Dallas, Texas, stands as a thriving hub of commerce and culture, where innovation and design converge in the heart of the Lone Star State. Within this dynamic cityscape, the role of retail architects is pivotal in shaping the shopping experiences that define Dallas.
In the quest for the finest retail architects in Dallas, we present a curated selection of visionaries who have left their indelible mark on the city’s commercial landscape. Armed with a deep understanding of aesthetics and functionality, these architects have crafted retail spaces that seamlessly blend form and purpose. From upscale boutiques to sprawling shopping centers, these professionals have consistently pushed the boundaries of retail design. Their work not only reflects the spirit of Dallas but also elevates the shopping experience to an art form.
Bennett Partners
2401 Cedar Springs, Suite 320 Dallas, TX 75201
Bennett Partners, a Fort Worth-based architecture firm, is deeply committed to crafting thoughtfully designed and expertly constructed spaces for public and private projects. It adheres to three fundamental principles that guide its work. First, its designs should be firmly rooted in the local context, embracing the unique character of each location. Second, it strives to create projects that respond to and enhance the lives of the individuals and communities it serves. Lastly, it is dedicated to leaving a positive and enduring impact on the communities it becomes a part of.
In 2021, Bennett Partners was honored to receive the John Staub Award from the Institute of Classical Architecture and Art for its exceptional work on the Fort Worth Stockyards Horse and Mule Barns project. It is also a memo of the American Institute of Architects and the US Green Building Council, underlining its commitment to sustainability and architectural excellence. The company’s work has been recognized and featured in esteemed publications such as the Fort Worth Business Press and PaperCity Magazine.
Droese Raney
2120 Sylvan Ave, Dallas, TX 75208
Droese Raney, a full-service architecture and interior design studio established in 1998, specializes in crafting exceptional commercial, hospitality, and retail spaces across the United States. With a cumulative experience of 50 years, its principals and designers, David Droese, AIA, and Lance Raney, approach each client relationship with a unique perspective and immense expertise.
The team includes Christine Howitt, vice president of Interiors, and Reid Mulligan, vice president of Architecture, who have been integral members of the Droese Raney family for a decade. They play pivotal roles as the firm expands and embarks on exciting new projects.
Droese Raney’s commitment to excellence has not gone unnoticed. In 2014, the West Dallas Chamber of Commerce honored the team with the Visionary Developer Award. It is also a member of the American Institute of Architects and has garnered attention in the press, including recognition from CultureMap Dallas.
Nelsen Partners
119 W 8th St, Suite C, Austin, TX 78701
Nelsen Partners is a collaborative team of creative problem solvers dedicated to the art of authentic place-making and enduring architecture. The company’s portfolio includes many projects, from mixed-use developments and master-planned urban centers to retail spaces, office buildings, residential towers, hotels, performing arts venues, and restaurants. It brings experience to each endeavor, infusing creativity into every design.
Notable recognition includes the 2022 Structural Engineers Association of Arizona Merit Award in Structural Engineering, a testament to its commitment to engineering excellence. Additionally, it is a member of esteemed organizations like the American Institute of Architects Dallas and the US Green Building Council.
Featured in Texas Architect Magazine, Nelsen Partners continues to shape environments that inspire, endure, and captivate. At the helm is Brad Nelsen, AIA, RAIA, the president and founder, whose visionary leadership has guided the firm since its inception in 1990. With offices in Phoenix, Honolulu, and Melbourne, Australia, Nelsen’s nearly four decades of experience have left an indelible mark on mixed-use, retail, office, multifamily, hospitality, and custom residential projects across the globe.
Oculus
1201 Main St, Ste. 1750, Dallas, TX 75202
Established in 1994, Oculus is a versatile architectural firm with a comprehensive range of services. With offices in St. Louis, Dallas, and Portland, it has grown from a vision to fill critical gaps in traditional architectural and interior design offerings. Its unique perspective, rooted in its corporate American origins, allows the team to view projects from an owner’s standpoint, ensuring it meets each client’s specific needs.
Leveraging its extensive Building Information Modeling (BIM) expertise, the company guides projects seamlessly from planning and design to construction. It has been recognized as one of the 25 Fastest Growing Companies in 2016, a testament to its commitment to excellence. The company also maintains strong affiliations, such as its American Institute of Architects Dallas membership, reinforcing its dedication to professional standards and best practices.
Oculus’ founder, Ron Reim, AIA, brings three decades of architectural experience across diverse project types, including health care, government, retail, shopping centers, commercial offices, childcare development, and corporate spaces. His multifaceted background, spanning traditional consulting, corporate asset management, and design-build, enriches the team’s approach, making Oculus a valuable partner in its client’s architectural journey.
Franz Architects
4055 International Plaza, Suite 100, Fort Worth, TX 76109
Established in 1983, Franz Architects, formerly led by William Franz and now under the stewardship of his son, John Franz, has a rich legacy of architectural excellence. Drawing from extensive experience designing diverse structures such as medical facilities, retail complexes, multi-family residences, and industrial edifices, Franz leads the firm’s dedicated team with expertise and genuine passion. Franz Architects has an astounding 180 years of collective architectural acumen, a testament to its enduring commitment to delivering exceptional results.
The company’s dedication to excellence has not gone unnoticed, with its affiliations with prestigious organizations such as the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and the Texas Society of Architects. It serves the Fort Worth community as active Fort Worth Chapter AIA members. The firm’s work has been featured in the Dallas Business Journal, highlighting its original and impactful contributions to architecture.
Guided by John Franz, a distinguished architect with 30 years of experience, including site planning and retail development, Franz Architects is registered in an impressive 38 states. Franz’s educational foundation includes a Bachelor of Science in architecture from the University of Texas, Arlington.
Malone Maxwell Dennehy Architects
3400 Oak Grove Ave, Suite 202, Dallas, TX 75204
Malone Maxwell Dennehy Architect, a Dallas, Texas-based full-service architectural firm, has crafted architectural excellence since 1992. Its expertise lies in design, with a strong focus on commercial projects encompassing retail and commercial interiors and corporate marketing centers. The firm’s portfolio has recently flourished to encompass diverse religious, educational, and co-working spaces. The firm’s commitment to design quality shines through in its numerous accolades and regular features in esteemed professional and shelter publications.
This commitment to excellence was recognized in 2013 when the Dallas Chapter of the American Institute of Architects named the studio Architecture Firm of the Year. The firm also maintains active affiliations with the American Institute of Architects, demonstrating its dedication to professional standards and ethics.
The founding principal, Michael Malone, FAIA, is the firm’s guiding force. With a Master of Architecture from the University of Texas at Arlington and a Bachelor of Architecture, along with a Bachelor of Science in environmental design from Auburn University, he brings immense knowledge and experience to the practice. Michael Malone’s contributions to professional journals and his role as a contributing editor for Texas Architect Magazine underscore his commitment to advancing the field of architecture.
GSO Architects
5310 Harvest Hill Rd, Suite 226, LB 156, Dallas, TX 75230
Located in Dallas, Texas, GSO Architects offers various architectural services, specializing in retail, industrial, office, interiors, land planning, and various unique projects. With 12 years of experience in the industry, GSO Architects continues to find immense joy in its work, a passion that resonates throughout its completed projects. GSO firmly believes in balancing environmental, social, civic, and economic objectives for project success.
The company’s commitment to excellence has earned the team recognition, including the 2016 Award for Excellence in Site Planning in Texas, acknowledged by Build Magazine. Additionally, GSO Architects has been featured in reputable publications like the Dallas Business Journal in 2023 and the Dallas Morning News in 2022.
GSO Architects’ dedicated principals, Luis Gomez and Lisa Swift, bring extensive experience. Gomez oversees daily operations, including staffing, project scheduling, construction documents, project management, and construction administration. Meanwhile, Swift has 25 years of experience in retail and commercial design, managing marketing, site planning, building design property entitlements, and interior design for the firm.
Archiphy
18170 N. Dallas Pkwy, Ste 101, Dallas, TX 75287
Established in 2006 and located in Dallas, Texas, Archiphy operates on a collaborative team approach, uniting owners and professionals to achieve exceptional results. The company’s professionals are residents of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, fostering close connections with local government authorities. This proximity enhances communication and ensures the studio’s physical presence throughout the design process, facilitating seamless progress.
As an architect in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, Archiphy leverages local resources to enhance project quality. It collaborates with other professionals when necessary, harnessing complementary skills to elevate its contributions. Archiphy holds affiliations with esteemed organizations such as the American Institute of Architects. Its commitment to excellence has garnered recognition in publications like the Dallas Business Journal and appearances on The Jeff Crilley Show.
Principal Margine Biswas brings extensive experience with a BS in architecture and a BA in studio art from the University of Texas at Austin. As a registered architect in the State of Texas, Biswas excels in programming, master planning, and all phases of architectural design, having worked at several distinguished Dallas architecture firms.
