History

In 2012, the firm re-branded itself to the name Delawie.  In its 51-year history of various firm names we were most recognized and known in the community by the name of our founding principal emeritus, Homer Delawie, a Fellow of the American Institute of Architects.

The condensed name Delawie was chosen to honor a great San Diego architect who achieved numerous design awards and helped shaped the City with his years of service on the City Planning Commission, Historical Sites Board and honors his legacy of a style that promotes humanistic modernist ideals – “simplicity with attention to detail.”

Additionally, it was selected to honor all of those individuals who have worked at the firm throughout its history, some whose names are well known and others that are not; and whose contributions assisted in creating the reputation for excellence in design, documentation and client service our firm carries today.

Past principals who were major contributors to our success and the San Diego community include Michael Wilkes FAIA, James Barker, John Bretton, Melvin Cole FAIA, Al Macy, and John Henderson FAIA. These individuals served the professional community through their work with the American Institute of Architects with Mr. Wilkes, Mr. Cole, Mr. Macy, Mr. Henderson, and Mr. Delawie all serving as local chapter Presidents.

Homer Delawie started the firm in 1961 after working with pioneer modernist, Lloyd Ruocco.  Early residential work reflected the southern California lifestyle and modernist ideals often showcased in Sunset Magazine.  As the practice grew, the firm’s reputation grew for its success in a wide range of designs for the military and landmarks such as the Bea Evenson Fountain in Balboa Park.

In the mid 1980’s the firm’s major commissions such as the SeaWorld Penguin Exhibit, the San Diego Police Headquarters, and the MTS James R. Mills Building launched the firm into larger scale public buildings where the design emphasis was to create spaces that people would enjoy.  In the 1990’s, the firm focused on private clients with specific needs in the High-tech and Life Science arena – it also took us worldwide, helping our clients to realize the benefit of our involvement within the development stages of any project.  The 1990’s also was the growth of our Native American, Hospitality and High Education projects.

In 2001, the firm added a full service Interior Design Studio to complete our current offering of services.  Delawie continues to service both public and private clients in focused market sectors, primarily within the southwestern states and Asia.  Our goal is to continue to provide our clients with exceptional design delivered with integrity and a commitment to services pioneered by Homer Delawie.