DFD Architecture, Cornoyer-Hedrick Officially Tie the Knot

PHOENIX-Today marks a new beginning for DFD Architecture Inc., which has just taken over Cornoyer-Hedrick Inc., one of the state’s oldest and most active architectural and design firms. The teaming creates one of the largest firms in the state and one that will vie for just about every high-profile commercial project that comes up in the Southwest. The merged group totals 125 employees in Phoenix.

“Our new-found diversity will allow us to offer a higher level of service to our clients,” says Michael R. Davis, owner, CEO and director of design for DFD Architecture. “It also will carry us through the current economic climate, and provide a stronger base in the years ahead.”

Traditionally strong in the commercial, hospitality and retail markets, the two award-winning firms provide complementary services across varying sectors. The new company will offer architecture and interior architecture, space planning, facilities management, land planning, landscape architecture and graphic design services.

DFD has offices in Manhattan, Phoenix and Sonoma County, CA. It also plans to continue its geographic expansion by exploring opportunities in Hawaii and the Pacific Rim. Jonathon Vento, DFD president, is overseeing operations, marketing and business development. He also will focus on expanding financial services.

Bob Hedrick, president and co-founder of Cornoyer-Hedrick, brings a vast amount of experience to DFD, Davis says. “His involvement within the local community, knowledge of and contribution to the industry, are key assets, and will be integral to the success of the group.”

Some of the company’s recent work includes Scottsdale Portales, 1.6 million-sf mixed-use development that’s home to Finova; 5000 Portales Place in downtown Scottsdale; and Hayden Ferry, an 18-acre, mixed-use development comprised of 725,000 sf of office in three high-rise towers, 65,000 sf of specialty retail, 12-story hotel; and 388 residential condominium units. Other high-profile projects are the 17-acre ASU/Rio Salado Masterplan, which will include one million sf of residential, office, retail and conference center in Tempe; 750,000-sf Scottsdale Waterfront; Heritage Place, 13-story luxury condominium tower, 60,000-sf specialty retail and corporate headquarters for Heritage Bank in Denver; and 300,000-sf Fountaingrove Executive Park in Sonoma County, CA.