max-width: 480px;
}

.hero--service__ctas {
  display: flex;
  gap: 14px;
  flex-wrap: wrap;
}

.btn--hero {
  display: inline-block;
  background: var(--color-dark-navy);
  color: var(--color-white);
  font-family: var(--font-heading);
  font-weight: 600;
  font-size: 16px;
  padding: 18px 44px;
  border-radius: 999px;
  letter-spacing: 0.4px;
  border: 1.5px solid var(--color-dark-navy);
  transition: background 0.3s ease, border-color 0.3s ease, transform 0.2s ease, box-shadow 0.3s ease;
}

.btn--hero:hover {
  background: var(--color-text-navy);
  border-color: var(--color-text-navy);
  transform: translateY(-2px);
  box-shadow: 0 8px 22px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.25);
}

.btn--hero-outline {
  display: inline-block;
  background: transparent;
  color: var(--color-white);
  font-family: var(--font-heading);
  font-weight: 600;
  font-size: 16px;
  padding: 16.5px 42px;
  border-radius: 999px;
  letter-spacing: 0.4px;
  border: 1.5px solid rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.55);
  transition: background 0.3s ease, border-color 0.3s ease, transform 0.2s ease;
}

.btn--hero-outline:hover {
  background: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.08);
  border-color: var(--color-white);
  transform: translateY(-2px);
}

@media (max-width: 968px) {
  .hero--service__inner {
    grid-template-columns: 1fr;
    gap: 36px;
  }
  .hero--service__visual {
    width: 280px;
    opacity: 0.55;
  }
}

@media (max-width: 768px) {
  .hero--service {
    min-height: 580px;
    padding: 120px 0 80px;
  }
  .hero--service__visual {
    width: 200px;
    opacity: 0.4;
    left: -70px;
  }
  .hero--service__title {
    font-size: clamp(34px, 6.5vw, 48px);
  }
  .hero--service__subtitle {
    font-size: 16px;
  }
}

/* ========================================
   STORY HERO VARIANT (About, future bio pages)
   Photo as texture under a heavy navy overlay. The .hero--service
   class still contributes layout (split grid, padding); .hero--story
   replaces the decorative SVG with a full-bleed photo and heavier
   chromatic treatment. Establishes a third visual register beyond
   "moments" (dark navy cards) and "options" (white sections).
   ======================================== */

.hero--story__media {
  position: absolute;
  inset: 0;
  z-index: 0;
  overflow: hidden;
  pointer-events: none;
}

.hero--story__image {
  width: 100%;
  height: 100%;
  object-fit: cover;
  object-position: center;
  display: block;
}

.hero--story__overlay {
  position: absolute;
  inset: 0;
  background:
    radial-gradient(ellipse 90% 70% at 35% 55%, rgba(15, 48, 73, 0.55) 0%, rgba(10, 37, 58, 0.82) 85%);
}

.hero--story__image {
  filter: saturate(0.85) contrast(1.05);
}

.hero--story .hero--service__inner {
  position: relative;
  z-index: 2;
}

@media (max-width: 768px) {
  .hero--story__overlay {
    background:
      linear-gradient(135deg, rgba(10, 37, 58, 0.78) 0%, rgba(15, 48, 73, 0.72) 100%);
  }
}

/* ========================================
   F&A — PRACTICE OVERVIEW
   Centered text intro under the hero
   ======================================== */

.fa-overview {
  padding: var(--section-padding);
  background: var(--color-white);
}

.fa-overview__inner {
  text-align: center;
  max-width: 880px;
  margin: 0 auto;
}

.fa-overview .section-heading {
  margin-left: auto;
  margin-right: auto;
}

.fa-overview .section-heading::after {
  margin-left: auto;
  margin-right: auto;
}

.fa-overview__lead {
  font-size: 18px;
  line-height: 1.65;
  color: var(--color-text-navy);
  margin-top: 28px;
}

@media (max-width: 768px) {
  .fa-overview__lead {
    font-size: 16px;
  }
}

/* ========================================
   ROLES — 7-card grid (CFO featured + 6 secondary)
   ======================================== */

.roles {
  padding: var(--section-padding);
  background: var(--color-light-tint);
}

.roles__intro {
  text-align: center;
  font-size: 17px;
  color: var(--color-text-navy);
  max-width: 760px;
  margin: 0 auto 48px;
  line-height: 1.55;
}

.roles__note {
  text-align: center;
  font-size: 15px;
  font-style: italic;
  color: var(--color-text-muted, #5b6b78);
  max-width: 760px;
  margin: 28px auto 0;
  line-height: 1.55;
}

.roles__grid {
  display: grid;
  grid-template-columns: repeat(3, 1fr);
  gap: 20px;
}

.roles__card {
  background: var(--color-white);
  border: 1px solid #e0e8ed;
  border-left: 4px solid var(--color-primary-blue);
  border-radius: 0 12px 12px 0;
  padding: 28px 28px 24px;
  transition: box-shadow 0.3s ease, transform 0.2s ease, border-left-color 0.3s ease;
  display: flex;
  flex-direction: column;
}

.roles__card:hover {
  box-shadow: var(--shadow-card);
  transform: translateY(-3px);
  border-left-color: var(--color-accent-blue);
}

.roles__card-title {
  font-family: var(--font-heading);
  font-weight: 600;
  font-size: 18px;
  color: var(--color-dark-navy);
  margin-bottom: 10px;
  letter-spacing: 0.2px;
}

.roles__card-desc {
  font-size: 15px;
  line-height: 1.55;
  color: var(--color-text-navy);
}

/* CFO featured card — spans full row, larger, with lead-role label and role-variant tags */
.roles__card--featured {
  grid-column: 1 / -1;
  background: linear-gradient(135deg, var(--color-light-tint) 0%, var(--color-white) 100%);
  border-left-color: var(--color-accent-blue);
  border-left-width: 5px;
  padding: 36px 36px 32px;
  position: relative;
}

.roles__card-label {
  font-family: var(--font-heading);
  font-weight: 600;
  font-size: 11px;
  text-transform: uppercase;
  letter-spacing: 2.5px;
  color: var(--color-primary-blue);
  margin-bottom: 12px;
}

.roles__card--featured .roles__card-title {
  font-size: 26px;
  margin-bottom: 14px;
}

.roles__card--featured .roles__card-desc {
  font-size: 16px;
  line-height: 1.6;
  max-width: 820px;
}

.roles__card-tags {
  display: flex;
  flex-wrap: wrap;
  gap: 8px;
  margin-top: 20px;
  padding: 0;
  list-style: none;
}

.roles__card-tags li {
  font-family: var(--font-heading);
  font-weight: 500;
  font-size: 12px;
  letter-spacing: 0.6px;
  text-transform: uppercase;
  background: var(--color-white);
  border: 1px solid var(--color-sky-blue);
  color: var(--color-text-navy);
  padding: 6px 14px;
  border-radius: 999px;
}

@media (max-width: 968px) {
  .roles__grid {
    grid-template-columns: repeat(2, 1fr);
  }
}

@media (max-width: 540px) {
  .roles__grid {
    grid-template-columns: 1fr;
  }
  .roles__card--featured {
    padding: 28px 24px 24px;
  }
  .roles__card--featured .roles__card-title {
    font-size: 22px;
  }
}

/* ========================================
   SUB-MARKETS PATTERNED VARIANT
   Adds a subtle "graph paper" grid + soft diagonal wash to the
   light-tint background. Used by F&A's Private Equity Specialty section
   to differentiate from a plain light-tint section.
   ======================================== */

.sub-markets--patterned {
  position: relative;
  background-color: var(--color-light-tint);
  background-image:
    linear-gradient(0deg, rgba(15, 48, 73, 0.05) 1px, transparent 1px),
    linear-gradient(90deg, rgba(15, 48, 73, 0.05) 1px, transparent 1px),
    linear-gradient(135deg, rgba(184, 228, 247, 0.18) 0%, transparent 60%);
  background-size: 32px 32px, 32px 32px, 100% 100%;
}

.sub-markets--patterned::before {
  content: "";
  position: absolute;
  inset: 0;
  background:
    radial-gradient(circle at 12% 18%, rgba(78, 200, 244, 0.10) 0%, transparent 24%),
    radial-gradient(circle at 88% 82%, rgba(78, 200, 244, 0.10) 0%, transparent 24%);
  pointer-events: none;
  z-index: 0;
}

.sub-markets--patterned > .container {
  position: relative;
  z-index: 1;
}

/* ========================================
   WHY MERIDIAN ACCENTED VARIANT
   Replaces the default light-tint background with a soft sky-blue
   tinted gradient. Used on F&A's "Why Meridian for Finance" to break
   up the visual rhythm between the patterned PE section and the
   white FAQ section that follows.
   ======================================== */

.why-meridian--accented {
  background: linear-gradient(180deg, #d9e8f1 0%, #ecf3f8 50%, #d9e8f1 100%);
  position: relative;
}

.why-meridian--accented::before {
  content: "";
  position: absolute;
  inset: 0;
  background-image:
    radial-gradient(circle at 80% 20%, rgba(52, 162, 226, 0.08) 0%, transparent 40%),
    radial-gradient(circle at 20% 80%, rgba(52, 162, 226, 0.06) 0%, transparent 40%);
  pointer-events: none;
}

.why-meridian--accented > .container {
  position: relative;
  z-index: 1;
}

.why-meridian--accented .why-meridian__card {
  background: var(--color-white);
  border-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);
  box-shadow: 0 4px 16px rgba(15, 48, 73, 0.06);
}

.why-meridian--accented .why-meridian__card:hover {
  box-shadow: 0 10px 28px rgba(15, 48, 73, 0.12);
}

/* ========================================
   PRACTICE AREAS. CLICKABLE CARD CTAs
   Each card is an anchor that navigates to its service page.
   F&A links to /finance-accounting/; HR / IT / Real Estate point to
   #expertise as placeholders until those pages are built.
   ======================================== */

.expertise__cards--four .expertise__card,
.expertise__cards--three .expertise__card {
  text-decoration: none;
  color: inherit;
  cursor: pointer;
  position: relative;
  padding-right: 64px;
}

.expertise__card-arrow {
  position: absolute;
  bottom: 24px;
  right: 28px;
  font-family: var(--font-heading);
  font-size: 22px;
  line-height: 1;
  color: var(--color-primary-blue);
  opacity: 0.4;
  transition: opacity 0.3s ease, transform 0.3s ease, color 0.3s ease;
}

.expertise__card:hover .expertise__card-arrow {
  opacity: 1;
  transform: translateX(4px);
  color: var(--color-accent-blue);
}

@media (max-width: 540px) {
  .expertise__cards--four .expertise__card,
  .expertise__cards--three .expertise__card {
    padding-right: 56px;
  }
}

/* ========================================
   STATS BLOCK (About page "By the Numbers")
   ======================================== */

.stats {
  padding: 64px 0;
  background: var(--color-light-tint);
}

.stats__grid {
  display: grid;
  grid-template-columns: repeat(4, 1fr);
  gap: 24px;
}

.stats__card {
  text-align: center;
  padding: 36px 16px;
  background: var(--color-white);
  border: 1px solid #e0e8ed;
  border-radius: var(--button-radius);
  transition: transform 0.2s ease, box-shadow 0.3s ease;
}

.stats__card:hover {
  transform: translateY(-3px);
  box-shadow: 0 6px 18px rgba(15, 48, 73, 0.08);
}

.stats__number {
  display: block;
  font-family: var(--font-heading);
  font-weight: 700;
  font-size: clamp(36px, 4vw, 48px);
  color: var(--color-primary-blue);
  line-height: 1;
  margin-bottom: 12px;
}

.stats__label {
  display: block;
  font-family: var(--font-body);
  font-size: 13px;
  text-transform: uppercase;
  letter-spacing: 1.5px;
  color: var(--color-text-navy);
  line-height: 1.4;
}

@media (max-width: 768px) {
  .stats__grid {
    grid-template-columns: repeat(2, 1fr);
    gap: 16px;
  }
}

/* ========================================
   TEAM SECTION (About page "Meet the Team")
   2-column card grid; each card is a clickable bio link
   ======================================== */

.team {
  padding: var(--section-padding);
  background: var(--color-light-tint);
}

.team__intro {
  text-align: center;
  font-size: 17px;
  color: var(--color-text-navy);
  max-width: 760px;
  margin: 0 auto 48px;
  line-height: 1.55;
}

.team__grid {
  display: grid;
  grid-template-columns: repeat(4, 1fr);
  gap: 20px;
}

.team-card {
  display: flex;
  flex-direction: column;
  background: var(--color-white);
  border: 1px solid #e0e8ed;
  border-radius: 12px;
  overflow: hidden;
  text-decoration: none;
  color: inherit;
  cursor: pointer;
  transition: transform 0.25s ease, box-shadow 0.3s ease;
}

.team-card:hover {
  transform: translateY(-4px);
  box-shadow: 0 14px 32px rgba(15, 48, 73, 0.14);
}

.team-card__photo {
  aspect-ratio: 4 / 5;
  background: linear-gradient(135deg, #d9e8f1 0%, #b8e4f7 100%);
  display: flex;
  align-items: center;
  justify-content: center;
  position: relative;
  overflow: hidden;
}

.team-card__photo::before {
  content: "";
  position: absolute;
  width: 150px;
  height: 150px;
  border: 1.5px solid rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);
  border-radius: 50%;
}

.team-card__photo svg {
  width: 56px;
  height: 56px;
  color: rgba(15, 48, 73, 0.32);
  position: relative;
  z-index: 1;
}

.team-card__photo-img {
  width: 100%;
  height: 100%;
  object-fit: cover;
  object-position: center 20%;
  display: block;
  position: relative;
  z-index: 1;
  filter: grayscale(0.85) contrast(1.05);
  transition: filter 0.4s ease;
}

.team-card:hover .team-card__photo-img {
  filter: grayscale(0.55) contrast(1.05);
}

.team-card__photo:has(.team-card__photo-img)::before {
  display: none;
}

.team-card__body {
  padding: 22px 22px 24px;
  display: flex;
  flex-direction: column;
  flex: 1;
}

.team-card__name {
  font-family: var(--font-heading);
  font-weight: 600;
  font-size: 19px;
  color: var(--color-dark-navy);
  margin-bottom: 4px;
  letter-spacing: -0.2px;
}

.team-card__role {
  font-family: var(--font-heading);
  font-weight: 500;
  font-size: 11px;
  text-transform: uppercase;
  letter-spacing: 1.8px;
  color: var(--color-primary-blue);
  margin-bottom: 14px;
}

.team-card__bio {
  font-size: 14px;
  line-height: 1.55;
  color: var(--color-text-navy);
  margin-bottom: 16px;
  flex: 1;
}

.team-card__link {
  font-family: var(--font-heading);
  font-weight: 600;
  font-size: 14px;
  color: var(--color-primary-blue);
  letter-spacing: 0.4px;
  transition: color 0.2s ease, transform 0.2s ease;
  display: inline-block;
}

.team-card:hover .team-card__link {
  color: var(--color-accent-blue);
  transform: translateX(4px);
}

@media (max-width: 1100px) {
  .team__grid {
    grid-template-columns: repeat(2, 1fr);
  }
}

@media (max-width: 540px) {
  .team__grid {
    grid-template-columns: 1fr;
  }
  .team-card__photo {
    aspect-ratio: 1 / 1;
  }
}

/* ========================================
   FA-OVERVIEW VARIANT FOR MULTI-PARAGRAPH (About page)
   The About page uses fa-overview for "The Firm" but with 3 paragraphs.
   Add modest spacing between consecutive lead paragraphs.
   ======================================== */

.fa-overview__lead + .fa-overview__lead {
  margin-top: 20px;
}

/* ========================================
   CONTACT FORM SECTION (contact page)
   Split layout: intro copy left, form right.
   Form is visual prototype only; submit handler in main.js shows a
   client-side success message. Production WP build will use Contact
   Form 7 with the same field structure.
   ======================================== */

.contact-form {
  padding: var(--section-padding);
  background: var(--color-light-tint);
}

.contact-form__layout {
  display: grid;
  grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr;
  gap: 80px;
  max-width: 1100px;
  margin: 0 auto;
  align-items: start;
}

.contact-form__intro {
  display: flex;
  flex-direction: column;
  gap: 18px;
}

.contact-form__intro p {
  font-size: 17px;
  line-height: 1.6;
  color: var(--color-text-navy);
  margin: 0;
}

.contact-form__form {
  display: flex;
  flex-direction: column;
  gap: 16px;
}

.contact-form__field {
  display: block;
}

.contact-form__input,
.contact-form__textarea {
  width: 100%;
  font-family: var(--font-body);
  font-size: 16px;
  color: var(--color-dark-navy);
  background: var(--color-white);
  border: 1px solid #d6dde2;
  border-radius: 6px;
  padding: 16px 18px;
  transition: border-color 0.2s ease, box-shadow 0.2s ease;
  box-sizing: border-box;
}

.contact-form__input:focus,
.contact-form__textarea:focus {
  border-color: var(--color-accent-blue);
  box-shadow: 0 0 0 3px rgba(78, 200, 244, 0.18);
  outline: none;
}

.contact-form__input::placeholder,
.contact-form__textarea::placeholder {
  color: rgba(15, 48, 73, 0.5);
}

.contact-form__textarea {
  resize: vertical;
  min-height: 160px;
  font-family: var(--font-body);
  line-height: 1.5;
}

.contact-form__submit {
  align-self: flex-start;
  margin-top: 8px;
  cursor: pointer;
  border: none;
  letter-spacing: 1.2px;
  text-transform: uppercase;
}

.contact-form__success {
  margin-top: 12px;
  padding: 14px 18px;
  background: rgba(78, 200, 244, 0.12);
  border-left: 3px solid var(--color-accent-blue);
  border-radius: 4px;
  color: var(--color-dark-navy);
  font-size: 15px;
  line-height: 1.5;
}

.contact-form__error {
  margin-top: 12px;
  padding: 14px 18px;
  background: rgba(214, 69, 69, 0.10);
  border-left: 3px solid #d64545;
  border-radius: 4px;
  color: var(--color-dark-navy);
  font-size: 15px;
  line-height: 1.5;
}

.contact-form__error a {
  color: inherit;
  text-decoration: underline;
}

.screen-reader-text {
  position: absolute;
  width: 1px;
  height: 1px;
  padding: 0;
  margin: -1px;
  overflow: hidden;
  clip: rect(0, 0, 0, 0);
  white-space: nowrap;
  border: 0;
}

@media (max-width: 900px) {
  .contact-form__layout {
    grid-template-columns: 1fr;
    gap: 40px;
  }
}

/* Sub-markets 3-card variant. Used on the Contact page Direct Contact section (Email / Phone / Office). */
.sub-markets__grid--three {
  grid-template-columns: repeat(3, 1fr);
  max-width: 1080px;
}

@media (max-width: 900px) {
  .sub-markets__grid--three {
    grid-template-columns: 1fr;
  }
}

/* ========================================
   TEAM BIO PAGES
   Individual partner bios at /about/<slug>/.
   Reuses the .hero--service navy shell (fixed-navbar offset + gradient)
   with a crisp portrait + name/role header, then a readable prose body.
   ======================================== */

/* Bio hero hugs its content instead of inheriting the tall service-page slab. */
.hero--bio {
  min-height: auto;
}

.hero--bio .hero--service__inner {
  grid-template-columns: 360px 1fr;
  gap: 72px;
  align-items: center;
}

/* Team-page motif: accent dot matrix (distinct from the service-page vertical
   wavy lines), right-anchored to counterbalance the portrait and faded toward
   the text so it never competes with the name/CTAs. */
.hero--bio .hero--service__visual {
  left: auto;
  right: -60px;
  width: 480px;
  transform: none;
  opacity: 0.85;
  -webkit-mask-image: linear-gradient(to left, #000 30%, transparent);
  mask-image: linear-gradient(to left, #000 30%, transparent);
}

.hero--bio .hero--service__visual svg {
  width: 100%;
  height: 100%;
}

.hero--bio__portrait {
  width: 360px;
  height: 432px;
  border-radius: 16px;
  overflow: hidden;
  box-shadow: 0 18px 44px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.35);
  border: 1px solid rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.12);
}

.hero--bio__portrait img {
  width: 100%;
  height: 100%;
  object-fit: cover;
  object-position: center top;
}

.hero--bio__name {
  font-family: var(--font-heading);
  font-weight: 700;
  font-size: clamp(34px, 4.4vw, 52px);
  color: var(--color-white);
  line-height: 1.06;
  letter-spacing: -0.5px;
  margin: 0 0 10px;
}

.hero--bio__role {
  font-family: var(--font-heading);
  font-weight: 600;
  font-size: 18px;
  color: var(--color-accent-blue);
  margin: 0 0 20px;
}

.hero--bio__email {
  display: inline-flex;
  align-items: center;
  gap: 8px;
  font-size: 16px;
  color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.92);
  margin-bottom: 30px;
  transition: color 0.25s ease;
}

.hero--bio__email:hover {
  color: var(--color-accent-blue);
}

.hero--bio__email svg {
  flex-shrink: 0;
}

.bio-body {
  padding: var(--section-padding);
  background: var(--color-white);
}

.bio-body__inner {
  max-width: 820px;
  margin: 0 auto;
  text-align: center;
}

.bio-body p {
  font-size: 18px;
  line-height: 1.75;
  color: var(--color-text-navy);
  margin-bottom: 22px;
}

.bio-body p:last-child {
  margin-bottom: 0;
}

@media (max-width: 968px) {
  .hero--bio .hero--service__inner {
    grid-template-columns: 1fr;
    gap: 36px;
    justify-items: center;
    text-align: center;
  }
  .hero--bio__email {
    justify-content: center;
  }
  .hero--bio .hero--service__ctas {
    justify-content: center;
  }
}

@media (max-width: 768px) {
  .hero--bio__portrait {
    width: 260px;
    height: 312px;
  }
  .bio-body p {
    font-size: 16px;
  }
}

/* Bio body refinements: lead paragraph, specialty tags, thematic sections,
   tinted highlight callout, and sparing accent marks on key phrases.
   Breaks the long bio into a scannable, hierarchical read. */
.bio-body__lead {
  font-size: 20px;
  line-height: 1.65;
  color: var(--color-dark-navy);
  margin-bottom: 26px;
}

.bio-tags {
  display: flex;
  flex-wrap: wrap;
  justify-content: center;
  gap: 10px;
  margin-bottom: 8px;
  /* Break out wider than the prose column so longer tag sets stay on one line. */
  position: relative;
  left: 50%;
  transform: translateX(-50%);
  width: min(1040px, 90vw);
}

.bio-tag {
  font-family: var(--font-heading);
  font-weight: 600;
  font-size: 13px;
  letter-spacing: 0.3px;
  color: var(--color-primary-blue);
  background: var(--color-light-tint);
  border: 1px solid rgba(52, 162, 226, 0.22);
  padding: 7px 16px;
  border-radius: 999px;
  cursor: default;
  transition: background 0.25s ease, color 0.25s ease, border-color 0.25s ease;
}

.bio-tag:hover {
  background: var(--color-dark-navy);
  color: var(--color-white);
  border-color: var(--color-dark-navy);
}

/* Full-width tinted band — a bio section lifted onto the light-blue background,
   matching the alternating white/tint rhythm used across the site. */
.bio-band {
  padding: var(--section-padding);
  background: var(--color-light-tint);
}

.bio-section {
  margin-top: 56px;
}

.bio-body__inner > .bio-section:first-child {
  margin-top: 0;
}

/* Recognition / credentials callout — left-aligned card inside the centered column */
.bio-highlight {
  background: var(--color-light-tint);
  border-left: 4px solid var(--color-primary-blue);
  border-radius: 10px;
  padding: 30px 34px;
  margin-top: 56px;
  text-align: left;
}

.bio-highlight .section-label {
  margin-bottom: 16px;
}

.bio-highlight__list {
  list-style: none;
  display: grid;
  gap: 13px;
}

.bio-highlight__list li {
  position: relative;
  padding-left: 26px;
  font-size: 17px;
  line-height: 1.5;
  color: var(--color-text-navy);
}

.bio-highlight__list li::before {
  content: '';
  position: absolute;
  left: 0;
  top: 8px;
  width: 8px;
  height: 8px;
  border-radius: 50%;
  background: var(--color-primary-blue);
}

@media (max-width: 768px) {
  .bio-body__lead {
    font-size: 18px;
  }
  .bio-highlight {
    padding: 24px 22px;
  }
}