People hanging out at the Roundhouse building

Enhancing the Communities We Serve

It all started with Dick Drover and Fred Weaver’s dream in 1949 to make an impact within the Phoenix Metropolitan area. Through the years, DWL has helped shape the region’s urban fabric with timeless architecture that has withstood the test of time. Now, as one of Arizona’s oldest and largest locally owned architecture firms, our reach extends nationally with award-winning projects, building on lasting relationships with our clients and partners as we continue to enhance the communities we serve.

Our History

Building Lasting Relationships is in Our DNA

From decades-long client partnerships to team members who have spent over 40 years with us, we are driven by a commitment to building authentic, lasting relationships. These are the foundation of our success.

see our timeline

What inspires us

Our Mission

Our enduring commitment is to bring projects to life through inspirational design, creative teamwork and thoughtful stewardship.

Our Vision

Through innovation and persistence, DWL strives to further strengthen our presence in communities as inspiring architects and trusted advisors. We aim to promote the holistic wellness of the firm, empower our DWL family to discover their passions and become the preeminent designers for most of the iconic architecture in the communities we are honored to serve—all while having fun along the way.

Our Values

Inspirational Design

We blend inspired design and aesthetics with rigorous function, efficiency and contextuality to provide exceptional solutions. We believe that what looks good can work well; and what works well endures.

Creative Teamwork

We are honored by the trust our clients have placed in us, forming true partnerships that extend beyond individual projects. Our emphasis is on real collaboration where every voice on the team is heard, and the best ideas are implemented.

Thoughtful Stewardship

We are privileged to be stewards of our community, charged with the careful and sustainable use of resources and the opportunity to elevate our environment with impactful design.

Michael Voorheis, AIA

ASSOCIATE

Sean Warfield, RA

ASSOCIATE

Trusted Partners

Client Perspectives

“

DWL has demonstrated an exceptional ability to balance aesthetics, functionality, and technology. Their team works collaboratively with university leadership, faculty, and contractors, consistently meeting deadlines and budgets while maintaining a high standard of design excellence.

Daniel Tapia

Vice President of Operations, Midwestern University

“

Your professionalism and attention to detail have been invaluable throughout this project. Your approach makes a real difference, please don’t ever change it.

William (Bill) Scarbrough

President/Chairman of the Board of Directors, Scottsdale Railroad & Mechanical Society

“

I would personally like to recommend DWL Architects as they demonstrate a strong commitment to detail, follow-up, quality design, and building relationships with all parties involved to promote a successful outcome of a project.

Gary Mascaro

Retired Aviation Director, Scottsdale Airport

About