David Swaim, AIA

Associate Principal + Director of Construction Administration

The University of Texas at Arlington

Don’t hesitate to reach out! I can answer questions about our work or talk with you about your vision for a new project.

    A black and white portrait of David Swaim, an Associate Principal and the Director of Construction Administration with GFF, in front of a white background.
    David Swaim is an Associate Principal and the Director of Construction Administration with GFF.

    David Swaim has practiced architecture for 34 years and has solid experience with all types of projects and architectural services. David has managed various types of projects, ranging from retail to large corporate buildings and their tenant improvements. David manages residential and banking projects within the firm from ground up to finish out.

    David’s management on projects begins in the early schematic design and planning stages and continues through the completion of construction. He is recognized for working closely with typical project consultants and specialty consultants including audio visual, stained glass, specialty lighting, food service, medical lab equipment, bank equipment, security and church organs to coordinate each discipline involved.

    Highly respected by those that work with him, David has consistently taken responsibility both within the firm and on projects. David manages scheduling of office personnel on several projects. He is a Associate Principal and in 2020 was named GFF’s Director of Construction Administration. David is an active member of the Dallas AIA and Texas Society of Architects.

    David’s past civic involvement includes Nation Chief and Assistant Nation Chief for both the Princess and Guides Parent-Child programs at the YMCA of Arlington as well as the Martin High School baseball Booster Club.

    Our firm is a dynamic and multi-disciplinary practice with expertise in ArchitectureInterior Design, Landscape Architecture, and Planning. With a staff of 125 and offices spanning across Dallas, Fort Worth, and Austin, we bring a Texas-sized commitment to design excellence. We pride ourselves on attracting the most talented and passionate designers who share our dedication to craftsmanship and professional licensure. Over four decades, we have meticulously honed our design process, encapsulated in our guiding Design Maxims. Not only are we creators, but we are stewards of the communities we touch, striving to leave them even better than we found them.

    At our core, we’re a team that thrives on innovation, and we’re always on the lookout for new talent to join us in building upon our storied success. We offer an exhilarating, fast-paced work environment where design opportunities abound at every level. Our firm culture is designed to be both productive and enjoyable, where collaboration and creativity are not just encouraged but celebrated. Our three strategically located offices in vibrant areas like Uptown in Dallas, West Bend in Fort Worth, and downtown Austin offer a lifestyle beyond the office, ensuring that your career with us is complemented by the fun and excitement of these dynamic urban locales. Join us, and let’s shape the future of design together.

    Our People

    Our firm is a dynamic and multi-disciplinary practice with expertise in architecture, interior design, landscape architecture, and planning.

    Brian Moore

    Principal + Director of Planning

    Maria Gomez

    Principal + Studio Director

    Grant Wickard

    Associate Principal + Senior Project Leader

    Laura Cornell

    Associate Principal + Director of Landscape Architecture

    Our Work

    Our designers are dedicated to Creating Memorable Places.

    News

    Read the latest news about our work and learn more about our firm culture

    Turning On A New Light

    We are excited to start 2024 with a new logo, inspired by our new headquarters in the heart of the vibrant Victory Park neighborhood of Dallas. This transition is more than just a change of logo and address; it is an improved reflection of who we are and where we want to go as an industry-leading, design-focused firm.

    Designing Spaces that Reflect Our Clients’ Mission

    In honor of Historic Preservation Month, GFF will be a Bronze Sponsor for the 2023 Preservation Dallas Preservation Achievement Awards on May 17th, 2023.

    Life Fellowship Church Unveils Newly Transformed Campus

    GFF developed a new comprehensive campus master plan for Life Fellowship Church (LFC) located in McKinney, Texas, which includes renovation and expansion of their current campus to include a 1,200-seat future worship center, a weekday preschool, additional adult classrooms, and an administrative suite on a very compact site.

    Protecting Our Feathered Friends

    As cities grow and buildings become taller, the need to protect the earth's bird population is becoming more urgent. Thankfully, there are solutions to mitigate the problem, including guidelines for bird friendly glazing selections and building design features.

    About

    Learn more about the mission and organization of our practice.

    People

    Our staff of 140 offers architecture, interior design, planning and landscape architecture throughout the US

    Sustainability

    GFF carefully considers the resources of our clients and our planet to create healthier, higher performing environments.

    New Project Opportunities

    Please contact us if you are a prospective client with a new project opportunity that you would like to discuss with out experts.

    We Are Hiring!

    We offer a dynamic and stimulating work environment, competitive salary/benefits and advancement potential at all levels for Architects, Interior Designers, Landscape Architects, Planners and our Operations Team.