As GF celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2024, we embraced the opportunity to reflect on our history and set our sights on the future. This milestone was more than a celebration of past accomplishments and enduring relationships—it was a reaffirmation of the core values of collaboration, vision, and humility that have guided us from the very beginning.
Our culture of connection and growth has been central to our success. From small team celebrations and holiday gatherings to major milestones like the acquisition of DBI, the rebranding of SGA|NW into GF, and the launch of our new website, 2024 was a transformative year. Initiatives like the NextGen program, coupled with meaningful industry partnerships, underscored our commitment to investing in our people and fostering collaboration across our global network of offices.
We also experienced significant geographic growth in 2024. The opening of our Singapore office enhanced our presence in Southeast Asia, supported by participation in key events such as ULI Singapore and the CTBUH Bangkok Conference. In China, projects like the Fuzhou Road Renovation demonstrated our ability to create innovative and dynamic spaces in some of the world’s fastest-growing markets. Closer to home, the opening of our Orlando office expanded our footprint within the United States, while the DBI acquisition bolstered our architectural and interior design capabilities, allowing us to grow in robust and emerging markets.
Throughout the year, we completed hundreds of projects that showcased our expertise in designing and transforming spaces. Notable achievements included the redevelopment of a Bronx brownfield site at 138 Bruckner Blvd, modular designs for Whataburger in Texas, and multidisciplinary services for Noble Smoke. Internationally, projects like Jaggers in South Korea highlighted our ability to meet the demands of modern urban environments with thoughtful design. 
Our commitment to creating spaces that enhance well-being and foster community connections was reflected in projects like MindZero, as well as multi-family developments such as Evoke Living at Eastland Yards and Morris Field, which feature sought-after amenities designed to encourage interaction and engagement. A particularly meaningful moment came with the opening of Home Depot’s four-story store in Midtown Manhattan, a testament to our 50-year partnership that began in the late 1970s.
We marked our anniversary with the launch of a commemorative video on our website. The video celebrated GF’s achievements over the past five decades while offering a glimpse into the future of design. Highlighting industry trends and our evolving approach, it reinforced our dedication to innovation, excellence, and the shared values that define our firm.
Reflecting on this milestone year, we are reminded of how far we’ve come. From humble beginnings in a small office on Piedmont Road to becoming a global firm with a presence in some of the world’s most dynamic markets, our journey has been shaped by a passion for design, a commitment to excellence, and a belief in the transformative power of architecture. With deep gratitude for the people who have contributed to our success, we look forward to building on this legacy for the next 50 years and beyond.
Looking ahead to 2025, we are excited to continue the momentum of our anniversary year. Projects like the next phase of Broadway at the Beach in Myrtle Beach, the Shops at Rentar Plaza, and MUSC Primary Care and Concierge exemplify our ongoing focus on community-centered design. As we expand into new markets and strengthen our global presence, we remain grounded in the principles that have guided us for five decades: relationships, resilience, and service.
