DFDG Architecture

Culture is reflected in the way people are supported. For Sean Ragudo, RA, LEED AP, it was the level of investment DFDG puts into its people, not just in leadership, but across every level of the firm. “I was surprised to see how much DFDG invests in their employees. Most of my previous places of employment focused on upper-tier positions, but I have found that it really is an all-levels engagement for skillbuilding and confidence. I also felt immediately welcome and respected for my knowledge base and as a resource to others, which really validated my experience as an architect. Most firms I have worked with talked about standards and QC, but at DFDG I have actually seen it in practice and had the opportunity to be part of it. It’s refreshing to work somewhere where craft and quality genuinely matter.” At DFDG, investing in people and taking pride in the craft go hand in hand, and that foundation continues to shape the way we work together. #DFDGDesignedtoLast

Every meaningful space starts long before construction ever begins. For the expansion and renovation of Cornerstone’s worship facility, our team had the opportunity to help shape that journey by adding 600 new auditorium seats while thoughtfully enhancing the overall worship environment. What begins as lines on paper, wall sections, technical details, and coordinated plans eventually becomes a real space filled with purpose, connection, and daily experience. Each detail, no matter how small, plays a role in bringing the vision to life. One of the most rewarding parts of the process is watching those ideas move from design documents into built reality. It is where careful planning, collaboration, and craftsmanship all come together to create spaces that truly serve people. In many cases, the smallest details designed early on become the elements that leave the biggest impression once the space is complete. #DFDGDesignedtoLast

From medical office to modern headquarters. DFDG partnered with Varitec Solutions and Haydon to transform a 36,500 SF building into a workplace that better supports how their team works day-to-day, delivered on a fast-track timeline to keep operations moving. Phase 1 focused on a full interior renovation, simplifying and streamlining the workplace with ergonomic, height-adjustable workstations, reduced paper storage, and flexible spaces for both in-office staff and visiting field techs. Glass-forward finishes, paired with acoustic and lighting solutions, create a space that feels open but still focused. A standout executive boardroom uses switchable glass to balance transparency and privacy, with training, collaboration, and quiet work zones layered throughout. Phase 2 adds a 20,000 SF warehouse, enhanced entry, and site upgrades to support continued growth. Built to work better, now and as they grow. Team: KBELL ENGINEERING, LLC, Resolut, PK Associates Structural Engineers, UES #DFDGDesignedtoLast

When we’re not in the office, we’re busy building rocket ships 🚀 This past Saturday, Sara Mecca-Whitlock and Sarah Salas headed down to Tucson for the RC Lurie Co. annual Death Race, an industry event that brings together partners and clients for a day of racing, competition, and a little creative fun. Given a standard wooden car kit, they took a different approach, combining their builds into a rocket ship and astronaut. Faster than a car? Obviously. Their entry sparked nearly 30 minutes of judge deliberation (and a little rule-bending debate), but in the end, creativity won out and so did they! #DFDGDesignedtoLast

Big step forward in shaping the future of health education! DFDG Architecture, alongside CO Architects and McCarthy Building Companies, Inc. Companies, joined Arizona State University and community leaders to break ground on the new ASU Health Headquarters in downtown Phoenix. The 175,000 SF facility will anchor a new hub for medical education, research, and innovation, bringing together medicine, engineering, and technology to rethink how care is delivered. This is more than a building; it connects the people and ideas shaping the future of care. #DFDGDesignedtoLast #InvestInPhoenix

The way we win work is evolving and fast. DFDG’s Jana Brickey joins moderator Lindsey Brist (MMR Group) and Jeff Cordell (DPR Construction) for a BD Guild Edge session focused on what’s actually driving results today, from AI in strategy to tighter alignment between brand and operations. Thursday, April 30, 2026 | Phoenix Learn more about the session: https://lnkd.in/gJMDdKwU #DFDGDesignedtoLast

Proud moment! The Mohave Community College Advanced Manufacturing Training Center has been named a winner at the 2026 RED Awards for Higher Education & Workforce Development Project of the Year. Built in partnership with CORE, Selberg Associates, and Mohave College this project is a true reflection of collaboration and shared vision. From concept to completion, this project represents a commitment to advancing education and workforce development in our community. Tap the link to read more about the project on our website. https://lnkd.in/gvvKbxAY Team: Ardurra, Spectrum Engineers, Kimley-Horn, Norris Design, Rider Levett Bucknall RLB #DFDGDesignedtoLast

Some things don’t change and that’s a good thing. Staci Seyer, CSI, NCIDQ shares what it’s like returning to DFDG and finding the same culture still at the core. “Having returned to DFDG after a 15 year hiatus, I was surprised that, contrary to the old saying, you really can go home.  When I was here the first time, DFDG had the DNA of a smaller firm with the vision and determination of a larger firm. We strived to provide ultra-professional services and timeless design. We thrived on relationships and repeat clients. What I have found is that DNA does not change. Technology changes. Resources change. But company DNA doesn’t. Having been back for almost a year now, it was a pleasant surprise to fall right back into the cadence of the same determination, creativity, and the push to provide even better design and better service. Egos are left at the door, and the guiding principles from the founding principals are alive and well today. I love being a part of a company where our unwritten motto is ‘All for one and one for all’: As a company we move forward together and continue to lay the foundation for good things to come. This is what motivated me before and what motivates me today.” DFDG takes pride in creating a culture where employees feel connected to the work and each other because that foundation is what stays constant, no matter how much else evolves. #DFDGDesignedtoLast

Finalist for the 2026 AZ RED Award! We’re honored to see the Mohave Community College Advanced Manufacturing Training Center recognized as a RED Awards finalist. Designed to advance hands-on learning and strengthen the future workforce, this project is already making an impact. DFDG is proud to have been part of the team. Mohave College #DFDGDesignedtoLast

Today is Architect Advocacy Day, and for us, it’s about the people behind the work. Architecture carries real responsibility. It demands technical knowledge, careful judgment, and a commitment to the public good. Architects help shape the places where people live and learn, where they work, and where communities gather. Every project requires balancing creativity with building codes, budgets, and the long-term needs of the people who will use those spaces. Much of that work happens behind the scenes. In design charrettes. In coordination meetings. In late revisions that make a project stronger. In the careful decisions that shape how a building functions long after the drawings are finished. Supporting architects means investing in the profession and the people dedicated to it. Mentorship, licensure, and meaningful opportunities to grow and play a role in sustaining the next generation of architects. We’re proud of our team and grateful for the curiosity and integrity they bring to their work as they continue advocating for better buildings and stronger communities. #DFDGDesignedtoLast