Hero Stories
Take a peek behind the scenes and explore a few hero stories from our clients and even inside our walls at Davis Bews
HERO STORY
HDM
A RELATIONSHIP ROOTED IN TRUST AND COLLABORATION
For years, Davis Bews Architecture and HDM have shared a strong collaborative relationship, built on mutual respect and a shared passion for design excellence. HDM, primarily focused on design work, had grown to include several design technicians to help meet the demands of their projects. As both firms worked together over the years, we built a seamless, trusted partnership, supporting one another’s strengths and vision.
Recently, HDM made a significant decision that would shape the future of their company. After thoughtful discussions with the Davis Bews team, HDM’s owners decided to downsize and transition toward semi-retirement, releasing their entire CAD design team. Rather than stepping away from their craft entirely, they found confidence in partnering with Davis Bews to handle all of their construction documents (CDs).
This partnership allows HDM to focus on what they love most—design—while ensuring their clients continue to receive top-quality service. By relying on our expertise for the CD phase, HDM can now streamline their operations, reduce overhead, and maintain the high level of quality their clients have come to expect. Together, we’re helping them create a new chapter in their journey, where they can enjoy their passion for design while knowing their projects are in capable hands.
At Davis Bews, we’re proud to be HDM’s sole partner for CDs, and even more proud of the trust and collaboration that this partnership represents. It’s a relationship that exemplifies our commitment to not only serving our clients but empowering our partners to thrive, no matter where their journey takes them.
HERO STORY
When Kelner Homes, a new luxury builder, came to Davis Bews last year, they were ready for a fresh start. Unsatisfied with their previous firm and with investors counting on them, they needed a design that would exceed all expectations for a stunning waterfront property in St. Petersburg. That’s when they teamed up with our talented designer, Jeff, and everything changed.
Kelner Homes was drawn to Jeff’s visionary approach, his ability to push the limits of design, and his no-ego collaboration style. They fell in love with the bold, innovative designs that captured their vision. The project is now under construction, and Kelner Homes is so impressed that they’ve invited Jeff to participate in a video interview to showcase the project.
Our partnership with Kelner Homes has only grown since then. We’ve worked together on several additional projects, and they continue to choose Davis Bews for our forward-thinking designs. We’re proud to be part of their journey, helping them create luxury homes that truly stand out.
KELNER HOMES
A FRESH START AND LIMITLESS DESIGN
HERO STORY
When Perry Homes, a well-established production builder from Texas, reached out to Davis Bews, it marked the beginning of a thriving partnership. Referred to us through the local builder’s association, Perry Homes sought guidance on entering the competitive Florida market. We embraced the opportunity to help, offering expertise on local building practices, Florida-specific codes, and valuable connections within the region’s building community.
After winning a design challenge posed by Perry Homes against other firms, we began collaborating closely to ensure their success in Florida. By serving as their design and construction document (CD) partner in the state, we've helped them seamlessly transition into this new market. At Davis Bews, we see their success as our own—setting them up for growth not only means more sales and projects for Perry, but it strengthens our shared vision for excellence.
Today, our partnership continues to flourish, built on collaboration, trust, and a shared commitment to elevating each other’s success in the Florida market.
PERRY HOMES
EXPANDING HORIZONS TOGETHER
HERO STORY
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RORY BRAINE’S AMAZING DESIGN JOURNEY
Rory Braine joined Davis Bews 19 years ago—his very first job! Starting as a standout CAD technician, he quickly advanced to assistant project manager and eventually project manager, working with one of our most demanding clients. But as time went on, it became clear that Rory's passion wasn’t in project management.
At Davis Bews, we believe in finding the right seat for the right person. Recognizing Rory’s unique talent and potential, we shifted his role. With an eye for design and a passion to learn, Rory was mentored by our senior designer, Scott Tiffany, who became a guiding figure in his career. Rory shadowed Scott and soon started attending design meetings, gaining confidence along the way.
We still remember the first luxury project Rory took on solo—a beautiful waterfront home in St. Pete for one of our top builders, Hughes Construction. Nervous but eager, Rory designed the project under Scott’s mentorship and grew into his new role with every step. Now, years later, Rory works closely with our design director, Jeff Smith, and has even created a design training program to mentor others in our firm.
Rory has become a key designer, crafting both luxury and production homes with confidence and skill. He’s still one of our fastest and best CAD technicians, a true testament to his dedication and growth at Davis Bews!
