Meet Douglas Fredrikson of Douglas Fredrikson Architects in Uptown

Today we’d like to introduce you to Douglas Fredrikson.

Douglas, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I grew up in Atlanta in the 60’s and 70’s,when the city was booming and loved seeing the progress that was shaping the new version of this old city and decided I wanted to be a party of it. Attended Georgia Tech in downtown Atlanta in the middle of the boom finished my undergraduate at Kansas State and moved to Arizona to get my Masters in Solar Architecture. The environment had become a priority in the Mid Seventies and it would forever change my approach to design and that Energy conscious and responsive design should always be the priority. Went to work for a small firm working mainly on developer work, became Partner in Charge of design and got to do my first House, First Hotel, First Golf Club, First restaurant…..real program buildings and high design. That is what I wanted to do went out to start my own firm and have not looked back. My firm specializes in Golf Clubhouses, Hospitality, Restaurant, Custom Homes and Sustainable design. Recognized as a leader in the industry and numerous Awards for my designs now totaling about 160 built projects.

Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
There is always a struggle but Phoenix was a growing town and the rescissions that affected business did not last that long and my design reputation and expertise allowed me to work in other states and around the worlds. That was until 2007 when the never ending recession forever changed the world of architecture….there were less projects more architects now on their own and fees were being challenged constantly. The most difficult part these days is that there are so few qualified people in charge and know even less about the value of design or what we do as architects. Luckily people still find us for great projects and the personal service we bring to the table and we try and have fun.

Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Douglas Fredrikson Architects – what should we know?
I have been a senior designer/partner since my late twenties which is rare in our profession and that has come from my one talent…..HARD WORK. That has not changed because I love what I do. Mt firm specializes in Golf Clubhouses, Boutique Hotels, Custom Homes, Community Centers, Restaurants, Environmental Design….and anything that is cool. I am most proud of my body of work and that we have created many buildings that not only are legitimate legacies but also places where memories are made. What sets me a part is and as always I am the designer who stays with the client and project the entire way. It made my reputation as a young architect, got me many of the clients I still have today and it is a level of personal service that few people offer. Now with my Partner Alexandra in life and work we make a formidable team and have and continue to work on the best projects out there.

Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
Personal service and honesty…………….

Contact Info:

• Website: dfarchitects.com
• Phone: 602.277.1625
• Email: douglasf@dfarchitects.com
• Instagram: dfarch
• Facebook: douglas fredrikson architects

Image Credit:
Alexander Vertikoff

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