Architects + engineers. Working together under the same roof. Form + function expressed in stunning collaborations. Where inspired design meets exceptional performance, and first impressions become lifetime experiences. CDFL has a history of building spaces and relationships that stand the test of time. Our unique collaborative approach brings together a wide range of talents on every project.
Throughout our 60-year history, CDFL has celebrated ideas and the way an integrated team can inspire each other to reach new heights. And we have proven our expertise in delivering projects that are both aesthetically striking and financially responsible. No wonder so many of our clients return to work with us again and again.When our talents come together around a client’s needs, there is nothing we can’t achieve.

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Robert E. Farr, II, AIA
Principal 
A second-generation principal and corporate president, Rob oversees the firm’s operations and design strategy. He is active in both professional and community service organizations, and is a graduate of the University of Arizona.
“Plus means using our collective vision to inspire, to delight, and to uplift the human spirit.”

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David A. Lemons, AIA
Executive Architect 
A University of Arkansas graduate, David specializes in educational, institutional and sports facility design. David is a licensed architect in Arkansas, Alabama, Indiana, Mississippi, Michigan, and Louisiana.
“Plus means limitless creative opportunities.”

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Jody G. Coleman, AIA
Principal 
Jody sets overall strategy and oversees initiatives into the design-build, financial, corporate and civic services markets on both the regional and national levels. Jody earned degrees from the University of Southern Mississippi and the University of Tennessee.
“Plus means having the advantage. All of our team members benefit from having knowledge of the coordinating building systems – and we pass that advantage on to our clients.”

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Jesse R. Browning, PE, RCDD, LEED-AP
Principal 
As the managing principal of the electrical engineering division, Jesse is responsible for management overview of all power, lighting and communications design at CDFL. A graduate of the University of Mississippi, Jesse is a certified RCDD and LEED AP with experience in all aspects of sustainable design and energy conservation.
“Plus means imagining new ways to define and redefine the space in which we live and work.”

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Ann Somers, AIA, LEED-AP
Principal 
A graduate of Mississippi State University, Ann leads the firm’s interior architecture department. Ann is responsible for CDFL’s seamless blend of interior architecture into the total design package. Her zeal for civic engagement and service enhances the firm’s designs.
“Plus means the ability to create built environments that exceed expectations and stand the test of time.”

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Gene E. Crager, AIA, CSI
Principal 
Since joining CDFL in 1995, Gene has been involved in the creation and implementation of an integrated services delivery method. A Louisiana State University graduate, Gene oversees project delivery and day-to-day operations for all design-build and civic market projects.
“Plus means working together to create places that are designed brilliantly and perform flawlessly”

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David A. Burnet, AIA, LEED-AP
Principal 
David, a graduate of Mississippi State University, focuses on alternative delivery methodologies and sustainable design strategies. David is the associate manager of the alternative delivery team for the firm. He is licensed in Mississippi and Florida.
“Plus means exceeding our clients’ expectations to produce great work.”

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Ronald J. Fender, PE, LEED-AP
Principal 
Ron is the associate manager of the electrical engineering group and leads the medical engineering design for the firm. A graduate of Ohio State University, Ron focuses on access control, CCTV, and fire alarm systems.
“Plus means finding creative solutions through collaboration.”

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Chris Myers, AIA
Principal 
Upon graduating from Mississippi State University in 2001, Chris joined the CDFL team where he has accrued a wide variety of experience including military, institutional, and corporate projects. His primary expertise is in project management, and his passion lies in community involvement.
“Plus means that the quality of our work vastly exceeds the sum of the knowledge that creates it.”

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Matthew Buchanan, AIA, LEED-AP
Principal 
While experienced in civic, institutional and educational project types, Matthew’s primary focus is athletic facility design. Matthew is a graduate of Mississippi State University.
“Plus means a client and professional working together as one team, successfully seeing the realization of the client’s vision.”

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Newell Watkins, AIA,
LEED-AP
Principal 
Newell, a graduate of Mississippi State University, focuses on integrating BIM technologies with the firm’s design strategies. Newell has a broad range of experience, having worked with educational, institutional, and civic clients. Newell is licensed in Mississippi and Georgia.
“Plus is a design process of collaborative discovery, not singular creation.”

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Ben Fulton, PE
Principal 
As the head of the mechanical engineering department, Ben is responsible for the oversight of all fire protection, plumbing, and HVAC design. A graduate of Mississippi State University, Ben has experience with building automation, energy efficiency, and sustainable design.
“Plus means integrating the efforts of all disciplines in order to create superior designs.”

Katie Browning, AIA, LEED-AP BD+C
Associate 

Al Rucker
Plumbing Designer 

Amanda Taylor
Director of Marketing 

Ashton Polk
Administration 

Bob Farr
Founder Emeritus 

Chuck Stringer
Business Manager 

Clark Wells, PLA, ASLA
Landscape Architect 

David Luter, PE
Mechanical Engineer 

Dennis Schwarzauer
Designer 

Ethan Warren
Intern Architect 

Hannah Orlansky
Director of Communications 

Jackie Smithers, AIA
Architect 

James Tobermann
Engineer in Training 

Jared Robinson
Intern Architect 

Joshua Johnson
Intern Architect 

Katie Jo Chane, IIDA
Interior Designer 

Keith Bradshaw
Mechanical Designer 

Ken Kugle
Senior Designer 

Rob Ashley, AIA
Architect 

Robert E. Farr, III
Intern Architect 

Rob Harrell
Construction Administrator 

Samantha King
Intern Architect 

Tracy Hall
Office Coordinator 

Trey Vann
Graphic Designer 