At DAG Architects, we believe in the power of design to create transformational spaces that meet functional needs and enhance the human experience.
Every project is an opportunity to shape how people live, work, and connect. By carefully listening to our clients’ goals and aspirations, we deliver solutions that reflect their unique vision while exceeding expectations. As architects who listen, our clients are the most important part of our team. Curiosity drives us to set new standards in architectural design, crafting spaces that are both inspiring and practical. Through collaboration and a research-driven approach, we create thoughtful designs to stand the test of time.
Where We Started
DAG Architects began in 1981 as a two-person office on Destin Harbor, founded by Northwest Florida native Charlie Clary and Sam Blimling. Starting with a beachfront townhouse community, the firm quickly became an integral part of the region’s growth. Proximity to landmark New Urbanist communities like Seaside and Rosemary Beach deeply influenced our design ethos, blending community-centered planning with innovative architecture.
Expanding Our Reach
By 1983, DAG expanded to 12 employees, moving into an award-winning 8,400-square-foot office in Destin. In the 1990s, Charlie Clary’s leadership in local and state government helped pave the way for further expansion, leading to new offices in Tallahassee, Pensacola, and Panama City. Our strategic growth continued with the opening of the Atlanta studio in 2020 and our Space Coast office in 2022, strengthening our reach across the Southeast. We remain rooted in serving the communities where we live and work.
Growing Together
DAG’s growth has been shaped by strong leadership and a commitment to mentorship. With equity partners in every office and nearly 30 team members at Associate, Associate Principal, and Principal levels, we foster leadership at every stage. We believe that each new voice strengthens our collective impact, ensuring that every project benefits from diverse insights and expertise.
Looking Ahead
With hundreds of state and regional awards—including being the only firm named AIA Florida Firm of the Year twice (2007 and 2020)—DAG is recognized for design excellence and integrity. While our brand has evolved, our commitment to collaboration and community impact remains unwavering. As we look to the future, we continue to innovate, transform expectations, and design spaces that shape the next 40 years and beyond.
Values
Design
An Attitude of Care and Responsibility
Design is more than what we create—it is how we think, collaborate, and shape the world around us. At DAG, great design comes from focused care, intention, and responsibility. Every space we create reflects the people who experience it, ensuring beauty and function work in harmony. Our commitment to design extends beyond our projects, influencing the way we work, the teams we build, and the culture we foster.
Thoughtful design is not just about the structures we shape—it is about creating an environment where creativity thrives, collaboration is valued, and people feel empowered to do their best work. With this mindset, we approach every project with dedication to excellence, ensuring that the spaces we design and the relationships we build all contribute to something greater.
Diversity
Strength in Perspective
Diversity fuels creativity. We embrace different perspectives, backgrounds, and ideas, knowing that careful listening leads to richer, more thoughtful solutions. By fostering a culture where all voices are heard, we create architecture that delivers an unforgettable experience.
Innovation
Architects who Explore
Curiosity drives our work. We ask the right questions, uncover hidden opportunities, and challenge the status quo. By fully understanding our clients’ needs, we create spaces that solve challenges and unlock new solutions often in unexpected ways.
Family
People First, Always
Our people are our greatest asset. We cultivate an environment of mentorship, collaboration, and support—ensuring that talent thrives and ideas flourish. Treating our team like family strengthens not only our firm but also the relationships we build with our clients and communities.
Legacy
Built to Last
We have a responsibility to create work that stands the test of time—not just in design, but in the lasting impact we have on communities and individuals. Our legacy is rooted in enduring success, driven by a long-term vision and an unwavering commitment to craftsmanship. Designing with the future in mind means ensuring that every project contributes to a legacy of excellence, sustainability, and relevance.
We honor our history and the values that have shaped us while continuously pushing the boundaries of our potential. With every project, we build not just for today but for the future, creating spaces that evolve alongside changing needs, foster connections, and inspire future generations. Our work leaves a meaningful, lasting imprint on the architectural landscape and the lives of those who experience it.